The Jedi Civil War (Book 3)

[Akirapryde]

When the Brush Fire Wars erupted in to open conflict between the Oulaven Jedi and the Coruscant Jedi, one of the most intensive conflicts of Galactic history ensued. Across the Galaxy, Jedi and Force Users were torn between sides. While the conflict ran hot, the debate between philosophies of the Living Force and the Unifying Force spanned across cultures.

[Akirapryde]

New Horizons
CSA Dreadnought Lippous
System: Fedeeraan, CSA Anchorage

Chairman Jacen Quee smiled as he looked over the latest reports. Two years ago, everyone said that this mess on Baklid 6 wouldn't yield the profit that he was suggesting. They all laughed at his plan and suggested that he was mad for even thinking it could work. However now he was the one laughing. Not only did he make the profit margins he suggested, he has made record profits over the past year. Once the Republic got directly involved, everyone swore that his profits would be over. Yet he was able to find just the right group of corrupt republic army officers that would ensure that his profits would continue and even grown. Now there are over a dozen proposals via the CSA to enter in to profit sharing mergers directly linked to Baklid 6.

He got up from his bed slowly as he read over all of the different proposals. He was looking for just the right one to sign. His plain had run its course and now it was time to sell out before the crash came. The reports back from the Republic had indicated that a large fleet of Republic warships were speeding their way for Baklid 6. He had paid a very high price for this intelligence and it was worth every credit. He found out that the fleet was most likely a Republic Marine Fleet. He was able to recall all of his ships operating in the area back to his anchorage, here above Fedeeraan. A very brave businessman he was, but he knew better then to cross battle lines with a Marine fleet. So now that they are involved, he was going to sell his shares in the operation and let someone else deal with them.

He walked over to his desk as he found just the proposal he wanted. He hit the comlink on his desk, “Please get me Chairman Glie Jab” he said in to the comlink then walked over to his bar. He picked up a large bottle of ale and opened it. He started to pour the liquid out but was forced to stop when the lights went out. His ship rocked violently as sirens started to sound. He was tossed to the deck as the ship rocked again. Still holding the bottle, he climbed back to his feet and rushed out his room in to the corridor. There along a large beautiful window that gave a breath taking view of the top side of his massive Dreadnought, he saw two much larger ships on each side of his ship moving up the length of his own ship. He dropped the bottle as it crashed to the deck.

The markings on the ships were not Republic! His mouth hung open as he saw the large black dragons on the dorsal wings of each of the ships. He could see the other markings that clearly indicated that they were Azgardian. Through the space he saw more ships leaping out of hyperspace right on top of his own fleet. The two ships flanking his own ship were firing at near point blank ranges in to his ship. He watched as large explosions filled the space around his ship. He knew his own fleet was getting annihilated. His own ship rocked violently as the midsection of his ships irrupted in to flames. He knew it could only be the landing bays that had been caught with their thick blast doors open. He was in disbelief over what he was seeing.

There was a loud cracking noise behind him. He spun in time to see the lift doors glowing in a large wed shape. Within moments the doors exploded outward towards him. The force lifted him off his feet and blow him back. He was surprised that the blast window didn't stop him. Till he realized it was blown out as well. He floated away from his ship as he watched his skin turn to a dark brown while it froze in milliseconds. His blood boiled at the lack of pressure but then rapid freezing ended its boiling state. His frozen eyes focused on the ship that had made him so much credit over the past two years. His life had ended before he ever understanding how, or why these events had happened.

What Chairman Quee never knew, was that back on Azgard, a contest had been waged with deadly outcomes and the ripples would now cost him, his own life. Once the Azgardian 3rd Fleet completed its Honor Guard duties in returning their dead home from the Core Worlds. Every Warrior House on Azgard competed in battles that most of the times ended in someone's death for the Blood Rite to hunt down the traitors of Coruscant. In the end of the two days of combat, the victors were named by the Temple Priests. It had to be the Azgardian 3rd Fleet controlled by the powerful Heartman House that would be named winners. It was their family who had been dishonored and had suffered the most losses in the attacks. For them, this was a matter of pride and personal Blood Oaths. Now those ripples are being felt in the fringes of CSA Space.

Once the 3rd Fleet left Azgard, their flagship along with a small group of support ships slowed their speeds to give the advanced fleets time to get ahead of the main fleet. As the three fleets separated, the smaller main fleet started to send messages back home. Each warrior was tasked with sending two messages a day. Everyone knew that the messages could not be decrypted, but the volume of the messages would show that the fleet was still together. The larger advanced fleets changed course and made best speed for the CSA space. There they would cross swords with the CSA.

The CSA fleet over Fedeeraan was not a easy ripe target. The ships of the 3rd Fleet were out numbered nearly five to one. Also CSA ships held the advantage with cutting edge technology in weapons and shields. Their crews were well trained and had high moral. However, they were not trained warriors like the Azgardians were. They didn't live for war nor did they desire a death in war. This was not a career for the Azgardians, they were raised and breed to be warriors. Nor did the CSA have blood lust for the their enemies like the Azgardians did. So while they were out numbered and out matched, a CSA victory was no where nearly assured.

With their shield at full power and their battle stations manned, the Azgardian Fleet dropped out of hyperspace right on top of the unsuspecting CSA ships. Almost all of the CSA ships never got a chance to energize their shields before being blasted in to burning hulks. The Azgardian gunners were able to land five times more critical hits over their CSA counter parts. Even as some ships were able to return fire, their gun crews were blasted with pin point counter fire. Generally, most of the CSA larger ships were ripped to shreds under the massive combined direct fire as the Azgard ships concentrated fire for maximum affect.

Even before a call for help was able to be issues from the ships in space the battle was over. While the smaller, faster Azgardian ships mopped up what CSA ships were trying to limp away from the slaughter, the larger ships turned their powerful guns on the planet below and opened fire on key military positions and ships on the ground. It was a picture prefect operation for the Azgardians, and if anyone knew anything of their culture and history. They would have known that this was not a new tactic for them. However, most only believe what they wanted to believe. So when word spread throughout the planet as to who was attacking, fear spread as fast as the blaster fire rained down.

Planetary leaders issued a surrender in hopes of warding off a massacre. The battle was over even before the Azgardians started to land their small number of troops on the planet. But this was not the only battle taking place in CSA space. The reason why the ships from the 3rd fleet were so badly out numbered was because, the second part of the advanced fleet had broken off. They headed for the CSA Anchorage above Zocayn IV. The scene there was much the same. The CSA ships there were also caught completely by surprise and were blasted from the space above. Zocayn IV surrendered just as Fedeeraan had.

These two worlds were the only two worlds that could directly support any CSA operation in the region of Baklid 6. This meant that now Baklid 6 was cut off from direct support and reinforcements. With both worlds in the hands of the Azgardians, there was also a massive hole in the CSA lines that now left them open to full scale invasion. The life blood of the CSA was the Hydian Way trade route and it too was now in threat of being cut. These two attacks had forced the CSA to make a hard choice, Baklid 6 or their own core worlds.


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

Nearly twenty four hours later
System: Baklid 6


The planet of Baklid 6 is a beautiful world from space. Its thick lush green northern and southern regions gives its thick brownish desert belt balance. A pair of large oceans and inland seas gives it more color and more diverse appeal. Its rich bluish yellow sky gives the white clouds a rainbow of colors as it reflects the light from the sun. From orbit, Baklid 6 hides the horrors of a planet in the mists of a civil war. Death and combat had become a daily norm for the people of this world and many have resigned to accepting it. However a new shadow has started to spread over the world.

With much of the same design as the Republic's Assault Class Carriers, yet almost double in size and mass. A pair of massive warships exited hyperspace with a few smaller escorts in close proximity. The lead ship, known as 'Thor's Chariot', and her sister ship are the pride and joy of the Azgard fleets. It is unusual that they would travel without their large escort fleet. However as history and the reporters will tell in a matter of hours, they were needed somewhere else. Now their shadows are cast long across the planet like two great fingers gripping the world. The markings of large black dragons on each side of the ships told all who saw them, that this was the Azgard 3rd Battle Fleet. Also known as the Black Dragons, and on board were the elite Dragoon Forces.

A pair of Republic shuttles broke orbit and made their approaches to Thor's Chariot. The two shuttles cleared the smaller picket ships along side of the massive ships, the true size of these two warships was still unbelievable. These two ships leave Azgard space only for two reasons. To escort the body of a late Chancellor to its finally resting place or in time of Galactic War. Sadly, last week they were called for service for both tasks. The pair of shuttles slowed their approaches as they were taken under tractor beam and directed to separate landing bays.

Deep within one of the landing bays of Thor's Chariot a group of Republic Army Officers have been gathered. General Raith Arranda has never been accustom to waiting to be seen in such a manner. Once their shuttle landed he had expected that the Commander of the Azgardian fleet would have greeted him at once as a show of respect. The seasoned general looked around at the massive bay filled with empty fighter racks. He made a mental note to ask the Commander where his fighters were. He turned and looked to his son, Colonel Fynn Arranda, who was talking on his holo comlink. He smiled as he watched his son. Placing him in charge of counter intelligence was a wise move. He had so many contacts on the world already and was doing a very good job at locating smugglers. Then his gazed turned to the fifty or so guards that did greet them in the bay.

Not one of them talked to them other than to say, “The Warlord will be here shortly.” Each of them looked fearsome in their black dragon like armor and hidden faces. Not one of them moved even a bit while they had been waiting for nearly an hour. 'This is getting ridiculous' he thought as he turned to the closest guard and stormed up to him/her/it. “NOW LISTEN HERE!” he raised his voice, “I do not have time to wait around for your Com......”

“General Arranda I take it” Warlord Raynar said cutting the General off in mid sentence while walking in to the bay. Warlord Raynar was a large man standing well over two meters tall and very well built. His face had been horrible burned and he wore those wounds with pride as he walked. He was a man that carried a great sense of presence in the way he moved and talked. His voice echoed as it boomed across the bay. He was dressed in the traditional red and black colors of the Azgardian Warlords. His red cape flew out behind him as he walked forward and exposed the medium spiked body armor he wore under it. In his left hand he carried a large double sided warhammer.

Only a few in the room would have guessed that the Warlord was General Arrands senior by nearly fifteen years. But no would have thought it by his built and appearance. Behind the Warlord followed two younger warriors dressed in similar black armor as the guards but their helmets were removed. Each of them carried swords over their backs and rifles in their hands. A young woman with white hair dressed in red robes with no visible weapons on her followed behind them. It was clear to those that knew the Azgardian culture, that she was clearly a Priestess.

The General smiled as he nodded, “Yes I am” he said as he turned to greet the Warlord. “I take it you are Warlord Raynar” he questioned. 'Its damn well about time, you arrogant bastard' the General thought as he walked over to take the Warlord's out stretched hand, “You have a mighty proud ship, Sir.”

Just as the General thought they were going to shake hands, the Warlord drove his fist deep in to the gut of the General causing him to double over. He fell to his knees holding his gut trying to reclaim the breath that had been taken from him. As the General was falling, the Warlord tossed up the warhammer and caught it with his right hand. With his now freed left hand, he let loss a powerful punch as he too fell to a knee next to the general. The blow landed on the right side of the General's face sending him sprawling to the deck as blood splattered about.

Everyone was caught by surprise from the unprovoked attacks, but all of the General's men failed to act. Each of them moved to help their besieged leader. However the two warriors that followed the Warlord drew up their rifles and ended any hope of rendering aide to the General. Not one of them were prepared to enter in to a blaster exchange with two warriors. Each of the Army Officers raised their hands showing their willingness to back off. They did form a circle around the Warlord, the General and those three about them. Behind the Army Officers the Azgardian guards formed their circle locking them to this one location. The Warlord smiled as he noted what had taken place then turned back to the General who was picking up a tooth.

“The same General Arranda who wrote, 'She is like an animal that is more fitting of a leash then a Republic uniform.'” the Warlord quoted the General's words from a report written months ago. “That was what you said about one of our finest warriors General and my GOD DAUGHTER!” he added slowly standing up while still looking down at the General who didn't even bother to look back at him. Both men knew what the report was from and knew that what was being said was true. The Warlord drew back his foot and drove it in to the General's side. “Your words was a slap in the face to my family and a spit at our traditions.”

The Warlord turned from the General as he coughed up more blood. “Let make one thing clear, being here, cleaning this mess up is not an honor for my warriors” The Warlord yelled out at the rest of them. “We are here only because of a man who holds more respect with us then any of you do asked us to be here” he declared as he started to walk around the center of the group. He stopped at one of the officers and looked at him, “Each of you have failed your men and your mission. Not one of you are worthy of any respect, but one of you IS deserving of death!” he pointed out then started to walk back to the center while his two companions in the center moved the General from where he was laying. The Warlord looked at the young woman and nodded.

She smiled and nodded back at him. Then with a single motion of her hand and arm she leveled it at the General's son. “Its him, Fynn Arranda” she proclaimed.

Fynn almost laughed, “What is this” he questioned then added, “You call us up here to bully us then pick one of us to execute. What kind of game is this!”

The Warlord still held his gaze at the woman, “Are you sure” he asked.

She nodded, “I am.”

The Warlord turned to face Fynn, “Let introduce you to another member of my family, This is Shalla Heartman” he said moving to the side so Fynnn could get a sound look at her. “Yesterday, our forces seized the worlds of Fedeeraan and Zocayn IV. We were able to capture a number of civilian ship captains that were able to inform us as to how they were able to sneak past your blockades.”

Fynn looked shocked, “Thats impossible, those worlds belong to the CSA. The Republic wouldn't dare wage war with the CSA!” Fynn declared but then thought about it and then added, “Even if that is true, what is the word of a few captured mercenary captains. They would say anything to save their own necks” he said with a renewed confidence.

The Warlord hated games like this with other races. They knew they were guilty but still hoped that they would get off with some ray doubt. “This is true, that is why we always remove doubt” he said turning to the young woman and nodded.

The brought her right hand up to her left shoulder and pressed a small device from under her robe. Her body shimmered and then changed in to another species. “Fynn” she said in a different voice, “Do you remember me now” She asked. She could see in his eyes that he knew he was caught. On that she backed away from the Warlord as she turned off the device. She had done her part that was asked of her.

Fynn turned to flee back to their shuttle. He had not planned for this but he figured that he could escape the ship and work out the rest from there. He tried to force his way past the guard who grabbed him each by an arm and spun him about and tossed him back in to the center of the circle. Just as he was vaulted towards the center, the Warlord was already moving towards him at a run. The two met midway as the Warlord drove his large warhammer deep in to Fynns ribs. Unlike the General, Fynn's guilt had already been decided long before they left Coruscant by a secret hearing. Fynn's mouth exploded with blood under the impact.

Fynn's knees crumbled under the attack as the Warlord spun around him. The Warlord's cap fluttered as he spun behind Fynn lining up the next attack. He brought that large warhammer up with both hands and drove it down on Fynn's back. It landed right at the base of his next snapping his neck while crushing every bone in his spine. The shock waves of the blow rippled through his body ensuring death before the body landed on the deck. Warlord Raynar looked down at Fynn's body in disgusts. He slowly brought himself upright from the short combat as he faced the other now horrified officers. “We have a list of over a thousand names. IF they come forward now, they can return to the Republic and stand trail for what they have done. However, IF we have to go looking for them, they can expect no less then what has happened here.” He declared then looked to one of his Warriors, “Space this garbage” he commanded. Two warriors moved forward to carry out the order.

The General tried to move to his son's body but was held back, “My son...” he could barely get out.

Raynar walked over to the General and knelled next to him, “My God Daughter was not a traitor to her people. I wonder what words you would write about that garbage over there” he said motioning with his warhammer. “Go back to your commands” he said standing back up and faced the other officers. “Tell them all what you saw here. I have a order from the Republic Senate and the Chancellor himself to bring peace to this world at all costs! Go tell them that in twenty four hours, we will start our take over of your operations. The 9th Army will be returning to the Core Worlds in disgrace. A few units will be asked to remain with us to complete our mission here. But the rest of you will carry your disgrace back with you” he said to them. “NOW GET OFF MY SHIP” he yelled.

Raynar watched a pair of the Army Officers gather up their General and followed the rest of them back to their shuttle. Within moments the shuttle lifted off the deck and hovered out of the large bay. He didn't trust any of them. Had they not so horrible failed their missions he and his own men would not be here today. Had they not turned a blind eye to the traitor Fynn, then the bombs used over Coruscant would have never found their way on board the Defiance. Each one of them held their own responsibility for the reason why the Republic was at war right now. Now his own men were going to die to clean up this mess. He shock his head, “Cowards and traitors, the whole lot of them are” he said with disgust in his native language as the last view of the shuttle passed. He turned to one of his men and gave a nod saying, “bring them in.”

Raynar walked over to a wash station and washed the blood from his hands. He didn't need to look at the group of soldiers walking in. He knew all to well who they were and had sent for them personally. He turned to see a pair of humans, a twi'lek, a Kerestian, a Feeorin, and a Wookiee being led in to the bay. Each of them wore the uniform of the Republic Army. He nodded and smiled, for he knew that for them to even be here at this moment that their loyalties were assured. He had spent the past fifteen hours going over reports and profiles and came down with these six names. He knew he had the ones he needed. The only question remained was would they be willing to cross the line he would ask of them.

“Brothers and sister” he said making sure to look at the twi'lek then continued. “Each of you had bleed for an Azgardian Warrior during the past year. Each of you had served as a honored warrior to some of our greatest heroes” he said as he walked up to them while passing his warhammer to one of his men. The tone of this meeting had changed greatly than the one that had just been held. These men and woman were noble warriors and their blood had been proven months ago. “Captain Bron Pryde” he said walking by the Feeorin who looked down in sorrow. “Captain Gara Heartman” he said walking past the humans who also showed a sense of connection to the loss on their faces. “Lieutenant....Captain Foilla Heartman” he said correcting himself as he stopped at the Wookiee. The Wookiee made a sorrow filled sound Raynar nodded, “I understand my friend” he said to the Wookiee then turned to the rest of them, “These, other great Azgardian warriors and a larger number of civilians were murdered by the worst kind of murderers. They were cut down by a band of traitors.”

He paused then moved back so he could speak to all of them, “Jedi Murderer Daz Murl and his traitorous ally, Angelique Heartman” he paused as he looked around, “Yes that is correct, MY OWN BLOOD” he raised his voice in anger, “played a part in these murders” he said then stopped. He took in a deep breath to clear his anger over the fact that one of his own godchildren had been involved and responsible for the murders. “The Jedi Order has gathered support in the Senate during the past few hours and motioned that these murderers be brought to a Jedi justice” a sense of sadness could be seen over his face as he continued, “I have been forced by supporters to give my word that no Azgardian Warrior will pursue these vile murderers or their allies while these issues are figured out.”

Taking a moment for the words to sink in, he walked up and down the line, “That is where I, no we, All Azgard needs you. Our hands have been tied within honor and duty. But you my friends are free from my word.” he said waving his hand to show the impact of their help and how everyone was looking to them. “Our heroes came to this world and bled for each of you. Some had come in your darkest hours of need and brought you back from the brink. Together all of you had bled with our warriors and have been found to be trusted” he commented on how the 501st has arrived to help the 9th Army during a time of great need.

“I am now asking each of you to leave behind your duties to the Army and join our cause” he explained while motioning to a table that was being laid out with weapons and armor. “I can only ask this of each of you will not...” he started to say but it was the Wookiee who acted first by removing his uniform and walked over to the table and stood. Next was the Feeorin and Kerestian to remove their uniforms and head of the table. The Freeorin picked up a nasty looking Gatling type blaster repeater. The humans and twi'lek were last to walk over to the table.

Raynar smiled and nodded, “Right, this is my god daughter, Shalla Heartman” he said motioning over to her, “She will be going with you on your noble crusade” he paused as he noticed each of them looked surprised.

It was the Wookiee who spoke up and the twi'lek translated, “You said no Azgard Warrior could take up this hunt.”

Raynar nor Shalla needed the translation but Raynar spoke up, “You are right, not one Warrior will go with you. Shalla, is a Temple Priestess.”

“I am not govern by the words of the Warrior Caste. So I am free to do as I wish.” Shalla said softly then stepped forward, “I choose to help each of you find the right path that will bring each of you honor.”

No one seemed bothered with Shalla joining them on the mission, but it was the Freeorin who raised the next question, “What are we to do when we do find them. Kill them?”

“No” Shalla interjected sharply, “The people of Azgard demand that a trial be held and that only the guilty be tossed in to the pyres. Killing the two would not bring this mission honor. They must be brought back alive to answer for what they have done.”

One of the humans spoke up next, “I have no problems hunting them down. I met this Daz before. He always seemed a bit off to me. Where do you want us to look for them?”

Raynar smiled as he was able to give them the last surprise. He waved and two large warriors walked. On four long chains were four half dog half something beasts. Their eyes were silver and their coats looked like a mix between fur and some sort of small plating. Two walked on their hind legs well the other two walked on all fours. As they all moved forward they would change between walking on all fours and only their hind legs. They growled loudly as they moved towards the group. The sounds and sight of them even caused the Freeorin reason to pause with concern.

“What the hell is that” half questioned and half exclaimed one of the humans.

Shalla walked up the the creatures and smiled at them, “These are pets” she said rubbing one and kissing another on the head. The one she kisses made a sound that everyone could have sworn sounded like spoken words.

“They are intelligent” questioned the Twi'lek.

Shalla looked back, “No, just simi-intelligent. More like sightly above normal animals. But they are completely immune to force powers and coded with the best senses in the galaxy” she explained then added, “If they are on the planet we will find them. All we need do is get to the world they are hiding on.”

Raynar added, “One of my picket ships picked up a smuggler a few hours ago. In exchange for his life, he told us that he dropped Daz, Angelique Heartman and four others off on Baklid 6.” Raynar passed out datapads with more information on it. “Which is where your hunt will begin. So let me allow you now to get started. Find them and bring them to us alive” he commanded then gave them all a salute.

[Akirapryde]

Beliefs and Truths
Thor's Chariot
Orbit over Baklid 6

The blade of the lightsaber passed dangerously close to her as she spun away from the strike just in time to avoid getting hit. Her heart pounded in her chest as she heard it thudding over and over in her ears. She turned her head just in time to see the next blade coming in for a strike. She countered by driving her left hand in to the wielder's hand then she hammered her right hand on his elbow joint causing him to let out a loud grunt of pain. As he fell stumbled back she had no time to rejoice as she looked for the first attacker. She heard the next attack coming in from behind her. She tucked and rolled away from the attack. She stopped her roll on her hands and kicked her right leg back behind her driving her foot in to the groin of the first attacker she dodged just seconds before. She balanced herself on her hand with her chest low and her leg behind her high.

From the corner of her eye she saw the flash of the second lightsaber coming in fast and low. She thrust her body up by pushing up from her arms and back as the blade ripped across the deck of the training room sending sparks everywhere. She fell back to her feet then leaped up like a spring under tension. She propelled herself in to the air spinning never once taking her eyes off her target. This gave her the chance to land a kick on her attacker. He had expected the attack and was ready to block her attack as she made it. She landed between the two warriors looking between them waiting for the next attack in their training. Her breath was out of control as her heart pounded in her chest. It was the warrior behind her that swung first then the warrior in front of her. She leaped from her right foot as she spun to her left causing her body to start in a barrel roll in midair. One lightsaber passed over her while the other one passed under her. Her landing was graceful and fluid as she finished her spin still drawing on her momentum of her spin, she swept her left leg out hitting the warrior in front of her and knocking him back then she continued her spin around.

The warrior behind her leaped over her leg and brought the lightsaber from behind him and then over his head so he can bring it down at her. She rolled in close to him as she blocked his downward motion with her forearm. Then with her other hand, she slammed her fist in to his chin forcing him backwards. The other warrior leap kicked her from the side giving his partner a chance to recover from the blow she dealt him. The impact tossed her to the side and caused her to roll across the deck. She controlled her rolling and came to a stop on her back. She spun her legs in the air giving her the leverage to leap back to her feet. She back flipped away just as the next lightsaber attack passed by, missing her by inches. Another attack from her flank came just as she side stepped it and slid in close to the warrior. The blade passed outside and behind her as she drove her palm in to his sternum and another one in to his chest. He stumbled back as she spun to the side using her faster speed to its fullest advantage. With hands at the ready for the next attack she looked around and saw none coming. She noticed that they were looking at something else. She turned to see Warlord Raynar standing in the doorway.

She looked down with respect, “Warlord Raynar, Greetings” she said as she turned to face him while dropping to her knees with her head lowered and her hands placed carefully on her knees. Her body was rigid as she did everything she could to bring her breathing under control. Her long white hair in a tight braid and draped over her shoulder. “I take it you have seen my report, My Lord” she added calmly never taking her eyes off the spot on the deck just ahead of her knees.

Raynar looked at the two warriors with a grave disappointment on his face. Each of them looked down as they knew what they had done. This was a warrior's training room and she was not a warrior. “Lightsabers” he questioned walking forward as he dismissed her comment. It was one thing that she be aloud to be on a warrior's ship. But this was something totally not forgivable. He decided that he would have to deal with this in a special way. He held his hand out as one of the warriors placed a lightsaber in his hand. Raynar examined it, activating it and deactivating it while Shalla spoke.

“They are the weapons of the Jedi” she explained. “A terror weapon in both sight and sound. It is a symbol of their strength and connection to the force.” she paused as he continued to examine the weapon, she knew that he was listening to every word she was saying. “It is a symbol of their skills, dedication and authority. Through it, they are afforded a great deal of respect and honor. I want to now how it reacts in all combat situations. I want to learn to face it and know its weaknesses.”

Raynar nodded and handed the weapon back to the warrior, “spoken like a true warrior, Priestess.” He motioned towards the door while looking at the two warriors, “Get out of here” he snapped at them. Carefully he watched them as they gathered their things and started to leave. Then as the last one walked past he stopped him, “We will talk about this violation later” he said coldly then added, “Station outside the door. No one is to enter till after I leave this room.” The warrior nodded and continued to leave the room. Raynar waited for the door to close before he continued, “Correct me if I am wrong Priestess, you are not a warrior, are you” he questioned as he started to circle her slowly.

Shalla knew she had broken a law but she didn't care. She held her position without even shifting her eyes as her mind went through all the degrees of punishments he could impose on her. She could hear his steps as he moved about her. She could feel his presence as he slowly circled. She was a warrior in her heart and that was enough for her. She felt it in her soul who she was and what she was meant to be. “No, My Lord I am not” but she also knew in her heart that it was not enough for him or for her people to see her as the warrior she felt she was.

“Shalla, I read your report, and the ship that you asked for is standing by. It was captured on Fedeeraan. A corvette just as you have requested. The IFF has been cleaned and reprogrammed as a Merc ship. No one will know who your origins. So you will be free to work in and out of the Republic.” he explained as he continued to circle her.

“My Lord, I don't understand” she stated softly, “I understand that I an not a warrior. But surely there are other Long Blades that are more experienced for this mission. Others, who are more worthy of this mission. Why me” she asked as she starred at her red robes over her legs. The gold embroidery was beautiful and subtle. For those that knew what to look for, it showed her rank and placement within the Order and the Priesthood. Everything that she had reached up to this point she had to work for. And so the robes showed it within the embroidery. She always felt pride in her robes as it showed her life story right before her eyes.

Raynar started to walk away from her, “Warrior Priest Pryde asked me to look out for you when he left Azgard. He was a good man and a trusted friend. It was a blood oath that he asked of me.” he said as he stopped at a coat rack on the wall. “What if I were to tell you that there is an evil force in the galaxy” he asked as he started to remove his cloak.

Not looking up from her position, “I am aware of the Jedi Order and their threat to our people. We are taught of the coming war” she explained with sadness in her voice. There was no reason for the Jedi to hate or fear them, but it was clear that they did. More so now than ever before.

Raynar nodded to the answer, “Yes this is true, however, that is not what I am asking you now. The Jedi Civil War proves that there is something else larger at work here” he explained as he placed his cloak on the rack with care. He ran his hands down the length of it to make sure it hung just right. “Pryde was sent on a secret mission by the High Temple and only a few of us Warlords were made privy to this mission and the vital reasons for it.” he explained carefully as he lifted his mighty hammer and pulled the strap from the handle. “His last report reflected that the corruption that had spread throughout Republic had even spread to some of our own Warrior Houses and their leaders. That this evil was using us against the Jedi as weapons. He hinted that there were many links to a few Azgardian Officers within the Admiralty.” He added as he hung up his hammer and turned to face her.

On that she couldn't hold her position. The shock on her face was clear, “That's not possible. Azgards would never betray their own people. Its our highest law!” she protested. It was that moment she realized she broke position and snapped back. The question filled her mind, duty was the basis of every Azgardian Warrior. Loyalty to the people to which they serve. 'How could any Warrior betray the people of Azgard' she thought as she questioned herself.

“I know, yet the evidence was clear and something that we the ruling Warlords could not dispute. However because of the attacks on the Core Worlds, our links were gone. Those Officers suspected were killed. Pryde and his team lost, and all of their evidence destroyed” he said with great sadness. “So we are forced to begin anew in our search for this evil.” He said walking towards her. “Defend yourself!” he snapped at her.

On that order she leaped up from her knees in one fluid action and brought her hands up. She knew better from the hard way that failing to act would only mean a harder beating. “So you know that Daz and his team are innocent of the bombings. Why the hunt for them” she asked as she moved to keep him in front of her.

He brought his own hands up, “Their innocents or guilt is not assured one way or the other.” he said circling her carefully. He sized her up and watched her hands closely. “The hunt for them is important on a number of levels” he said moving in for an attack. He through his right hand at her and she blocked it easily. He knew she would as he drove his left in to the side of her face causing her head to snap back. She let out a grown as she stumbled backwards dazed from the powerful hit. “They're our only link to this evil that is behind this war and to those traitors within our own ranks.” He said as he followed her and did the same attack again.

This time she was prepared for the second hit and tried to counter with a blow of her own. Sadly her counter attack was expected. He grabbed her arm and pulled her in to his waiting knee knocking the wind from her as he tossed her to the ground. “Plus we don't know if they truly had nothing to do with the bombings” he continued to explain. “There are simply too many links behind the events for us to turn a blind eye to.”

She hit the deck hard as he was speaking. Her heart was already pounding as her breath started to race out of control once more. “But this doesn't answer.......my question.........why me” she worked out as she slowly got back to her feet.

He moved in for another attack with speed and agility of someone a quarter of his age. His left hand landed deep in her gut lifting her off the ground as she bent over from the attack. His right hammered her head sending her stumbling backwards, “There are those that would rather see Daz and his team burn in the pyres for days. I wont lie, I would like this too. However the Laws of the Elders demand that their guilt be assured before the first pyre is lit.” he explained while he attacked her then watched her stumbled backwards. He waited for her to right herself before moving again. He moved up on her once more and she attempted to block as best as she could but his attacks were simply too fast and too accurate for her to block all of them.

With powerful blows to her trunk he drove hit after hit to her ribs. The blows cracked some of her ribs as both of his large hands found their intended targets around her defenses. She let out another grown in pain as he forced her back once more. “Other warriors and even long blades might let their blood lust get the better of them. I need someone I can trust to follow the trail and bring them back alive.” He said moving in again and taking a few hits from her to land a knee in to her stomach forcing her to let out a cry. “Your life paths are linked and that makes you trustworthy within this mission.” He said as he slammed his right fist in to her chest forcing it to collapse under the blow. Her eyes nearly popped right out of her head as the impact forced her chest to collapse. Her mouth made a fish face as her lungs were forced to exhale causing her to fight for breath more then normally. Her body shuddered as she lost her balance and fell backwards on to her backside.

The last blow sent her heart in to spasms as her breath ran away with her. She rolled over on to her stomach as she tried to get back up. She knew that she had to get up or he very well could kill her. She felt him land on her back pinning her legs under his weight. She tried to crawl out from under him as he pulled her arms up coiling his under and around hers. She felt a cord around her neck and her breath cut off. She thrashed about trying to get him off her. It was in that moment she realized that he was strangling her with her own hair. She scratched him with her claws and tried to twists to no avail. Her vision blurred as she was slowly being suffocated. She started to black out making some kind of panting sound when she felt him let her go.

He grabbed her under her shoulders and lifted her high in to the air and tossed her across the training room. She hit the wall and crashed down on to a bench, then rolled on to the deck with a hump sound. “NO matter how strong you build the fortress walls. When its foundation is only sand, it will never survive the battle.” he said as she fought hard to get back up while trying to catch her breath. He knew her strengths and weaknesses. “You shall never be a WARRIOR!” he spit at her.

Despite her beating and deep wounds she pulled herself up from the deck to a crawling position screaming back, “ITS MY BIRTH RIGHT! I WILL BE A WARRIOR!” she yelled back to him between her winded breaths. “By Thor's honor I swear I WILL NEVER GIVE UP!” Her vision was blurred to much to see him rushing at her.

He easily pushed passed her weakened defenses and snatched her up by her neck. She made a choking sound as he lifted her off the deck by her neck. Her feet dangled helpless as she held fast to his arm trying to relieve some strain on her neck. “And that is the reason why it MUST be you to find them and bring them back to Azgard” he said and dropped her back to the deck. He walked away from her as she laid on the deck coughing and trying to get back up once more. He looked back at her one last time as she just managed to get to all fours. “You will speak what I have told you to no one” he said as he pulled his cloak back on and took his hammer. “Next time you violate the laws of our people, I will kill you” he said with concern of her using a Warrior's Hall for training. He started to leave the room then as an after thought he paused, “Do not fail your people, Priestess” he said softly then walked out of the room.

She heard the door open and then close. She placed her hand over her heart and felt it racing out of control. She tried to center her mind and bring it back under control. She cursed her heart's weakness. Her vision blurred by tears and the lack of oxygen in her blood. He is the best and most powerful warrior in all of Azgard. Still she knew she should have been able to last longer, take more damage, even deliver more damage. “I should have been better” she coughed then added, “I will be better next time.” She turned and looked at the statue of Thor in the corner of the training hall, “I promise Thor, Lord of Thunder, I will be a Warrior!” She said then tried to get up only to fall back to the deck.

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

Flash Back! (Weeks after the Assassination of Queen Sinya Chalco)
Royal Palace
Baklid 6


Biggs set next to Lysire as she moved the datachip between her fingers. “I don't think that this is a good idea” he said softly to her placing his hand over hers. “Things are best left unknown, baby. Trust me.” he said trying to reassure her.

Lysire just looked at it then looked back to Biggs. Her love for him had grown so deep in the past year and a half they had been together. He had been her rock when her mother was assassinated and now there was once more a new drama in her life. Each time she looked in to his eyes, she saw a strength that was there for her to use when she needed it. If there ever had been a time to call on that strength, that time was now. It had been just over a couple of weeks since they laid her mother to rest when a strange man from some law office showed up to see her. He carried with him a case of datachips that would opened up a whole new world to her. A horrible world where she could no longer trust those she once called friends. The man said that the case was entrusted to him by her mother and had orders to give her a copy of the case should something happen to her mother. He gave her the case and then informed her that he would remain in hiding should something happen to her.

She learned horrible truths about the Heartman family and their evil quest to murder force users. How Captain, then Lieutenant David Heartman, help commit horrible crimes against innocent people. She found out that he was such a horrible man that had had an affair with the wife of one of his subordinates. Then make sure that her husband would die in combat and then married her. How he was like a spider in a web controlling the actions of so many. He had been named by her mother as some criminal master mind called The Puppet Master. He was in charge of a criminal network that stretched across the Republic. His associates would cross weapons with her mother and her allies as they protected innocent people. She learned of how David Heartman murdered and assassinated those in his way. Each file opened up new truths about him and showed horrible evidence of unspeakable crimes.

As she read she learned more horrible truths about the Shadow Stalker program and about how her mother along with her friends worked to stop their spread of evil. She read about how the Shadow Stalkers were an elite unit of cloned soldiers that answered only to David Heartman and carried out his orders of evil. She learned about how they wiped out entire communities of force users. She had known about little bit from what David Heartman Jr had told her but she never knew the full scope of how the Stalkers worked within the ranks of the Republic military to achieve the David Heartman's goals. There were base locations and movements that reflected a life time her mother spent tracking them from Baklid 6.

She was able to learn about Rose and Orchids origins and how both of them came from another universe. They were brought here and befriended by her mother. She learned how her mother and Rose were close personal friends before Rose's fall. She learned about the Sentinel program and how both Orchid and Rose were trained to be Siths by the Jedi Council to stop the Shadow Stalkers. She learned that it was the Council who had ordered their assassination at the hands of Jedi Master Chun. From her mother's own journal she learned that the temptation for the dark was simply too much for both of the young Jedi and that they fell victim to it. Lysire felt a great sense of loss and sadness over the two victims. It was the first time that Lysire had a chance to read about some of the missions her mother went on as a Weapon's Master with Master Chun and the others. She learned about all of them including A Jedi Master she never heard her mother speak about, a Master Mar Phanan. She had made a mental note to research more about this Master.

She learned about a clinic on Coruscant named Our Lords of Mercy Clinic and how it was run by a company owned by David Heartman. There were experiments that were conducted on young force users. She read how these experiments would leave the subjects deformed or insane or both. How Sinya and her friends had fought so hard close the clinic and rescue those caught up in its evil plans. The clinic operated hand and hand with an orphanage in the underworld of Coruscant and would turn over victims to scientists working for David Heartman. She learned of a young victim and how he was driven to insanity by the experiments conducted on him. His name was Treast Vel, another person she would have to look up.

Lysire learned the most horrifying truth as she continued to read. Her mother was at one time married to another man and she was pregnant with his child. She learned how David Heartman had her mother's first husband murdered in cold blood. There had been a accident a board their ship and he had been trapped in a malfunctioning air lock. Before anyone could get to him, the outer lock had already opened vent the man to open space. She read the long pages of pain her mother went through over the loss. But the worse was to come in what she read. David Heartman forced her mother in to a miscarriage and cost her the baby. During a celebration over a completed mission, he had given her a glass of wine. She had refused but he said one would not hurt the baby. It was later learned by her that it was poisoned. She also read how he under the guise of medical treatment had her mother sterilized. Unable to touch the untouchable Puppet Master, her mother left the Order once and for all to pursue a career as a holo-Star. At the end of five days in reading, Lysire couldn't stand to read any more. She simply could not force herself to see any more truths of what had happened to her mother or what she had gone through.

It was something that got Lysire thinking which placed her in the situation she was in at the moment. She couldn't help but do a bit of researching on her own. She too had been on board Heartman's ship and served along side his family and close friends. She had a full medical exam conducted on her self and pulled some files from Defiance Medical logs. Now that all the results were back, and it only needed to be opened. She looked at Biggs with tears in her eyes, “I want to know” she said softly but her hands shacked as she tried to open the files.

“Honey, please you don't need to do this” he said softly looking in to her eyes. He knew that no good could come from these files and now her own research. He had to admit that there were even things within those secret files that he didn't know. He knew that Mother and Orchid would love to have copies and he would make sure that they did, when the time was right. But the affect on her was getting to a point to where he even questioned letting her continue. Still though, he knew she had to go just a bit further.

She looked at him, “I have to know” she said softly then looked down at the pad, “I have to know if they did the same thing to me as my mother.” On that she slowly reached down and activated the datapad. All her life she had dreams of children and a family. She had dreams of having a daughter so that she could have the same mother daughter relationship she enjoyed with her mother. She had to know if what was done to her mother at the hands of David Heartman and his goons had happened to her. She slowly read the medical report from the Jedi examiner. Everything seemed in order and she seemed almost relieved when she was nearing the end of the report. Her eyes grew in horror as she read final parts of the report.

Her mouth dropped open as tears filled her eyes. Her hands lost feeling as she watched helpless as the datapad slipped from her hands and fell to the floor. Her face turned from shock and horror to disgust and anguish as she turned to her Fianc'e. She was unable to speak other then to make this sad sound that might be considered a word. “wh.......why......” was all she was able to get out as the tears flowed from her eyes. She drove her head in to Biggs' shoulder and waiting arms as she finally managed to wail loudly. For all that he has known her, he never seen her so broken and so hurt. He couldn't think of anything to do other than just holding her while she cried. Her body shook heavily as his body did little to muffle the sounds of her cries. He glanced down at the report.

“Reproductive Organs: Absent”

He held her tightly as she cried. It was not that he really cared about her. He really didn't allow himself any feelings for her at all. She was nothing more then a tool. Sure she was attractive for Rim Trash and taking her virginity was pretty fun at the moment. But she was nothing more then just a tool to him. He would never let anyone know these true feelings in his heart about her. So he had to put up the fake face of what he wanted her to do. The prefect lies came from deep down. And so would this lie. He let his anger flow out so she could see it about his face and know that his feelings over her suffering was real. Even had he wanted to, which he didn't, he knew he couldn't take her pains away right now. He couldn't undo what had been done to her. Not that he really cared one way or the other. He looked anger and just held her. He wanted her to sense that he connected with her pains. Which he didn't really care about. But the more she believed him, the better he could use her. Calling on the force he reached out and picked up the datapad without breaking his hold on her. He wanted to know who did this and why. Even though he really already knew all that he needed to know. He look up the file and read the records that she had hacked from the Defiance that had mentioned her.

“Due to the nature of the wounds suffered on Yavin IV, it was decided by the patient's Jedi Leader, Daz Murl, that her reproductive organs shall be removed to ensure a more speedy recovery. It was against this Doctor's opinion that this was the best course of action. However the procedure was insisted upon by the Jedi Leader of the group. So in protest the procedure was carried out. Signed: Doctor Trailue Bruit”

Across Biggs' face his anger for Daz grew to deeper level, “I can't believe that Daz is working for Heartman. Though it makes prefect sense. He helped free Rigs, the assassin who murdered your mother” he said holding her. He thought long about all the things that he knew behind the scenes. He knew that Daz and Heartman were close. He also knew that Daz had talked to the Doctor in length regarding Lysire's recovery. Everything was falling in to place perfectly and she didn't have a clue.

She just cried, “Why....why me.....what did I ever do to him.....Them” she sobbed. She trusted Daz and Admiral Heartman. Was what her mother wrote true about them. Was this horrible person her mother believed to be this Puppet Master really David Heartman. Was he and his followers like Daz bent on destroying all force users. She simply could not grip her mind as to why they did this horrible thing to her. Her dreams of a daughter of her own were gone. Her dreams of a family now lost.

Biggs dropped the datapad, he didn't need to read further. He knew what had to be done. He just was not sure how to go about it just yet. Daz would make a good escape goat for him to finally crush any loyalty she held for Daz or the Order. He knew months ago she was sterile. It was important to him to know, he didn't want to get her knocked up and bread with the little Rim Trash. Fucking her was one thing. Mixing his Core World Gens with hers was something else. However, for this to work he had to believe this lie. He had to make her believe it was a the truth of his heart. held her tightly, “I promise you love, we will get him for this. We will get all of them for this” he promised kissing her lightly on the head trying to comfort her the best he could. Getting the file planted just days before was a masterful art. He made sure that when she hacked it, he was there to distract her. This way she would not be able to tell if anything was wrong with the file before she copied it off the mainframe.

She looked up with tears in her eyes, “I don't just want to get them. I want them to suffer. I want HIM to suffer just like me” she said choking on tears as she spoke. She looked down in shame but then looked back in to his eyes and added, “Is this wrong” she asked.

Biggs kissed her on the forehead then said, “No, your anger is well placed on David Heartman and Daz Murl.” He looked at her softly adding, “But you can't show it. Just like your mother, you have to hide this anger. Bury it deep down inside your heart. When the time is right we will get Admiral Heartman and Daz for what they did to you.” he placed a finger on her lips continuing, “For now though, it is not that time. Daz is in favor at the Temple and untouchable just like Admiral Heartman.”

She nodded, “Quaad does favor him heavily. So what do you do?” She knew that Quaad liked Daz allot and trusted him much more then other Hunter leaders. Getting Daz back would be very hard while he was protected by the Temple.

“If your mother is right, than Heartman has many other files. Lets see how many other skeletons he is hiding.” he said softly adding, “I know we talked about this before. About hacking databases that belonged to others.” he paused to let her understand where this is going, “I know you think its wrong. And you are right. But think of it this way. Think of how many others like you we can save. Will you help me save others?” He said softly with his hand on her shoulder for support and he looked her right in to her eyes.

She looked down in sadness. Her eyes still tearing from the heart breaking news she just read. A part of her was screaming NO. She knew it was wrong to hack computers and take information that didn't belong to her. But on the other hand, she could find other victims of Heartman and his evil. She could learn of who else is working with him and what they are working on. She could save so many others like her. She turned her up and looked in to his eyes and saw that man that she trusted and loved. “I'll do it” she said unsure if her heart would allow her to follow through. But she knew she had to try for the safety of others.

Biggs smiled softly at the little Rim Trash and nodded, “I promise you, we will take down Heartman and then we will go after Daz.” Finally he had her completely. She would trust him and he could use her for what Mother and Orchid needed. They had asked him to gather information about some Omega Project, Project Sphinx and some Aura Base. He was not sure what these things were but they were of some importance to Mother and Orchid so he would find out. 'well, Lysire will find out' he thought with a pleasant ring in his mind. He looked down at her and through her tears he saw a smile on her face. He knew that she finally trusted him completely.

[Akirapryde]

Cyber Cat and Mouse
The Star Adder
Somewhere in the deep in the Outer Rim

The silent corridors of the Star Adder are testament to the normal state of paranoia aboard the ship. Along with the new passengers on board, droids on patrol with orders to kill anyone that doesn't belong move about the corridors in an ever eerie silent guard. Security has always been one of the highest priorities on the Adder. When one has the reputation of being the best runners in the Outer Rim, there is a never ending list of nubs that will try to make a name off of you. They have been betrayed by friends and allies alike for gains. Their cargo has attempted to be stolen or swindled from them. There has even been more than once that a sly conning conman had tried to worm his way in to their hearts. So to insure that none of these nubs would try to take advantage of them, sisters have learned to trust no one and to be ready for anything at anytime. It is clear on any level, that the two only holds trust for each other and no one else.

Battles are not uncommon for the our party of heroes. Some battles are some field of honor on some remote world. Other battlefields are fought through the mighty powers of the Force. And still other battles are fought in deep space. Yet, no one on the ship knew that a strange battle was taking place deep in the heart of the ship. Down the corridors of the ship and to the left of the Main Engineering deck stood a pair of Destroyer Droids. Like the other droids of the ship, they only answered to Anni and Aral. They stood silent and unmoving before pair of blast doors that protected the heart and core of the Adder. It was the main computer room of the ship. It was here that Anni built the systems that run most of the ships functions. It was here that she planned out the improvements to the ship. Beyond these doors no one could hear the loud music playing that had become the anthem of the battle.

Suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder, Anni had always kept this room very net and clean. However tonight, her mind was elsewhere as it showed by the things tossed about and out of place. As the stereo blasted its music the red bars of the equalizer reflected the changes in the tone, pitch and tune of the sound waves that filled the room. The heavy metal music which was playing was by some anger girl band that was only known in the underground world. The air in the room was filled with smoke and scents from the oils and incenses that were burning in a number of locations throughout the room. When she is working on her servers she always enjoy keeping the room dark except for the monitors and lights that flashed on the servers. Anni looked at the twin monitors before her reading lines of code as it poured in over the servers. Her hair wrapped up in a loss bun with a pair of pins keeping it up. Every once and a while she would pick up a small lit cigarette and take a long drag off of it.

Anni pushed off her desk as she rolled across the deck to a stack of servers on the far wall. She reached in to a box hanging from the rack and pulled up a datacard. She read it to make sure it was the one she wanted and then she pushed it in to a slot on one of the servers. She hit a few keys on the rack and nodded as the drive started to read the card. Satisfied with the upload she pushed back to her desk and the waiting keyboard. “Come on you little mouse. Where are you going to lead me next.” she said under her breath as she started typing again. The chase has already been on going and Anni was enjoying it very much. It isn't every day that she gets a chance to cross wits with someone so talented or clever. The smile on her face could not be whipped off as she took a sip of her drink and another drag from her cigarette.

“Anni, we can't just hang out here. We need to get back in to hyperspace” Aral said over the comlink. Anni had almost forgotten that she had the ship hanging in normal space while she played this cat and mouse game with that other hacker.

Anni watched her screen as she saw the binary code roll before her eyes. 'Moorja weather control subsystems? That is where you are leading me now?' she thought as she watched her little mouse lead her on their little chase. “Hold on, I need more time. This is taking longer than I thought.” Anni said as she keyed in her commands as the cyber chase continued.

She could tell that Aral was getting upset by the tone in her voice, “You said it would only take a few minutes. Its already been nearly an hour......” Anni cut her off as she typed in more commands as the chase now led them to a holonetwork station and their servers. 'clever little mouse' she thought once more. Throughout the Republic's communication network a series of signals played a real time cat and mouse game jumping from system to system. As fast as a signal could move from one system they were already heading to the next. It was a light speed intense chase.

“I said more time, Aral, please trust me....” Anni snapped over the comlink then turned it off. She focused on her keyboard and the data running across her screen. There were hundreds of lines of code rushing pass the screen in real time. Within these lines of code was a tiny little foot print that she was looking for. She knew in her heart that Aral would wait. There was no one in the entire galaxy that she could count on more than her own sister. She also knew it was the same for Aral. The two had that tight of a relationship between them. Anni could pull the plug on the hyperdrive if she had too. But she knew she wouldn't need to. Aral would give her the time she needed.

“There you are little mouse!” she said with glee and entered a set of her own codes to follow the footprint. As the system loaded up the next lines of code Anni turned to another monitor and more lines of code. “I see you hiding there by that node. No you don't! Trying to reverse the chase again. Let me show you this!” she said as she entered a set of new codes which shifted her own foot prints to a new server. She smiled as she read the code and saw that she lead the little mouse to a Republic Communication Satellite than on to Malastare's Approach Control Subsystems. “Follow the leader” Anni said jokingly as she moved to the other computer and continued to read lines of code.

The chase started just under an hour ago when she saw that a passing pirate ship scanned Ogon's message. She leaped on the signal and followed it through the ships systems and then it lead her across the Galactic Communication Network at light speed. The mouse she was chasing was a smart one indeed. Almost at the same time Anni started to follow the mouse's signal a second signal showed up on the pirate ship and started to follow its way back to the Adder. Anni had dealt with hackers before but this one was smart and clever. The chase started at one point and spread in two different directions as both tried to cover their own tracks while locating the other. At the same time each were playing offensive and defense. This really made the chase that much more enjoyable for Anni.

Anni was fast with the keyboard, she had experience behind her and her mind was built for this level of thinking and reading at the same time. She already knew that her little mouse that she was chasing was using a Republic Military Server. This meant that her little mouse was military trained but there was also something else about the mouse. It was almost playful in its actions. This meant that the mouse was not a harden soldier. Maybe a civilian contractor or student. Her little mouse was almost as fast in commands and lines of code as she was. Three times the mouse almost lost Anni during the chase and Anni only managed to almost loss the mouse once. The signals were routed through communication stations, public broad casting stations, traffic control systems, and even other ships. Any system that was linked to the Galactic Communication Network had become their play ground. Anni actually thought she lost the mouse when she routed the signal through a major holostar's mainframe. Surprisingly to Anni, the mouse had side slipped the chase and was right on her tail still. The cat was now being hunted. She laughed at the thought of it as she continued to enter in her commands on both computers.

Anni smiled deeply as she finally locked on the signal and started the final path to her little mouse's house. 'house of mouse' she thought with humor and smiled deeply taking another drink and entered some more commands. “Sorry little friend, but this cat is about to get fed!” she said with happiness. Right then an alarm drew her attention, “Clever little mouse, oh so clever.” She said as she watched the mouse make a remarkable move to close in on her and the Adder. There was no point in trying to reroute the signal again. It would not stop the mouse and only waste her time. Instead she focused on blasted through the firewalls of the mouse's systems. 'Nice system little mouse' she thought as she had a chance to see what kind of servers powered the mouse's system. “Rayon Stealth Logic ION. Don't see one of those ever day. Someone is flipping a big bill for you little mouse” she said as she continued to type and smiled as the end of the chase was getting closer.

Anni typed faster on her keyboard while lines of code on the other monitor turned red. She knew she only had moments to do what she needed to do. She typed as fast as she could while her focused narrowed on the lines of code right before her eyes. She smiled, “Come on little mouse the door is wide open. Come on in and stay for a spell.” she typed even faster as she glanced at the other monitor. She nodded as she hit a final key then leaned over rapidly and hit the comlink, “NOW ARAL!”

On her call to the bridge, Aral didn't need to think she only acted. The Adder leaped in to hyperspace cutting off the signal before the mouse could identify the Adder's location. Anni leaned back in her chair smiling and taking a drag off her cigarette, “That was intense!” she said shaking and sweating as she looked over at her little droid cat. It made a metal meow sound. “I know, we had to let the mouse go this time. But I think we will be seeing more of it in the future.” Anni said looking at the now blank screens and nodded again. She rolled back and pulled the datacard from the read and looked at it. “But at least I know where they are and what they look like” she added softly activating the holo image of a ship. She turned it off and got up from her chair. She walked for the door, “I will be right back, Ogon will want to see this.”

She walked in to the galley. Normally she would see her sister here drinking or playing on their console game when she walked in to the galley. However because of the Jedi aboard, Aral has pretty much cut herself off and stayed on the bridge. Anni didn't mind, it was best this way. She didn't want to help her sister in disposing of any more bodies. After all you can only space so many people before it starts to get to you. She closed off that thought and walked up to Ogon's table. He was going over some files on his datapad. She could be sneaky and peek, but she figured if he wanted her to know than he would tell her. She just walked up and smiled, “So your trick worked. They took the beat. Man they are good. You have no idea how good they are.” She said picking up a bottle of liquor off the table and took a deep drink. Liquor was one thing any one could be sure to find on the Adder. Anni was still shaking from the excitement she just had.

He looked up with a smile and a reassuring nod, “I know you did your best......”

“I said good not better than ME!” she cut him off. 'Man! Pay someone a compliment and everyone just assumes they are better then you' she thought then nodded as she dismissed his comment and continued, “They took your bait and lead me on a chase across the galaxy as I tried to locate them. An hour of cat and mouse chasing, here is what I have.” she said placing the holoplayer on the table and activated it. “It is the Jedi Cruiser, Clear Thought, I managed to locate them near the system of Anobis.” she explained as she noticed her hand still shaking. 'oh my god, I need to finish this off before I scream!' she thought. Her pleasure could barely be contained. “Someone is dropping some big bills on this little mouse. Top of the line equipment and servers.” She explained with a smile on her face. As she ran her hand through her hair just thinking of the systems that that little mouse had. She closed her eyes trying to get a better control of her self while her body quivered at the thought of the power of the systems that were in use.

“Oh man, some of those equipment are not even available on the black market!” she said with excitement. Anni brought her hands up in fist shaking as she thought of the chase just moments before, “Oh yeah, it was like oh my god intense.” She ran her hands through her hair as to fix it but then decided to leave it down. 'or was it up?' she asked not being able to think clearly. Then in that moment she realized she was letting too much excitement out. “So um, yeah” she said looking for a decent exit line while she brought her body back under control. She nodded, “I have to go” she said then thought, 'yeah go somewhere. But what? Oh yeah thats prefect.' “clean up my lab.” she said then turned and walking away without looking back. She left the holoplayer behind showing the ship and the record of the entire chase. As she left the galley she couldn't help of think about that Rayon Stealth Logic ION, 'Oh god what I could do with one of those on the Adder' she thought as she used the doorway as support till the thought passed her. Her body quivered once more before she was able to leave and return to her lab.


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

Hunters on the Hunt
Mount Gushania
Baklid 6

Damaya walked away from the group of Jedi a few steps then turned around and glared back their prisoner, “Let's get this straight” she said more loudly than needed, “They walked in to your shop” she asked.

The broken and scared little woman dressed up as a cat laid on the ground as she listened to Damaya's question. The bruises across her body and face indicated clearly the level of interrogation that she was going through. Her body was shaking uncontrollably from the countless beatings she had already endured. She looked down in fear, “Yes...........” she answered than added, “Patrick was so hungry. So I fed them”

“YES, yes... We know that part” Damaya paused then continued, “So after you fed them, you help care for their friends then you led them here through the same secret tunnels you brought us through. Correct?” Damaya asked while four members of her team searched the area for clues and were scanning the location. Two other members of her team stood guard over the prisoner. Damaya's own padawan stood by watching the interrogation with a look of horror across his face.

The sad little woman nodded almost too scared to answer but she managed to work out, “Y.....es....” she said shielding her face from some attack she feared would be coming at any moment. It was clear that she was broken and was able to offer up no further acts of resistance.

Damaya's anger was clearly written about her face, “OKAY! So we got this point down. You talked with them a bit, then used those secret tunnels to hide up there” she said pointing to a location high above the floor of the long dead volcano.

The sad little woman nodded, “y.......es......” she answered without looking up from where her arms shielded her face.

Damaya nodded, “Okay so what did you see. What ship picked them up” she asked hoping that this time she would get a better answer with more details.

“They left with the Demon and Shadow. I saw the Shadow walked out of the lighted place.” She answered almost in tears. They had asked her the same questions now for almost three hours and she told them the truth but they still beat her. She could not understand why they were beating her.

“WHAT DOES THAT MEAN!” Damaya yelled as she rushed the woman kicking her over and over again. “TELL ME WHAT THAT MEAN!” She just kept kicking the woman as the she cried out in pain begging for the beating to stop. Damaya reached down and grabbed her up by her hair and slugged her repeatedly in the face till one of her hunters pulled her off the woman. “WHAT DOES THAT MEAN YOU CRAZZY WOMAN!” Damaya yelled full of frustration as one of her hunters pulled her off the woman again.

The woman laid on the ground sobbing. She knew what would happen next. They would talk some more and then the mad woman would ask her the same questions again and she would tell them the truth and she would be beaten more. She tried one time to lie to them but the lie was caught and she was beaten even harder than before. She hurt all over her body so much that couldn't feel her legs anymore. She looked down to see her tail broken. Her beautiful little white tail had been broken. She reached out and pulled it closer to her. She held it softly as she sobbed. Her tears washed down on the white fur of her tail. Her make up had long ran down her face leaving behind lines of sadness and suffering across her face. Just this morning she took so much pride in her appearance to make sure that she looked her very best when she opened her shop. That was when the mad woman and her so called Jedi rushed in to her store. She wished that they would just leave her alone.

She looked up to see the mad woman talking to some of the others that took her from her shop. “Master Weirn, there was a ship here. We found and read the ion residuals left behind by the ship's engines. According to the Jedi database it is most likely the Star Adder.” One of Damaya's hunters explained as he continued, “Rumors have it, that they do have some kind of cloaking device aboard the Adder. This could explain her not seeing the ship.”

“Master Weirn, I really don't think that the crazy lady can offer us anything more useful. Just finding out about these tunnels will be a huge help to the Government Forces in cutting down rebel activities within the Capital City. She has proved to be very useful.” Adi-Rami-Tu said softly. Being the youngest Jedi in the group and the newest member he knew his voice didn't carry much weight but his late Master had always told him to speak up and let his heart be heard. That was before his Master was murdered by Rebel Jedi. Last month he was assigned to Master Weirn as her Padawan. He already disliked her teachings and her behavior over all. She was so much more different than his late Master.

Damaya looked at the rest of them as each nodded, “She is guilty of aiding fugitives of the Republic. Under special authority 95, we need to all be agreement to carry out justice.” she said coldly then looked from each of her team members who had gathered. Slowly each of them nodded their heads. Being with her for over a year now, each already knew better than to defy her plans. However when she came to her Cerean Padawan, he just looked at what was going on and shook his head.

“Master Weirn, this is more crazy than she is” he said pointing at the broken woman who was crying and shaking on the ground. “How can you all be serious! She is insane!” He tried to point out seeing the look in each of their eyes. He could not believe that Jedi were about to execute a mentally ill woman who may not even understand the nature of the crime she was being accused of.

Damaya stepped forward trying to speak with that voice of the teacher that she wanted to be. “I understand your point. But she is clearly guilty of the crime. Does that mean we let her crimes go unpunished?” she explained softly placing a hand on his shoulder.

He looked at her in disgust, “She needs to be in a hospital, not this.” he tried to explain.

Anger crossed Damaya's face once more as she back handed the young padawan. “Grow up! Do you think she will ever be normal again. This would be doing her a favor. The facts are clear. Do you agree that she aided fugitives or not!” Damaya yelled at her padawan.

He took the hit almost stumbling back. He snapped his head back and looked her right in the face. “I do, but I do not agree to this” he said softly wiping the blood from his lip.

Damaya nodded and then looked at the rest of her team. “Lets finish this!” she said harshly as she started to walk pass her padawan.

He reached out with his hand while closing his eyes. As he softly caught her arm, he opened his eyes to look at her once more in the face. “Please Master Weirn, I am begging you, don't do this.” he pleaded with her.

Damaya back handed him once more, “Man up! you little weakling” she said hitting him so hard that he fell back to the ground. “I am going to send a message to Daz” she said as she returned walking to the woman. Already two of her hunters took hold of the crazy woman and held her up with her arms searched out. The woman was crying heavily fearing the beating that she thought was coming again.

Adi-Rami-Tu leaped up from the ground and tackled his Master. He might have only been a second year padawan but he knew this was wrong. “Please Master, I am begging you. Don't do this” he pleaded trying to hold her down as best as he could.

Damaya was actually impressed with his action. Sadly he choose a bad time to come out of his shell finally. Still she was impressed with his willingness to resort to violence to get his point across. She rolled and hammered him with her elbow sending the young padawan rolling in the dirt. He leaped from the blow without a thought and cut off her path to the woman. He was not sure what he was doing but he knew he had to protect this woman, crazy or not. He energized his lightsaber and readied to defend the woman's life. Already the other members of her hunter team started to move on the padawan. Damaya waved them off as she drew out her own double bladed lightsaber and activated one end at a time.

Damaya didn't wait for the young padawan to realize his mistake as she rushed him, easily disarmed him using her own lightsaber and her much higher skill level. Once he was weaponless from her first attack, she spun and licked his leg with her lightsaber. He let out a loud scream of pain as he fell. She pulled the blow making sure that he would not be seriously injured from the blow. After all, she was his Master was responsible for teaching him, not killing him when he messes up. He fell to the ground holding his wounded leg. Just as he looked up again he caught the sight of the bottom of her boot landing right on his face. He was knocked flat to the ground by the blow and dazed. He fought hard trying to get his bearings and get back to his feet. His vision cleared just to see Damaya standing behind the woman with her two lightsabers out and crossed right behind the woman's neck.

Damaya frowned, “It is not my fault that Daz brought you in to this. He should have known better than to involve civilians in his crimes. This is Daz's fault, not mine.” she said then pulled the lightsabers part. Adi-Rami-Tu eyes filled with tears as she speak and he tried to get back up but his leg wound was too deep. He tried to use the force and even poured his heart and soul in to the attempt but to no avail. He did everything he could to stop this horrible act but he simply lacked the skills and ability to do anything other than witness what he considered a cold blooded murder.

Just as Damaya was speaking he heard the woman's cries of fear subside to almost a clam state as she said softly, “Oh a puppy.” He was a bit confused because there was almost happiness in her voice as Damaya removed her head in that simple action. Adi-Rami-Tu couldn't bare to watch as he turned his head right at the moment of death. Under his voice he said, “I am sorry.....” as a his tears flowed freely.

He heard Damaya walk up to him, “The ship will be here soon. Get him bandaged up.” She said looking down at him with pitty.

He looked up at her, “WHY!” he shouted at her. “You didn't have to do that. You could have let her live.” he continued to cry his questions to her.

Damaya only shook her head, “She was a traitor to the Republic and so she was dealt with as such.” She said as she knelled next to him, “I know this is hard for you to understand right now. But in time you will understand and even come to see the truth in what I have said.” She held out a hand for him to take.

He only swatted it away asking “What have we become if we murder in the name of the Republic.” He looked away from her and stared at the dirt around him. “This war, our believes, what have we become? We lost our way. We are no longer Jedi.” he started to mumble in sadness to himself.

Damaya stood up more angry over his lack of respect. Had she shown half this level of disrespect Master Chun would have beaten her heavily for it. She shook her head slowly, 'No, I can be a better Master than him' she thought as she motioned for others to get the padawan up and move him to the landing site. She watched as he was carried away and heard her second in command walk up behind her.

“Normally I would not question you Damaya but I think you made a mistake.” Kell Jace said softly. Kell was a tall human male Jedi that was actually born in the Temple and lived his whole life within the Order. Much like Damaya he had no parents to speak of nor felt no connection outside the Order. His age and experience was clearly written across his face as he spoke freely and calmly. The veteran Jedi Knight had seen more action than anyone else including Damaya. No one understood why he was not given leadership over this hunter team, but he never once questioned the orders of the Grand Master. He was a loyal Jedi and knew how to follow orders like a good soldier.

Damaya nodded, “Maybe you are right, but I had to send a message to Daz.” she explained, “I want him to see what he caused here. I wanted him to see the death that was now on his hands.” She added as she watched the rest of her team leave the area.

Kell nodded his understanding, “How do you know he will get the message.”

“I know Daz, he loves to look deep in to the Force and see events that are linked to him.” she explained then added, “Despite what the Republic Propaganda Machine would like everyone to think. I know Daz like no one else. He will see this death and then he will make a mistake.”

Kell just looked at the headless body and nodded while Damaya continued, “There are two things I know for a fact in the galaxy. One there will always be corruption in the Republic and two, Daz Murl will also do something foolish at just the wrong moment in time.”

He turned to her and nodded, “Also, I got word back from the Azgard command. It would appear that your hunch was wrong about that red dressed woman who stoled your lightsaber and that case that we took from the bird creature. They do not have any warriors that matched the description that we gave” he explained.

Damaya turned to face him, “Then they are lying. I know she is Azgard. I have seen that combat style before. Fiolla Heartman used it. It was a signature move for her. She has to be Azgardian.”

He only shook his head, “It is a known fact that Azgardians don't lie. I am sorry but she is not Azgardian. There are a dozen of other races that I am looking in to at this moment. But I talked to five of my best sources within the Warrior Houses on Azgard and none of them is aware of any warrior that matches her description.”

“Fine, keep looking and get my case back” she said harshly. She knew in her heart that the woman in red had to be Azgardian. But if they do not know of her, than maybe she's not. There were just too many unanswered questions about her. Like why did she steal Visst's case from her. It was clear in their first engagement that she could not use the force. So what reason was behind the theft. Damaya just shook her head, “Daz has well over a twelve hour head start on us. I am not about to leap in to some blind chase like that idiot Biggs did. Lets let Daz come to us.” she said then activated her comlink, “Captain, once you pick us up. Set our course for the pirate heaven at Barstow V” she ordered as she heard her ship starting to land, “I know that the Adder operates out of that base when they are in this region of space. Maybe we can catch a clue there.” The pair headed out to board their ship leaving behind the body of the woman.

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

Visst woke up from his dream and touched the side of his face. He felt no tears or wetness on the side of his face. He could feel the heavy weight on his heart though. He saw the vision of Damaya as if he was standing right beside her the entire time. He shook his head and knew in his heart that the Force was speaking to him in the vision. He closed his eyes once more and just focused on breathing. So much had transpired in such a short period of time. He was not sure what action to take next but he knew that with the Force on his side he would not stray from the path.

[Akirapryde]

Another kind of War
Thor's Chariot
Orbit over Baklid 6

Warlord Raynar stood in the center of one of the largest holo players known to exists. He watched the space carefully with wary eyes. Since the escalation of the Republic's involvement in the Jedi Civil War, he has traveled more light years than he has ever traveled in his life. He had been traveling between Coruscant, Azgard and Baklid within the past 72 hours. Because he hated holo communications, he had preferred to personally attend the meetings where he was requested. These latest meetings affected his warriors directly and he'd be damned if he would not be there personally to show his opinion. Yet despite his fatigue he had to unlock the secrets of the recording we was watching now.

“Replay from point T:1.04.5” he commanded the computer as the images reset and played again. He watched very carefully as he commanded, “slow to one ninth normal speed. And enhance sector five three two by two one six.” He watched carefully as the slowed images changed and gave a new angle on the image. “Enhance sector two nine six by seven four five.”

As the images played a door hissed opened then closed. Raynar knew who was coming for he was expecting one of his most trusted. He didn't bother to look, “Pause Image!” he commanded then pointed, “Colonel Shalo, what do you see?”

Colonel Shalo Pryde had been a long time friend and trusted ally to Raynar since they both children in training. Colonel Shalo was a man of both wisdom and valor. Despite being a member of the Order of the Rose, Raynar still trusts him deeply. Colonel Shalo walked in to the holo image and looked around at the image very closely. He took his time before answering then finally nodded, “I see space Warlord. Nothing else.”

Raynar nodded at the answer, “If I were to tell you there was a ship right there before your eyes, would you believe me?”

Shalo took another moment to look more deeply at the image. This time moving about to get different angles on the image. He really tried to find the ship that he was being told was there. “My Warlord, I would not need to see the ship to trust your word. However, truthfully, Warlord, I can not see any ship in this image. Maybe there was a fault in the transmission of the image?”

Raynar nodded, “That is what I thought at first. That is why we are looking at the actual sensor data from the ship that took the recording. I had it rushed here on my personal shuttle.” he said turning back to the image and looked around, “Play audio section Shalla One.”

Raynar listened as he watched his trusted friend tremble at the sound. Shalo looked up in terror, “May Odin have mercy on us, what was that” he asked trying to understand the sound that just assaulted his mind.

Raynar nodded once more, “That is a computer recreation of what Priestess Shalla claimed to have heard right before the death of the Repulse.” He said then turned back to the image, “She claims that this sound was heard here during this attack as well and that we are looking at the ship that destroyed Republic ships over Whithmerfee.”

Shalo turned in shock, “No disrespect Warlord but I read the reports of Whithmerfee. The attack was carried out by a large pirate fleet. There is no way a single ship could have carried out this attack. No way Warlord.”

Raynar turned back to his friend, “Then show me one image, one sensor log, one witness that can place any other ship there. Because this image here is dated during the attack!” There was something he was missing and he knew it. Turning in frustration, “I have studied this recording for hours. The only thing that I see is empty space. I see no other ships. Not even the pirate ships that were claimed to be responsible for the attacks.”

“Sir, have you considered that maybe there is no ship there.” Shalo said as he continued to move around the image. He wanted to see the ship that his friend was claiming was there. But he eyes told him that there was no ship there.

Raynar nodded, “Yes I have. But I dismissed that thought. Priestess Shalla swore to give up her warrior's quest IF there was no ship there. In the short time I have known her, this one thing is more important to her then anything else in her life. For this, I believe her. There is a ship here. We just can't see it.” he calmly said as he walked over to the holo control. He pulled the data chip from the player and the image vanished. “You have the reports for me?”

“Yes my Warlord,” he answered as his position changed up. “As per your request I have pulled all of the deployments and recent conflicts that have broken out in the past three years.” He pulled out a data chip as he started to walk over to the holo player controls. He placed the datachip in the player and activated it. A new image filled the chamber. This was a large map of the Republic and surrounding spaces. “In the past three years my Warlord, there had been over twenty different conflicts that has sparked up between normally peaceful races. However during the past year and half, some more hotter than others but generally it would appear that the Outer Rim is becoming a hot bed of conflict.”

Raynar interrupted, “Look where Whithmerfee sits. Right in the middle of these new conflicts. Just outside of Corporate Sector Space. I know that they don't have the ships to pull off that attack. They are too tied up in the southern regions of their space defending against our ships. No, something is going on in the Rim Worlds. We need to find out before more warriors die needlessly.”

Shalo nodded, “I see what you are saying my Warlord. The Jedi have already dispatched a number of Jedi to these new conflicts to try to bring peace to these systems. They are having some success but not like they are use to having. As for Baklid, our forces are having the success we had expected. The Rebels are being crushed at every battle. We have completely cut them off from supply lines and landing zones. Their leaders have even contacted us and offered terms for surrender.”

“Two days too late for that.” Raynar said with a heavy heart. He had already gave them a chance to do the right thing. Now the war must be won through complete and total defeat of the enemy. “Tell them they had their chance for that. There are no terms for surrender” he said as he coldly walked over and picked up his warhammer. “We have a meeting with the commanders” he said motioning for the door. After the meeting, I have an important task for you. One that only someone like you can do” Raynar said flatly then held out the chip from earlier. “Take this to Coruscant. Deliver it personally to Jedi Grand Master Quaad. Tell him that there is a ship there to be found.”

“Yes Warlord,” Shalo said with pride, then added, “you have my word. It shall be done.” For the Warlord of one of the most powerful worlds in the Republic to entrust such a mission on someone like him, it had to be something that was of the gravest of importance. 'If there is a ship, we will find it' he swore.

Warlord Raynar nodded as he lead his friend out of the room and right in to a large conference room next door. In the center was a large holo table that was nearly nine meters across. Around the table waited were a number of Azgardian Officers, Republic Army Officers and six Jedi. Raynar nodded to each of them. He knew each of them well. During his travels he took the time to read over their personnel files. He knew that he could trust each of them. Well, all but the Jedi. They were sent here by Master Quaad against his wishes. Despite that fact, they had been useful up to this point. Because of them, he would not be able to carry out his next plan.

“Greetings Brothers and Sister!” he said as he waved his hand over the holo table. It came to life showing a large sprawling city, “Welcome to Courtesy!” He knew that many of them already knew of the Rebel stronghold. But he had to make sure that they all were on the same sheet of music. “This is where the war will end. Here is where the enemies heart and soul resides. Here is where we will drive our sword deep in to their heart. Here is where we shall attack next.” He paused knowing that some would have something to say.

It was General Ki, the Republic Cerean Officer who spoke up first. “Sir with all due respect, the reason why we have no attacked Courtesy first was because we can not get close enough to support a ground operation there. Unless you mean to blast the city from orbit with your ships” he explained calmly and respectfully. Each and every non-Azgardian knew all too well the short temper of Azgardian Officers.

Raynar shook his head, “the Civilian losses would be unacceptable by our standards.” He explained then continued, “We will be attacking the city with ground forces.” He smiled knowing that his own fellow officers knew what he was planning and waited for the others to pick up on it.

General Ki looked carefully at the map then shook his head, “Sir, the closest friendly lines are over five hundred kilometers away. Your forces would be cut off and caught between a hammer and a anvil.”

General Miko Heartman smiled and nodded, “And so would their reinforcements. They would be cut off from help.”

Colonel Lexi Mors looked over the map then read a datacard, “From our intelligence the Rebels had to reinforce their lines because of the Black Dragons attacks along their lines.” She said then looked up in surprise. Never before had she seen such a strategy planned and carried out. Even during her training within the Republic Army she never saw this. “You have been planning this from the beginning” she questioned and watched Raynar nod. “But still how do you expect to keep their reinforcements from hammering your exposed flanks?”

Raynar smiled, “Look” he said as he highlighted routes cut along the mountain passes. “These roads are the only roads large enough to handle the volume of troops at the speeds needed to support their stronghold's defense. I have already denied them their air bases, fighters and ships. They have little air power left. As we speak, three Azgardian Overlord Carriers are hiding behind our fleet. These ships will add nearly four hundred heavy and light fighters to our numbers. We will have nearly nine hundred fighters and bombers able to cut off enemy support from their stronghold. Our pathfinders have uncovered their secret routes here” he said highlighting more lines on the map, “and here. Also these routes here will all be targeted as well. Trust me, there will be no reinforcements for their beloved stronghold.” He said with pride over his plan.

General Ki nodded as the plan became known. It was risky but there was more than a reasonable chance for success. “But to what end Warlord? Okay so we take Courtesy out of the war, what do we get out of it?”

Raynar nodded to the Jedi, “Thanks to our Jedi friends, we know that not only are the Rebel leaders held up in the city for a conference for the next eight hours. We also know that the Rebel Jedi leaders are also within the city. Once we hit the city, we can crush their leadership and leave the snake without a head.”

Every one of the Republic Officers looked shocked at this latest bit of information, “EIGHT HOURS?” cried General Ki. “Even if we moved now we could not be in position in time to launch this plan in to action.” He looked down at the map trying to see a way to work in to the time table. “Its impossible Warlord.”

Raynar's smile grew, “That is why we started the operation six hours ago. We have already deployed forces in advanced positions along key routes to cut off the enemies retreat. Many of your troops have already been pulled and are being relocated right now. Only a few understand some of what is going on. You are the first to see the plan in a larger setting.” he waved his aides to start passing out mission orders. “Here are your mission briefs.” he said and waited while they reviewed them and worked out smaller details.

Colonel Mors looked up as she held up a hand, “Sir, with no dishonor to General Miko or his troops.” She paused waiting for a nod from Raynar to continue. She had served along side Azgards for over a year now. She understood their honor code and how to work within their culture. Once she got her nod she continued, “My battalion had worked the Regailus Mountains for months before we were drive back. I see that you have assigned General Miko and his troops to retaking them. Might I suggest Sir, that you allow me and my unit to this task. We have made vital contacts that might not be so eager to work with the General or his troops. This could save lives and free up his troops for the assault on the city. A task might I add, something my troops have little experience with.”

Raynar turned to General Miko who nodded back, “If these contacts are still able to work with us, than she has a point. My troops are capable in either operation as you know Warlord. If her troops are less capable in urban combat. Than based on that fact, I would support her request” he explained.

Raynar nodded as he turned back to Colonel Mors. He trusted what she said. The reports from the Azgardian troops that served along side her were very promising. That was why he made sure that her unit was one of few Republic Army units that remained behind after the departure of the Ninth Army. “Colonel, looks like you have taken command of the most important part of the plan. Taking and holding those mountain passes is key to ensuring success in the city. Let us all hope that your unit is up to this task.”

She nodded with pride. This was her chance to show them that she was a worthy warrior. She knew that Azgards had little respect for the Grand Army of the Republic. She understood why the lack of faith was there. Yet she wanted to show them that not all Army Officers were so incompetent. “Thank you Warlord. WE will not fail you” she pledged.

Raynar turned to General Ki, “I see you are confused by your orders. Let me explain what I am seeking of you and your men. As it is a well known fact that Azgardian's don't take prisoners. I can not have the defenders put in a position where they are backed in to a corner. I want them to surrender. Yet, I know that I can not order my troops to accept it. So this is why your unit is broken up in to smaller units and embedded within our units. I want the defenders to break combat to seek out your units to surrender. This will help everyone. So this is why your units are so important to the plan.”

General Ki nodded, “I see, so by having them given a choice to die or surrender to my units. This forces them to move and break up their lines of defense. Clever. IF it works. I think that their loyalties will hold up much more than you expect.”

Raynar nodded, “That may be the case General. Let us hope not. Unless anyone else has any other questions. I have transports waiting to take each of you to your commands.” he said and waited for them to ask or leave. Once they started to leave he waved his hand, “Colonel Zurel!” he said loud enough to get the young officer's attention. “A moment” he said waving the man over. Once the room was empty of all non-Azgardians he continued, “Your task is of the most important. As you can see you will be leading the Elite Red Dragoons. You are going to be hitting the Rebel headquarters. Your maps have been provided by two Long Daggers. I am entrusting you with making sure that none of the leaders escape.”

The Colonel nodded, “We shall ride through their blood that we had so badly shed, Warlord.” he quoted from their bible.

Raynar nodded, “Ride like the wind my Son.”

Colonel Zurel smiled, “Fight with pride, Father.”

[Akirapryde]

Awakenings
Lejár Az Idő Kerület
Eredet

“.............Ett tusen ord.......................” she let her voice drift over the last note perfectly as the music slowly finished its last notes after her word ended. During the final lines of her song she had slowly dropped to her knees as the wave of emotion washed over her guiding her voice and words. She carefully lifted her head and opened her eyes. She saw the audience within the central tavern watching her. Their eyes wide with surprise and wonder while some of them even had their mouths hanging open. She watched as one member of the audience slowly stood from his chair. The look on his face was hard for her to read. She feared he was going to walk out of the tavern, but instead he brought his hands together and started to clap. Within moments the entire tavern was in a roar of applauds that sounded like thunder. It was in that moment that she finally gave herself a chance to smile and feel happy over her song.

On Eredet, community was something that was most highly prized. Because of this sense of larger family within the community, each night at the end of the eight day cycle everyone gathers in the central tavern to enjoy the gifts that all can offer. Tonight, she was more forced by her mother than by desire of self to take the stage. She never felt completely accepted within the community for obvious reasons so she never really felt like taking part in these exchanging of gifts. However her mother, being the Ruler of her people and one hack of nosy mother, pushed her to stand tonight and offer up the gift of song. She was scared that like all other times where she tried to fit in, she would have failed. Sure she sang before for smaller groups but never for the entire village.

Mia stood there taking in their approval. Unlike others of her village, she was not touched by the Spirits in anyway. This alone set her apart from everyone else and while no one pointed it out. She knew that she was different, lesser then the others. However, it was her voice that made up for this critical fault which she hated so much. There were nights when she would cry because she was different than everyone else. But her mother had always been there to smile at her and give her the support she needed to pull through the night. Mia looked at her mother with loving eyes. Her mother smiled back applauding with the rest of their people. No matter how Mia was different from the rest, her mother always loved her just the way she was. She was always “a Lelek hangja” to her mother.

Despite wanting a son to carry on his legacy, her father loved her just as much if not more. She had always been Daddy's little girl. She had his deep brown hair with slight curls embedded in her locks. Her deep brown eyes and smile could melted any harden heart. Many of the elders of the village would tell her father that once Mia reaches age, he would have his hands full with callers. He would only laugh at them and be thankful that she was still too young for that. She was just enjoying her eleventh Cycle of Seasons. So she had many years before she had to worry about callers and her father could enjoy this fact. Mia at that moment was just happy being able to sing. It was something she felt she was born to do. It was something that made her feel, normal.

As she stared at her beloved mother and father with a smile. They looked back at her with such love in their eyes and smiles on their faces. Mia could feel their pride for her as she nodded her thanks to her mother. She slowly walked off the stage to allow someone else a chance to entertain the village. She made her way through the maze of back patting and words of gratitude. Finally she worked her way through the crowd to her mother and father's table, “D.......did you l.......like it mo......mother” she asked softly.

Her mother continued to smile as she answered, “Oh yes, my sweet. I loved your new song.” The Ruler of their people said with joy in her voice. Ilona, the Queen of Eredet, slid off of her chair, kneeling before her daughter and then hugged her tightly. “You are such a gift to me and our people.” She said in to her daughter's ear. “The Spirits blessed us with your coming” she added softly.

Laci walked up with a smile on his aged face, “Mia that was lovely.” He said as her mother released her from the hug. Mia turned to face the older man as he patted the youngster on the back. “Might I ask you something” he questioned as he took a knee to look the girl in the eyes. “Those words you sang.” He started to ask and paused to try to feel out his words, “They were lovely and at the same time filled with such sadness. But what do they mean” he asked a bit confused.

Laci was the village defender and one of the most gifted spirit talkers ever known. Many believe he was actually a old spirit brought back to live among them. She looked up to the man before her now. He was filled with such courage. She remembered when she ran away from home last season's cycle. It was him who found her. They spent the night near the metal house and he made a fire for her. He talked to her about his own family and how they were taken by the Spirits a long time ago. He talked to her about his daughter who she reminded him of. “I...” she said sadly, she so much wanted to answer his question but she couldn't, “I don't kn......know.” She struggled to get the words out as she spoke, “I just cl.....close my eyes a......and it just comes to m.......me.” She looked down in sadness, “I'm s.....sorry Véde..lmező” she added using his official title within the village.

Laci placed a soft hand on her chin to lift up her eyes to his smiling face, “Sometimes little one, the Spirits work in such ways we can not understand what they mean for us.” holding her chin he nodded to her, “We must learn to trust in them as they guide us through our lives.” He pulled his hand away and as his smile broaden, “Your voice is a gift from Them to us all. Never be sad by this.” Everyone in the village knew of her 'condition' and felt a horrible sense of pity for the young girl. Shortly after she was born, it was learned that she was not touched like the rest of them.

She was not gifted with the ability to hear the Spirits among them. Nor did she have the gifts to move the winds, shake the ground, raise the tides or fuel the flames. She was born with out any of these gifts at all. Despite this, no one ever thought less of the young girl who tried so hard to be like everyone else. Some have even learned to look up to her as she struggled to fit in within their tight community. It was only a few Season's Cycles ago that her voice broke through the walls of silence and brought forth such sounds that none of them ever dreamed of. She had the gift of being able to fill a room with feelings and sensations that no one dreamed. And yet, the mystery remained. What did her words which she sang mean.

Mai smiled back, “I....” she said trying to find the words that she wanted to say. “I kn....know. I do tr....trust Them” was all she was able to think to say. Singing was one thing for her. The words in her songs just came to mind as she felt and heard the music around her. Yet speaking was something completely different for her. She could never think of the right thing to say at the right time and her mind simply could not bring the words forward correctly. She looked back at her mother and smiled, “I have ba......been Gifted with pe.....people who love m.....m......me.” she said listening to her heart.

No one noticed as the large black cloaked figure slipped in to the tavern during the song. Not that anyone could have if it didn't want them to notice it. They have the ability to move without being seen or heard. It was a Judge, a respected and feared creature among the villagers for very good reasons. It upheld the laws of the Spirits and Commanded the respect of all on Eredet. Carefully it made its way through the crowded tavern to Mia. It was only as it made its final approach that anyone even noticed it. Everyone bowed and moved aside as it made its way towards the young girl.

Ilona bowed nervously as she watched the Judge approach her daughter. Slowly it brought its right scaly hand up and moved it closer to Mia's head. Mia bowed with respect but being so young, she held more fear for the creature cloaked in thick black robes. It stood nearly three meters tall and moved without making a sound. While it had a hood over its head, no one has ever seen the creature's face. There has never been any record of a Judge being seeing without its cloak on. No one had any idea what it looked like. As the hand closed on Mia's head she pulled away in fear. She tried to remain calm but her fears were running through her head.

It moved its hand back a bit and spoke, “Сепак ќе биде” in its deep alien like voice. Then it started to move its hand towards Mia once more.

Mia couldn't help her eyes as they slowly closed, she heard her mouth speak, “Still, I shall be” she said softly as her mind calmed and her body froze in place.

The hand rested on Mia's head and her body jerked as if it had been electrocuted. Deep within her mind, Mia saw many images that she could not understand. Faces, places, things that she never seen before. Over and over the images flooded her mind over whelming her senses. Within the images she saw this horrible thing that she could only describe as a living nightmare. She saw a strange temple under a red sky. Above the temple she saw that the sky had been torn by some great claw. She saw a powerful light coming from the temple. She knew what this light meant. She saw other people she would come to know. She would learn to trust and love them like her family here. She knew that her fate was tied with their's.

It spoke once more in its deep alien like voice, “Спиј твојот ум ќе биде подготвен до” as it pulled its hand from her head.

Mia's body slowly wobbled before collapsing under her own legs. It was Laci that caught her before she fell. He looked down at the girl to make sure she was alright before turning his attention back to the Judge. Everyone knew better then to protest a Judge's actions. It was a Judge and it had its own reasons for what it had done. They only answer to the Spirits directly and serve their needs above all else. Laci nodded to Ilona and Mia's father. There was a sigh of relief among the parents.

The creature turned its attention to Laci, “Земете Daz Murl до Планината на духовите. Ќе” It said with its hand pointing to the mountains across the great lake that boarded their village.

Laci nodded his understanding of the commandment. “Yes, Great Judge, as you wish it” he said plainly.

“Ќе му покажам, својата душа” it added pulling out a ornate short sword from its left sleeve and handing it to Laci, hilt first. There were ruins scribed down the entire length of the blade.

Laci turned to see the mountains once more then back to the weapon before him. He reached up with a feeble hand. He took the weapon and nodded, “Yes, Great Judge. As you wish.” He turned his gaze to the Queen and her husband with great distress in his eyes. Neither of them could offer any sense of comfort or aid. It was, after all, a Judge that commanded this deed to be done. No one dared refuse the commandment of a Judge. None envied Laci for what was taking place.

It turned to the Queen and motioned towards Laci, “Финален тест ќе ја докаже својата светло или темно срце.” Then it started to move away from them.

Ilona nodded then she checked her daughter before standing up quickly to face the creature as it moved away, “Great Judge, Does this mean they are bringing Nezial home” she asked. It had been so long since they had seen the only member of their village to live their world. She remembered that day so long ago and how the Judge had said that Nezial would be gone for five Seasonal Cycles. That day was arriving soon. “Great Judge, is our sister coming home?”

The creature stopped and turned to face the Queen of the world. “Песокот Рапторс имаа платено своите долгови” It said coldly in its toneless alien like voice. Then once it had finished it turned and left the tavern without any further interaction with the locals.

Ilona's hand shot up to her red covered lips and gently touched her white painted face. She looked down in sadness as the mood in the tavern changed to that of great sorrow. Ilona looked down in a feeble attempt to hide the tears dripping from her face. She knew that her friend Nezial had paid her families debt with her own life. She took in a deep breath trying to regain her inner strength. She turned to her people, “We must make things ready for our sister's return.” She turned to her husband, “Take twenty Spirit Talkers with you and go to the metal house. This is where they will return. Wait for them there.” Then she turned to the rest of her people, “The rest of us must be ready to honor our Sister's return in fashion.”

Ilona turned to her daughter, 'what does the Spirits have in plan for you my child?' she thought as she took a knee next to her child. She took the young girl from Laci's arms carefully, “Thank you, my friend” she said as she lifted up the girl. “I will take her home, make sure that all things get underway tonight. Their arrival must be soon” she said as she turned to leave the tavern with her daughter in her arms.

Laci nodded as he looked at the weapon in his hand “Yes my Queen.” It was his own task from the Judge was something he did not look forward to. He turned and look up to the mountains and nodded. He knew the place he had to go, he had been there before. It was a place where only dark deeds were done. He took a deep breath as he placed the weapon under his belt and started to walk over to the other villagers. There was much to be done in a short time.

[Akirapryde]

Aftermath
Republic News Agency
Baklid 6

We are broadcasting live from the rebel strong hold city of Courtesy on Baklid 6. Due to security concerns the Joint Republic/Azgard Commander, Warlord Raynar, had order a complete transmission and news blackout just prior to the coming attack on this once proud city. Due to this blackout we were unable to report any of the remarkable events that followed till now. Just before the plugs were pulled on the entire Galactic Net Work. Warlord Raynar issued one final request for the Rebel Leaders to surrender and spare further needless loss of life. He informed them of the coming attack and his time tables of when the attack will begin. This morning he expressed his hopes for that action so that his forces would not have had to attack the city of nearly two million civilians.

Courtesy has been known as Baklid's jewel of the south since its settlement and foundation. Over half the size of the planet's capital, this sprawling city was a center piece of trade, commerce and held the cultural hub of this Outer Rim World. Continuing along the lines of Baklid architecture, the city was littered with plush gardens, out door theaters and even two small lakes. Even during the hight of the civil war, this proud city had been spared the horrors of the war. Not once had any enemy forces come even close enough warrant concern. So the residents of Courtesy have become numb to the war over all. Even as the Warlord made his plea to the Rebel Commanders to surrender, no one dreamed that he could make good on his claim of attack. That was until yesterday morning, when air raid sirens blared just hours before sun rose.

Early warning sits across the city all reported hundreds of dropships speeding their way to landing positions just outside the city. This was the last time the city defenders had the advantage of sensors and detection around their city. At the same time, fight-bombers hammered the few remaining airfields, space ports as well key command and communications positions around the city. It was only rumors that spread after the attack that spies had sabotaged the city's shield generators leaving it open for the attacks. The air attacks were under close guard by the Azgardian fighter wings. The fight for the skies above Courtesy was a sad showing for the rebel defenders and a sign of things to come. The few rebel fighters that did manage to make it to the skies were quickly swapped away by over whelming numbers of Azgardian fighters.

As the first drop ships were making their landings, the fighters and bombers all broke off their attacks and fled the areas around the city. Many within the city had thought that the aerial attacks had been beaten back. This was far from the truth and just another part of the Warlord's greater plan. The morning light was joined by a massive wave of aerial bombings, long range artillery strikes, and orbital bombardments. For what seemed like a life time, the city was pounded in to ruble. There was no holds bared and no area was safe from these brutal attacks. By the end of the two hour bombardments the city looked like a shattered husk of its once former glory. The destruction was horrific as well as complete, yet again part of the plan to softened up the defenders for what now was clear to be coming. The ground invasion of the city.

With the city now in burning ruins and encircled by Republic Forces, the ground attack was ordered by Warlord Raynar. At first many of us (watching from a specially tasked dropship to carry the Press over the war zone during the battle) thought that there had been a mistake in communications. We watched as only a third of the forces marched on the embattled city. It was only after the battle did we learn that Warlord Raynar leak most of his battle plans to the enemy. He had hoped that they would consider surrender instead of hiding in the city. They used this information to form a trap in hopes of crushing the Joint forces and winning the war in one glorious battle. As the Warlord said in a later interview, “It was just as I had hoped they would act.” With only a third of the forces marching on the city we all were left wondering what could be next for this already lopsided battle.

Once the command to start the ground attack was over heard and realized by the enemy did the rebels spring their own trap. Sadly they had no idea that they had just walked in to a trap of their own. Thinking they had the rear flanks of the Joint forces and surprise on their side,they lunched an attack from their hidden positions in the nearby wooded foothills that surrounded the city. This was just what the Warlord had been waiting for. For us, the battle plan became painfully clear as we watched Rebel units rushing the front lines of waiting Azgardian forces. Warlord Raynar had held back nearly all of his Dragons to face off with the larger number of the hidden Rebel forces while Republic and Government forces invaded the city. Regardless of the plan, one simple fact became painfully clear to everyone. The Republic was completely and seriously out numbered by the Rebel forces.

The Rebels hoped that their larger numbers and veteran mercenaries would make the battle an easy win for them. Despite having a nearly forty to one numerical advantage, they saw the battle turn against them during the opening hours of the engagement. Using the terrain the his own advantage, Warlord Raynar forced the Rebels to attack in regions around the city that cut or nearly negated their higher numbers. Another key factor to equalizing the numbers was the accuracy of the Azgardian gun crews in orbit. This allowed for direct fire within meters of friendly units and further forced the Rebels in to more tighter formations. However what seemed to hurt the Rebels the most was that the much needed reinforcements from other fronts never showed up during the battle. It was learned later that some commanders simply refused to deploy their troops to support the embattled city. However for those who did try to rush to the battle, they were only cut down by Azgardian fighters and bombers while making their way to the battlefield.

One factor that became the single largest factor in this conflict that no one could deny, was the Azgard Warriors themselves. It had been over two hundred years since the Azgardians have gone to war and many had questioned if time had dulled their blades. However this question was quickly answered with single kill ratios reaching nearly twenty to one, and sometimes even higher than that. The rebel's prized numerical superiority was quickly deteriorating as causalities started to add up. The trap had been laid for the rebels and they walked blindly in to it as they were thinking they were planting a trap of their own. It was too late for most Rebel Commanders as the Azgardians closed their trap. They were doomed and many of them realized it.

Confusion was the order of the day for the rebel commanders during the battle. Their remaining short range communication networks were being disrupted by the Azgardians and phantom reports caused them to react poorly during the combat. Because many of the rebel units were mercenaries units, they were either unwilling to support each other or lacked the training to work within a larger unit. What they didn't know was that there were spies within their own ranks. Local trappers and guides who had been befriended by Republic Forces nearly a year ago now allied with the Azgards and help them secretly move small units around the battlefield cause further confusion within the rebel commanders. This allowed the Azgardians to attack deep within the enemy lines hitting where it would cause the most damage.

Even before the trap was sprung by Warlord Raynar, he sent the highly trained Republic Forces supported by local government forces in to the ruins of the city. This was the kind of fighting the Republic Forces had been trained to engage. It was a down and dirty urban street fighting conflict. However, the fighting quickly degraded from street to street combat to house to house. The defenders were small in numbers but fought fiercely for every street and house. At some points during the conflict the defenders simply refused to give up ground. This caused the Joint Forces to pull back and call in orbital bombardments to clear entire rubbled areas of stubborn defenders. Despite the defenders' best efforts the battle was hopeless and in the end, they had to accept it.

By late in to the afternoon, both battles had already started to show signs of the over all outcome. However the final acts had yet to be played out. Watching high above the battle for the city were three dropships that belonged to a special unit known as Causac Vorpal Unit number 5 or CV5. They were given a secret mission to hunt down the Rebel Leaders during the battle and capture them all. As the battle in the city raged and more defenders were being thrown at the Joint Forces to slow their advances, CV5 landed right on top of the headquarters of the Rebel Leaders. The mission was the second most critical mission of the day. Capturing the Rebel leaders meant ending the war almost all together.

The assault on the Rebel Headquarters was led by the Warlord's own son, Colonel Zurel Heartman. From reports and eye witness accounts, it was a brutal battle that both sides knew that they had to win at all costs. And both sides did everything in their abilities to ensure that they would win this one key battle. Sadly, only one could come out victorious this day and the cost was going to be high for both sides. Just as the sun was setting over the rubbled city, a transmission was received over an open frequency. The Causac Vorpal unit had captured all the Rebel leaders alive, and they were forced to confirm this during the communication. It was in that moment that many of the Rebel Commanders simply gave up the fight and surrendered out right.

Nearly a fifty kilometers south east of the Rebel Headquarters, another battle further sealed the fate of the Rebel movement on Baklid 6. It was a single epic battle between no other than Warlord Raynar himself and Jedi Master Qu'Wash, who had been later identified as one of the few Renegade Council Members of the Oulaven Order. Based on eye witness account on both sides, the pair were equally matched as they locked in to mortal combat. For nearly twenty minutes to two tried everything they could to best the other. In the end, it was Warlord Raynar who gained the upper hand. From some of the same eye witnesses, Warlord Raynar used Master Qu'Wash's own lightsaber finish the battle and the life of Jedi Master Qu'Wash. Master Qu'Wash had fallen to his knees beaten and broken from the battle. There he waited as Warlord Raynar picked up the lightsaber and knelled before his opponent. The Warlord was sited saying, “It was my honor to cross weapons with you.” Then stabbed the Jedi with his own lightsaber.

As the sun set over the battlefields, the Warlord ordered in the last phase of his plan to begin. On that order, a number of aide and relief ships started to land around the city. Within hours, civilians and wounded were being picked out of the ruble. Refugee camps were built and hot food was starting to be passed out. Warlord Raynar sited that he never wanted to make war with the civilians of Courtesy but it was something that had to happen because the Rebel Leadership was hiding behind them. While the relief ships went to work doing what they could to rescue and save lives, the Azgards themselves started to tend to their own wounded and fallen warriors. They built a massive pyre in the center of the city with a number of chambers for all their dead. By the morning's light of the second day, they lit the pyre in honor of their fallen.

In a speech that the Warlord gave just before the pyre was lit, he stated, “We were ordered by the Chancellor to this world. Our orders from him were simple. Find the enemy and crush them. Bring peace to this world and restore order. This battle has ensured that this is now possible. The price has been paid on both sides to make this peace possible. For those remaining Rebel Commanders in the field, your leaders are no more now. If you choose to continue this war, then we will find you and your units. We WILL crush you just like we did here yesterday. If there was any time in your mind that you thought was the right time to give up the fight. NOW is that time.”

The Press corp was forced to stand by and watch as the Rebel Leaders were led out and chained to preset stumps. Some passages were read from the Azgardian bible during a make shift trial and then they each were beheaded for their crimes against the people of Baklid 6. Their heads were placed atop of poles around the pyre. While no non-Azgardians were allowed near the pyre, it was learned that Warlord Raynar placed Jedi Master Qu'Wash's body near the top of the pyre. A place normally reserved for those warriors who died heroically. Colonel Zurel Heartman's body had also been placed in the pyre with others that had fallen in yesterday's battle.

As the events of this battle spread not only over Baklid 6 but across the Outer Rim. Many worlds who had joined the Oulaven Jedi and their Sith Leader Rose seemed to be reconsidering their choices. With a large number of Azgardian Fleets already answering the Chancellor's call to arms, eyes are starting to turn to the Senate to bring peace back to the Republic before more lives are lost. In the words of Warlord Raynar after this single battle, “This war is a dirty war where there is no honor to be won. This war should have been fought only with words in forums not with blasters and swords on the field of honor.” Powerful words spoken by a man who commands one of the most powerful militaries in the Republic.

[Akirapryde]

Meetings & Secrets
Republic Senate Building
Coruscant, Galactic Republic

The past weeks have been one trial after another as Nabrina continued her search for the elusive Shadow Stalkers. Her personal quest along with her duties of being Senator has started to take there toll on her as she looked up with disappointment in her heart. "Thanking for taking the time to see me Senator Delishta. I am sorry that this had been a waste of your time" Nabrina said softly as she slowly rose from her chair.

Being used to freshman Senators seeking advice, opinions or information has become par for the course for her career. Senator Delishta nodded her head slowly, "think nothing of it child." The seasoned Senator said with a smile across her weathered face while she too slowly took to her feet. "Like you, I too had heard the rumors of these Shadow Stalkers for some time. Just like you I have not been able to either prove or disprove their existence in any fashion." She turned her head to look out the large bay windows with a slight frown, “It would appear we are in for more rain tonight.” Commenting on the dark clouds growing on the horizon then turning her gaze back to the freshman Twi'lek Senator.

Nabrina looked out over the clouds, “Rain should be seen as a gift. We believe that the rain washes away our pain, suffering and offers promise for a better tomorrow. Rain is something that Coruscant has needed for such a long time.” She nodded softly returning to the issue at hand, then politely shook hands with one of the oldest members of the Republic Senate. "But about these Shadow Stalkers, I have talked with so many members of the Senate, members of the military command and even those from the Jedi Order. It seems that so many have heard rumors and stories of them. No one seems to have any hard factual information on them." She half turned and look down as a thought crossed her mind, "In times such as these, wouldn't that be cause for alarm?" She turned her eyes to Delishta as she continued to entertain the thought. 'How could a paramilitary group such as them exist and operate without anyone knowing about it?'

Delishta frowned at the comment, "Child I know you are new to the senate so I am going to give you some advice.” She said softly walking from behind her desk, only stopping when she was right in front of Nabrina, “I have seen this many times before. Chasing phantoms and ghosts can cause one to over look their own duties to the people who elected them." While she has answered questions like this before from so many just like Nabrina, but this young freshman Senator had something that they all lacked. She possessed determination of the heart. She looked in to Nabrina's youthful eyes and saw something that laid just below the current disappointment. Nabrina would not stop till she found what she was seeking, despite the cost. 'I must stop her before she throws her own life away' Delishta thought then smiled once more, "Tomorrow we have that big debate over the Narrows Bill. Would you like me to help go over the under lining changes with you tonight?" Delishta added hoping to win the young Senator's support for her war funding bill and at the same time, keeping her from harms way.

Shaking her head softly while she started to put her things back in her shoulder bag, "I am honored that you would offer your time. However I have a meeting with Senator Marisula tonight." She said softly then added, “You have already given me more then enough of your valuable time.” She and her aides had already gone over the bill three times and knew all there was to know about it, to know it had to be stopped. She felt deep in her heart that this war had to be stopped before it ripped the Republic apart at the seams.

'Senator Marisula sits on the Budget and Appropriations Committee' Delishta thought carefully. She knew that Marisula had asked questions before regarding certain budget issue regarding the war. And more than once he had raise concerns regarding missing supply shipments. This did not bode well for Delishta or her 'friends'. "hopefully you will not bore him with questions regarding these Shadow Stalkers” she said laughing off the meeting while hiding her own concerns.

Nabrina laughed, "oh no." She attempted to lie and Delishta caught it as the words crossed Nabrina's lips, "there were issues in the up coming budget that I wanted to address with him regarding taxes of my people." She hoped her lie had held up though she had no idea that Delishta knew she was lying. Nabrina smiled as she picked up her shoulder bag and tossed it over her shoulder then nodded, "I shall not keep you any further Senator. Thank you again for your time in meeting me." She said then continued her turn and slowly walked out of the office.

Once more another meeting that had gotten her no where. She heard the door close behind her as she turned and walked down the hall to the lift. Waiting at the lift already was a Rodian messenger holding a small package. She walked up and stood on the other side of the hallway of him. Something deep down in her heart warned her to use caution. She didn't make eye contract with him as she let her gaze fall upon a sculpture displayed in a small alcove next to the lift landing. She heard him great her friendly, she simply nodded, “Good day” was her flatly reply. It was a Rodian who had first enslaved her and her family. He had taken pride in selling her on the market. Nabrina drew in a deep breath and let it out slowly. 'That was a life time ago' she thought trying to release her fears of this simple messenger.

She forced her thoughts on her task, she had been spending a great deal of time meeting with Senators, Contacts and Jedi alike. Some have heard of the Shadow Stalkers while most had not heard anything about them at all. Not one person ever found any trace that they even existed. This simple fact only drove her forward. She believed Ubaah and his friends had told her. They gave her a wealth of information to work with. He knows they exist so she has to find proof of it. However now that the quest has started, she finds herself personally wanted to know the truth about them and if they had any link in the assassination of her friend and predecessor. She owed Ubaah at least that much. She owed her people that much.

She heard the chime of the lift and followed the Rodian in to the lift. He moved to the back of the lift and nodded at her with a soft smile on his short little mouth. He motioned for her to follow but she only nodded back and turned once she entered the lift and faced the doors. Her mind was completely else where trying to figure out what her steps will be in her next meeting. She knew that Senator Marisula had some information for her. It was him who had asked for the meeting. He said he had something of the 'Gravest of Importance' to show her. She had to get home and change before the dinner meeting. It was going to be a long night and she already knew it.

Delishta watched the young Twi'lik Senator walk out of the office while she leaned on her desk. It was only when the door close did she let her smile fade in to a frown. She slid up off the desk and walked back around the desk. Once more taking her seat back in her chair she let out a long slow breath of disappointment. Leaning over to the side she opened the middle drawer as far as it would open. Reaching her arm up and behind the drawer almost caused her to nearly slip from her chair. She carefully pulled out a hololink that had been secured to the backside of the drawer. Setting it carefully in the middle of her desk directing in front of her, she reached down her blouse and pulled out a small locket.

Opening it she looked at the two holo images of her grand children. She smiled as she gazed at them. They were so young and had such promise for the future. It was because of them, that she did everything she did. She had to ensure a future for them. She took a breath and flipped one of the images over and retrieved a small datacard from the locket. She closed the locket and let it dangle freely while she picked up the hololink. Flipping it over she removed a small cover that hid the energy cell. There next to the cell was a small slit that was just big enough for the small card. She slid the card in very carefully then she returned the cover back to its place. Next she flipped the link back up right as she activated it. Within a moment a ghostly blue image of a woman appeared. Delishta knew her handler all too well as they had worked together for nearly a quarter of a century. It was a sad case of business but she knew what had to be done now. "We have a serous problem" Delishta said coldly.

Walking from the lift, he watched her closely making her way to her airspeeder. He slowly walked next to the wall with his package to avoid drawing unwanted attention to himself. Despite his eyes being fixed straight ahead, he was paying very close attention to what she was doing. As she walked up to her speeder he took noticed that her driver/bodyguard was not waiting to depart like normally. He turned skillfully and silently in to a small alcove and took a knee as to inspect his boot. Focusing his sight on what she was saying he could see her lips move as she formed words. For a Twi'lek she was very attractive which made this job that much more enjoyable.

From her lips and those of her driver, he could tell that he was being pulled for the night on some other assignment. Her driver was offering to get her a new bodyguard or that she should cancel her plans tonight. She dismissed both suggestions as he knew she would. Her driver attempted to argue but she only waved off his fears and concerns. He knew that she would not fear for her life, he knew that she would no care of what reports stated who was still after her. It was because of these reason why she would make such an easy target. He shook his head as he pulled up his comlink and activated it. He spoke in code letting the others know what was going on and that tonight would be the best opportunity to make a move on her. He didn't wait to hear a reply as he turned off his comlink. He slowly got up turned to leave the area. He would catch back up with her once she left the building. He had all the time in the world to do what needed to be done, she was not going anywhere anytime soon.

Just as he had planned, he went and got his speeder bike and waited for her to leave the Senate Building. She was so predictable in her movements and this made her very vulnerable. The traffic was light so he had to follow her from a slightly greater distance than normally he would. In the end he followed her right to her home and sped off to his preach where he could keep better eyes on her. From a nearby building he had a perfect view of her entire apartment. From there he had already spent many days watching her and getting her routine down to a science. It was a persons normal routine which could end up in life or death in his business. Learning what a person would do at what times was just as important as learning about their security. It wasn't hard but it was time consuming, and it made all the difference in the world for those like him.

From his little preach he was able to see her walk in to the apartment and enjoy a conversation with her aide and friends. He thought it was odd that she would have a Bothan as an aide as well. But she was not your normal everyday Twi'lek Senator either. That was his draw to her. As the rest of her day went on, he watched her meeting with a few Twi'leks about slave trade and them coming up with some list of slaves that should be freed. She was one of those persons who were visionaries. They never placed their own safety about the needs of others. He nodded as he watched her conclude her meeting, “Tonight, death will be coming for you young Nabrina.”

From his advantage point he was able to watch her go about her normal routines as if everything was going normal. However, there was no way for her to know that tonight her life was going to change drastically. As her day wind down, he could see the drain it had on her. She was spent, and yet still she had her diner plans and a date with destiny. He watched her while she walked in to her own bedroom and tossed her coat over to a chair. He smiled as her flop backwards on her bed and lay there for a moment. He couldn't help wondered what it would feel like to lay there next to her. To hold her in his arms. Sadly it will be something that he will never be able to enjoy. Their orders were clear and that had nothing to do with them. He heard that toll tail buzzing sound which told him that he was getting a call on his comlink.

“Yes, what do you have for me” he said in to the link while he continued to watch her rolling over and picking up something from the nightstand.

He knew the voice on the other end of the link, “Tonight is going to be the night. After dinner most likely.”

“I understand” he replied softly as he watched her digging in the nightstand from something. After finding what she was looking for, she rolled back over to her back and gazed up at it, “I will remain here and watch her.”

“We all think you are going too attached. Remember this is just like any other job. Maybe someone else should fallow her from now on.”

“No, I'm cool, I know she is just another mark.” he paused as he zoomed in trying to see what she was looking at. He could tell it was a holoimage of a Twi'lek woman. He also could tell that she was crying as she was looking at the image. “Don't worry, I will take care of her when the time comes” he said coldly.

“That is not what we're worried about. Don't get sloppy!” on that the link went dead.

He continued to watch her as she pulled the image down to her breast and held it tightly. Her tears were washing down the sides of her face. He repositioned himself so he was more comfortable while he watched her laying on her bed crying. He set the link down and replaced it for a canister of water. Slowly he took a drink while as he tuned in the bugs he had planted in her room some time before. He could hear her talking to herself. She thought she was alone, but he was there with her. Hearing her every word, and seeing her every movement. It was if he was standing there right next to her looking down upon her. “Don't worry, soon your pains will be gone” he said softly as he just set there watching and listening to her.

[Akirapryde]

Nights of Revelation
Republic City
Coruscant, Galactic Republic

Nabrina smiled as she piloted her airspeeder through the busy air lines of Coruscant's Republic City. She was finally able to enjoy that feeling of success that comes from a sense of accomplishment. Her dinner meeting with Senator Marisula had been more fruitful than she ever imagined it could have been. Not only did she finally find someone with an idea of what she was talking about first hand. Senator Marisula was truly a wealth of information and he was even able to provide actually proof that these shadow stalkers exist and more importantly than that he was able to show that they have been supplied at least in part by the Grand Army of the Republic. 'Oh this is just too sweet' she thought to herself as she just grinned while passing a group of airspeeders. For once she really felt like she had made some progress in her quest. “Oh shite, wait till Ubaah hears about this.” She said getting her comlink ready. She didn't want to wait to tell him the remarkable news that she finally uncovered. She was so filled with excitement that she didn't even notice the Security Speeder slowly moving up behind her.

She checked it once to make sure that it was preparing to send her message. She nodded as she glance down and saw that the signal would have a delay in the transmission. 'Well my friend you will have to deal with a short delay' she thought then tapped the record/send button. Pausing for the red light to turn to green, she started to talk, “Okay Ubaah you are going to love this. I just had a meeting with one of my contacts tonight. OH MY GOD Ubaah, I have it. The proof we were searching for. These Shadow Stalkers really do exist! More than that, Ubaad, they are being supplied by our very own Grand Army. My contact actually believes that they are some type of secret branch of the Republic Military. A Black Operations unit so to speak, that is used to clean up messes that are too dangerous for the Chancellor to let get out. I have it all right here with me. Once I get home I am going to send it all to you for you to see what I found. You have to see this Ubaah.....”

Her voice was cut off by the sounds of sirens behind her. “What the hell?!” she said finally taking notice of the Security Speeder behind her. “I wasn't speeding. What does he want with me.” she said slowing the airspeeder down while she heard the Officer calling her to land her speeder. “Where would you like me to land” she said out of frustration. “Fine, fine” she finally said as she noticed a place clear enough to land. “I have never seen so many speeders parked along here.” she commented as she landed her speeder with a metal clanking sound. “Where is that Senatorial Permit, I wasn't speeding. Just wait till I contact Captain Narcassan about this tomorrow.” Her frustration was clearly heard as she forgot about the recording comlink.

“Step out of the speeder, Ma'am.” The Officer said walking up the speeder with a hand on his weapon. It was clear he was taking no chances with her. He was a clean shaved attractive human male with light colored eyes and dark hair. From her advantage point, she never noticed the small tattoo of a offset star and moon on the back of his neck.

Nabrina started to get out of her speeder as she spoke, “Officer why was pulled over? I know I was not breaking any of the laws.” She reached over the edge of the speeder to grab her shoulder bag. She knew that she would need some of her documents within it. She placed the bag on the front of the speeder.

The Officer stepped forward to close the distance between them as he held out his hand, “Permit and ID please Ma'am.” He completely ignored her question and statement.

Nabrina started to pull out her documents when something struck her as odd. His uniform seemed almost fresh and new but there was some type of stain on his collar. She looked at it strangely, “Did you cut yourself this morning Officer” she questioned softly.

He smiled back at her as she noticed the blood stain from where he had stabbed the original owner of the uniform. It was too late for her to do anything about what was about to happen. He saw his partner sneaking up behind her with his weapon out. It was his gaze behind her that cued her to something was wrong. She turned to see the second man walking up to her. He was dressed like he belonged to a street gang and more importantly, he was holding a blaster pointed at her. She could tell that he had been living on the streets for some time. He was not clean shaved and was very dirty. He had a scare over his left eye . His head was half shaved showing off a tattoo of an offset star and moon along with a tattoo of some type of ship on his neck. She started to back away hoping the Officer also saw the man, only to find the Officer grappling her from behind.

Nabrina let out a scream as she remembered her basic self defense classes. She drove her elbow in to the Officer's ribs causing him to let out a groan in pain. He doubled over a bit falling back, “Damn BITCH” he yelled at her that added “SHOT HER!

Before his partner could react, Nabrina was able to get to her shoulder back. She swung it as hard as she could hoping that the large number of heavy items within the bag would render him dazed so she could get away. Sadly the bag hit the man in the arm and the shoulder. It did free the weapon from his hand and knocked him back enough for her to attempt an escape. The bag however ripped open sending the contents scattering across the landing pad. Nabrina didn't have time to think, as she let the bag go and ran as fast as she could.

The Officer leaped up screaming, “Get the damn chip!” he waved his hand at the speeder, “I got her!” he snapped as he took off after her.

His partner nodded as he watched the pair take off down the walkway. “Fine with me, I never bloody like the idea of killing her in the first place, stupid slags.” He said searching for the datachip. “Where they hell is it. Come on where is that chip!” he said as he continued to search for the chip. Finally he found it still in the torn bag. “I got your bloody chip!” he yelled not caring that they couldn't hear him. He got up and pulled out the small fire bomb. “This should do it” he commented as he set a timer and tossed the bomb in to the front seat of the speeder. “Just like I was told right? Caspy, do this, Caspy do that. No one cares what Caspy has to say. Just do this and that.” still commenting as he calmly walked away but then stopped, “I TOLD YOU, I DIDN'T LIKE WORKING FOR THAT WOMAN!” he yelled out once more then turned again and finally left the area. He never noticed the comlink under some papers sitting on the front seat. He never saw that the link was transmitting the entire event via the holonet.

The comlink saw everything that just happened. Sadly, no one on Coruscant will ever know about this transmission. The fire bomb exploded with such intensity that the speeder was lifted up almost ten feet in to the air. The blast blew the speeder in to hundreds of burning pieces scattering high and far. The front seat of the speeder flew high over the edge of the landing pad in flames. Other pilots narrowly avoided it as it vanished in to the lower levels of Coruscant. With it, the charred remains of her comlink and the datalog of what just happened.

Meanwhile, Nabrina ran as hard as she could trying to get away from the Officer. She heard him yelling behind her “Stop Criminal!” The irony of that statement didn't escape her but at the moment she had no time to think about it. Her life was on the line and she had to get away. She yelled out, “Please someone help me!” To her surprise no one even tried to help her. One man had even tried to trip her as she ran past him. Everyone else just got out of the way so that the Officer could have a clean shot at catching her. Ahead of her she saw a Rodian rushing her way. Like the man at her Speeder he too was dirty and dressed like a gang member. She knew that they were working together and she didn't need any other clues for that fact. She turned so hard she nearly lost her footing as she tried to make for a alleyway. “Someone HELP ME!” she yelled out again. Still no one even paid attention to her plight.

She pushed herself hard as she ran down the alleyway. She glance behind her to see where they were. To her surprise they were starting to slow their chase. 'I might actually get away!' she thought as she turned her head just in time to see a large dark thing in front of her. She hit it hard head on causing him to let out a bit of wind. She bounced off him backwards and landed on her rear. She looked up to see a larger than normal human male standing before her. She saw the tattoo on his neck of an offset Star and Moon. She blink as the Officer and Rodian run up and stopped right behind her. She looked around and realized she was trapped. “I have money, I can pay you” she thought hoping maybe she could end this without her getting hurt. At the same time she knew that her attempt would fail. This was too planned out for this to be some random attack. They targeted her for a reason.

The large human laughed deeply. “How much can you pay rich bitch?” he said slowly lowering himself next to her. “We are get'n paid pretty good to kill you” he said then back handed her across the face so hard that it filled her vision with stars. Another slap across her face added planets and moons around those stars. The third hit sent a commit across her little solar system of her vision. She fell back hitting her head on the ground with a whimper. “But before we do you, we go'n to have some fun with you, little rich bitch.”

“Crush, thats not part of the plan. The authorities will be here soon” the Officer said nervously then added, “just cut her up like we were told and lets get out of here!” The Rodian nodded his approval of sticking to the plan

Crush smiled, “Come on Jaxs” he said grabbing the front of her shirt and ripped it open with a loud ripping sound. “Just look at her. Prime A Grade Twi'lek meat wait'n to be tak'n and used. She a high class whore begg'n to be abused” he said smacking her again causing her to start to whimper.

Nabrina looked around, her vision was cloudy and blurred from the blows she taken. She thought she saw something high above them, but her attention was pulled back as her shirt was ripped open. “Please don't” she whimpered as she tried to look away. The next smack forced her to look back at him. He grabbed her lekku and held her head so to look at him while his hand groped her. She felt to defeated and broken in that moment to offer any more resistance. 'Soon it will all be over' she could only think. They were going to do what they wished with her and there was nothing she could do to stop them. She was powerless to even defend herself.

The Rodian moved backwards, “Crush, just kill her like we were told. It was said clearly to just do that and nothing more.” Everyone knew how important it was for them to do what their employer had said. The last time they changed her plans, she had their former leader gunned down. Betraying her was something he was not willing to do.

Crush looked down in to the fear filled eyes of Nabrina as he smiled back at her, “How's about a kiss for your nuw boyfriend” he said with a slur while slowly lowering his face towards her bruised face.

She closed her eyes as she started to smell his foul breath hitting her face. She thought she was going to vomit as the warmth of his breath got closer. She heard a series of thuds and a smack. Her eyes snapped open just in time to see Crush falling atop of her. His broad chest covered her face and cut off her breath. She heard more sounds of combat while she fought hard to get her head free from the weight of the man. 'my god he's heavy' she thought trying to get free from him. 'Did his partners kill him' she questioned as she just worked her head free of him. Her question was about to be answered.

She saw the Officer trying to get up from a pile of trash along the side of the alleyway. His head was bleeding badly already and his stance was shaken. She looked over and saw a second Rodian standing in front of the gang member Rodian. The second Rodian was familiar. Then it dawned on her, 'the messenger from the Senate Building earlier today' she thought almost speaking the thought out loud. She tried to struggle herself free with no further success.

The messenger had a pair of weapons in his hands. She never saw anything like them before. They seemed to be like two large three pronged forks. The center prong was longer then the outer two and straight. The outer two were a bit curvy and uniformed with each other. He held them where the prongs joined with the hilt. The gang member Rodian leaped forward with a vibroknife. The messenger easily sidestepped the attack while driving his left weapon up and catching the hand of gang member between the center prong and an outer prong. With a wide spin of his arm the messenger twisted the gang member's arm out wide to the side. The gang member let out a scream as his arm was continued twisted behind his back. The messenger drove the hilt of his right weapon in to the now twisted shoulder of his opponent. Then a twin smashing blow was dealt to the back of the head of the gang member.

The blows shattered the gang member's shoulder, rendering the arm useless and enclaving the skull of the gang member. The messenger pulled the broken arm harder as he twisted his own body. With a pop of his hips and a powerful jerk of his arms, he tossed the gang member across the alleyway in to the side of the building. The Rodian slammed his wounded head against the wall, splattering blood in a two meter pattern. The Rodian landed in a pile of trash with a thud. At the same time, Officer thought he had a opportunity to sneak attack the messenger as he quietly moved up behind the him. Despite the care taken to be silent, the messenger turned at the very last moment. The Officer drove his own vibroblade at the messenger only to find his weapon hand being caught by the odd weapon of the messenger. With his right arm caught by the messenger's right weapon, the messenger drove the hilt of his left weapon in to the elbow of the Officer. The blow shattered the joint as the messenger twisted under the limb and brought the hand back at the Officer's side.

With a scream from the Officer, the messenger drove the blade deep in to the Officer's side. The messenger held the blade in the Officer's side while holding him up ensuring that he was dead. Within seconds the last breath of the Officer slipped from his lips. The messenger let the Officer fall to the ground and check the other two to make sure they were not getting back up. Just as he already knew, they were all dead. With a nod he walked over to the large human where Nabrina was still trapped. He grabbed the human and lifted the body off her. And dropped down next to her. “Are you hurt” he asked her taking note of her wounds and ensured that she was not in any immediate medical danger.

She didn't believe her eyes and what she just saw. She never saw anything like this before. All she could do was shake her head. She was dumb founded by the turn of events. Her mind however was rapidly recovering.

He looked at her carefully as he pulled off his jacket and covered her torn blouse. “We have to move” he said taking careful hold of her arm and helped her to her feet. He was caring in his touch of her and she could tell there was something odd about him.

She started to go along with it then pulled her arm away from him. “No wait, what is going on” she questioned and added, “who are you?” She was still in shock over all that happened with in the past few moments.

He looked at her with surprise on his face. “While, it would appear they were hired to kill you. Luckily I was near by to help you.” He explained poorly trying to hide the truth of why he was there. He then restated his question, “so we can go now?” trying to get her moving already. He knew that the threat was still very real and time was not on their side.

She looked around, “near to help me?” she said not buying the statement. “You are not some simple messenger.” She paused then demanded an answer, “ARE YOU!?” She knew that maybe leaving was a good idea but her mind wanted answers first. “You are not just some good intentioned messenger. Don't lie to me.” she demanded holding her ground on this issue.

He looked down in disappointment. “Fine” he said as he reached up to his left upper arm and keyed some datapad. There was a shimmer about him and around him. Within seconds the Rodian before her was gone and replaced by an attractive human male. “I am Priest Aves Pryde, Temple Guardian from the Innisfree Temple” he explained softly and quietly.

Her surprise and shock was written across her face at the statement and revelation. “Azgardian?” she said knowing the answer just as the word formed on her lips. She felt stupid for asking such a foolish question but it was already asked before she caught herself.

He nodded, “Warlord Raynar assigned us to protect you a few weeks ago.”

She shook her head, “So he ignored my refusal of his offer for bodyguards I see.” She had mixed feelings of being thankful the man was there but disappointed that her refusal was ignored.

He smiled at her, “Regardless Senator, judging on the recent situation. His action seems justified and well thought out.” A loud explosion was heard down the alleyway. “Please Senator. We have to flee the area. We can not trust anyone at this moment” he explained as he motioned for them to leave. Finally she nodded and he lead the way for them to leave. The night was still young and there was no telling how many more gang members were hunting them. He had to protect her at all costs, that was his orders and he will follow those orders to the letter.

[Akirapryde]

Seeing the Light
Lejár Az Idő Kerület
Eredet

Ilona walked along side Visst as her people cleaned up the Great Hall after the feast in his honor. Sure it was said that the feast was meant for all of the visitors. However it was clear by the number of locals who came to his table to greet him and thank him for returning Nezial's body, that he was the man of the hour. Everyone in the village worked to clean up the Hall and make it ready for the nightly celebration. Looking at Visst she nodded, “It is the season of the Ushare.” The word had no meaning in basic, it was a simple animal that was more closely linked to a mouse or rat than anything else. However it was highly venomous, clever and fast. “The Spirits tell us that this season, we will see great changes in us and in our views of our world. Our faith will be challenged and shown to be true.” She explained with pride while they slowly moved on.

Noting a group of her people working alone she motioned at them, “They are of the Clan Sand Raptor” she calmly said. It was clear that the rest of the community had mixed feelings about them. “Their crimes have been paid in blood as per our laws, for but many of our people still remember the tails of the war that they brought against those who Judge and the rest of our people” she explained she waited a moment before continuing, “In time, those memories will be replaced by their hard work for the community.” She motioned for Visst to stop to allow a group of workers to move a wall and add some tables. Visst watched them carefully while the three men and one woman used the force to lower the wall till it was gone and bring up a set of tables. It was something that he respected in their abilities to mold the elements to their will. “I know that they will make a place once more for themselves. They have always been a strong clan and one day they will be strong again.”

Visst nodded as she talked, “I don't understand something. When I was last here, it was only a year ago. You were only a child then, now you have a child of your own.” He inquired as they resumed walking. He was referring to the fact that when they came to Origin for the first time. She seemed no older then fifteen or at the oldest sixteen. Now, on their return, that young Princess has grown in to a lovely mature Queen with a husband and daughter of her own.

She paused to look at him for a moment, “It has been fifteen seasons since you and your friends took Nezial with you in your metal flying house. Your return was on the very day the One who Judges said it would be. Don't you remember that day?” she said speaking of the day they stood before the Great Pyramid, “I remember that day like it was yesterday. The One who Judges laid his hand upon Nezial's head then looked at you and said that you would return in fifteen seasons” she explained softly then turned back as she continued to walk Visst out of the Great Hall, “no one ever doubted you or Nezial. We knew that you two would return. As for what you say about this thing called 'year', maybe in your language year means fifteen seasons” she pondered. There was many things that Visst and her tried to over come between the language barrier. There were so many words in Basic that held no meaning in her language.

Visst looked at her, “this does not explain how you have aged and yet Nezial did not.” He pondered the issue of time and this world. There was something that was missing from his understanding and it puzzled him.

“Imagine how we feel” she said softly turning him once more, “When you left I was but a young girl. Four seasons Nezial's junior, I was there to watch her climb the steps of the Temple of White.” She paused a moment and pointed to Laci, “He is our oldest. Next season will be his one thousand seasons walking with us.” She paused seeing that she was not helping him understand. She shook her head and continued walking.

Visst only shook his head as they walked away through the village in to the night. The air on Eredet has always so dry and arid. The world was in fact a large dessert word with only a few pockets of vegetation. The night was chilled by the winds that came in from the deserts. Many of her people were finishing up last minute task before the night turned to the celebration. She remained silent as they walked. Visst could hear the voices of the spirits talking to him. Hundreds of thousands if not millions of voices all echoing in his mind. It was overwhelming for him, and she could tell. “Nezial showed you how to hear the Spirits” she asked and he nodded. “She was gifted like no other when it came to the Spirits. They talked to her all the time about things that were too dark and forbidden for many of us to understand.”

Her eyes were so soft in the moon light as she slowly turned her head to him “when you try to listen to them, feel with your heart. Just focus with your heart on one of the voices” she explained softly as she came to a stop in the center of a small foot bridge. The stream that ran under them made a soft sound as the water flowed over the small stones that lined the bed and shore line. She placed her right hand on his heart carefully and smiled as her gaze met his, “My favorite Spirit is Ne'ma” she said softly as her touch brought comfort to his mind. Slowly he could hear some of the voices drift to the back ground. It was by no easy feat though, he could feel his mind and body struggling to control all of the voices in his mind. The task was daunting on him even with her help. She continued to ease some of the voices while she explained, “Ne'ma is my Great Great Grand Mother.” she smiled broadly “There, can you hear her singing?”

Visst closed his eyes in an effort to focus harder on listening. He could hear the voice of a woman gently singing to him. The sound was comforting on his mind but as he pushed harder to hear it the more painful it became to hold on to it. He tried harder to focus his efforts but there were simply too many voices to channel out. “I know its hard. But in time you will master this task. Ne'ma would tell me, 'you can not move a mountain in one day little one'” she said with a smile removing her hand from his chest as he let go of the effort. She turned to look at the night sky, “I remember my first time I took to the skies. Ne'ma was there with me guiding me with her own winds. Oh I was so scared and excited at the same time.” She said with a glimmer in her eyes that matched the bright stars of the nebula that encircled the world they were on.

The night sky was truly remarkable to behold. Due to the three different types of stars within the same system and the nature of the atmosphere, the night sky light up with large wavy rainbows. The show was spectacular and covered the entire night sky. With each passing wind the lights danced across the night sky. Beyond the dancing lights, the nebula added its own colors to the sky. The lights of the nebula were of violent clashes of gases and gravity wells. From here, those clashes seemed more lovely than violent. Visst knew that many would say that such a world could never exist in such a location, let alone hold life there. Yet here he was on that very world, speaking to a local who was born and raised on this world. She remand silent as she looked up in to the lights of the night. “Do they have such things where you come from” she asked as her smile faded.

Watching the lights dancing across the night sky before him was a lovely sight to behold and a special phenomenon. However, he had read about such similar things on other worlds. Not nearly as intense or wide spread as what he was seeing now. “There are some. But I have never seen any like this before” he answered in his own soft and simple voice. He was still recovering from his attempt to hear the Spirits more clearly. The drain on him was clearly intense and took most of his energy. It made him weak and fatigued more than he had first believed. He knew he should be more careful next time.

“Sometimes, I do wish to see other words. But Ne'ma warns me that outside our realm is much pain and suffering.” She turned to him with a sad look in her eyes, “I spoke with a Spirit last season. He was a strange Spirit, angry and yet sad at the same time. He would tell me that he made many mistakes and he didn't like what, um, he said, um, the brotherhood? Sorority? Sect?” she paused trying to put her words together “He spoke strange words like your friends do. But he was saying he didn't like what was happening.” She paused once more as she turned to lean on the handrail of the bridge. Looking down in to the water. She waved her hand softly causing the water to slowly raise up from the stream. Carefully she played and toyed with the small tail of water just below her hand. “We have not seen war or suffering in more seasons than the oldest member of our community can remember” she said softly. There was a point to what she was getting at and Visst could tell. She was just having a problem speaking about it. Slowly she continued to play with the water in midair. She moving her hand so slightly causing the water to react to her. She motioned carefully with her hand upward and drew up the rest of the tail along with a small fish in to the air and formed the water in to a small little ball around the fish. The fish swam around inside the ball of water almost playfully.

“The only war we ever knew about, was that between the Sand Raptors and Those who Judge” she continued looking down at her little fish in the ball of water. “Ne'ma told me many moons before, that after you leave, a great metal sky house will come. It will carry in it, a woman of great anger and darkness. She will make war here on us and many will suffer because of her war. Ne'ma said that she is looking for something that is not here. But she will not believe it is not here. For this anger woman, she must find this thing that she is seeking. She will not leave our world and neither will many of those that come with her.” Her eyes never left the fish as it swam about while she spoke. “So many of my people will suffer at her hands” she said with great sadness in her voice as she motioned her hand lower. The ball of water slowly lowered in to the stream and the fish swam on through the stream. Her thoughts drifted away in that moment and beyond the bridge they were standing on. Visst couldn't help but wonder if she was listening to the Spirits while her mind was in such a moment of deep thought. She finally broke her silence, “I fear for my people, Visst” her voice was dripping with sadness and echoed the pain of her heart. “Why has the suffering from your world come to ours?”

Later that night, the villagers along with the Heroes from the Sky, gathered in the Great Hall. The hall has been transformed from a place of eating to a place of entertainment. A stage now lines the norther most wall. From this point the hall expands outwardly and spreads out. The ceiling also pitches upward. All this to allow for the best possible sound to carry through the hall. The Queen's husband looked over every detail right down to the placing of the Heroes' seats. He made sure that they had the best seats in the hall for the night's entertainment. Just as the first acts were getting underway, a pair of youths were given the honor of serving the Heroes wine and bread.

The first to entertain the Heroes was a man who read the most moving of poems. It was powerful and touching on levels that Visst was clearly moved by the words of the man's poem. He tried to translate what was said and how it was to show how everyone on this world looks up to the heroes but the feelings of the poem could not be translated. In the end he just gave up and enjoyed the next performance by a group of three young men and a young woman. They preformed a piece called “Daz” It was a mix of powerful movements of the elements with the heavy guided influence of chaos. Gusts of wind ran up and down the hall while snakes of water enter mixed with it. Plums of fire rocked out of the torches at the sounds of thunderous rock movement. The entire space above the audience was used for the piece and gave everyone the feeling of being in the center of a completely chaotic moment. It was a awesome show of control at the hands of the young students of a local master. There was not a single person left seated when the piece was over. Everyone stood and cheered once it was over.

The stage now cleared for the main show. It was Mia's turn to show her peoples praise to the Heroes from the Sky. She sadly watched as a water spirit pulled up several thin strains of water and tuned them to the sound he wanted. Mia turned to see a wind spirit doing the same thing. She closed her eyes and so much wanted to be normal like them. Her eyes slowly opened as her head slowly toward to gaze upon her mother. One of the most powerful spirit talkers known. Mia just wanted to be normal. Not more or less than anyone else, she closed her eyes softly and took a moment to pause. Taking in a deep breath she still was not sure what song she would sing for them. She heard the two behind her motion for her that they were ready.

She opened her eyes and started to sing. Her voice carried with all the softness and truth that her heart held. The sounds of the wind and water together brought a level of music to the hall that not one of the Heroes had ever heard before. While no one but the Heroes understood the word, all were touched by the emotions and feelings of her voice. But no more then a pair of listeners. Daz and Angelique both felt the emotions more deeply than anyone else. Angelique was drawn to the edge of her seat as she listened to the words and than looked over at Daz. She knew all too well what had touched Daz so deeply.

The vision was meant for both as they each saw the same thing. Slowly they descended down above a ancient temple that set high above the clouds on a mountain top. Next to the temple was a landing craft from their ship. It was clear that they were visitors to this strange world. High above them casting its soft light across the world was a blue white pulsar. With each passing pulse of the star's light, the sky light up in a rhythm of both light and sound. The twin moons reflected the light that bounced off the upper atmosphere of this strange alien world. Beyond the moons could a dark fleet of ships be seen closing in on this world. Escape was useless, there was no hope to fight or flee. They were trapped and everyone knew what they were after.

Passing through the large white marble walls of the temple the Heroes stood at one end of a large crevasse screaming for Daz to stop as he disappeared down a tunnel. They were helpless to stop what each knew had to happen. Deeper in the temple, Daz dragged the young Mia by her arm while she carried a strange large sword in her other arm. They ran to a chamber deep within the alien Temple, it was here he waved his hand at her and she dropped her head. Calling on his powers, he forced the massive door closed and locked her in the chamber alone. Something powerful was unleashed in that chamber. Once the rest of the Heroes managed to reach Daz it was over. The Chamber was opened and Mia laid dead on the ground and the Sword was gone.