Star Wars: The RPG ~ Episode VII: Dawn of the New Republic IC Thread

[NiteMare Shape]

"Sounds like a normal day in the New Republic to me," I laugh. "Track down a psychopathic murder, pretend to be bounty hunters, get shot at. It's all good fun."

Mission joins us as we touch down on Nar Shadaa. The landing ramp descends and I look over at Joren and motion for him to go first, "Age before beauty."

I look at Huc and smile.

"Let's just go, you little nerf herder." I say with a slight chuckle as we head off down the ramp toward the city.

 

[Rain Dog]

“Mighty Rotta asks you to ensure Anachro and…and her child are properly disposed of. You are free to take whatever you can get your hands on.”

“Yessir, Boss Mon,” Jakk grunted to the hologram of the old Chevin. The hologram disappeared and the Clantaani thug slid the tiny projector back into his pocket. He chewed a bit more on his wad of t’bac, and then spat out a nasty, brown bile on to the scorching desert sands. He performed a quick warm-up—wiggling each of his fingers and then drew his two pistols with such speed that all a victim would see is a bluish blur moving to and from his hips and then the barrel of a gun pointed at their eyes. Jakk dropped his guns back into his holsters and spat out another vile glob of dark fluid.

​

He turned to his group of marauders. Rotta’s boys back home. If there was someone on Tatooine that needed to be disposed of, these were his go-to guys.

“Boys,” Jakk mumbled in his low, gravelly voice, “We got us some worms to fry.”

The mercenary mounted his swoop bike and his men followed suit. They were a collection of different species, mostly Clantaani like himself, with humans, Weequays, Klatooinians, and Nikto sprinkled into the mix. They all revved up their bikes and took off into the horizon, wind and sand whipping up behind them. As they glided over hundreds of sand dunes and rocky cliffs, their target became visible.

Gorga’s Palace. Gorga was dead. And now is wife and child would join him.

* * *​

“Hmmm….”

"Is something the matter?"

“No. Yes. Perhaps. Zuckuss senses something. Very powerful forces have just arrived on this moon…Zuckuss is not sure what to make of it.”

"If it does not concern Grubba the Hutt, then it is irrelevant."

“Yes, perhaps. They do not seem to be a threat, Zuckuss thinks.”

The diminutive Gand and his droid counterpart strolled through the crowded, grimy streets of the Smuggler’s Moon. A young male Twi’lek bumped into the insectoid bounty hunter and gave a quick, humble bow.

“So sorry, sir. So sorry,” he said as he began to walk away, quickly picking up his pace. Before he could take three steps, the blade of a Gand’s quarterstaff was brought up to his throat. The Twi’lek stopped dead in his tracks.

“Return to Zuckuss the pocketbook you have taken and Zuckuss will allow you to keep your head, street rat.”

“I—I take nothing! Please—”

“Zuckuss’s patience is wearing thin, street rat. Return it now or die.”

“I…I’m sorry…” he said, pulling a pocketbook from his coat and handing it to the hunter.

“Wise decision.”

The Twi’lek ran off, disappearing into the thick crowds of low-lives and unfortunate souls.

"How did you know?"

“The Gand findsmen’s intuition.”

"Intuition...I would like to learn this intuition. Have you located the target?"

“Zuckuss will need time to meditate. One Hutt crime lord will be difficult to find on a moon filled with them.”

"Very well. You meditate and I will extract information from local denizens through intimidation..."

The rogue droid cocked his rifle and began scanning the crowds…

* * *​

“They frighten my secretaries…”

“Councilor Tevv, I’m offering security not an escort service.”

Not a bad idea though…

“Whether or not you or your aides find your guards aesthetically appealing is no concern of mine. In fact, I may go as far to say that it’s specieist.”

The young Sullustan sighed.

“Please don’t say that, the Holonet reporters will have a field day with such accusations. In fact, I happen to find Gamorrean women very attractive! It’s just...the other Councilors are somewhat disturbed by the idea of a fellow Councilor constantly being surrounded by a posse of Gamorreans. Like some sort off—“

“—like some sort of Hutt crime lord? Is that what you mean to say, Councilor?!”

“No! No! I—eh, forget it. Sorry to bother you, Mr. Rotta.”

“Very well. Have a nice day, Councilor.”

The screen went black and I turned to the droid beside me and grabbed a glass of Corellian merlot from its tray.

“Politicians,” I grumbled as I took a sip.

“Boss!” a familiar voice shouts. A tall Trandoshan comes jogging into the room, visibly excited about something.

“What is it?”

“We slammed some Suns, just like you said. Tagged some of their smugglers and was able to make off with most of their product.”

“Product?”

“Glitterstim. Pure glitterstim. Easily a hundred kilos, maybe two.”

“…And where is it?”

“I got the boys unloading it into one of the empty rooms.”

I swing a thick arm at Vorssk’s head, nearly knocking him down.

“You idiot! You brought it here?!”

“Boss—I, uh, I’m sorry. I didn’t know what else to do with it. We couldn’t have cruised around the city looking for a place to stash it. The Black Sun would have noticed if their shipment didn’t come in and they tear the hole district apart looking for it. They’d find it. And us.”

“You could have left it! You could have destroyed it! That would have hurt them even more!”

“Boss…it’s glitterstim. It’s worth a lot out there…”

“We’re not getting into that business, Vorssk.”

“Sorry, sir. I’ll have the boys destroy it now,” he sulked as he slowly turned and began to walk away. He was right though…glitterstim is a valuable commodity. Especially when pure. In my attempts to legitimize the business, I’ve already had to indulge in several less-than-legit acts to ensure I stay in power. But I would not stoop down to spice dealing, that’s just another step back. Still…distributing all of this spice myself means more money out of the Sun’s pockets and into mine. I’d both increase my influence and weaken the Sun. Kill two birds with one stone…

“Nevermind, have them unload the rest of it. We’ll take care of this later.”

Vorssk looked at me with a combination of surprise and confusion.

“Uh…yes, of course, sir.”

I swirled my drink and took a sip.

Just necessary evils, I told myself, necessary evils for the greater good.

 

[wiegeabo]

Spoiler

The shuttle quickly soars well above the ground, passing over the landscape in little time. Despite the sporatic cloud cover, a huge peak can be seen ahead in the distance.

"Mount Tantiss, I presume," Pellaeon comments.

"Indeed it is," I say.

The pilot looks back at our group. "Admiral, we will be coming up to the city soon, sir."

"Very good, Lieutenant." I give a nod to the stormtrooper commander sitting to the side. He nods back and quietly orders his men to prepare. I notice Pellaeon adjust the blaster in his holster.

We quickly descend towards the surface as we approach the city at the base of the mountain. Pellaeon inhales slightly, and I understand why. Wayland is supposedly a backwater world with two relatively primitive, and conflicting, species dominating it. And yet, the city is not a primitive as it should be. Still, it is not very advanced. Sensors detect no electronics or other forms of technology. But the squat buildings, standing in the open, and under the cover of the forest, are a perfect blend of the needs of sentient beings and the needs of nature.

I order the pilot to circle the city so I may observe everything. It's on the second pass I notice that the architecture is a blend. That of two alien races I don't recognize, likely those of the native species, and human. I comment at how odd it is to see such diversity in the same region. Pelleaon concurs in that absent-minded way he has, while the troopers and pilots don't react at all.

"Can we expect hostiles, sir?" the troop commander asks.

"Most likely, Commander." I order us to set down in the city center, a rather large city square laid out before a rather ornately decorated building fit for royalty.

"Sir, I am still not comfortable with the number of troops we've brought."

"Understood, Captain. But I believe we have brought a sufficient contingent. The larger the Imperial presence, the more likely an engagement." The shuttle settles to the ground with a slight shutter. The stormtroopers stand and take position at the ramp. Pellaeon and myself take position behind them as the remaining troopers file in behind us. I check the harnesses of the tube wrapped around my back and shoulders again before the ramp opens.

Once it does, the troopers are on the ground immediately, rifles at the ready, taking up a defensive cover formation. I calmly follow behind them while Pellaeon not so calmly steps beside me. But the formation seems unnecessary, there's not a soul in sight.

I pull an amplifier disk from my belt and cup it to my mouth. "I seek the Guardian of the mountain. Who will take me to see him?"

The silence continues. "They might not understand Basic," Pellaeon suggests.

"The humans should. Not, they are just being stubborn and cautious." I raise the disk again. "I seek the Guardian. If I am not taken to him immediately, this city will be made to suffer the consequences."

An arrow narrowly misses me and strikes a trooper in his chest plate, harmlessly sticking into it without penetrating. "Hold," I order before the troopers can return fire. "Rukh?"

The Noghri is at my side, and Pellaeon jumps slightly. "I have them," he hisses, his blaster instantly at the ready.

"Excellent." Again I lift the amplifier. "One of your people just shot at us. Now you shall witness those consequences." I lower the disk and look to my bodyguard. "At your convenience."

Rukh grins. The first shots are for the doors and windows, preventing escape and retaliation. The walls of the first floor take the next part of the barrage. The building sways. Rukh puts a few rounds into the walls of the second story in order to soften them up, then returns to the first story. Withing a half dozen shots, the building essentially implodes. If anyone survived the laser fire, the collapse surely killed them.

I raise the disk. "Do not defy me again. One last time: Who will take me to the Guardian?"

"I will," an older human says. I assess him immediately, and get a sense he's doing the same to me. His long gray beard and hair make him look old, but don't quite hide the strength still in the man's body. "You destroyed one of my buildings."
​

I raise an eyebrow. "You owned that structure?"

"I rule over all that is here."

"And the Guardian?"

"Follow me." The old man walks past us and towards the large royal building.

"Be alert," I say to my men. "This may be a trap."

While the old man leads us through the city, I take the time to study everything I can, leaving the troopers to watch for further attacks. But there are none, leaving me to focus on my analysis.

The architecture as we move closer to the base of the mountain subtly changes, shifting from alien to Imperial influences in design. And up ahead, we can make out the entrance to the Imperial base of the mountain itself. But the old man suddenly turns down a side street, leading us parallel to the base, rather than towards it. "I would have though the Guardian lived inside the mountain."

"He did, once." The man becomes silent again. So I take the opportunity to study him.

He's obviously human, or of a close human-like species. There are several in the galaxy. He's also obviously advanced in age for a human. I would surmise in his sixth or seventh decade. But he does not appear old. Oh, he looks like an older man, with they grey, almost white long hair and beard. But he does not carry himself that way. No, this man has a strength about him. His body does not fight against gravity. In fact, he walks tall and proud, and even despite his robes it is obvious he's body is still strong. And his eyes...

There is power in those eyes.

The old man leads us under a large ornate archway, and before us stands the palace we saw from the air. He continues walking until he reaches the large set of doors. "Leave."

I can sense Pellaeon starting to speak, assuming the man was talking to our group. But a moment later, other men carrying crossbows and blades step out of niches in the walls that were camouflaging them. Glowering at us, they walk away, leaving the old man behind.

I instantly become more alert. For what does it mean for an old man to dismiss his protectors when surrounded by a hostile force?

Pulling on the massive doors, the old man opens them with ease. Further confirming my suspicions of his hidden strength. "The Emperor's Guardian awaits."

He leads us in. And as the doors continue to open, allowing the light to pour in, we see a massive chamber, filled with hundreds of unlit candles. And nothing else in the room except a large, rectangular slab of black stone in the center. And it all becomes clear. We are not in a palace.

We are in a crypt.

"The Guardian is dead."

"Indeed he is," the old man says, moving behind me and the Captain.

"All of these candles. The people must have worshiped him."

"You misunderstand. Each candle is for an offworlder. Each one now lying in a grave."

"How did they die?" I ask, the answer painfully clear.

"I killed them. Just as I killed the Guardian. Just as I kill you."

Before any of my men can react, the old man raises his hands. Blue energy like lightening lashes out at me...only to disappear into nothingness a meter away from their target.

Pellaeon and the other troops try to react, to retaliate, but I put my hand up. "Hold," I say, forcing my voice to remain calm. I slowly turn around, looking the old man in the eyes. "We...are not ordinary offworlders."

I slowly smile as the old man's anger builds...

 

[wiegeabo]

The com flickers to life.

"Master Skywalker?" the captain's voice rings out.

I open my eyes, rousing myself from meditation. "Yes, Captain."

"We are approaching Coruscant. We'll be dropping out of hyperspace shortly."

"Thank you, Captain." I stand up and stretch out my muscles. Extending my hand, my lightsaber flies into it, and I attach it to my belt. Pulling my robes around me, I leave my quarters and start walking towards to cargo bay. The captain should be informing everyone of our arrival, which means we'll be meeting up at the landing pad.

Because we'll be landing soon.

I force myself to remain calm, despite knowing exactly what will happen when we arrive. Fear and anger will serve no purpose. They just breed more fear and anger, and we'll be dealing with enough of that as it is.

The cargo bay is filled with familiar whistles and bleeps when I step inside. "Yes, Artoo. I think this is the best course of action." Bleeps and blurps. "No, I will not change my mind. Running will only make things worse." More whistles. "It was their choice. I asked if they wanted to leave. And I wouldn't have blamed any of them if they did. But they decided to stay."

Long whistle. "Yeah. I'm proud of them too."

 

[Carnage27]

Dono, Joren, Mission, and I stroll confidently into the Keen Eye Cantina, and the smell of smoke and alcohol hits me hard. After the initial sensory shock, I notice that this is a place that I would have most likely raided had I stayed with CorSec long enough.

I can see at least four blatant illegal activities in our vicinity, and I'm sure that there's more deeper into the establishment. Honestly, the sense of right and wrong in my body has always been on hyper-alert due to my dad, and now being a Jedi, illegal actions disgust me even more.

"There, that looks good," I say to our party, motioning to a table in a dark corner. We take a seat, and I look over at Dono and Joren, "So, what's our next move?"
​

 

[Carnage27]

​

I sit in the mess hall of Home One, staring into my plate of who knows what from the kitchen. Two more of my wingmen wet down in the skirmish two days ago, and Admiral Ackbar called Rogue Squadron back to Coruscant to rebuild, and get our heads straight. For the past few months I've been flying with a ragtag group, and the name Rogue Squadron no longer holds the meaning it did.

Watching the kids that were placed on my team by the bureaucrats get spaced has been tough. The burden of leadership is something I've never taken incredibly well, but I've had to make due with Luke out doing his Jedi thing, I'm the only one fit to lead this team.

"You okay, boss?" Coran Horn, the only other pilot I can actually rely on says, coming up and sitting next to me. He's good, and a Corellian, which gives him extra points in my book. "You look out of it."

"I've been better, Coran," I answer, rubbing my eyes. "The past few weeks have been hell. We can't keep this up. Flying with rookies. We need to put together a team that can actually do some damage."

"I agree," he nods. "Have you talked to the Admiral about it?"

"Yea. He's all for it. I've got a few names I want to talk to, but I need a few more to fill it out. I'd like to talk to Luke, maybe he's got some ideas..."

"Whoa...you mean you haven't heard?" Coran asks with surprise in his face. "Skywalker is a wanted man. He apparently sent one of his apprentices to kill Fey'lya, and he's on his way back here to turn himself in."

I don't wait for Coran to finish. I spring out of my seat and run towards the hangar, hoping into my X-Wing as soon as I reach it.

"This is Rogue Leader requesting permission to take off," I say, slipping my helmet on and powering up my fighter.

The tower responds, "Permission granted, Rogue Leader."

I feel the trust of the fighter as I maneuver towards the void of space, and once I'm free of Home One's air space I rocket off towards Coruscant's surface, finding a landing pad in the government district. I hop out, and find Luke, R2, and what looks like some of his students descending tha landing ramp.

Rushing towards hem, I grab Luke by the arm, the worry obviously showing in my expressions, "Luke...what the hell is going on?"

 

[Byrd Man]

The Falcon follows Luke's shuttle down to Coruscant and the landing platform.

Chewie, Leia, and I walk down the landing ramp. Luke, the droids, and his students are on the next platform over with Wedge. New Republic guards wait off the landing platform with their blasters at the ready.

"This ain't gonna be pretty," I say to Chewie and Leia.
​

 

[NiteMare Shape]

The Falcon follows Luke's shuttle down to Coruscant and the landing platform.​

Chewie, Leia, and I walk down the landing ramp. Luke, the droids, and his students are on the next platform over with Wedge. New Republic guards wait off the landing platform with their blasters at the ready.​

"This ain't gonna be pretty," I say to Chewie and Leia.​

"I think you're right." I say as we walk down toward the platform.

We watch as the New Republic guards make their way toward Luke and his students, and I can see that they are not entirely comfortable with the task that they've been given, but they indeed intend to do their jobs.

"Keep your eyes open, this could get ugly quick."

 

[wiegeabo]

By the time we land, my students have already joined me in the landing bay. The door finally opens, and I can't say I'm surprised by the sight. Knowing who was on board, Control made sure we landed on our own pad, away from any civilian ships. And slowly approaching us is a large security contingent.

Stretching out, I can feel their fear, anger, and apprehension. Some don't agree with their task. Some consider are angry at us. And some even consider us traitors, already convicted in their minds. And I get similar feelings from my apprentices.

"Remain calm. They are more scared of us then we are of them. They are only doing their jobs. Feel no malice towards them."

Then I notice someone off to the side approaching us quickly. It takes me a second to realize who it is. And I instantly start to smile when I recognize my old friend. But my smile drops when I see and feel his determination and worry. "Hey, Wedge. Good to see you."

"Luke...what the hell is going on?"

"So I guess you've heard."

 

[Carnage27]

Then I notice someone off to the side approaching us quickly. It takes me a second to realize who it is. And I instantly start to smile when I recognize my old friend. But my smile drops when I see and feel his determination and worry. "Hey, Wedge. Good to see you."

"Luke...what the hell is going on?"

"So I guess you've heard."

I shake my friends hand and give him a halfhearted smile, "I literally just heard. You don't have to tell me you're innocent. I know that part. But I would like to know what the hell happened to Fey'lya to have him go this off his rocker."

My attention is directed to the ragtag group behind the Jedi Master. An Ithorian, a Cathar, a human, and a Nautolan. A diverse group to say the least, but that comes at no surprise. The Jedi are needed in a time like this, and having ones that represent all races will help unify the shattered galaxy.

 

[Rain Dog]

By the time we land, my students have already joined me in the landing bay. The door finally opens, and I can't say I'm surprised by the sight.

Dozens of Coruscanti police officers and a squad of New Republic soldiers stood on the landing pad, patiently waiting for Skywalker and his followers to exit their ship. They were equipped with battle armor, heavy blasters, and stun batons—just in case. Many of the soldiers didn’t want to believe Fey’lya’s accusations. In fact, many did not. But they had a job to do.

As the Jedi stepped down the ramp, a commander stepped forward, brandishing a pair of hand restraints. He was somewhat frightened. He knew Skywalker was a Republic hero, he knew Skywalker was probably innocent, and he knew that he would more than likely go in quietly, without fuss. But what if he didn’t?

“Master Luke Skywalker, the Republic hereby places you and your disciples under arrest for two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and treason against the state. You and your students are to be escorted to and detained at the Republic Judiciary Central Detention Center until further notice. You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand the rights as they have been read to you?”

* * *​

​

“Skywalker and his students have landed. Authorities are making the arrest now,” the Bothan aide said.

“Good,” Fey’lya grunted, laying back in his hospital bed.

“Get some holo-recorders in here. I want to present when the Provisional Council interrogates them.”

 

[wiegeabo]

I shake my friends hand and give him a halfhearted smile, "I literally just heard. You don't have to tell me you're innocent. I know that part. But I would like to know what the hell happened to Fey'lya to have him go this off his rocker."

My attention is directed to the ragtag group behind the Jedi Master. An Ithorian, a Cathar, a human, and a Nautolan. A diverse group to say the least, but that comes at no surprise. The Jedi are needed in a time like this, and having ones that represent all races will help unify the shattered galaxy.

"It's been all over the news. Apparently, someone, a Force user, tried to assassinate Fey'lya in my name. And they did kill two of his guards."

I notice the commander of the group step froward from the rest of his men.

“Master Luke Skywalker, the Republic hereby places you and your disciples under arrest for two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and treason against the state. You and your students are to be escorted to and detained at the Republic Judiciary Central Detention Center until further notice. You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand the rights as they have been read to you?”

"I do." I glance at my apprentices. "We all do."

The commander nods. "Please, surrender your lightsabers."

"I am not carrying one, but my students will give you theirs."

 

[Byrd Man]

"It's been all over the news. Apparently, someone, a Force user, tried to assassinate Fey'lya in my name. And they did kill two of his guards."

I notice the commander of the group step froward from the rest of his men.

“Master Luke Skywalker, the Republic hereby places you and your disciples under arrest for two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and treason against the state. You and your students are to be escorted to and detained at the Republic Judiciary Central Detention Center until further notice. You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand the rights as they have been read to you?”

"I do." I glance at my apprentices. "We all do."

The commander nods. "Please, surrender your lightsabers."

"I am not carrying one, but my students will give you theirs."

"Wait a minute...," I growl as I come between Luke and the guard.

"I consented to his arrest, but not the students. They can barely harm a fly, much less try to kill a councilor!"

 

[Carnage27]

I'm left helpless as Luke and his students are taken away by the guard. I stand, dumbfounded on the platform, not believing what I'm seeing. The greatest hero of the galaxy being led away in handcuffs.

Rubbing my eyes, as if trying to wake myself up from a dream, I see Han approach one of the guards, and he is not happy. I push through the crowd of onlookers and guards, and some have started to get angry. I hear yells against both Luke and the Jedi and the guards arresting them, and I can tell this situation may get ugly quickly.

I put my hand on Han's shoulder, "Maybe this isn't the time for this, Han. This mob's already got tempers on the rise. We don't need someone getting shot here today that doesn't deserve it."

 

[Rain Dog]

"Wait a minute...," I growl as I come between Luke and the guard.

"I consented to his arrest, but not the students. They can barely harm a fly, much less try to kill a councilor!"

“I’m sorry, General Solo, but the Councilor identified the assailant as one of Master Skywalker’s students.”

The commander gestured for his troops to collect the lightsabers and then approached the Jedi Master.

“Sorry, sir,” he said solemnly, placing the restraints on Skywalker’s wrists.

 

[NiteMare Shape]

Dozens of Coruscanti police officers and a squad of New Republic soldiers stood on the landing pad, patiently waiting for Skywalker and his followers to exit their ship. They were equipped with battle armor, heavy blasters, and stun batons—just in case. Many of the soldiers didn’t want to believe Fey’lya’s accusations. In fact, many did not. But they had a job to do.

As the Jedi stepped down the ramp, a commander stepped forward, brandishing a pair of hand restraints. He was somewhat frightened. He knew Skywalker was a Republic hero, he knew Skywalker was probably innocent, and he knew that he would more than likely go in quietly, without fuss. But what if he didn’t?

“Master Luke Skywalker, the Republic hereby places you and your disciples under arrest for two counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and treason against the state. You and your students are to be escorted to and detained at the Republic Judiciary Central Detention Center until further notice. You have the right to remain silent, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. Do you understand the rights as they have been read to you?”

​

​

I watch as the New Republic commander places my brother and his students under arrest. I stand there between Han and Chewie, in a stunned disbelief. Just days ago Luke and some of his students saved my life, and the lives of more than a half a dozen other delegates, not to mention their aides from an attack by a group claiming to be Sith.

If it hadn't been for Luke and his students, I would be dead...along with my unborn twins and who knows how many others.

I can't help but to feel disgusted by this preposterous display of force by the New Republic guards. And to think, if it hadn't been for Luke...most of these men would have died in an Imperial prision years ago.

And the one responsible for this...Fey'lya.

I've watched him become bolder and bolder over the last few months. His constant scramble for power has often left him at odds with the rest of the Council, particularly Admiral Ackbar. Unfortunately he has been gaining quite the following among the military ranks. And this is just another attempt at a power grab.

This time he's gone too far. I won't let this stand.

"This is ridiculous. I'm not going to stand here and watch this farce. I'm going to go see Mon Mothma...right now." I say as I storm away from the landing pad toward the Imperial Palace.

​

 

[NiteMare Shape]

Dono, Joren, Mission, and I stroll confidently into the Keen Eye Cantina, and the smell of smoke and alcohol hits me hard. After the initial sensory shock, I notice that this is a place that I would have most likely raided had I stayed with CorSec long enough.​

I can see at least four blatant illegal activities in our vicinity, and I'm sure that there's more deeper into the establishment. Honestly, the sense of right and wrong in my body has always been on hyper-alert due to my dad, and now being a Jedi, illegal actions disgust me even more.​

"There, that looks good," I say to our party, motioning to a table in a dark corner. We take a seat, and I look over at Dono and Joren, "So, what's our next move?"​

"Huc, relax. You're a bounty hunter, not Corsec. Definitely not Jedi. Don't be so stiff, you stand out like a bantha in a Jawa hut. Sit back, keep your eyes open. Somebody in here saw something....I know some of these people, let me take the lead in this one."

 

[Carnage27]

"Huc, relax. You're a bounty hunter, not Corsec. Definitely not Jedi. Don't be so stiff, you stand out like a bantha in a Jawa hut. Sit back, keep your eyes open. Somebody in here saw something....I know some of these people, let me take the lead in this one."

I give a sarcastic smile to Joren and turn back to see Mission smirking, "He's right, you know, Mr. Bantha."

"Haha, very funny," I smirk back. "And I was planning on you taking the lead."

I feel out the room with the Force, and feel the apprehension all over the place. Most of these creeps are scared to get busted, and the others are all scared to get shot. And I can tell we've drawn attention. Fingers are pointed, whispers are passed, and eyes are locked on Joren.

"Looks like you weren't lying," I smile. "You're awfully popular around here."

 

[Byrd Man]

I put my hand on Han's shoulder, "Maybe this isn't the time for this, Han. This mob's already got tempers on the rise. We don't need someone getting shot here today that doesn't deserve it."

"Like I said, Wedge. It's one thing to arrest Luke since he's the 'mastermind' behind all of this."

This time he's gone too far. I won't let this stand.

"This is ridiculous. I'm not going to stand here and watch this farce. I'm going to go see Mon Mothma...right now." I say as I storm away from the landing pad toward the Imperial Palace.

​

Before I can continue arguing my point to me fellow Corellian, Leia stalks away.

"Leia wait!"

Chewie growls, adding to the already chaotic scene.

"Chewie, go with Leia and keep an eye on her. I'll be along in a bit."

The Wookie grunts his reply and takes off after Leia.

"This is all a big clusterjam," I say into Wedge's ear. "There's gotta be something we can do. Think we can talk to Ackbar while Leia talks to Mon Mothma?"

 

[Carnage27]

"This is all a big clusterjam," I say into Wedge's ear. "There's gotta be something we can do. Think we can talk to Ackbar while Leia talks to Mon Mothma?"

"I don't see why not. He should be at Military Intelligence," I nod. "I was hoping to talk to him anyway."

My friend and I head that way, and I can tell he's fuming even without the Force. Han's always worn his heart on his sleeve, and today is not different. I honestly hope we don't run into Fey'lya, because Han may shoot him.

"So how have things been? It's been too long since we've actually had time to talk," I huff as we head deeper into the city. Han gives me a look, "I'm a fighter pilot not a marathon runner, damn it."

 

[Byrd Man]

"I don't see why not. He should be at Military Intelligence," I nod. "I was hoping to talk to him anyway."

My friend and I head that way, and I can tell he's fuming even without the Force. Han's always worn his heart on his sleeve, and today is not different. I honestly hope we don't run into Fey'lya, because Han may shoot him.

"So how have things been? It's been too long since we've actually had time to talk," I huff as we head deeper into the city. Han gives me a look, "I'm a fighter pilot not a marathon runner, damn it."

I ease up on my pace and let Wedge catch up.

"Well, Luke and his students fended off an attack from the Sith while I fought off Boba Fett and the Empire at Nomad City, but you know about that last part. Oh, Lando is on New Cov negotiating with two smugglers about the whereabouts of the Katana Fleet, the Dark Force is close to being in New Republic hands. Oh, and I asked Leia to marry me and she's pregnant with twins, they're mine by the way."

I look over and see Wedge's slightly stunned face.

"So, same old same old, you know how it is."

 

[Carnage27]

I ease up on my pace and let Wedge catch up.

"Well, Luke and his students fended off an attack from the Sith while I fought off Boba Fett and the Empire at Nomad City, but you know about that last part. Oh, Lando is on New Cov negotiating with two smugglers about the whereabouts of the Katana Fleet, the Dark Force is close to being in New Republic hands. Oh, and I asked Leia to marry me and she's pregnant with twins, they're mine by the way."

I look over and see Wedge's slightly stunned face.

"So, same old same old, you know how it is."

Han's last two bits of news almost knock me on my behind. Engaged!? Twins!? That's amazing. And insane at the same time. Two of the New Republic's most historic heroes tying the not, and kids.

"Well, looks like we've got another generation of heroes on the way," I smile at him. "Congratulations you old pirate! I know they'll only be half Corellian, but I'm sure they'll still be able to almost give me a run for my money flying just like their old man."

Han turns stunned, and I laugh, "And the Katana Fleet? Well, I'm sure the Admiral will like to hear about that."

The two of us reach the Navy headquarters and are ushered into Admiral Ackbar's office promptly. The Mon Cal legend turns and smiles, at least I think he smiles, I can never tell, "Ah, General Solo, Captain Antilles, how are you?"

"Not good, General. Luke Skywalker has just been arrested for apparently trying to assassinate Councilor Fey'lya. We want to know what we can do," I reply, my arms folded across my chest.

"Unfortunately, gentlemen, there's nothing we can do."

 

[Byrd Man]

The two of us reach the Navy headquarters and are ushered into Admiral Ackbar's office promptly. The Mon Cal legend turns and smiles, at least I think he smiles, I can never tell, "Ah, General Solo, Captain Antilles, how are you?"

"Not good, General. Luke Skywalker has just been arrested for apparently trying to assassinate Councilor Fey'lya. We want to know what we can do," I reply, my arms folded across my chest.

"Unfortunately, gentlemen, there's nothing we can do."

"After all Luke has done for the Rebellion and New Republic? He's a hero, not an assassin!"

"I know that just as well as you do, Solo," Ackbar says as his eyes roll in the Mon Calamari signal for agreement.

"Skywalker's name will be cleared in due time, of that I am assured. But Fey'lya has personally had it out for me for a long time, now, if I come out right now in Skywalker's defense he'll be able to spin it and have me thrown off the council. Fey'lya has me and he knows it...it's a trap, gentlemen."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

I give a sarcastic smile to Joren and turn back to see Mission smirking, "He's right, you know, Mr. Bantha."

"Haha, very funny," I smirk back. "And I was planning on you taking the lead."

I feel out the room with the Force, and feel the apprehension all over the place. Most of these creeps are scared to get busted, and the others are all scared to get shot. And I can tell we've drawn attention. Fingers are pointed, whispers are passed, and eyes are locked on Joren.

"Looks like you weren't lying," I smile. "You're awfully popular around here."

I look at Huc and smile.

"See, I told you."

I'm about say something else when I suddenly feel something in the Force, something familiar...

"Wait here." I say as I turn and make my way toward the source of the disturbance.

I hear Dono mutter a curse under his breath as I approach the Quarren who just pulled up a seat at the bar.

Silvak, a low life spice dealer who used to sell weapons on the side, always to the highest bidder, which was usually the Kath Hounds...the same gang that murdered my mother.

The alien sees me out of the corner of his eye, I don't think he recognizes me at first, then I sense a torrent of fear through the Force as he comes to the realization as to who I am.

"Silvak...It's been a long time." I say, adding a touch of menace to my voice.

 

[Carnage27]

"After all Luke has done for the Rebellion and New Republic? He's a hero, not an assassin!"

"I know that just as well as you do, Solo," Ackbar says as his eyes roll in the Mon Calamari signal for agreement.

"Skywalker's name will be cleared in due time, of that I am assured. But Fey'lya has personally had it out for me for a long time, now, if I come out right now in Skywalker's defense he'll be able to spin it and have me thrown off the council. Fey'lya has me and he knows it...it's a trap, gentlemen."

"Understood, Admiral," I salute weakly. "I don't like having Luke in jail, though. Especially at a time like this. I feel like the Empire will take this opportunity to strike, and one of our greatest leaders will be behind bars."

"I wouldn't be surprised, Captain. But we'll be ready for them."

I shift uneasily in front of my commanding officer, "With all do respect, I'm not sure we will, Admiral. At least my unit. Rogue Squadron has been flying with pilots not nearly the caliber that we need. I know you said you're all for me finding new ones, but I can't do that while I'm on active duty. I was wondering if Coran Horan and I could have a leave to recruit. I want Rogue Squadron to be truly ready for the Empire's best."

"Your concern is duly noted, Captain. And I will grant your request, on one condition."

"Admiral?"

"If needed, you must return when called. You're one of the best pilots we have Wedge. And we may need you."

"Understood, sir," I smile. The relief of knowing I'll have time to construct a team that is fit for the Rogue Squadron name is a great weight lifted off my shoulder. "General Solo also has a bit of more...confidential news for you, sir."