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

[NiteMare Shape]

A quiet signal alarm goes off in the cockpit, alerting us that we are almost at our second destination and jump point to the Errant Venture. Joren punches a few commands into the console in front of him, and the white light around us blends back into the blackness of space. But as I reach out with the Force, something immediately strikes me, "Somethings wrong."

I look down at the scanners and immediately spot the problem. An Imperial carrier, most likely chock full of TIE fighters. I look up to Joren, "Hail the Dralshy'a on a private channel. I'm sure they know how to handle themselves, but as of right now, we play this cool. I'm going to go wake up the rest of the crew."

I head through the corridors, knocking on Dono's door first. The Mandalorian groggily opens the door, "What?"

"You might want to get to the cockpit. We've run into some Imperials."

Joren watches as a full squadron of TIE Fighters emmerges from the docking bay of the carrier and heads straight for the Dreams.

"You guys might want to hurry up and get up here, we've got company." He yells behind him to the rest of of the crew.

Hurridly, he brings diverts power from the forward shields to the aft shields, as the majority of the TIE's are coming in from behind.

"Dono, get to the rear guns. Nyna, Kelsa...you know what to do. Huc, I need you up here, now!"

The front viewport is splashed in green light as the Dreams takes several shots across the bow, fortunately the forward shields hold up.

"Dono, hurry up and get some of these guys off our tail, or we won't last much longer!"

Several shots ring out from the rear turrets of the Dreams, and almost in unison, several of the pursuing TIE fighters errupts in a cloud of fire and debris.

"Don't worry Vod'ika, I've got it under control." Dono says into the com, as more TIE fighters converge on their location.

 

[Carnage27]

Joren watches as a full squadron of TIE Fighters emmerges from the docking bay of the carrier and heads straight for the Dreams.

"You guys might want to hurry up and get up here, we've got company." He yells behind him to the rest of of the crew.

Hurridly, he brings diverts power from the forward shields to the aft shields, as the majority of the TIE's are coming in from behind.

"Dono, get to the rear guns. Nyna, Kelsa...you know what to do. Huc, I need you up here, now!"

The front viewport is splashed in green light as the Dreams takes several shots across the bow, fortunately the forward shields hold up.

"Dono, hurry up and get some of these guys off our tail, or we won't last much longer!"

Several shots ring out from the rear turrets of the Dreams, and almost in unison, several of the pursuing TIE fighters errupts in a cloud of fire and debris.

"Don't worry Vod'ika, I've got it under control." Dono says into the com, as more TIE fighters converge on their location.

I rush back into the cockpit as the first blasts of lasers rock the Dreams, as they deflect of the yacht's shields. I slip into the co-pilot's seat and look at the scanners, "I guess they're not going with asking questions first, huh?"

Putting on a headset, I open a channel to the Dralshy'a, "Dralshy'a, this is the Dreams. How are you guys holding up?"

"Not bad, Huc," Mission's voice comes over the other side. "Rik's blasting away with the quads, but we can't take a beating for long. We'll have to make the last jump at some point."

"No," I say shaking my head, "they'll be able to track you, and we can't lead them to where we're going."

"Then what do you think we should do?" she responds, obviously a little annoyed.

"Relax, Mission. Control your feelings. Allow the Force to flow through you," I say, adding in. "And I'll think of something."

I cut off the feed before I can hear the response. Most likely it would have to do with my Corellian attitude, but whatever. But she is right. We can't take this for long. And we can't jump without leading the Empire to the meeting place, which would be much worse for the Galaxy than us dying.

Which leads me to one crazy idea.

I stand up and head towards the cargo hold, but not before turning to Joren, "Get ready to open up the cargo bay doors. And before you do, tell Dono to keep the TIEs off our tail, or I'm gonna be a sitting duck."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

As we come out of lightspeed after our final jump, I can't believe the sight staring at me from the other side of the viewport.

An Imperial Star Destroyer, painted red just sitting in space ahead of us in front of a massive star.

The Errant Venture, a ship that was captured by Booster Terrik serveral years ago, and has since become a sort of getaway for smugglers and tourists looking for a vacation on the edge. Home to many backroom dealings, and it will soon have a new function to list on it's resume:

Diplomatic Sanctuary.

Very few people know about this meeting, and even fewer know where it is being held. But there is one thing that keeps me from relaxing totally...

I've been fortunate enough to inherit some of that famous "Solo Luck" in the time that I've spent with Han, and I've learned that no matter what, anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.

I just hope that this time, our luck changes. And with that thought, our shuttle prepares for our final approach to the smuggler ship.

 

[NiteMare Shape]

I rush back into the cockpit as the first blasts of lasers rock the Dreams, as they deflect of the yacht's shields. I slip into the co-pilot's seat and look at the scanners, "I guess they're not going with asking questions first, huh?"

Putting on a headset, I open a channel to the Dralshy'a, "Dralshy'a, this is the Dreams. How are you guys holding up?"

"Not bad, Huc," Mission's voice comes over the other side. "Rik's blasting away with the quads, but we can't take a beating for long. We'll have to make the last jump at some point."

"No," I say shaking my head, "they'll be able to track you, and we can't lead them to where we're going."

"Then what do you think we should do?" she responds, obviously a little annoyed.

"Relax, Mission. Control your feelings. Allow the Force to flow through you," I say, adding in. "And I'll think of something."

I cut off the feed before I can hear the response. Most likely it would have to do with my Corellian attitude, but whatever. But she is right. We can't take this for long. And we can't jump without leading the Empire to the meeting place, which would be much worse for the Galaxy than us dying.

Which leads me to one crazy idea.

I stand up and head towards the cargo hold, but not before turning to Joren, "Get ready to open up the cargo bay doors. And before you do, tell Dono to keep the TIEs off our tail, or I'm gonna be a sitting duck."

Joren pauses for a moment, before turning to look at Huc.

"You're not planning to do what I think you are...are you?" Joren says as Huc nods an affirmative.

"Alright, but be careful....hold on a second." He says as he plugs a datapad into the console, downloading the coordinates for the final hyperspace jump to their destination.

"Take this, and get to us as soon as you can."

Huc takes the datapad and heads off to his fighter stored in the cargo hold.

"May the Force be with you." He whispers, almost to himself as Huc is out of earshot.

"Hey Dono, clear a path for him. Keep those TIE's off him until he's clear of the Dreams...then get ready for our next jump." He says into the com, unable to keep the regret out of his voice.

 

[Carnage27]

I make it to the cargo hold fairly quickly, and hop into my fighter, quickly powering it up, "Engines are good, shields are good, weapons are primed and ready. Everything is a go here, Dreams. Open the old whenever you are ready."

After what I'm sure is only a minute, but feels like a lifetime, Dono's voice comes over the comm, "Huc, we're opening the hold. Good luck."

As he finishes talking, I open myself up to the Force. I allow it to bind me to the universe, and my sense immediately become more in tune. As the door begins to open behind me, I comm Joren, "Once you're out of tracking range, take the jump. Once I'm done here I'll get to the Venture."

The door finishes opening, and I rocket out of the hold and into the void of space. The Force guides me into the first wave of fighters. I make sure my deflector shields are at full power, as the green laser bolts fly my way. With my enhanced reflexes, I maneuver my way through the volley, and return with my dual lasers, knocking out two of the squad. Two small groups manage to continue pursuing the others, but the other formations go after me, just as I planned.

Which is when Mission's voice comes over the comm, "Huc, what in the name of the Force do you think you're doing!? You're gonna get yourself killed!"

I roll through an exploding TIE before responding, "I'll be fine. You need to get out of here. The mission is more important than me. Stopping the Empire is more important than me. Besides. I've got a plan. Trust me. I'll be fine."

"Why are you so damned confident," she says, obviously annoyed. "You better make it out of here. I don't know what I'd do without your annoying mannerisms."

"Yea, I'm sure you'd be heart-broken. Now get out of here," I say. "May the Force be with you."

"You too."

I close down my comm, knowing anymore correspondence could be traced and listened in on. More TIEs come flying my way, and I push my thrusters to their limit. If there's one thing I know it's that TIEs can't survive long in deep space. If I take out the carrier, they'll be forced to land on the planet to call for help.

I get close into the carrier, searching for its shield generator as warnings go off inside the cabin of my fighter. A TIE has snuck up behind me, and gained a lock on. I pull my control stick back, spinning away from the carrier. I perform a combination of dips and rolls, but the fighter on my stays locked on. I vaporize a TIE in front of me before checking my scanners and reaching out in the Force. I sense another Imperial fighter slightly above me, and I decide to try something risky.

I pull up yet again, the TIE behind me following suit, again pushing my thrusters to full capacity. I barely pass by the TIE above me, but the one following me slams hard into the second in a bright explosion.

"Now...to take out that carrier."

 

[Rain Dog]

Dozens of swoop bikes pulled up in front of the massive gates of the desert fortress. The marauders dismounted their vehicles and grouped together in front of the door. Two burly Nikto thugs struggled with a huge, elongated object wrapped in a soggy cloth. Their leader, the Clantaani marksman, Jakk, stood before the group. He slid his hand in a pouch at his belt and drew a new pinch of t’bac which he tucked behind his lips. The marauders stepped aside as Jakk walked through the group, walking towards the palace. He pounded on the hot iron door and waited silently for a response.

A small cap in the door, previously unnoticed by the marauders, popped open and out stretched a mechanical eye on a stalk.

“Damnation…a tattletale droid…”

“Achuta. What do you want?”

“We seek an audience with Her Highness, Anachro the H’unn.”

“Nobata. Anachro is not accepting visitors at this time.”

“We’re here to collect the bounty on Rotta Desilijic Tiure.”

“…Transmitting data……”

“What’s wron—“

“—Shhhh!”

“…Master Anachro says this is not likely. She has received any information regarding the demise of the ‘Gundark-humper.’”

Jakk leered at the droid and spat out a glob of black bile.

“Anachro doesn’t know about his death because no one knows about his death. No one but us. We got proof, though. We even x’ed his majordomo…”

The two burly Niktos approached the droid and began to unravel the bloody cloth covering their heavy trophy. They presented their prize to the mechanical eye—the massive, blood-drenched, severed head of a Chevin. The droid blinked in surprise.

“…Transmitting data…”

The marauders continued to stand silently, their eyes fixated on the droid. They did their best to hide their nervousness but many could not help but fidget as they awaited the droid’s judgment. Only Jakk seemed truly at ease.

“Bargon u noa-a-uyat. Chowbaso.”

The droid retreated into its hole and the cap sealed. The marauders let out a collective sigh of relief as they heard the loud clanks and clicks of gears and the massive door began to lift itself out of the sands.

“We’re in, boys.”

* * *​

“Your visions were correct. This is the correct location."

“It seems Hutt’s compound is guarded by a tattletale. This will be more difficult than Zuckuss had imagined. Shall we wait for another opportunity to arrive? Perhaps when the Hutt is more…exposed?”

"If that is what you wish. Although it is unnecessary. And unlikely. Crime lords’ homes are always well fortified. Especially Hutts. At no time will he leave the presence of his guards."

“His guards are not what concerns Zuckuss. His guards will die by my staff and 4-LOM’s blaster. The guard droid is the issue. How do we get past it?”

“Oh. That is the issue? Take my blaster."

The droid shoved its rifle into its partner’s hands.

“That wall is too strong to be blasted through.”

"Stand aside."

The droid nonchalantly strolled towards the heavy durasteel doors, walking right through the electronic sensors that alerted the compound’s guard droid.

“Die wanna wanga?”

"Greetings! I am 9-LOM, insectoid-cyborg relations. I come bearing a message for the exalted Grubba the Hutt."

“From who?”

"From Master Quaffug of Blimph. Master Quaffug contacted Grubba beforehand. My meeting with Grubba should have been scheduled."

“I have no records of such a meeting. I shall contact the Master…”

"You do not have records? Perhaps I should check your programming."

“That won’t be necessary.”

Despite the guard droid’s protest, the rogue protocol droid plugged itself into the door’s control panel.

“Hey! Stop that! What are you doing?! Sto—SECURITY PROTOCOLS OVERRIDDEN. LIVE CAMERA FEED DEACTIVATED.”

The mechanical eye retreated into the door. Locks began to click and the doors slid open. Zuckuss stepped out of the shadows and approached his partner, handing it its weapon.

“Impressive.”

"Such pitiful programming."

* * *​

“We’re here to sssee Bossss Yovu.”

“And who are you?”

“Rantel Kreet.”

“Don’t know you. Leave now.”

“I got ssssomething to deliver to him.”

The bouncers drew blaster pistols from their pockets and aimed them at the Barabel.

“Go.”

“Sssorry,” the Barabel hissed as he scurried away. The reptile turned a corner and headed east before abruptly turning into an alleyway.

“Roma? I take it you couldn’t get in.”

“No, it’sss guarded.”

“Of course it’s guarded.”

“We need a plan to get inssside.”

“I got a plan. Follow me.”

Vorssk grabbed the Trandoshan ACP gun strapped to his back and marched out of the alley with his Barabel companion following close behind. They headed west before abruptly turning a corner and marched toward the club entrance. The bouncers were conversing, paying no heed to the two reptilian thugs approaching them.

“Hey!” Vorssk shouted, cocking his gun.

A bouncer turned around and was promptly blasted in the chest by the Trandoshan’s weapon, completely obliterating his torso. The other bouncer fumbled for his blaster but sprayed with bolts from the ACP, the force of the blast sending him off his feet and into the wall behind him.

“That’s all you had to do, pal.”

“I didn’t have an ACP.”

“You should get one,” Vorssk chuckled before kicking open the door of the dingy club.

Colorful lights flashed in every direction in Coruscant’s Corridor Club. Patrons danced and drank to their heart’s content and in their drunken stupor, failed to notice two armed, menacing, reptilian thugs weaving their way through crowds of oblivious partiers.

“We, uh, want to head for the VIP section or the ‘Employees Only’ room. These underbosses always hang out in there,” the Trandoshan shouted over the loud, obnoxious music.

“Manager’ssss officcce. More privacccy, there,” hissed the Barabel.

“’Employee’s Only’ it is,” Vorssk said, kicking open the door. Three sketchy security guards on the other side immediately charged the two thugs as then busted their way in. A tall, muscular human delivered a devastating punch to Roma’s nose, sending the Barabel sliding back into a wall. Vorssk cocked his ACP and blasted away the human assailant, only to be quickly elbowed in the snout by a beastly Cathar. Vorssk nearly lost his balance but quickly regained his footing, cocked his gun, and fired again. The Cathar leapt out of the way of the oncoming blast and swiped at Vorssk with his deadly claws.

The third guard, a hideous Dashade tackled Vorssk to the ground and tried to wrestle the gun out his hands. Vorssk kicked and clawed at the beast but was quickly overpowered and found himself facing the barrel of his own gun. Before the Dashade could cock the gun, a thunderous roar was heard. Both Vorssk and the Dashade thug turned to find Roma slashing at the Cathar with twin vibro-swords. The Barabel kicked himself off of the wounded Cathar’s chest and onto the back of the Dashade. The nimble assassin then planted a blade into each of the Dashade’s shoulder’s causing the monster to let out a horrible wail.

Vorssk rolled out of the Dashade’s way and sprang up to his feat. He unsheathed a hunting knife from his belt and slashed the throat of the behemoth. The Dashade howled again, dropping the ACP, which went off and blasted the plastisteel of a wall as it hit the ground. The massive alien crumpled to the floor and Roma tried with all his might to pull his swords out of the dead beast’s shoulders as Vorssk attempted to fend off a blood and enraged Cathar. The Cathar were fierce warriors and even in his wounded it state, this guard would put up quite the fight. He pounced towards Vorssk, slashing his chest with his sharp claps. Vorssk snarled in pain and slashed back with his own claws. Vorssk lunged at the lion-like creature with his knife, but the Dashade’s blood had made the weapon’s handle slippery. It slid out of Vorssk’s hands and onto the floor. The Cathar charged at him once more.

“Over here!” Roma shouted, tossing him a bloody vibro-sword.

Vorssk caught the weapon and with a twirl of the blade, sliced off the Cathar’s huge paw. The Cathar gave one last roar before being silenced by a sword to the chest. The feline beast staggered backward and collapsed, soaking in a pool of his own blood.

“Yuvo’sss well protected…”

“The hell did you expect? There’s the office. Let’s go.”

* * *​

Jakk and his band of marauders stood in the dim hallway, quietly waiting to be met by a liaison. The light in the room gradually depleted as the massive iron door sunk into the sands behind them, blocking out the sun and leaving them in almost total darkness.

“Jakk, I’m not so sure about this…”

“Quiet,” Jakk growled. He spat out another vile glob of saliva and t’bacc juice.

“Uuuggh!! Hey!” a human thug cried out, frantically trying to brush the putrid slime from his chest.

A rectangular light appeared in the distance—it seemed to be some sort of door opening. A short silhouette quickly passed through it and the door shut once again. Then, two tiny, glowing, red-orange orbs appeared in the darkness, gradually approaching the mercenaries.

“<You come want Anachro see follow.>”

“The hell did it say?” Jakk grumbled to his men.

“Sounds like Jawa talk. Wants us to follow ‘im to see Anachro.”

“Fair enough. Lead the way, little man.”

The tiny pair of glowing eyes disappeared as the cloaked creature turned about. Jakk and his thugs followed the diminutive guide through a door and up a long, winding staircase. After climbing the last steps and passing through a final doorway, they found themselves in the heart of the palace—Anachro’s throne room. The bloated slug adorned herself with golden rings, bracelets, and a jewel incrusted tiara. She laid lazily on her dais, covered in fine animal furs and silk pillows, while being fanned and fed by robust, scantily clad males of several species.

“Welcome, great warriors. I hear you have come bearing good news.”

“Yes, your highness,” Jakk said, signaling to his Nikto thugs. The two aliens lifted their trophy and approached the Hutt queen.

“My men and I have killed the pus-bag that took the life of your husband—Rotta Desilijic Tiure. First, allow us to present to you the head of his majordomo and lieutenant, Ephant Mon…”

The Niktos unraveled the head and presented it to the Hutt. She let out a deep, croaky laugh that shook her massive belly and greatly disturbed her slaves.

“Excellent, excellent. Anachro is pleased. But do you have proof that the bastard who killed my beloved Gorga is dead?”

“Your Highness, Rotta was hiding out on Coruscant. Not many know of his whereabouts, fewer know of his death. But I can assure you, he is dead. My men and I agreed to do a job for him—kill you and your Huttling. But when the idiot had us brought to his compound to negotiate the terms of our contract, we managed to hide explosives throughout his palace. As we left, we detonated the explosive and blew the slug and all his boot-lickers to high heavens.”

“Hmmm….” Anachro grumbled as a human slave pushed another Klantooine paddy frog into her massive mouth.

“That’s quite a tale. How do I know it’s true?”

“Rotta’s palace was loaded with security cameras. Luckily, I had a tech guy disable them—well, most of them. I had him save one in Rotta’s throne to make sure we could see the schutta get blown to bits. The camera took a little damage, but he’s fixed it up and is on his way here.”

“I see…” Anachro bellowed skeptically.

“If your man is on his way here, then I suppose you wouldn’t mind staying until he arrived? I will gladly pay you for the head of Ephant Mon but I cannot pay you for Rotta’s death until I have proof.”

Jakk smirked and bowed to the Hutt.

“As you wish.”

* * *​

The Twi’lek mercenary quickly drew a blaster pistol but was met with a bolt to the head before he had time to pull the trigger.

“Nice shot.”

"Indeed. I shall make my way to the nearest computer terminal, download area schematics, and disable security cameras. Can you manage to fend off any potential threats by yourself?"

“Yes, it will not be a problem for Zuckuss.”

"I will contact you via comm-link once I have disabled security cameras. With the area schematics, I will guide you to the proper locations to place the detonators."

“4-LOM is to keep one security camera active—the camera located in Grubba’s throne room.”

"Very well. You clear out the armory, I shall go to the control room."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

I make it to the cargo hold fairly quickly, and hop into my fighter, quickly powering it up, "Engines are good, shields are good, weapons are primed and ready. Everything is a go here, Dreams. Open the old whenever you are ready."

After what I'm sure is only a minute, but feels like a lifetime, Dono's voice comes over the comm, "Huc, we're opening the hold. Good luck."

As he finishes talking, I open myself up to the Force. I allow it to bind me to the universe, and my sense immediately become more in tune. As the door begins to open behind me, I comm Joren, "Once you're out of tracking range, take the jump. Once I'm done here I'll get to the Venture."

The door finishes opening, and I rocket out of the hold and into the void of space. The Force guides me into the first wave of fighters. I make sure my deflector shields are at full power, as the green laser bolts fly my way. With my enhanced reflexes, I maneuver my way through the volley, and return with my dual lasers, knocking out two of the squad. Two small groups manage to continue pursuing the others, but the other formations go after me, just as I planned.

Which is when Mission's voice comes over the comm, "Huc, what in the name of the Force do you think you're doing!? You're gonna get yourself killed!"

I roll through an exploding TIE before responding, "I'll be fine. You need to get out of here. The mission is more important than me. Stopping the Empire is more important than me. Besides. I've got a plan. Trust me. I'll be fine."

"Why are you so damned confident," she says, obviously annoyed. "You better make it out of here. I don't know what I'd do without your annoying mannerisms."

"Yea, I'm sure you'd be heart-broken. Now get out of here," I say. "May the Force be with you."

"You too."

I close down my comm, knowing anymore correspondence could be traced and listened in on. More TIEs come flying my way, and I push my thrusters to their limit. If there's one thing I know it's that TIEs can't survive long in deep space. If I take out the carrier, they'll be forced to land on the planet to call for help.

I get close into the carrier, searching for its shield generator as warnings go off inside the cabin of my fighter. A TIE has snuck up behind me, and gained a lock on. I pull my control stick back, spinning away from the carrier. I perform a combination of dips and rolls, but the fighter on my stays locked on. I vaporize a TIE in front of me before checking my scanners and reaching out in the Force. I sense another Imperial fighter slightly above me, and I decide to try something risky.

I pull up yet again, the TIE behind me following suit, again pushing my thrusters to full capacity. I barely pass by the TIE above me, but the one following me slams hard into the second in a bright explosion.

"Now...to take out that carrier."

As Huc heads off towards the carrier, Joren catches a flash in the Force. It takes him a moment to realize exactly what is going on, and looking down at his scanner confirms his theory.

Trailing Huc are three TIE fighters, the pilots intent on making the kill. Without thinking, Joren takes the Dreams in a wide arc, bringing the ship in line with the Imperial persuers.

"Let's give him some breathing space, what do you say?" Joren says into the comlink to nobody in particular.

In response, several shots are fired from the turrets Dono is manning, vaping three of four of the pursuing TIE fighters, leaving one. Joren takes a moment to lock on to the remaining TIE fighter, the pilot is good, managing to avoid being locked on to. Finally, the other pilot's luck runs out and Joren gets a lock, firing the forward blasters, causing the final TIE fighter to explode in a cloud of debris.

"You're clear Huc, do what you have to do. And may the Force be with you."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

test.

 

[wiegeabo]

Again and again our blades clash. Whoever this man is, he's been trained. And trained well. It's all I can do to keep up with his attacks. The man knows how to use the Force and wield it like a weapon. I realize with a good deal of irony, and more than a hint of fright, that I'm learning a lot from this encounter. Is it wrong to think that I sometimes learn more about the Force from a single fight then from months of study?

Despite the focus on keeping my head firmly attached to my body, I can sense another presence. I feel a bit of relief as I realize Boolon has found me. That relief is quickly replaced with concern when I remember he has no weapon and I haven't really had the time to train him to fight.

But fight anyway Boolon is as the Killer suddenly glances in his direction. He thrusts out his hand, and a wave of of Force lashes out, sending various crates, debris, and my student flying through the air.

Before the Killer can turn back to me, I do the same to him. A shove of power flings him against the wall of a building, momentarily stunning him. I leap into the air, and bring my lightsaber down against him. He barely has time to block my swing, his balance so far off that I'm able to knock the saber to the side.

I continue to press the advantage while I have it. Over and over I swing, strong but quickly and randomly, like a madman with just a hint of control. I don't give myself time to think, making sure the Killer also doesn't have time to think. I just give myself over to the Force, putting all I have behind every attack. And every time the Killer brings his saber up to block, I knock his blade to the side, exposing him to the next attack. Forcing him to scramble backwards, keeping him off balance and unable to mount a serious defense.

I through a kick, planting my boot squarely in his chest. He goes flying with a shout of panic. And it's only then I realize there was no ground behind him.

I shut down my saber and peer over the railing. The Killer hangs by one hand over a fall that I'm not sure even I could survive. In his other, his saber glows brightly in the dark. He looks up at me, hate in his eyes.

I grab his hand and start to pull. "Don't do it. Let me help you."

The hate in his eyes is quickly replaced with confusion. But only for a moment. His hand squeezes the hilt of his saber tighter and he stares into my eyes.

I shake my head. "Don't. Let me save you. Please..."

"Let a Jedi save me? I'd rather die. And I'll gladly take you with me."

He's going to swing. He's going to swing at my head and I'll be forced to either let him kill us both, or drop him to save myself. His anger washes over me, threatening to make my decision for me. But anger is not all I sense. in that split moment before he swings, I can feel intense grief deep within. I grab onto the grief, following it down, using it like a lifeline against the torrent of rage.

And at the other end of his grief, I feel something else. Something that reminds me of another Dark Lord.

"I feel the good in you. The conflict." It's almost like five years ago as I say those words again.

"W-what?" Some of his anger is replaced by confusion, but it doesn't last. "Do not try to confuse me, Jedi!" He swings-

-and I catch his hand in a Force hold. Our wills struggle against one another, but while my concentration is split on keeping both of us alive, his focus is on a single goal. And his lightsaber inches closer to me.

"I can feel the light within you. Why did you turn to the Dark Side."

"I have always known my true path."

"That's a lie. The truth is within you." I'm able to back his lightsaber away as his concentration starts to break, the heat on my face easing off. "You're in turmoil. You try to fight it, to ignore it, but this isn't you. You're not a true follower of the darkness."

"My father was just like you. Even more swept up in the dark side of the Force."

"Bah. You're father-"

"-was Darth Vader."

He looks at me as if seeing me for the first time. The conflict within him swirls around him in confusion. "L-Lord Vader? You're...you're Skywalker!"

"I am. You served Vader?"

"I served the Emperor. You killed my masters." His anger starts to rise again.

I shake me head, using the Force to quell the pain in my aching hands and arms. "No, I saved him. I helped him find his way back. And he killed the Emperor. Let me help you too."

He shakes his head in denial. "No, that would never happen!"

"Look into me, you'll see I'm not lying." I can feel his probes lash into my thoughts. I let him explore my feelings, I have nothing to hide.

"You're...not lying...?" He looks down and around, as if his whole world is crumbling around him.

"I saved my father. Let me save you."

"Father....I couldn't save my father." His eyes are wide, as if remembering something for the first time in ages. That's when I notice the tears welling up.

"What happened to him?"

SNAP-HISS

His lightsaber collapses down. "I failed him....let me fall..."

"I don't think so." With the help of the Force, I yank him up over the wall, and we fall to the ground in a heap. His lightsaber rolls away, but he makes no move to it.

Breathing heavily with relief, I look at my former opponent. "What's your name?" When he answers, it's as if his voice is a million parsecs away.

"Kam...Kam Solusar..."

 

[Carnage27]

I rush around a corner with Andoorni and almost run smack dab into Corran and Boolon. The two of them nod to me as I look over their shoulders and see Luke standing in front of a newcomer. I can only assume that he's the one that Luke was chasing after.

Approaching the two of them, I put my hand on Luke's shoulder, "Everything okay?"

 

[Carnage27]

The attack comes without warning, something that isn't completely unexpected.

Lumyia drops from behind me and strikes out with her lightwhip, a specially designed lightsaber. I act quickly, activating one side of my lightsaber and deflecting the attack away. I snarl and activate the other side of my weapon, "Come now, Lumyia. I expected something much more clever than this."

"I know you, Acheron," she replies, as the two of use begin to circle each other. "You only respond to strength. And I know beating you in a duel is the only way I can rule the new Sith."

I smile at her, twirling my sabre, "Very well. Let's see how well Lord Vader trained you."

Rushing at her, I raise my saber in a defensively minded attack, knowing that she will use the whip to keep me as far away as possible. Her weapon isn't designed to sustain a long duel. It's a quick strike weapon that relies on catching its prey off guard.

As I get close, she flips back and lashes out with the energy strands, driving me back a few steps. She's powerful, but reckless. I summon the dark side and pull some of the rocks off of the walls of the asteroid and toss them at her. She evades two, but the third strikes her in the hip, causing her to tumble out of control.

But she doesn't stay down for long. Before I can get back into a guard stance, the lightwhip strikes at me, catching me slightly across the shoulder. The pain shoots through my body like lightening, but I use the pain to fuel my rage. I channel my anger into Force lightening, and send a bolt crackling towards my opponent. It strikes her in the chest, driving her hard into a wall.

I charge her, swinging violently, but skillfully at the dark lady of the Sith. He attempts to fend off my flurry with her whip, but I manage to break through her defenses. I drive my knee into her stomach, and grab her wrist, snapping it with a quick twist. She lets out a small yelp of pain and drops her weapon.

Using the Force, I slam her again against the wall, and bring my blade to her throat. Looking with murderous intent straight into her eyes, I growl, "Yield, Lumyia. Yield or be destroyed."

She returns my look with just as much scorn, but with a hint of defeat lingering, "I hate you, Acheron. With all my being, I hate you. But I will not let myself be destroyed by someone who shares the same goals as I do. I yield, and I accept your proposition to join your Sith."

I smile and deactivate my saber, placing it again on my back. I offer her my hand, "Very well, Lumyia. Together, we shall rule the galaxy, and destroy Skywalker's new Jedi Order."

I feel her attitude turn as she hears those words. Her hate for Skywalker is strong. I can sense that much. As to why I cannot ascertain, but never the less, it is a good sign for things to come.

I motion to her, "Come, we leave for Telos, and our Sith Academy."
​

 

[wiegeabo]

I rush around a corner with Andoorni and almost run smack dab into Corran and Boolon. The two of them nod to me as I look over their shoulders and see Luke standing in front of a newcomer. I can only assume that he's the one that Luke was chasing after.

Approaching the two of them, I put my hand on Luke's shoulder, "Everything okay?"

"It's been better," I say, still catching my breath. Kam sits on the ground, his anger replaced by turmoil, confusion, and sorrow. I'm unsure what the Emperor and my father did to him, and I'm not sure I want to know.

I walk over and pick up Kam's lightsaber, placing it in my belt. He doesn't even seem to notice.

"How are you two doing?" I ask, keeping my eyes on Kam.

 

[Byrd Man]

​

As we come out of lightspeed after our final jump, I can't believe the sight staring at me from the other side of the viewport.

An Imperial Star Destroyer, painted red just sitting in space ahead of us in front of a massive star.

The Errant Venture, a ship that was captured by Booster Terrik serveral years ago, and has since become a sort of getaway for smugglers and tourists looking for a vacation on the edge. Home to many backroom dealings, and it will soon have a new function to list on it's resume:

Diplomatic Sanctuary.

Very few people know about this meeting, and even fewer know where it is being held. But there is one thing that keeps me from relaxing totally...

I've been fortunate enough to inherit some of that famous "Solo Luck" in the time that I've spent with Han, and I've learned that no matter what, anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.

I just hope that this time, our luck changes. And with that thought, our shuttle prepares for our final approach to the smuggler ship.

"Well, there's something you don't see every day."

Chewie growls in agreement from the co-pilot seat. I bring the ship into the docking bay and land with a thump. I hit a button to my side that activates the ship's PA system.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We have officially arrived on the Errant Venture. Please make sure all tray tables have been returned to their upright position. Enjoy your stay and thank you for flying Solo Spaceways."

Chewie chuckles as I disengage the PA system and unbuckle.

"Let's see what's going on, shall we?"

 

[NiteMare Shape]

​

After returning to his quarters, Zsinj looks again at the datapad Thrawn had sent with his orders...and he smiles.

Zsinj knows what Thrawn is planning, and tips his hat to the pretender for a well played move...a move he would have made himself. Perhaps he had underestimated Thrawn afterall, these orders could serve multiple purposes, the least of which undermining the New Republic while at the same diminishing his own forces.

At least in theory.

However, Zsinj knows that this set of "orders" is just the thing that he needs to show Thrawn and the rest of the remaining Imperial forces just why it is him, and not Thrawn that they should follow.

When his forces reach their target, they will put on a show of force that no one in the galaxy is likely to forget, particularly the rebels....and Thrawn.​

​

 

[wiegeabo]

"Admirial, communication from Captain Braylor."

"Excellent. His report?"

"You're orders to Grand Moff Zsinj were delivered."

I nod my head. "Were there any complications?"

Pellaeon glances at the text on his screen. "Negative, Admiral. He reports that the orders were received in the expected manner." Pellaeon looks at me in mild confusion. "Expected manner, sir?"

"Yes. It means that Zsinj kept his reaction surprisingly neutral. He is not easily surprised or thrown off his game."

"So...it means Zsinj's loyalty is no longer suspect?"

"Quite the opposite, Captain. This confirms Zsinj purposely took the system after the original attack. An innocent man would defended himself and protested my accusations and orders. A guilty man would want to make as little trouble as possible."

Pellaeon absorbs this information. "What are your orders, Admirial."

I ponder that a moment. "We proceed as planned. I am not ready to tip my hand. There is still some time before the next phase for our operation. For the moment, let's put Delta Source's latest intel to work. Set course back to Wayland."

 

[NiteMare Shape]

"Well, there's something you don't see every day."

Chewie growls in agreement from the co-pilot seat. I bring the ship into the docking bay and land with a thump. I hit a button to my side that activates the ship's PA system.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We have officially arrived on the Errant Venture. Please make sure all tray tables have been returned to their upright position. Enjoy your stay and thank you for flying Solo Spaceways."

Chewie chuckles as I disengage the PA system and unbuckle.

"Let's see what's going on, shall we?"

As the shuttle touches down in the Errant Venture's docking bay, I feel a sudden rush of uneasiness hit me in the pit of the stomach. I don't know exactly what to expect, and even with Ordo and the other Mandos on their way to provide backup support, I can't help but give my doubts a voice.

"We should..." I say as I cup Han on the shoulder. "But let's keep our guard up, who knows who else is on this ship."

 

[Carnage27]

"It's been better," I say, still catching my breath. Kam sits on the ground, his anger replaced by turmoil, confusion, and sorrow. I'm unsure what the Emperor and my father did to him, and I'm not sure I want to know.

I walk over and pick up Kam's lightsaber, placing it in my belt. He doesn't even seem to notice.

"How are you two doing?" I ask, keeping my eyes on Kam.

"Not bad," I answer. "Especially considering I've just filled one of the spots on my roster. This is Andoorni."

The two exchange pleasentries, and Corran introduces himself to his new Squadron mate. The other man, the one Luke was obviously fighting, still seems distant and aloof, almost as if he's on another world.

"So," I say to Luke, "shall we get off this rock? I think we've garnered way too much attention here as is."

 

[Carnage27]

An explosion rocks the tank, and the man opens his eyes, the liquid surround him blurring his vision, the light of the surrounding room harsh against his eyes. Another tremor shatters the glass of the tank, spilling its contents along with the man onto the cold, metal floor.

He scrambles to put on the simple clothes that lie in a small locker. As he does so, three Imperial stormtroopers burst through the door and begin firing. Instinctively he raises his hands and deflects the blasts away with the Force, followed by a stream of Force lightening. As the troopers convulse from the energy, he lifts them like ragdolls, and tosses their twisting bodies through a window into the raging Kaminoan seas.

As his eyes adjust, a startling realization grips me. I feel air flowing through my lungs. I feel the lifeless metal beneath my feet. But most importantly, I feel. The man is me. My spirit inhabiting this body. For so long I have flowed through the Force, lost, and shattered. As I breath my first lung fulls of air in such a long time, a rush of memories flow through me.

Pain, sadness, and fear grip me, and I see a man clad in black armor murder my father and then murder his own troops before taking me to his ship.

More and more memories of him flow through me. The training, the torture, the pain. I feel his malice, and his anger. No matter what I do, he berates me, puts me down. But I know one day I will be more powerful than him. I remember him sending me on missions to kill Jedi, and start a rebellion. But most of all, I remember his betrayals.

"Vader," I hiss to myself.

Other memories flow through my head like an undecipherable language. Flashes of lightsaber duels, an old blind man, rebellion, pain, and...and love. A beautiful shining vision, brave, strong, and true. As the visions of her play in my mind I feel myself relax and feel at peace.

"Juno."

I stand, shaking the cobwebs out of my head, and attempting to remember my name. But yet another ripple of violence flows through the Force, making me realize there is more going on at this station than I realize. I feel the fear of lifeforms being killed, and the cold, methodical feelings of Imperial Stormtroopers.

I sprint out of the tank room, and run straight into a squad of storm troopers. I act quickly, tearing parts from the wall off with the Force and drive them into four of the troopers. The fifth, I hold with the Force, choking him. I approach slowly, allowing for the man to struggle against my power, "Where is Darth Vader?"

The surprise from the trooper almost rocks me, "Lord Vader-ach!-has been dead-chk!-for years."

Dead? A surge of joy shoots through me, but another question must be answered, "What of the Emperor?"

"Dead-ahch!-as well!"

Vader can't stop me now.

I slam the trooper into the wall killing him. I confidently stroll through the halls of the cloning facility. I may not completely know who I am, or rather, who I was. But I do know what I have to do.

I know I have something worth fighting for.

A trooper attempts to fire at me, and I Force push him through a window into the raging waters.

I have someone worth dying for.

Another squad gets in my way, and a stream of Force lightening springs from my hands, sending them to the ground.

I will not stop. I will not rest.

Two more squads surround me, and open fire. I attempt to deflect their bolts away with the Force, but one breaks my defenses down and grazes my shoulder. The pain shoots through my body, and sets off another memory. Emperor Palpatine stands in front of me, lightening streaming from his hands. I push back with all my might in the Force, which transfers to the here and now.

"AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" I lift off the ground, and a wave of Force energy explodes in a sphere around me, shooting the troopers away like pebbles in the face of a hurricane. I land on my feet and catch my breath.

Vader can't stop me now. No one can.

I finally come to a stop in the hangar of the facility. There, sitting in front of me, is my old ship, the Rogue Shadow. The name springs to me as I study it.

"I can remember the name of the ship, but not of me," I mutter to myself as I open the ship using the bioscanner. On board, I find some of my own clothes, along with two lightsabers. I ignite both of them, and the blue glow and humming noise is instantly recognizable. I sit down in the Shadow's pilot chair, feeling more and more memories of Juno, as if her presence was connected to the chair.

I fire up the thrusters and rocket away from the surface of the planet, and make a quick jump to lightspeed, and off towards my first potential lead.

Vader can't stop me now.
​

 

[Carnage27]

-Double Post-

 

[NiteMare Shape]

As Huc heads off towards the carrier, Joren catches a flash in the Force. It takes him a moment to realize exactly what is going on, and looking down at his scanner confirms his theory.

Trailing Huc are three TIE fighters, the pilots intent on making the kill. Without thinking, Joren takes the Dreams in a wide arc, bringing the ship in line with the Imperial persuers.

"Let's give him some breathing space, what do you say?" Joren says into the comlink to nobody in particular.

In response, several shots are fired from the turrets Dono is manning, vaping three of four of the pursuing TIE fighters, leaving one. Joren takes a moment to lock on to the remaining TIE fighter, the pilot is good, managing to avoid being locked on to. Finally, the other pilot's luck runs out and Joren gets a lock, firing the forward blasters, causing the final TIE fighter to explode in a cloud of debris.

"You're clear Huc, do what you have to do. And may the Force be with you."

Joren watches from the view port as Huc takes his ship on a direct line to the Imperial carrier. He feels pride swell up inside him as he watches his friend selflessly serve as a decoy so that the rest of them can escape to carry on with their mission.

And he also feels a sudden surge of regret, knowing that there is a good chance that his friend will not make it back to the rendezvous point...and he finds himself wishing that he could be there, fighting at his side. However, he also knows that the mission is bigger than any one of them, and that Huc knew what he was doing when he got in his fighter...and that Joren would do the same.

Hesitant, he reaches for the com.

"Get ready for the last jump." He says, his voice somber.

"What about Huc?" Nyna says, her words stinging Joren at the core.

"We can't leave him." Kelsa chimes in.

"He knew what he was doing. We have a job to do." Dono's words cutting to the core of the matter.

Joren takes a deep breath, and at last activates the hyperdrive...wishing that he could do more for his friend, even as the stars became streaks of light as the Dreams enters hyperspace.

 

[Byrd Man]

As the shuttle touches down in the Errant Venture's docking bay, I feel a sudden rush of uneasiness hit me in the pit of the stomach. I don't know exactly what to expect, and even with Ordo and the other Mandos on their way to provide backup support, I can't help but give my doubts a voice.

"We should..." I say as I cup Han on the shoulder. "But let's keep our guard up, who knows who else is on this ship."

With Chewie in the lead and the rest of Leia's entourage bringing up the rear, we exit the ship and are met by the man himself. Booster Terrik.

"Councilor Organa, Captain Solo, welcome to my ship."

 

[Carnage27]

The Dreams and the Dralshy'a jump into hyperspace and I smile slightly, "It's just you and me now, boys. I've always said that four's a crowd."

​

I rocket towards the carrier, and a few TIEs fall n line behind me. I spin to my left, evading their fire, before pitching into an upside down roll and heading towards the carrier. I know I have to take out the ship's shield generator before I'll have any chance of getting out of here.

Pushing the ships thrusters as far as they'll go, I slingshot over the top of the warship and back underneath. There, I run into a TIE group and let go with my fighter's twin laser cannons, blowing a few of them to bits. I fly through the flaming wreckage, and am greeted by the site of the generator.

I fire up my proton torpedo launcher, and let one fly. It slams into the ship, and the shields instantly go down. I don't waste anytime celebrating though. I dip out of the way of more TIEs before setting up for another run and the ship.

But as I do so, my scanners show the TIEs are peeling back into the carrier. One by one the squads head back in, and my sensors show the ship's hyperdrive activating. I smile to myself as the carrier rockets off through hyperspace.

"YYYEEEEEEHHHHHAAAAAA!" I yell triumphantly into the cockpit. "Honestly, I didn't even think that was going to work. By the Force I even amaze myself sometimes."

As I say that, I can almost here Master Skywalker's voice echoing in my mind, warning me about the dangers of vanity. But right now, I can't help it. I just took on a whole bantha-ton of TIE fighters and came out on top, "Score one for the Jedi!"

Punching in the coordinates for the final jump, my fighter speeds towards the Errant Venture.

​

 

[Carnage27]

The Rogue Shadow drops out of hyperspace above Bespin, and I plot a course towards Cloud City, honestly having only a slight feeling on why I should be here. But the memory stood out in my mind, and I can only hope this somehow leads to Juno.

And to my true identity.

"Unidentified craft, you are currently headed into New Republic space, please state your name and business," an authoritative voice announces over my comm system.

"My name is Captain...Starkiller," I say, using the only name I currently know that I've been called. The name Vader gave me. My hands clench onto the ships controls tight as the thought of the Sith Lord enters my mind. "I'm merely stopping off for fuel, supplies, and a little down time between jobs."

After a few moments of silence, the voice come s back on the line, "Very well, captain. You're cleared to land on platform A-34. Please enjoy your time in Cloud City."

Proceeding to the designated landing platform, I put down the Rogue Shadow and head into the city. As I do, a flood of memories flow through me yet again. An old blind man sits and drinks in a cantina before coming with me and fighting the Empire, and teaching me the ways of the Jedi.

"General Kota..." I say to myself as I stroll the pristine white walls of Cloud City. He was my mentor. My Jedi master. A brave man, who even though I tried to kill him, he treated me like a son. I didn't deserve his help, and he gave it to me anyway.

I spend the rest of the day wandering the halls, spending time in the cantina, and bartering a room in one of the hotels in the city, where I'm currently sitting.

Pacing around the room, I try and think back to Rahm Kota's teachings. I sit down in the middle of the room and begin to meditate. I allow the Force to flow through me, allowing every inch of my being to be enveloped in it. The furniture in the room begins to float off the ground and circle around me, as if they were electrons circling the nucleus of an atom.

I concentrate hard on Master Kota, bringing back what I can remember of him. I concentrate so hard I can almost hear his voice and feel his presence.

"I knew the Force wasn't done with you, boy," his voice booms inside the hotel room. It's then that I open my eyes and realize that Master Kota is in the room. At least his ethereal form is. "Though, I sense you're lost."

"Master Kota," I say in a whisper, "is it really you?"

"Yes, boy, it's me. At least what's left of me," he smiles. "I would have figured you would end up like this as well, but here you are."

"I'm lost Master. I don't know who I am. And with Vader and the Emperor defeated, I don't even know my purpose," I explain, almost to the point of tears. "And I have the feeling Juno is in incredible danger. I need your help."

"I know you do. And your memories will come back in time," he says nodding. "And I don't know where Juno is, but I sense the same thing that you do, and I believe she may be the key to unlocking your past. Search your feelings and the Force. They will guide you to where you need to be."

As he says this, Kota begins to disappear to where he came, "General! Don't leave!"

"Relax, boy, I'll be with you when you need me," he responds before disappearing completely.

I sigh audibly before rolling into bed and falling asleep.

 

[NiteMare Shape]

With Chewie in the lead and the rest of Leia's entourage bringing up the rear, we exit the ship and are met by the man himself. Booster Terrik.

"Councilor Organa, Captain Solo, welcome to my ship."

I look up at Booster and smile.

"Good to see you Booster, it's been too long."

He nods and gives a slight grunt. Most people who meet Booster Terrik find him rather imposing. And he can be, fortunately for me I know just how to deal with men like him, a lifetime as an Alderaanean princess, and then a diplomat in both the Imperial Senate and the New Republic Provisional council have given me the tools necessary to make dealing with men like Booster easier. And the fact that he feels a sense of kinship to my future husband doesn't hurt either.

"Councilor, I've made arrangements for you and your staff on the Diamond Level. You...counterparts are already stationed in their quarters and are eagerly awaiting getting this thing started."

"Thank you Booster, I'm expecting some more company. They're with my security force. I expect you'll make them welcome."

"Of course...but now that I have you here, perhaps we can discuss my fee?"

Booster continues to talk about his expectations of payment even as we are made aware of two ships coming out of hyperspace near the Errant Venture. One I recognize immediately, and am pleasantly surprised to see...the Darq Dreams. The other I recognize as the ship belonging to Ordo and him men.

And suddenly I feel as if finally, this whole thing is coming together.

 

[NiteMare Shape]

After dropping out of hyperspace, it takes a moment for Joren's brain to process what his eyes were seeing. Growing up on Nar Shaddaa, Joren had heard stories of The Errant Venture. However, none of the tales he's heard does the ship any justice.

There's just something unsettling about the red star destroyer.

And somewhere in that instant, he knows exactly why Terrik uses the ship as his base of operations, and he finds a newfound respect for the supposedly reformed smuggler.

The man knows how to make an impression.

After a few moments of drifting silently toward the Venture, Joren finally picks up the com.

"Alright everyone, let's get ready...It's about time to join the party."

Just then the Dreams' com system comes to life, and the voice of one of the Errant Venture's com officers fills the cockpit demanding confirmation of the ship's identity. After taking identifying himself both vocally and then by confirming his identity by sending the Dreams' transponder code to the Venture, Joren is allowed access to the docking bay.