The Untold Story Chapter IV (A Galaxy at War)

(Chapter IV) A Galaxy at War

http://brorlandi.github.io/StarWarsIntroCreator/#!/K7TK59IePxQB5F8JfWR

> Be Anon

> The journey was rather short.  Only taking a few hours.  Upon dropping out of hyperspace you spot a planet that is covered by what seems to have a fractured surface with exposed lava everywhere.
> Only when you fly closer do you realize that it’s not molten rock, but instead lights.  The entire planet being covered with them.
SA: “Welcome to Coruscant Anon.”
> “This is Coruscant?  It’s…it’s…amazing.”
SA: “It may look nice on the outside, but trust me the underside of it is as vile and grotesque as the Sith.”
> “So aside from the politicians who do I have to look out for?”
Pilot: “Haha.  This kids funny, but he’ll have to be a good soldier if wants to survive being in the 82nd division.”
> “82nd division?”
SA: “Yes.  It’s the army designated under my command.  I’ll introduce you to some of the officers, but first I have an audience with the Supreme Chancellor.”
> “Then what am I supposed to do while you’re doing that?”
SA: “Nothing.  You’ll be joining me during the meeting.”
> “Wait really?  Won’t you be discussing really important topics that are a little over my head?”
SA: “We might, but it will be a good opportunity for you to learn how to interact with high ranking officials.”
> “So basically you just want me to stand around and look pretty.”
SA: “For the most part yes.”
> Joy
SA: “Besides, you are my padawan now.  I have to keep an eye on you.”
> Your transport gets cleared for landing and touches down at the senate building.  The structure is a huge light brown dome that reflects the rays of the setting sun in all directions.
> You follow Master Armor in calm silence.  Even though your mind is racing by taking in all the scenery.  He leads you to the Grand Convocation Chamber where it appears that a group hearing has just ended.

> As you make your way down the corridors you see dozens of species you’ve never seen before.  Including Duros, Dugs, Ithorians, Rodian, Bith, Cereans, and many others.
SA: “We arrived at the perfect time.  We should be able to go straight to the chancellor’s office.”
> You were actually a little nervous.  You would be meeting the single most important person in the Republic.  Better make a good first impression.
> Upon entering an office you see a female Umbaran speaking with one of her Chagarian assistants.
Chancellor: “I don’t care if the Dugs approve of us building a base on Malastare.  Their fuel depots are too important to the Republic to be left undefended.”
Aid: “I’m simply telling you what their senator told me.”
Chancellor: “Well inform senator Dysik that I will bring this topic back on the floor if he does not comply.  I know how much he detests this grindlock.”
Aid: “Don’t you think that’s a little too straight forward.  I mean, I can tell him all the same, but it’s your call.”
Chancellor: “(sigh)  No you’re right.  I’m just a little agitated right now.  Inform senator Dysik we will consider his proposal.”
SA: “(clears throat)”
Chancellor: “Ah Master Armor sorry you had to hear all that.”
SA: “Not at all.  From what it sounds like you’ve had a long day, so I will be as brief as possible.”
Chancellor: “I thank you, but before we begin.  Who is this child that you’ve brought before me.  Is he a Jedi?”
SA: “Yes milady.  This is Anonymous.  I’ve recently taken him up as my padawan.”
> “It’s an honor to meet you Miss…”
Chancellor: “Octavia, Octavia Melody, and the pleasure is all mine.  Perhaps with you around Master Armor here will begin to act with a little more self-restraint.”
> “From what I know of him chancellor.  I don’t think anything I do influence him in the least.”

Octavia: “Hmph.  Amusing.  Well, at least promise me that you will do your best to keep him in line.”
> “You have my word, but seeing as I will be learning from him I don’t know how long I will be able to keep that promise.”
Octavia: “I see.  I should have known better than to get my hopes up.”
SA: “Excuse me chancellor.  Perhaps we should move on to the topic at hand.”
Octavia: “Quite right.  As you are no doubt aware.  Our recent string of defeats in the Mid-Rim have left many of key systems vulnerable.  The Empire has already seized this opportunity to capture Ithor, Rodia, Toydaria, Sullust, Cerea, and many others.”
> That’s a lot of key systems.  If something wasn’t done soon the Empire was going to be on your front door step.
> “Our spies tell us that they will soon strike Kashyyyk and Bothawui.  I’ve already tasked Master Cadence and several other Jedi to reinforce Kashyyyk.  Your job will be to defend Bothawui.  Is that clear?”
SA: “Understood.  We will leave immediately.”
Octavia: “Excellent.  Good luck out there.”
> You both take a quick bow, and leave with a slight sense of urgency.
> After you’ve exited the room Master Armor dials a few keys into his comlink that is attached to his left arm.
SA: “Admiral Scratch.  Do you read me?”
Vinyl: “Loud and clear general.”
> The voice is female, and from what you can tell very laid back.
SA: “Ready the fleet.  We’re heading to Bothawui; over.”
Vinyl: “Roger that.  We’ll be ready by the time you get here; over.”
> He cuts the feed, but stops and turns to face you.  With an expression that is less than pleased.
SA: “It seems you made quite the impression on the Supreme Chancellor.  For better or for worse I suppose.”
> “Yeah, sorry master.  It wasn’t my intention to throw you under the bus like that.  I was just playing along with her.”

SA: “You could have avoided that situation all together , but you chose not to.  I’m going to drop it for now since we are in a hurry, but don’t think were done discussing this.”
> “Of course master.”
> The Force only knows what he’s got planned for you later on.  It would probably be better not to think about it though.
> The two of you hop back on your shuttle and take it to the shipping yards.  Where all the battle cruisers sit  in the docks.  Waiting for deployment.
> “Master.  Pardon me asking, but will there be other Jedi accompanying us on this mission?”
SA: “Of course.  My estimates is that we’ll have about three dozen more Jedi Knights with their padawans to aid us.”
> That would certainly be a comforting thought.  From what you were told it was now or never for the Republic to make a stand before the Empire gains too much of an advantage.  If the same numbers were deployed to Kashyyyk as well they should be able to ward off any attack.  Emphasis on SHOULD.
> Chancellor Octavia mentioned that Master Cadence would be one of those reinforcing Kashyyyk.  Which means Twilight will be there as well.  As for the rest of your friends you were completely in the dark as to where they were.  For all you knew they could be battling on the frontlines right now.
> You had left with such haste you only knew about Twilight and Trixie’s masters.  You hadn’t the slightest idea who Applejack, Fluttershy, and Soarin were chosen by.  Hopefully you’d be able to ask them yourself soon.
> As you exit the transport once more two Republic officers stand at attention waiting for you.  One female Hapan, presumably the Admiral with which Master Armor was speaking to, and the second was a large man in full gleaming white body armor.
Vinyl: “Enjoy your vacation?”
SA: “Yes, but I think I’ll enjoy getting back to smashing Sith skulls even more.”
Vinyl: “Good to hear it sir.  By the way who’s the pipsqueak?”

SA: “This is Anonymous.  My new padawan.”
???: “I wasn’t aware you became a babysitter general.”
> “He’s hasn’t.  I’m HIS babysitter.”
> Why did you just say that.
Vinyl: “Daaaaamn.  Now I see why you chose him.  He’ll fit right in around here.  Nice to meet you kid.  I’m Admiral Vinyl Scratch, but you can just call me Vinyl.”
???: “My name is Captain Burly Biceps.  I look forward to serving with you.”
> He removes his helmet to reveal a very gruff and bulky face.  His head had been shaved, but you could still make out the slightest outlines of his once blonde hair.  With several small scars taking up his chin, cheeks, and forehead.
> “Likewise captain.”
SA: “I assume.  Everything is ready.”
Vinyl: “Sure is.  We’re ready when you are.”
SA: “Good.  Then we are to depart immediately.  You may proceed without me.  I’d like to get a head start on Anon’s training.”
> Oh no.  You didn’t like the sound of that.
Vinyl: “As you wish.  I’ll try to catch up with you two later.”
> There might not be a later for you if Shining Armor had anything to say about it.
> He leads you to a large open room somewhere in the aft section of the ship.  It wasn’t apparent what the room’s purpose was, but you had a gut feeling you were about to find out.
SA: “Alright Anon for your first lesson we’re going to start with a lightsaber training exercise.”
> “Sounds easy enough, but what was the catch.”
SA: “You won’t be fighting any training remotes, or in a simulation.  Instead, you will be fighting me.”
> This isn’t going to end well.
> “Whatever you say master.”
> You both disrobe, and ignite your lightsabers.
SA: “I hope your ready Anon; because I’m about to teach you a lesson you won’t soon forget.”
> “I was afraid you were going to say that.”

> Six hours later you were flat on the ground bruised, sweaty, and exhausted.
SA: “Come on Anon I haven’t even warmed up yet.”
> This was insane.  His stamina was unreal.  You had been fighting almost nonstop this entire time, and not once did you think you were getting anywhere.
> “If I may master.  I think now would be a good time to check in with the admiral.”
SA: “Fair enough.  Admiral this is Shining Armor.  Are we still on schedule for reaching Bothawui?”
Vinyl: “Affirmative.  We should be arriving in approximately eighteen standard hours.”
SA: “Thank you just checking.  Alright Anon break times over.”
> This was never going to stop.  You had to think of something.  Otherwise he was going to drive you six feet under.
SA: “Here I come.”
> Shining Armor charges with both of his lightsabers dragging across the ground in his reverse grip.  You roll backwards and leap to your feet.  Quickly using the Force to jump back onto the wall, and then vault off of it.  Flipping a few times, landing on your feet, and activating your lightsaber.
> Shining Armor widens his stance and uses the Force to make his entire body start spinning like a hurricane.  He quickly closes the gap between you, and the only thing you can do is stand your ground and take it.
> His strikes come in so fast you could have sworn he had four lightsabers instead of two.  He continues to press his attack until you have your back up against the wall.
> Then, without any warning he stops, but the force of the shockwave opens you to attack; which Shining Armor exploits.  He shoves his legs underneath your arms and catapults you over him.  Sending you hurdling through the air
> Not leaving you anytime to react he blasts you with an invisible Force push.  Sending you reeling into the wall.  It’s been like this nearly the entire time.  Him using super powerful Force-assisted movements; while you are forced to defend and flee.

(slow clapping)
> You look over to see Master Spitfire standing in the entryway of the door.
Spitfire: “Impressive.  Beating down on your padawan with ruthless intention.  Very inspiring.”
SA: “You can ease up on the sarcasm Master Spitfire.  Did you need something?”
Spitfire: “A word, Shining Armor.  I’ll have my padawan see to Anon there.”
> Oh thank whatever high being that was watching over you right now.  Whoever Master Spitfire’s apprentice is was going to have a hard time peeling you off the floor though.
Soarin: “You alright there Anon?”
> “Soarin?  Is that you.?”
Soarin: “Looks like you’ve seen better days.”
> “I have.  Care to join me?”
Soarin: “On the ground?”
> “Yeah.”
Soarin: “I’m good thanks.  Shouldn’t we get you to the infirmary?”
> “Maybe, but unless you want to carry me I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere anytime soon.”
Soarin: “You looked pretty spry just a second ago.”
> “Don’t let that fool you.  I’ve been relying solely on the Force to get me around for at least an hour now.”
Soarin: “Then I guess there’s no other choice then.”
> He leans down and scoops you up.  Before slinging you over his shoulder.
> “You going to burp me to?”
Soarin: “I think I’ll let the nurse take care of that.”
> Fair enough.  The two of you remain relatively silent as you make your way to the infirmary; until, you break the silence.
> “So your dream came true huh.”
Soarin: “Yep.  I guess it did.  How about you Anon?  Is this what were you hoping for?”
> “You mean besides the crap getting kicked out of me.”
Soarin: “Yeah.  Obviously.”
> “To be honest I don’t know yet..  I feel like I owe it to Twilight to look after her brother, but then again I don’t really enjoy his teaching methods.”
Soarin: “Give it some time.  I’m sure he’ll grow on you eventually.”
> “I certainly hope so.  I don’t think I can take much more of his ‘lessons.’”

> Soarin lays you down on medical bed as you wait for a medic to see you.
Fluttershy: Okay so what seems-  Anon!”
Both: “Fluttershy!?”
Fluttershy: “Oh my goodness what happened to you!?  Is anything broken!?  Do you require surgery!?  Please be okay!”
Soarin: “Hey ease up there Fluttershy he’s fine.  Just a little banged up is all.”
Fluttershy: “Oh thank goodness.  I was worried there for a minute.”
> “Yeah thanks.  By the way Fluttershy what are you doing here?  Did your master assign you to the medical corps?”
Fluttershy: “Yes.  Well, no.  Kind of.”
Soarin: “Care to explain what any of that means?”
Fluttershy: “I was tasked by Master Redheart to familiarize myself with the medicinal equipment here.  Then, you two showed up, so I thought maybe I would try my hand at treating a patient.”
> “Makes sense.  I feel a lot better knowing that it’s you treating me Fluttershy.  I trust you.”
> You could see a slight pink blush form on her face before trying to hide her face in her equally pink hair.
Fluttershy: “T-thank you.  Soarin do you mind leaving us.  It’s much easier to concentrate when there are no outside distractions.”
Soarin: “Sure no problem.  I have to report back to Master Spitfire anyway.  See you around Anon.”
> He walks out the automatic sliding doors.  Leaving you with Fluttershy.  She calmly places her hands over your chest, and closes her eyes.  Her hands begin to glow a faint green luminosity.  You’ve seen this done once before.  Master Cadence used it on you to treat your injuries the first time you met.
Fluttershy: “There isn’t too much internal damage.  A few bruised ribs and some hyper extended muscles, but nothing too serious.”

> “That’s a relief.”
Fluttershy: “I’ll gather some medpacs and have you out of here in no time.”
> “Wait you aren’t going to try and use the Force to heal me?”
Fluttershy: “Oh no.  I’ve never tried it on someone else before.  I’ve only learned how to treat small cuts and things of that sort on myself.”
> “Well you aren’t going to get any better unless you try it on an actual patient.”
Fluttershy: “I know, but maybe next time.”
> “Fluttershy.”
> You make sure she’s looking you dead in the eyes before continuing.
> “You just have to believe that you can do it.  You already have the skills to do it.  You just need the right motivation.  Plus, better to learn now instead of later when someone’s life might hang in the balance.”
> She doesn’t seem so sure at first, but after a little while she gives you an approving nod.
Fluttershy: “Alright I’ll do it.”
> “Thank you.”
Fluttershy: “No Anon.  Thank you.”
> You hadn’t noticed it until now, but the way Fluttershy carries herself.  With her warming smile, soft features, and timid demeanor she was extremely cute.
> The proceeding hour was filled with awkward silence as Fluttershy struggled to focus on healing you.  Forcing yourself not to squirm around was harder than you thought.  Also, the added anxiety you were feeling wasn’t helping Fluttershy at all.
> However, after what seemed like an eternity Fluttershy let out a long sigh of relief.
Fluttershy: “There you should be better now, but you should still take it easy.”
> “Noted.  I owe you one.”
Fluttershy: “Oh no Anon it was my pleasure.”
> “I see you later then.”
> You leave the infirmary, get something to eat, and take a quick nap before heading to the bridge.  You weren’t sure if Master Shining Armor was up there, but you decided that maybe it was time to get yourself acquainted with the rest of the crew.

> The bridge was fairly large.  With about fifty crew members operating various panels  While at the helm stood Admiral Scratch.  Staring into the void of hyperspace.
> “Mesmerizing isn’t it?”
Vinyl: “It sure is.  So what happened between you and Shining Armor?  He give you some remedial lessons in ‘Jedi Conduct.’”
> “Something like that.  I had it coming though.  The way I was embarrassing him in front of the chancellor.”
Vinyl: “You met up with Tavi?  How is she?”
> “She’s holding up all right as far as I can tell.  Why do you ask?”
Vinyl: “We were close friends before I joined the military.  We both wanted to make a difference in the Republic, but she saw the galaxy one way and I saw it another.  She believed that everything could be solved through diplomacy; while I knew that force was the only thing the Sith would understand.”
> “Maybe, but she has become chancellor thanks to those ideals.  Maybe a little more peace and understanding is what we need.”
Vinyl: “I suppose as a Jedi you would think as much.”
> “It’s not all because of that.  I believed that coexistence with the Empire was possible even before I became a Jedi.”
Vinyl: “Well trust me kid.  Once you get out there on the battlefield you won’t have the luxury to try and make peace.  It’s going to be either you or them, and that’s it.  This is war so you better figure that out real fast.”
> “You needn’t worry about that Admiral.  I have no intention of dying in my first attempt at battle.  Besides, what kind of reputation would that reflect on my master and the 82nd division?”
> She gives you a playful grin and jabs you in the shoulder.
Vinyl: “That’s what I want to hear.  No space slugs on this crew.”
> She begins telling 3you stories of previous battles she’s been in.  Also detailing a few instances of Shining Armor’s history.  Shedding  new light on why he’s earned such the reputation of a rather unorthodox Jedi.

> “That’s a…that’s a.”
Vinyl: “Crazy?”
> “That’s one word for it yes.  I was thinking more along the lines of unbelievable.”
Vinyl: “It happened trust me.  I was there.”
> “I don’t doubt you.  It’s just; wow.”
Officer: “Admiral.  We just tried contacting our forces on Bothawui at our designated check-in, but we didn’t receive an answer.”
Vinyl: “Is it possible that we’re receiving interference from the nearby nebula?”
Officer: “Unlikely sir.”
Vinyl: “I don’t like the sound of that.  Summon the Jedi Masters to the bridge immediately.”
Officer: “Yes sir.”
> “Do you want me to go get Shining Armor?”
Vinyl: “That won’t be necessary.”
> You give her a quizzical look.
Vinyl: “You’re right why don’t you go get him.”
> “A wise decision.”
> You go into a light jog out the sliding doors, and tap into the Force to expand your senses.  There were thousands of people on this ship alone of a fleet of at least seven ships.  It was going to take you some time in order to find him; unless.
> You send a wave of energy through the Force.  Acting like a radar it bounces off every living being on the ship.  However, those who are Force sensitive send that shockwave back.  After a moment you receive five of those signals from this ship.  Meaning Masters Spitfire, Shining Armor, Redheart, Soarin, and Fluttershy were the only other Jedi on this ship.
> Four of them were paired up.  Meaning the last one was more than likely Shining Armor.  He was near the hanger bay.  Towards the end of the ship.  You continue to send out that signal of ‘attention’ towards who you believe to be Shining Armor, but he’s not moving at all.
> Good thing you decided to go get him you thought.  After three elevator rides and some short sprints you come to your destination.  A small room.  Presumably Shining Armor’s personal quarters.  You knock a few times before speaking.
> “Master you in there?”

SA: “What is it Anon?”
> “Did you get the Admiral’s message?”
SA: “No my comlink was off.  What is it?”
> “We can’t make contact with the base on Bothawui.  We’re calling everyone to the bridge.”
SA: “Alright give me a minute.”
> He opens the door with a rather somber mood.  Master Spitfire must have given him a stern talking to.  You thought about making some smart-ass remark, but after seeing him like this and hearing about his past experiences you decide to hold off on it.  Still you had to say something.
> “You feeling alright master?  You don’t seem like yourself.”
SA: “Yeah I’m fine.  Just a little tired.”
> “Perhaps our bouts took more out of you than you thought.”
SA: “Maybe, but you still have a long way to go before you’re any sort of real challenge for me.”
> “That is true, but I have one thing you don’t master.”
SA: “Oh really.  And what is that?”
> “Time master.  Sooner or later I’ll catch up to you.”
SA: “I’m thinking it’s going to be later rather than sooner Anon.”
> “You’re probably right, but I can wait.”
SA: “You’re going to be waiting for an awfully long time.”
> “I know, but as they say master.  Patience.”
> With that things seem to settle down between the two of you.  Now you just have to prevent yourself from doing something stupid for the foreseeable future.  So roughly for the next six or so hours.  You should be able to manage that.

> Once you were all present on the bridge you immediately began discussing a course of action.
Spitfire: “I don’t like it.  We should prepare the fleet just in case.  We don’t want to be caught flat footed.”
Redheart: “We don’t want to cause any unnecessary unrest within the crew if it turns out to be nothing.  Perhaps we should drop out of hyperspace in order to assess the situation.”
SA: “By that time would could already be too late.”
Redheart: “For something we do not know for a fact to be true.”
Vinyl: “If it’s alright with you master Jedi I’d rather have us prepare for the worst and hope for the best.  These are troubling times, and we can’t afford to be too cautious.”
Spitfire: “The worst thing that could happen is that we show up with guns at the ready, but with no one to shoot.”
Redheart: “I can’t say that you’re entirely wrong.  With that in mind we should discuss all possible scenarios so that we can be better prepared once we arrive.”
Vinyl: “Sounds good to me.  Now if the enemy were to capture the planet they would first have to defeat the armada of ships already stationed there.”
> The admiral punches a few buttons on the console and brings up a 3-D map of the planet and the Republic ships protecting it.
Vinyl: “The 162nd division consists of four battle cruisers and two lighter cruisers for its defenses of Bothawui.  Depending on the size of the enemy fleet we could maneuver to either flank or overrun them.”
Vinyl: “The planet itself consists of a small base with several smaller outposts near the equator.  If worse comes to worse and the fleet has already fled or been destroyed we shall attempt to evacuate or reinforce our troops on the ground based on their situation there.”

SA: “We don’t have many Jedi to spare for a long drawn out conflict, so I suggest that we concentrate most of our numbers to the battle on the surface.”
Spitfire: “Then I shall only take a handful of Jedi to engage the enemy fleet.  While the rest of you are taken down to the planet’s surface.”
Redheart: “Indeed.  Shining Armor shall lead the assault on the ground while Master Spitfire commands our forces in space.  Are we clear?”
> Everyone seems to be in agreement.
Vinyl: “Excellent.  Then I suggest we make battle preparations.  We shall be arriving in just a few short hours.”
> As the meeting adjourns you say good luck to your friends Soarin and Fluttershy before bringing your attention back to your master and the admiral.
SA: “I better debrief the men on the situation.  Could you inform Captain Biceps to summon his officers to the main hanger bay.”
Vinyl: “Already done general.  They’ll be waiting for you by the time you get there.”
SA: “Excellent.”
Vinyl: “Good hunting out there.”
> Once you are both in the hanger Shining Armor gives everyone a brief overview of the plan established only minutes earlier.
SA: “Any questions?  Then let’s suit up troops.”
> “You think we’re in for some heavy fighting master?”
SA: “Hard to say Anon.  I hope so.  I REALLY need to cut loose”
> You weren’t sure how to respond to that, so you join the troops in prepping for battle.
> As soon as you come out of hyperspace you hear the thunderous boom of the alarm system echoing through the ship.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UELJTM4rTlE
Vinyl: “Attention all personal!  Man your battle stations.”
> There was no doubting it now.  Everyone’s fears had been realized.  Bothawui was under siege.

> Be Twilight Sparkle

> You had recently been assigned to be Master Cadence’s padawan, and your first mission was on Kashyyyk.  Kashyyyk is a jungle world thriving with wildlife with the dominant species being Wookies.  Loyal followers of the Republic, and fierce warriors.
> You weren’t thrilled about the idea of mentoring under your brother’s girlfriend.  The very idea of it was just messing with your head.  Especially since Jedi weren’t allowed to form attachments.
> Cadence told you that the reason her brother had not chosen her was for that very reason.  The Council feared if you two became too close it could drive both of you to the dark side.
> Since you were forbidden from learning under Shining Armor your friend Anon was chosen instead.  It made sense considering Anon was the only other person who knew about their relationship.
> However, hearing the part about not having any affection for others made you laugh.  Who was Cadence to preach to you about attachments when she herself was explicitly going against the Jedi Code.
> Right now you were meditating with Master Cadence as you traveled to Kashyyyk.  Mentoring you on how to use Battle Meditation.  Even though she was a Jedi Master her knowledge on the subject was limited.  You would have to seek guidance from Master Celestia if you wanted to further your skills.
Cadence: “Before you can unite others on the battlefield you must first understand what it means to be alive.  Every living creature has emotions.  Even those who are nonsentient.  They each experience fear, joy, hunger, sadness, empathy, and anger.  You must understand these feelings before you can truly connect with someone.”
> “I don’t understand master.  How can I connect with someone if I’ve never met them?  How will I be able to distinguish their presence in the Force?”

Cadence: “It’s not about each individual person Twilight.  It’s about fighting as a group, and adhering to their humanity.  Ever soldier fears loss and death, but they also rejoice when they believe they will be victorious.  You must grant them that hope that they will succeed.”
> "But I don't know if they will win or not.  I could possibly be sending them to their deaths."
Cadence: "Harden your heart little one.  These are the realities of war, and every soldier who enlists has accepted these risks.  Every single one of us is willing to lay down out lives for the survival of the Republic.  Can you say the same?"
> "Of course.  I can't imagine what the galaxy would be like if it was ruled by the Sith."
Cadence: Neither can I.  That is why we must be strong, so that we can lead others against this evil."
> "Yes master."
Cadence: "Good.  Let us stop here for today.  No need to wear yourself out on the first lesson.'"
> "But master the sooner I master this technique the sooner I can use it in battle.  The Republic desperately needs-"
Cadence: "Patience Twilight.  There's no need to rush.  These things take time; sometimes, you have stop and soak in the knowledge you've already gained in order to truly understand and appreciate it."
> "Very well."
Cadence: "Besides I haven't eaten anything this entire trip and I'm starving."
> Seriously?  Did she really think you'd learned enough for today, or was her stomach talking for her?
> Regardless you had neglected to eat anything either.  Perhaps it was time for a break.  You begin your way to the mess hall when a thought crosses your mind.
> "Master Cadence.  Can I ask you something?"
Cadence: "By all means."
> "How did you and my brother meet?"
> The question seems to initially catch her off guard, but she quickly regains her composure.
Cadence: "It was during the Battle of Alderaan almost fifteen years ago.  I was among the Jedi tasked with retaking the planet led by Satele Shan; my former master.”

> “Satele Shan was your master!?”
Cadence: “Don’t act so surprised.  Every master was once a padawan at some time or another.  Anyways, she and Master Celestia worked together to retake Alderaan.  My master and I fought on the ground; while Master Celestia and Shining Armor battled in space.”
> Then that would mean that she and Shining Armor were on Alderaan during the sacking of Coruscant.
Cadence: “After the fighting stopped it wasn’t until the peace negotiations began did I meet him for the first time.  He was so full of vigor from the previous battles that he was shaking with anticipation.”
Cadence: “Obviously his behavior was not conducive for peace talks, so my master asked me to speak with him.  We got to talking, and we’ve been seeing more and more of each other ever since.”
> Her story was nice and all, but it wasn’t exactly what you wanted to know.
Cadence: “I sense that my story was unsatisfactory to you.  Is there something else you wish to know?”
> “To be honest master I wanted to know why or when you two started seeing each other.”
Cadence: “Shhh.  There is a time and place for everything Twilight, and that story is better suited for later.”
> You guess you shouldn’t be surprised, but still you were dying to know what drove your brother to pursue this dangerous path.
> After the meal and some time to rest you meet up with Masters Scorpan, Cadence, and Luna on the bridge.  One of your friends Applejack was taken under Master Scorpan’s tutelage.  While a human female named Snowdrop was selected by Master Luna.
> As her name implied she had long and silvery hair that reminded you of snow, and her eyes resembling snowflakes.  She was blind.  You could tell from the way she gestured towards people, but thanks to the Force she had been given a second chance to see the galaxy.
Scorpan: “It has been quite some time since I’ve been home.  I only wish our visit was under more pleasant circumstances.”

Luna: “As do we all Master Scorpan.  We can only hope we shall be granted a few days of peace before any fighting is to take place.”
Scorpan: “Yes, but on the off chance we aren’t we should be ready.”
> As you dropout of hyperspace you are relieved that no alarms begin blaring, and no Imperial ships come into sight of your viewport.
Soldier: “Generals we’ve made contact with the planet below.  All systems are green, but for some reason they say they have an urgent message.”
Luna: “Patch it through.”
> Seconds later a group of holograms take place on the bridge.  Most of them were Wookies; except, for the single human female with them.  Presumably an officer or translator.
???: “Rrawghh rghw rawgh.”
Scorpan: “Arghr rwagh rahg ghraw
> “Master do you know what they are saying?”
Cadence: “Sorry Twilight I’m just as lost as you are.  We must wait until Master Scorpan is ready.”
> A few moments later one of the Wookies brings a scaly humanoid creature before the group.  Handcuffed and chained together.
Scorpan: “There can be no doubt then.  I’m afraid I must leave you for a time.  Chieftain Iron Will suspects there is a cell of Trandoshan hunters capturing and enslaving his people, and has asked for my aid on the matter.”
Cadence: “Just you, and not us?  Certainly the chieftain trusts the Jedi enough to permit all of us to help.”
Scorpan: “He does, but he says that it is a matter of pride for his people to deal with this crisis.  I believe it would be wise to respect his wishes.”
Luna: “Very well.  If that’s what he wants we shall honor him.  However, that does not mean we will sit ideally by while you’re off hunting.  I suggest we create a blockade around the planet.”
Cadence: “An excellent idea.  With any luck we might be able to capture one of their slaving ships.”
Scorpan: “Agreed.  Come my padawan we must not keep the chieftain waiting.”
Applejack: “Right behind you master.”

> Be Applejack

> On your first mission and being tasked with hunting down Trandoshans.  Life was pretty sweet right now.  When you were first briefed on this mission you thought you were going to be stationed at a post with nothing to do.  Simply sitting on your ass waiting for something to happen.
> Thankfully things were more exciting then you anticipated, and now it was your job to plow head long into whatever was making trouble.  Yeah, you were pretty happy.
Scorpan: “Contain yourself little one.  We haven’t even made it to the planet surface yet.”
> “My apologies master.  Just excited to start making a difference in the universe.”
Scorpan: “Your eagerness is welcomed, but you must allow yourself to relax.  We do not know what we are getting ourselves into yet.  We do not want to rush in blindly to the situation.  It may threaten to worsen the already fragile situation.”
> “Yes master.”
> Upon landing on the planet surface you are greeted by the same group of Wookies you saw in the hologram back on the ship.  They were even more intimidating in person.  Each standing about seven feet tall, and full of muscle.
Roseluck: “Welcome home Master Scorpan.  We’ve been expecting you.”
Scorpan: “Thank you lieutenant.  It is nice to be home.”
Roseluck: “This is your padawan I assume.”
Scorpan: “Yes.  Applejack will be accompanying me.”
Roseluck: “I’m not so sure how Iron Will react to her presence.”
Scorpan: “You need not worry.  I will handle it if there is an issue.”
Roseluck: “Very well.  Please follow me.”
> “Master what does she mean by that?”
Scorpan: “Chieftain Iron Will is an extremely proud warrior who holds his pride above all things.  It’s why his people trust him.”
> “Sounds like he’s a really thick headed Rancor who’s unwilling to compromise.”
Roseluck: “You would be wise to keep such thoughts to yourself.  Iron Will has a rather short temper for ... well most things.”

> “Sounds like you know a lot about it.”
Roseluck: “When you’re stationed on a planet for a couple years you tend to learn a little about its inhabitants.”
Scorpan: “Indeed, but we’re not here to listen to your long service record lieutenant.  We came here to secure this world from Imperial hands, so can you please brief me on the situation before I meet with Iron Will.”
Roseluck: “Of course master Jedi.  For the past couple of months hunting parties on the lower levels have been ambushed.  Leaving no one behind.  However, every time we would send another group to investigate they would find scorch marks from blaster rifles.”
> “That shouldn’t really tell you much.  I mean the Wookies use blasters to hunt don’t they?”
Roseluck: “No they don’t.  The Wookies find them to cumbersome and too noisy for hunting, so they do it the old fashion way.  When some of our weapons specialist analyzed the area they identified the marks origin to be from slugthrowers.  Trademark weapons of the Trandoshans.”
Scorpan: “I see.  Padawan if we encounter any such opposition with this weapon do not try to block it.  Use either the Force to deflect it, or simple dodge it.  The scattered range of slugthrowers is extremely difficult and sometimes impossible to block.”
> “Understood master.”
Roseluck: “It wasn’t until Iron Will personally led a party to the lower levels and waited for the attack to come did were we finally able to confirm the Trandoshan threat.”
Scorpan: “What have you done in terms of defensive contingencies?”
Roseluck: “Not much.  The Trandoshans seem content with waiting in the shadows for the Wookies.  They haven’t made any attempt to challenge them in open conflict.
Scorpan: “The Trandoshans are infamous for hunting; especially Wookies.  They find all their enjoyment when they can stalk their prey.”

> “They sound like animals more than they do sentient beings.”
Scorpan: “We all have our own beliefs Applejack.  We must respect their ways even if we don’t believe in them.  However, their hunting of the Wookie population cannot continue.”
Roseluck: “I apologize for not being more helpful master Jedi.  We’ve tried interrogating the prisoner for information, but we’ve thus far been unsuccessful.  All we’ve been able to go off of is the few incidences that haven’t resulted in every hunting member being captured.”
Scorpan: “Think nothing of it.  I’m sure we’ll get all the answers we need when we find the ring leader of this operation.”
> Sounds good to you.  You had your doubts about Master Scorpan when you were first chosen, but so far he’s proved to be a very straight forward Jedi.
> Your meeting with Chieftain Iron Will was brief and filled with a lot of growls and roars that you couldn’t understand.  In the end you were allowed to join the expedition to the lower levels; which is all you really cared about.
> The plan was rather straight forward.  Act as bait for the Trandoshans.  Making way for the ambush, and that suited you just fine.  Master Scorpan informed you that Chieftain Iron Will made a rather amusing comment about how you being bait was rather fitting.  Since you were a fish.
> In most cases you would have decked whoever said that, but this was an exception.  Your party consisted of about twenty Wookies and fifty Republic troops.  You would have thought the Republic would have opted for more troops, but it was probably the Chieftain’s pride that kept that number to a minimum.
> The ride down the makeshift elevator was only a few minutes,  but it felt like an eternity.
Scorpan: “Remember young one patience.”
> He keeps saying that, but he never explains why.  You felt like if you weren’t on edge it would leave you flat footed for the coming battle.

> As you make your way through the forest you could hear the calls of the local wildlife in the distance.  With the occasionally Tach skirmishing in the brush.
> You accompanied the group of Wookies and Master Scorpan while the Republic troops waited in the wings.
> (Meanwhile hiding in the shadows.)
Trando #1: “Looks like those furballs have gained some confidence since our last encounter.”
Trando #2: “They probably think they can just walk all over us just because they have their leader with them.”
Trando #1: “It’s a good thing we sent for some better equipment.  Those walking carpets are going to be in for quite a surprise this time.”
Trando #2: “Yeah, the boss is going to love it when we bring the chieftain in shackles.”
Trando #1: Alright ready the men.  They’re almost here.”
Trando #2: “Roger that.”
> (Back to the hunting party.)
> You weren’t nearly as good at sensing things as your friends were, and Master Scorpan was on a whole other level than that.  Meaning that you were basically walking in blind without his guidance.
Scorpan: “Wait.”
> Everyone comes to a halt and begins prepping their weapons.
Scorpan: “Let them make the first move.  We have to make sure the trap is set.”
> You all wait in utter silence.  Listening for even the slightest noise to react to.  Your hand hovers over your lightsaber.  Anxious to pull it to your side at a moments notice.
> Iron Will growls in irritation when suddenly a shower of laser fire rains down upon you from the trees above.
> Both you and Master Scorpan ignite your lightsabers. Charging to the front to deflect the fire away from the Wookies.  You see shadowy figures begin to swing from tree to tree.  Taking pot shots as they swing along.
Scorpan: “Take cover.  There’s more coming!”
> Sure enough as soon as he says that a flurry of large explosions encapsulate you and Master Scorpan.  When the dust finally settles you see a group of massive tanks bearing down on you.

> Be Anon

SA: "What's the situation up there admiral?"
Vinyl: "It's not good sir.  Half of the fleet has been destroyed, and the other half is attempting to leave the system.  The Imperial fleet is not pursuing them, but the situation planet side is unknown."
SA: "Patch me through to the command ship.  We need to regroup in order to rally our forces."
Vinyl: "Understood sir."
> The comlink makes a few beeps and boops as it scrambles through various frequencies.
Tom: “This is Major Tom of the Redeemer.  Who am I speaking to?”
SA: “This is general Shining Armor of the 82nd division.  Where’s your superior officer major?”
Tom: “Everyone’s either dead or seriously injured general.  We’ve taken quite the beating.”
SA: “What’s your situation planet side?”
Tom: “It’s not good sir.  Last we heard our forces were being overrun, and we’ve been trying to reestablish communication ever since.”
SA: “Well keep trying major we’re going to break through their blockade.”
Tom: “You’re engaging their fleet!”
SA: “I’ve been given orders by the supreme chancellor to defend this system major, and that’s exactly what I plan on doing.”
> “I hope you know what you’re doing master.”
SA: “Yeah, so do I.  Captain prepare the gunships we’re going planet side.”
BB: “Yes sir.”
SA: “Master Spitfire come in.”
Spitfire: “Read you loud and clear.”
SA: “We’re heading down to the planet’s surface.  I need you to escort the convoy.”
Spitfire: “Roger that.”
Redheart: “Do you mind if I ask what your plan of attack is?”
SA: “We’re split into two groups.  You and Fluttershy will land at the base and hold out till me and Anon will break through the enemy lines to meet up with you.  Simple pincer maneuver.”
Redheart: “Why am I not surprised.  Taking most of the heavy lifting for yourself.”
SA: “Hey, it’s more fun that way.”
> With that you all board the gunships, and wait for deployment.

> Your ship consisted of about two dozen troopers along with Shining Armor.  As the sliding doors close you get a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach.  You take a few deep breaths and close your eyes to help calm yourself.
SA: “Nervous there Anon?”
> “No of course not.  This is a perfectly normal amount of sweat that I’m giving off.”
SA: “Don’t worry just stick close to me and you’ll be fine.”
> You certainly hope so.  As you take off the vacuum of space kills all the outside noise.  Allowing you to hear yourself think.  That is until you make your way towards the Imperial fleet.
> You then begin to feel the shockwaves of the turrets and fighters firing upon you.  Along with the frantic chatter of fighter pilots communicating to each other.
Pilot: “We’ve broken through the blockade.  Now entering the planet’s atmosphere.”
SA: “Alright men we’re going to be dropping straight into the enemy lines.  Our mission is to run right through them and cutoff their forces surrounding our stronghold.  We’ll be landing two clicks out directly south of the base.  Expect heavy resistance.”
Everyone: “Sir yes sir.”
SA: “Also, Anon maybe new here, but he is our second-in-command.  If I am otherwise engaged you are to follow his orders as if they were my own.”
BB: “Considering this is his first mission sir.  I believe he should know the 82nd division’s signature song.”
SA: “You know you’re exactly right captain.  Let him hear it boys.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onuSknx6g7s
> The song itself was not very pleasant in its lyrics, but it gave you a distinct sort of feeling that you’ve never experienced before.  You couldn’t quite put your finger on it, but all your fears and worries had been lifted from your shoulders.  It was sensational, and you couldn’t help but smile like an idiot.
SA: “You ready now Anon?”
> “Yes master.”
> Finally, the gunship comes to a stop and the doors shoot open.  You strip yourself of your cloak and run out into an open plain.  There were no enemies in the immediate area, so you pace yourself into a light jog.
> As you reach the tree line you begin to hear the roars of blasters and cannon fire in the near distance.  You pull your lightsaber from your belt in preparation for the coming storm.
> Before it happens you could see them.  Not with your eyes, but with your mind.  Imperial troops and war droids laying in wait just ahead.
> “HERE THEY COME!”
> Upon igniting your lightsaber they immediately start firing.  You keep your sword in front of you.  Twirling it close to your body.  Not allowing a single blaster bolt to slip past you.
> Quickly navigating your way through the first few rows of troopers you find yourself taking on some more heavy artillery.  Spotting a large bulky tank in a small clearing you decide to make your way towards it to take it out.
> As you approach the surrounding forces notice your advance and begin to focus their fire on you, but they were too slow.  By using the Force to augment your speed and reflexes you dodge and weave your way through their defenses.
> As the main cannon fires upon you you jump into the trees, and leap off one of the branches to land square on top of the barrel of the cannon.  You were about to slice through it when a black mass jumps onto the same tank right in front of you.
> He wore a dull gray metallic mask with black robes enveloping his body.  A Sith.  The first one you’ve ever faced.  Before you can think he jumps at you, and you shuffle back.  All the while maintaining your balance.
> You clash a few times before you both back off.  He was good, and you were at a distinct disadvantage being surrounded by enemy troops.  They had thus far neglected to take any pot shots at you , but it was only a matter of time.

> Then, out of the corner of your eye you see a missile headed straight for you.  Using all your strength you leap back into the trees, and the Sith follows you.
> The tank explodes.  Sending shrapnel and fiery hot gases in all directions.  However, you keep your eyes glued to the Sith in front of you.  Knowing that lowering your guard for even an instant would prove fatal.
> He conjures an assortment of rocks and tree limbs using the Force and throws them at you.  You dismount off the tree branch, land on the ground, and sprint towards him.
> At the same time you throw you lightsaber to sever the tree branch the Sith was standing on.  He falls and you jump to meet him.  Landing a devastating drop kick to his abdomen.
> The masked assailant  flies twenty meters before colliding with a tree.  Making a sickening crunching noise.  He struggles to get back up, but you give him no breathing room.  Calling your lightsaber back to your hand and driving it home before he could recover.  Dead.
> Well that’s one down.  Only ten thousand more to go.  Suddenly, you notice a familiar soldier approaching you as you duck behind a tree for cover.
BB: “Nice work kid.  You okay?”
> “Yeah I’m fine.  Cutting it a little close with that rocket there aren’t we captain?”
BB: “Yeah sorry about that.  General Armor asked me to assist you.”
> “Well remind me to thank him for that later.”
> With no time to waste you roll from out behind the tree and begin to move forward again.  This time, with Captain Burly Biceps hot on your heels.
> Over the next ten minutes you notice that the further you go the more dangerous your situation seems to become.  You’ve already defeated two more Sith apprentices and dozens of Imperial troops, but they just seemed to keep coming.
> You catch up with Master Shining Armor in hopes of focusing your advance.
SA: “There’s a lot more of them than I was expecting.”

> “Really?  Seems like an appropriate number of troops for capturing a planet.”
SA: “Master Redheart says that they can’t hold out for much longer; which means we need to break their lines now.”
> “Great piece of cake.  How much further do we have to go?”
SA: “We’re only halfway there.”
> “Damn.  We’ll never reach them in time.”
SA: “Not unless we change our approach.”
> “You have a plan then?”
SA: “Yeah I’m going ahead.  You lead the charge to the base.”
> “On my own?  No way I’m coming with you.”
SA: “You can’t I need someone to command our forces.”
> “Then have the captain do it, or better yet one of the other Jedi Knights.  There’s no way you can hope to break their defenses by yourself.”
SA: “Anon there are no other Jedi.”
> “What!?”
SA: “Masters Spitfire and Redheart needed what few Jedi we had in order to hold out this long.  We’re all that’s out here right now.”
> “All the more reason I need to help you break their lines now.  If Master Redheart fails then we’ll be stranded with no way to get off this planet.”
> He gestures like he’s about to make a counter-argument, but stops halfway.
SA: “I guess there’s no talking you out of it is there.  Fine we go together.  Captain, I need four packs of ARC trooper class micro-detonators pronto.”
BB: “Yes sir.”
> You take cover in a shallow ditch while the captain hands you two small metal containers.
> “What are these for?”
SA: “We’re going to drop these as we make our way to Master Redheart’s position.  It should serve to soften up their forces enough for the rest of our troops to follow.  Now Anon I have to ask.  Are you up for a race?”
> “It’s not exactly a race if the outcome is a forgone conclusion master.  So I’ll give you a head start.”
SA: “Your mistake.”
> Shining Armor rolls out of the hole and goes into a full sprint.  Becoming less than a blur to the human eye.

> You put some distance between you and Shining Armor’s starting point before you tuck and roll out of the ditch.  Rising to your feet you begin to run after him with all your might.
> You were about one click out from the Republic base.  Making for a rather short sprint, but that didn’t make it any less dangerous.  The main bulk of the Imperial forces was focused towards the front.  Making it more difficult to navigate through traffic the further you went.
> As soon as you enter an opening the Republic base comes into view, but the Sith were still everywhere.  The military instillation was situated on top of a hill.  With twenty meter high walls surrounding it, and a massive planetary shield generator at the center of the compound.
> You drop the remainder of your bombs before leaping to the top of the wall.  Landing and instantly activating your lightsaber.  Cutting down all the Imperial forces in front of you.  You continue to make your way along the catwalk when you see Master Shining Armor fighting three Sith directly below you.
> Without thinking you use the Force to drop down to assist him.  Using it to quicken your descent and silence the airflow around you.  You land right behind one of the unsuspecting dark lords and stab him through the heart.  Killing him before he can even react.  Making it a two versus two.
SA: “What took you so long?”
> “Oh you know I was just taking in the sights.  Remind me to bring a camera next time.”
SA: “Cute, but we need to reach the main plaza.  That’s where the remainder of our forces have gathered.  You go on ahead.  I’ll take care of these two clowns.”
> “Got it.”
> You begin making your way through the base.  All along the way Sith troopers and war droids were waiting around every corner, but instead of fighting them you elected to bypass them.  Your mission was to regroup with your forces here.  Plus, you had to make sure Fluttershy was alright.
> The chaos around you was making it hard to concentrate on finding anyone through the Force.  Therefore, you were mostly relying on your ability navigate the base through instinct.
> Upon passing the barracks more soldiers begin firing on you.  You deflect a few shots before ducking into a small alleyway.  This wasn’t getting you anywhere.  You needed a high point to gain some perspective.
> Using the Force you jump from wall to wall to reach the roof.  Upon reaching the top you are able to see the Republic forces.  They are stationed in a circle around the planetary shield generator; which looks like a massive satellite dish.
> So far no one had spotted you protruding off the side of this building, but that wouldn’t last for long.  You had the element of surprise, and had to be sure to use it with maximum effectiveness.
> Taking a deep breathe and jump off the side.  Under the cover of explosions, blaster fire, and screaming you land without alerting any of the enemy troops.  With a little time to yourself you begin to focus all of your energy to a single point between your two palms.
> Finding a rhythm in your breathing you continue to swell your power until it reaches a peak.  Then, with a mighty roar you unleash everything you have.  Releasing a massive ball of energy into the crowd in front of you.  Sending everything flying.
> You immediately come to regret making this decision by falling to one knee; absolutely exhausted.  Damn.  You didn’t realize how much the battle had taken out of you.  Too late now.  You definitely had their attention.
> If you could just make it the center you would be able to catch your breathe.  However, you barely had the strength to dodge blaster bolts anymore.  Come on tough it out.  Just a little further and you could rest.  In one last ditch effort you sprint through the enemy lines.
> Completely neglecting to dodge.  Putting all you can into your speed you take a few glancing shots to the arms and ribs.

> It felt like your whole body was on fire from the strain, but you kept moving forward.
> Suddenly you felt a burning sensation in your leg.  They got you.  A stray shot managed to hit you square in the thigh.  Sending you tumbling end over end before coming to a stop.  A mere few yards short of the Republic lines.
Jedi: “Cover me men!  I’m going in!”
> You see a blur of beige and white robes come swooping in.  A Keldorian Jedi.  Picking you up and running back behind the cover of various canisters and miscellaneous materials.  The makeshift wall wasn’t very sturdy, but then again it probably wasn’t designed with that purpose in mind.
Jedi: “We need a medic over here.”
> “No I’m fine.  I need to reach Master Redheart.”
Jedi: “Listen padawan.  You’re in no condition to be going anywhere.   Just sit tight until help arrives.  Besides Master Redheart is dealing with issues of her own.”
> “I can see a medic after this battle is over.  Wait, what do you mean?”
Jedi: “A Sith Lord challenged Master Redheart to a duel.  She’s been fighting her for some time now.”
> “Then we have to help her.  She could be in danger.”
Jedi: “Our mission is to hold out until reinforcements arrive, and I suspect you were sent ahead of the others.  Which means that we only have to hold out for a little longer.”
> “And Master Redheart needs to hear that.  It could give her the strength to finish her fight.”
Jedi: “I’m not so sure about that young one.  Her opponent is very strong.  She may not be able to defeat her.”
> Without thinking you burst to your feet and start making your way up the command center as fast as you can.  You weren’t sure what you could do in your present state, but it was better than just sitting around.
> The aching of your wounds was starting to numb your senses.  You hadn't really thought out what you would do when you got there, but anything was better than nothing.

> As you reach a large balcony you begin to hear the sounds of sabers clashing, and sure enough you see Master Redheart crossing swords with her combatant on the veranda.
>  Her opponent is at least six inches taller than her.  With charcoal black skin and piercing green eyes.  Her robes were mostly black with several large holes.  Indicating severe wear and tear.
> The rest of her garments were dark green.  Including what looked like translucent scarves protruding down her back.  Almost like wings; while brandishing a purple lightsaber.
???: “What’s wrong?  Getting worn out already?  I thought a Jedi Master would be more of a challenge.  Perhaps, you would take me more seriously if I were to suck the life out of your padawan.”
Redheart: “Don’t waste your time with petty taunts monster.  You will get no rise out of me.”
???: "Maybe not, but your fear is palpable.  That alone is enough to sustain me.  Let alone my burning desire to drain the energy from your bones.
> She was losing; badly too.  You had to do something.  With all your might you charge the creature of darkness.  Igniting your lightsaber right as you enter her range.
???: “Foolish boy.”
> Suddenly a second blade comes shooting out her back.  Completely taking you by surprise.  The previously unseen blade parries your attack.  While the Sith spins and roundhouse kicks you to the gut, and pushing back Master Redheart.
???: “You mask your presence well.  However, you neglect to cloak your fear or bloodlust.  Even the most basically trained Force-user could sense the imbalance in the air”
> How did she do that?  That blade seemed to come straight out of her body.  You were sure she only had one lightsaber.  Then how?
> As she turns to face you it becomes abundantly clear, yet you still don’t believe it.  Her single lightsaber had two sides.  A dual sided lightsaber, but that wasn’t the astonishing part.  What had you baffled was the smoldering hole in her stomach.

> She stabbed through herself?  Why?  Was she incapable of feeling pain?  That would still leave her with a serious injury.
Redheart: “Anon you made it.  Where’s Shining Armor?”
> “He’s running a little late master, so he sent me on ahead.”
Redheart: “Great the one time I actually need him around.”
???: “More friends for me to play with?  You’re too kind.”
> At this time you notice that the hole in her stomach was beginning to shrink.  Continuing until it was completely gone.  How did she do that?  What the hell is she?
???: “Oh I love the face my victims make when they see my regenerating ability for the first time.  It gives me such a rush.”
> Was that how she got all those holes in her robes?  How were you supposed to kill something that couldn’t die?
Redheart: “Stay out of this fight Anon.  She’s way out of your league.”
> “But master she’s way too powerful for you.  Let me help.”
Redheart: “I’m well aware of my situation Anon, but you can’t help me.  Now stay back.”
> She charges the shadowy Sith staying true to her Form III fighting style.  However, her assailant seems unimpressed, and in one move throws her off balance.  Exposing her midsection, and landing a glancing blow.
>"Master!"
> She falters.  Grabbing her side, and buckling down to her knees.
Redheart: "Quit toying with me Sith witch."
???: "That eager to join the Force Jedi?  Fine then, I shall grant your request."
> The Sith Lord raises her weapon to strike.  As her blade falls you feel time slow down.  Your scream  Her movements.  All seem to be happening far away.  As if you're witnessing the echoes of those events.
> (BOOM)
> A huge explosion sends dust and small chunks of rubble flying from where the two warriors were once standing.
Redheart: "Took you long enough."
???: "Ah it's you.  How nice to see you again."
Everyone: "Shining Armor."
SA: "Sorry to keep you waiting Master Redheart.  Are you okay."
Redheart: "I've been better.  Mine explaining what was keeping you?"
SA: "Well you know master.  It's more fitting for the hero to show up at the last moment."
???: "Hero?  (Evil laugh.)  I'm sure those on Ilum would fail to agree.  Shining Armor."
SA: "Darth Nihilus.  It’s been awhile.  You’re looking especially menacing today.”
Nihilus: “Why thank you.  These are my best robes.
> Those are her best robes?  Where does she get her clothes the trash compactor?
SA: “Not that I don’t love seeing you again, but it would be in your best interest to retreat.”
Nihilus: “Me?  Retreat?  Whatever from you?”
SA: “In case you hadn’t noticed the back of your forces have been broken.  You’re all alone out here.”
> The dark mistress averts her attention to the battle below, and gains a slight grin.
Nihilus: “It would seem you’re right.  How unfortunate.  I had planned on having a little more fun, but it appears it can’t be helped.”
> Then, without warning, the green clothe on her back comes to life, and begins rapidly flapping.  Allowing her to gain flight.
Nihilus: “Until next time my dear.”
> And just like that she’s gone with the wind.  What in the universe did you just witness.  Who or what was she?
SA: “Anon how are you holding up over there?”
> You were so mesmerized you almost didn’t hear him.
> “Huh?  Oh, I think I’m-”
> Cutting your sentence short Shining Armor jumps on you, and wraps you into a headlock.
SA: “Good.  Now, who told you to fight a dark lord of the Sith?  It certainly wasn’t me; because I told you to help our forces survive until reinforcements arrived.”
> “Ow, ow, ow okay I’m sorry, but can you get off me your crushing my ribs.”
Redheart: “Both of you knock it off.  This type of behavior is unbecoming of a Jedi.”
> Shining Armor quickly scrambles off of you, and dusts himself off.

SA: “Sorry I forgot you were injured.  I’ll go get a medic for you.”
Redheart: “Don’t bother.  I can heal these myself, but I can’t do that and help Anonymous.  Fetch my padawan.  She’ll take care of him.”
> That’s right Fluttershy.
> “Is she okay?”
Redheart: “You needn’t concern yourself.  I can still sense her.  Though she's quite frightened.  I imagine she'll be happy to know that you're alright.”
> As she says that you see and hear a squad of Republic troops make their way over to you.
Trooper #1: "Generals we've broken through the enemy lines, and their forces are in full retreat."
Redheart: "Yes, for now.  But it won't be long before they launch a counterattack.  Have everyone who is able start to reestablish our defenses.  Those who can't have ready to be escorted off-planet.  Oh, and have one of your men send for my padawan.  Anonymous here is in need of medical attention."
Trooper #1: "Yes sir.
> One of the other troopers pulls out a portable long range communications device while the officer in charge takes the mic.
Trooper #1: This is ground control to Major Tom.  Do you read me.
> No reply.
Trooper #1: “I repeat this is ground control to Major Tom come in Major Tom.”
Redheart: “It’s no use.  They’re jamming our transmissions; which means we’re all alone out here.”
SA: “Unless Master Spitfire manages to defeat their forces in space I don’t think we can fend off another assault.”
Redheart: “Let’s gather everyone and discuss a battle plan.”
SA: “Right.”
> Master Armor slings you over his shoulder.  Taking you to small secluded room inside the base.
> Now that you had some time alone.  You suppose now was a good as a time as any.

"Master.  That Sith Lord.  You knew her.  How?  What is she?"
SA: "Darth Nihilus.  A dark lord of the Sith that has just recently risen to power.  Most recently defeating Darth Malgus during his treachery on Ilum.  We’ve battled each other a handful of times since then.  She’s not one to be taken lightly.”
> No kidding.  She made Master Redheart look like a protocol droid fighting a Kath Hound.”
> “What about her powers?  Is she even mortal?”
SA: “Honestly I don’t know Anon.  She seemed to come out of nowhere.  Rumors range from her being a mutant Geonosian, a Clawdite that fused with an ancient Sith artifact, to the Dark Council’s attempt at creating the perfect being.  Their Sith’ari if you will.  No one really knows.  However, regardless of her origin you are not to fight her again.  You were lucky to escape with your life.”
> “You don’t have to tell me twice, but what about her abilities?  I saw her regenerate herself after taking a serious injury.”
SA: “That’s one of her many talents.  I’ve seen her lose limbs before and then grow them back minutes later.  That’s not her most frightening skill though.  Darth Nihilus, as her name implies, has the ability to nullify any power her opponent might have and make it her own.”
> “Nullify our power.”
SA: “Yeah in this case it was Master Redheart’s healing powers.  Amplifying her ability to regenerate to unprecedented levels.  You could probably cut her head off and she would be still standing.”
> This was insane.  You never imagined that the Force could create such monsters.  You were under the impression that it was a rather neutral energy.  Now you weren’t so sure.  Even your aspirations for peace with the Empire were now coming into question.  Was it even possible?
> You were so deep in thought that you didn’t even notice Fluttershy enter the room.
Fluttershy: “Anon.  Thank goodness you’re safe.  Anon?”

> “What?  Oh Fluttershy you’re okay.  That’s good.”
Fluttershy: “Anon what’s wrong.  You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”
> “I just may have Fluttershy.  I just might have.”
Fluttershy: “What do you mean?”
> “There was this Sith Lord.  Her power was overwhelming.  Her very presence was enough to crush you.  It was terrifying.”
Fluttershy: “That’s scary.  If only Master Redheart and Shining Armor were there.”
> “They were Fluttershy, but even they couldn’t do anything.”
> She just sits in silence.  Mouth agape.  Too shocked to say anything.
> “Some of the most powerful Jedi in the Order, and they were practically helpless before her.”
> Fluttershy begins healing your leg in relative silence.  Trying not to look at you.
Fluttershy: “Then what are we going to do Anon?”
> “I wish I knew Fluttershy.  The masters are collaborating right now on our next course of action, but if that monster comes back.  I don’t know what will happen.”
> After some time alone you both make your way the communications room.
Redheart: “Then it’s settled.”
SA: “I still think we’re making the wrong decision.”
Redheart: “We must look at the situation as a whole Shining Armor.  We may have been given orders, but the situation has changed.
> He doesn’t say anything.  Only looking more intently at the star map in front of him.
> “What’s going on.”
Redheart: “We’re evacuating the planet.”
> “Just like that.  After all that we did.”
Redheart: “We don’t have much of a choice in the matter.  We don’t know what the situation is up in space, and we can’t hold this position for long.  It’s best that we retreat and move our forces to Kashyyyk.”
> After all that.  All the sacrifices.  It was all for nothing.  You knew that didn’t sit well with Shining Armor.
Redheart: “Come.  We must help gather up our supplies and troops for evacuation.”
Fluttershy: “Yes master.”

> You didn’t say anything.  You couldn’t say anything.  If Master Armor couldn’t object what would you be able to do.  Plus, you were having second thoughts about sticking around.  You were still trying to wrap your head around what you just experienced.
> The sheer magnitude of her presence.  How was something like that even able to exist?  With something that was so overwhelming why weren't you able to feel it at first?
> Did she purposely lower her spiritual energy from a level you couldn't detect, or was she just that good at masking her presence?
Fluttershy: "Anon what's wrong?  You've been acting strange ever since we stopped fighting."
> "Oh, yeah sorry about that.  Just kicking myself for getting hurt again right after you healed me."
Fluttershy: "You shouldn't worry Anon.  I'll always be here if you need me.  It's my job to help people whenever or wherever."
> She sounded so sure of herself when she said that.  If only she knew the horror you encountered, but you didn't want to worry her.  Of all the Jedi you knew she was easily the most emotionally fragile.  It was better if you shielded her from it.
> She wasn't ready to face such terrors.  You weren't even sure if you were ready to handle such an ordeal.
> After returning to Shining Armor's flagship the first thing you do is jump in the refresher.  It couldn't wash away your worries, but it did ease your body.
> You throw on some fresh robes when you hear a knocking at your door.
> "It's open."
Soarin: "There you are.  I've been looking for you."
> "Hey Soarin.  Something up?"
Soarin: “No, I just thought the first thing you’d do after fighting was come and find your old roommate.”
> “Yeah well it was kind of messy down there, so I wanted to clean myself off before anything else.”
Soarin: “Well okay.  You say it was bad, but I’m sure it wasn’t anything compared to what we had to face.”
> If only he knew.

> Soarin begins to ramble off about his fight in space, but you were only half listening to him.  Dogfights, strafing runs, hunting down Imperial bombers.  It all sounded the same.
> What you couldn’t stop hearing was the cackle of that Sith witch’s voice.  The intensity in her eyes.  The speed with which she moved.  It all left an impression in your mind that you couldn’t erase.
Soarin: “Anon!”
> It wasn’t until your best friend starts shaking you does your spiraling nightmare of thoughts finally dissipate.
Soarin: “What’s with you man I’ve never seen you like this.”
> You had to tell him.  If you didn’t tell someone you might go insane from the fear.
> “It was awful Soarin.  I was completely powerless to do anything.  Her power was unlike anything I’ve seen before.”
Soarin: “Wait whose power are we talking about here?”
> “My master told me she calls herself Darth Nihilus.  She fought Master Redheart, but she was simply toying with her.  It’s like she was a statue compared to her.”
> You then go onto explain in greater detail everything you felt and saw.  Not, leaving out a single thing terrifying point.
> “I don’t know what we’re supposed to do Soarin.  If even the greatest Jedi can’t fight the Sith where does that leave us?”
Soarin: “I can’t tell you Anon.  Maybe the dark side is just naturally stronger, and there’s nothing that we can do about it.”
> Could that be?  If so how were the Jedi able to defeat the Sith over the past millennium?
> “Well now you know what’s been bugging me.  Now if you don’t mind I’d like to get some rest.”
Soarin: “Sure no problem.”
> He promptly exits the room.  Leaving you with nothing but your own thoughts.  You could meditate for a little bit, but felt like sleep would serve you better.  If you could achieve it that is.
> Thankfully you were too tired from the previous battle to really object to it.  Frightening thoughts or not.

> When you open you eyes again you check your universal chronometer to see that about six hours had passed.  You easily would have made the jump to hyperspace by now, but you still had all these questions in your head.  Maybe Shining Armor had some guidance for you.
> If you had any other Jedi for a master you would already know what would say to you.  Well, except maybe Cadence.  They’d preach to you about no emotion only harmony, or something like that.  Without really making you feel any better about you r situation.
> You find him in a meditation chamber with two chair cushions pulled up.  Obviously he was expecting you.
SA: “Get some good rest in?”
> “I guess you could say that.”
SA: “Good because we need to continue your training.”
> Seriously not this again.  What’s the point of getting kicked around if you didn’t gain anything from it.
SA: “Doesn’t sound like your very excited to hear that.”
> “I don’t know should it?  Getting my ass handed to me on a regular basis isn’t exactly a morality booster.”
SA: “Anon these sessions aren’t meant to degrade you.  They’re supposed to help you get stronger.”
> “I don’t feel any stronger after what I saw on Bothawui.”
SA: “Don’t worry about that.  You’re a long way from that level of strength, so until you can get that strong believe in my strength.”
> You weren’t so sure.  Shining Armor was powerful, but was he really tough enough to defeat a Sith like Darth Nihilus?
SA: “You better believe I am.”
> Wait what!?  You didn’t say that out loud did you?
SA: “Relax.  I can sense the turmoil in your thoughts.  That’s how I was able to tell what you were thinking.”
> “Then you’ve beaten her.  How?”
SA: “Hold on there Anon.  You’re still not ready to even begin learning how to fight with such advanced fighting techniques and Force powers.  For now let’s just practice on your speed and lightsaber techniques.”

> Was he telling the truth?  Has he really taken on Darth Nihilus one on one, and beaten her?  You’ve never known Shining Armor to be a distrustful person.  Nor could you deny the sincerity in his voice.  He must be telling the truth.
SA: “So Anon are you just going to stand there all day, or are we going to do this thing.”
> Maybe all of your worrying was for nothing.  You may have lost the battle at Bothawui, but you hadn’t lost the war.  There was still time for you to make a difference, and you couldn’t be caught brooding about feeling sorry for yourself.
> There were a lot of people you cared about, and you wanted to protect all of them.  You may not be able to do it today, but someday soon you’d be able to.
> With nothing left to hold you back you turn to face Master Armor.  Giving him one of your trademark idiot smiles, and activating your lightsaber.
> “Ready when you are master.”
SA: “I hope you are Anon; because, I’m going to give you a taste of what true mastery of the Force can achieve.”
> “I’ll believe it when I see it.”
SA: “I see that you’ve got your smart mouth back.  Unfortunately for you won’t believe it; because you won’t be able to see it.”
> Spooky.  Speaking of smart mouths you just realized something.
> “Just so you know master.  When I see Master Cadence I’m going to tell her about your new girlfriend.”
SA: “Oh you are so dead.”
> “You’ll have to catch me first.”
> And just like that things were back to normal.

> Be Applejack

> Those Trandoshans had some serious firepower.  Fully automatic laser turrets, mini guns, and of course the tanks.  Seemed like a tad bit of overkill to capture a few Wookies.
Scorpan: “Padawan I’m going to draw there fire.  You target the tanks.”
> “I’m on it.”
> He jumps into the trees.  Cutting down a few enemies along the way.  Calling upon the Force he levitates various objects from the surrounding area.  Before launching them at the tanks.
> Their shields absorb the blows easily enough, but all the cannons turn to fire upon the origin of the thrown debris.  Now was your chance.
> You run right at the row of tanks.  Deflecting the occasional blaster bolt.  Leaping and landing on the hood of the first tank.
> You use your lightsaber to cut a hole in the top before dropping a thermal detonator into it.  Quickly moving onto the next one just as the previous tank implodes.
> This time you opt to slice off the cannon itself before destroying it.  As you do so you notice the final tank lock its sights in on you.
> You didn’t know if they were incredibly stupid or desperate, but either way you weren’t going to stick around to find out.
> Jumping high into the air right before the enemy tank was blown to bits.  Landing on the hatch of the space slug who just shot his friend.  You open it and hop inside.  Cutting down the three operators inside.
> Now what should you do?  You could destroy this one like the others, but instead you push the dead Trandoshan pilot out of his seat and strap yourself into the controls.
> You’ve always wanted to do this.  Manning the gun you set your crosshairs on a Trandoshan position and pull the trigger.
> The entire tank kicks backwards from the force of the cannon, but when you look through your scope again all you see is a smoldering crater.
> “Just like shooting fish in a barrel.”
>After firing and blowing up a few more of those filthy lizards you see what few of them are left disappear deeper into the woods.
> “That’s right you better run.”

> A large thud above you cuts you premature celebration short.  Instinctively grabbing your lightsaber you lower it when you see who it is.
Scorapan: “Well done Applejack.  You managed to capture one of the enemy’s vehicles.  Good work.”
> “Shoot it was nothing master.  You know me.  Always using my head.”
Scorpan: “Yes, but usually in a more literal sense.  I’m glad to see you opted not to this time.”
> Giving him a nervous chuckle you climb out of the metallic death machine and clip your lightsaber to your belt.
Scorpan: “They knew we were coming.”
> Yeah, I usually don’t take a tank with me when I go hunting, but that’s just me.”
Scorpan: “We must inform the other Jedi Masters about this.”
> A Republic soldier pulls out a large disk and sets it on the ground.  Upon activating it the holograms of Masters Luna and Cadence come into focus.
Luna: “Master Scorpan.  How goes your search?”
Scorpan: “We seem to have encountered a complication.  My padawan and I took a hunting party to the lower levels in the hopes of setting an ambush.  Unfortunately, they were waiting for us.  In far greater strength necessary for capturing a few Wookies.”
Cadence: “Someone tipped them off.”
Scorpan: “Precisely.  During our battle we managed to capture one of their tanks.  It may be possible that we can use it to sneak into their base of operations and capture whoever is leading these raids.”
???: “General we found something.”
Scorpan: “What is it soldier?”
???: “We’ve confiscated some of the Trandoshan weapons, but there’s something wrong.  Most of them are Republic issued weapons.”
Scorpan: “That’s ill news.”
Luna: “So not only is someone feeding the Trandoshans information they are also embezzling munitions for them.”
Cadence: “Cheiftain Iron Will may object to us helping in defeating the Trandoshans, but this mole is a Republic matter.”
Luna: “I agree. I will take my padawan and head to the planet’s surface to conduct an investigation.  Hopefully we will be able to find our culprit before they can do any further damage.”
Scorpan: “Then we will proceed with our infiltration mission.  They shouldn’t know we will be coming straight to their doorstep.”
> “And if they do then we will know we have a traitor in our midst.”
Scorpan: “We might know, but we might not know for long.”
Luna: “Then do be careful down there.”
Scorpan: “Of course.”
> The feed flickers out and Master Scorpan turns to address the troops.
Scorpan: “I want everyone to fork over their communication devices.  We must not allow this spy to use anything to relay a message to the enemy.”
> Everyone complies with the Jedi master.  Handing over their comlinks.  Master Scorpan gathers them all in a pile, and drops a giant boulder on top of them.
> “Seems a little excessive don’t you think master?”
Scorpan: “Perhaps, but we can never be too careful in situations like these.  Secret and discretion are our allies here.  We must use them without hesitation.”
> This must be what it’s like to be a Jedi Sentinel.  Operating in the shadows.  Never trusting anyone; not even your allies.  You couldn’t imagine Anon being like that.
> He’s so relaxed about everything.  You didn’t think he ever takes anything seriously.  Well, aside from Trixie.  For some reason that girl brought out the weirdest things in him  He trusted her from the moment he saw her.  Even though no one else did.  Maybe it was a guy thing to be incredibly trusting; to a point of being stupid even.
> Still, you hadn’t really met any other guy like him.  Maybe you’ll never know.

> Be Trixie

> Out on a faraway planet called Onderon with your master.  Onderon itself was a neutral system, and one that fiercely opposed any confrontation with both the Republic and the Empire.
> This was mostly due to the fact that the entire planet had been laid to waste more than once over the past several centuries.
> Why were you here then?  Apparently there’s been some dispute about the trading of goods, or something like that.  You really didn’t care.  You believed it was a waste of time to negotiate with the Empire.  All the Empire did was take and steal what they pleased.  Without any regard for those who might stand in their way.
> Currently your master was in delegations with the Prime Minister and an Imperial representative; while you waited silently in the wings.  The Imperial diplomat was human.  Blonde hair and medium build.  Gray robes and a red scarf bearing the Imperial insignia.
> Although, none of those things really mattered to you.  He served the Empire; which meant he wasn’t to be trusted.  Just listening to him speak was almost enough to make you throw up.  Let alone looking at him.  Forcing you to put your hood over your face in order to cover your discontent.
> It has been three days since you first arrived here and already your patience was wearing dangerously thin.  You thought that once you had graduated to the rank of padawan you’d be out fighting the Sith scourge on a regular basis.  Not delegating with weaklings that refused to take up arms in a time of crisis.
> If Anon were here he would be telling you that these things were a necessary evil.  In order to bring about greater peace.  Master Sentry said something similar to that, but you couldn’t see how this could lead to anything but delaying the inevitable end result.  Where Onderon would be forced to take a side when the Empire invaded.
> After all, it was the nature of the beast for the strong to be fed upon by the weak.  You knew this all to well.

> That’s why you always challenged yourself.  Making yourself appear stronger than you really were, so you wouldn’t be swept away by those who would never achieve greatness.
> Somehow Anon saw through your charade, and instead of dismissing you as weak.  Praised you for your false strength.  You didn’t understand why he did what he did.  At first you thought it was because he had no strength of his own, but in time he too found his place in the Force.  Yet he remained by your side.
> His warm smile and soft touch were always there to comfort you.  He was your best friend, and perhaps even more than that.  Even though you knew it forbidden for the Jedi to have some attachments.  You couldn’t deny the joy his existence brought to you.
> Perhaps you should ask Master Sentry about his opinions on the matter.  Of all the people you’ve met in your life he is one of the few you trust with such sensitive information.
> After the meeting was over you retired to Master Sentry’s personal Jedi Defender starship.  Contemplating whether or not to ask him while you fiddled around with your lightsaber.
> It was nice and spacious granted it was just the two of you.  With enough room to practice your lightsaber techniques, but not quite enough to test your Force powers to the limit.
> Master Sentry would probably still be speaking with other lower representatives for another hour.  You decide to meditate on the matter.  Hoping to find some answers through the Force.
> The stillness in the air suddenly coming alive.  As if a steady stream of water came rushing through it.  Feeling the flow of the invisible energy around you.  Inside the ship, around the palace, deep into the wilderness.  All resonated with each other in a sense of harmony.
> If only the answers were as simple as connecting to the Force was right now.  Maybe you could use the Force to look deeper within yourself, but how was that any different from just simply being honest with yourself?

> You didn’t know, but you decided to give it a try anyway.  You let your mind wander into a subconscious sort of sleep.  Freeing yourself from any outside contamination.  Allowing it to react on instinct to whatever was presented before it rather than with thought.
> Your eyelids began to flutter.  Just as they would if you were experiencing REM sleep.  Although you were not sleeping you couldn’t see, hear, or feel anything outside of yourself.  Not even your own heartbeat.
> Feeling nothing, yet at the same time feeling everything.  You were in a space void of all things.  Hovering somewhere between life and death.  What was this?  The Force?  Was this what it was like to be in total balance?
> If that were true did that mean the Jedi were right.  Emotion was something that stained perfection and purity?  Did you have to choose between having the power you craved, and the man that you desired?
> Without warning the space around you began to deteriorate and blacken.  Something was changing, but what.
> Then, your eyes shoot open.  Completely broken off from the trance you had just been in.
Flash: “Finally I was beginning to worry.”
> “Damn it!  What did you do!?”
Flash: “I simply reached out to you through the Force.  You’ve been sitting like that for three hours.  Why what’s the matter?”
> “Because of you I didn’t find an answer.  I could feel it on the ends of my finger tips.  At least I thought I could.”
Flash: “What was it?  The question you wanted answered?”
> “It’s...personal, and I wanted to know whether or not to act on these feelings that I’ve been having.”
Flash: “Interesting.  And what are these feelings that you’ve been having.”
> “Of love master.”
> You hesitated to say.
> “I think I’ve fallen in love, and I don’t know whether or not that’s a good thing.”
> You wait for him respond.  Expecting him to tell you the dangers of falling in love, and all the perils it would bring.

Flash: “And what did you discover?”
> “I’m not sure.  I think I love him, but I’m not sure that’s what I want.”
Flash: “Do you fear what others may think of you?  What I might think of you?”
> You wanted to say no, but you knew better than to lie to Master Sentry.
> “I do, but that’s not the only thing.  I fear my emotions will prevent me from reaching the level of power needed to defeat the Sith.”
> Master Sentry hums to himself before giving you a response.
Flash: “It is only natural to be afraid of these things my dear padawan.  You needn’t worry of what others may think of you.  I am sure they can all sympathize with you.  What you must do is embrace these feelings.  They are what make you special.”
> It was a relief to hear Master Sentry not being overly critical of your feelings, but even you were shocked by how supportive he was.
> “Are you sure?  The Jedi Code denounces such thoughts.”
Flash: “I know what the code says, but I personally don’t believe most of it to be true.  Emotions are something that every living thing feels.  To live without them is to forsake life itself.”
> You hadn’t thought about it like that.  All you cared about was getting stronger.  Doing whatever it took to advance your skills.
> “You may be right master.  I will reflect on what you’ve said.  Thank you.”
Flash: “Oh before you go may I ask you something?  Who is this person you think you love?”
> “I believe it would be best if I kept that a secret for now master.  It’s not that I don’t trust you.  It’s just that there are some things left unsaid.”
Flash: “Very well.  Some other time then.”
> You leave him and head to your room.  Still surprised by the frankness of his responses.  It made you happy to know that he wasn’t one so quick to judge.  That he was willing to support you when you weren’t sure what path was right.

> In many ways he reminded you of your father.  Of what you little you remember of him.  He always told you to do your best.  That’s all anyone could ever ask for.
> The next day you were back in the Prime Minister’s chambers with the same old discussions being played out.  This time however, you weren’t angry.  Your mind was elsewhere.  Wandering back and forth between the events that transpired the day before.
> Your time in deep self-reflective meditation, your talks with Master Sentry, and your relationship with Anon.  It made a world of difference to know that you had both of them to rely on.  Regardless of what happened to you they would be there.
> Finally after much deliberation both sides were able to reach an agreement.  Allegedly supplies and goods had been disappearing from transports.  Issuing small contingencies of troops to help prevent theft or black-market deals.
> You wouldn’t be surprised if the Empire had something to do with this, but with this new rule in place it should prevent further confrontation.
> With you mission complete you report back to the Council to learn that Bothawui had been lost.  Thankfully Anon survived the battle, and his fleet had since been redirected to Kashyyyk.
> It sounded like things were just getting worse and worse for the Republic; which made you all the more anxious to be on the frontlines.
> Fortunately for you Master Sentry was being called to join the fleet at Kuat.  Where the primary shipping yards for the Republic were under siege.  Finally, it was your time to shine.

> Be Applejack

> You weren't sure why were so uneasy about this plan.  The fact that somebody might reveal your plans.  Leaving you wide out in the open.
> Possibly the fact that you were almost isolated from the rest of your forces, or maybe it was the fact that sharing a tank with five Wookies.  Not including Master Scorpan.  In all your life you had never imagined such a smell existed.
> "Master please let me open the hatch.  I think I'm about to spew chunks here in a few seconds."
Scorpan: "It’s too late for that Applejack.  We’re within sight of the outpost.  You’ll have to wait it out until we can safely exit the vehicle.”
> You were afraid he was going to say that.
> “I’m not sure I can hold out that long master.”
Scorpan: “Here take this.”
> He hands you a tablet which you down without hesitation.  It made you feel a little better, but not a lot.
(Meanwhile in the enemy stronghold.)
??#1: “I thought I told you to do everything in your power to kill the Jedi.”
??#2: “You’re sure are brave thinking you can give me orders.”
??#1: “Listen here you overgrown lizard.  I promised the Empire that Wookies would be little less than a stepping stone by the time they got here.  The fact that you’re profiting from their plans should be all the incentive you need to keep up your end of the bargain.”
??#2: “Whether or not your Empire triumphs or fails means nothing to me.  Besides, if we fail you fail.  They won’t think twice about some two-bit bounty hunter under your employ.  They’ll pinpoint all the blame on you.  I’ve appreciated all the help you’ve provided, but remember who’s doing all the heavy lifting here.”
??#1: “Fine, but now that the Jedi are onto me my hands are tied in terms of being able to help you further.  Which means you have two options.  Defeat the Jedi, or leave.  The choice is yours.”
??#2: “Won’t that leave you in a rather unfavorable situation?”

??#1: “Yes but not for long.  I’ll make plans for Chieftain Iron Will’s assassination.  Leaving his people without anyone to lead them.”
??#2: “Really, and how do you plan on pulling that off?”
??#1: “You let me worry about that.  Now what is your answer?”
??#2: “I’ve grown fond of hunting down those furry freaks.  I’m going to milk this gig for all it’s worth before I’m done.”
??#1: “Good.  The Jedi will more than likely find you before too long, and I don’t need to tell you what that means.”
??#2: “Right.  You needn’t worry I’ll be sure to give them a ‘warm’ welcome.”
(Back inside the tank.)
> You’ve reached the gate of a large compound.  With laser turrets occupying each side.  The gate itself is enclosed by several large cylindrical bars of green energy.  Closing it off from the outside.
> “Now what?”
Scorpan: “We wait.”
> “Wait.  Wait for what?”
> As if on queue the energy cuts off.  Allowing you to enter.
> “I don’t like this.  It seems too easy.”
Scorpan: “A valid concern padawan.  We may very well be walking into a trap.”
> “Is that supposed to make me feel better?  Because it doesn’t.”
Scorpan: “Calm down Applejack.  We’re going to be moving soon.”
> As you slowly make your way through the base you take note where the imprisoned Wookies were being held.  There weren’t as many as you were expecting; which meant most of them had already been shipped off-world.
> “Master.”
Scorpan: “I know.  We’ll have to gather some intel before we set the prisoners free.”
> As the tank slows to a stop inside a garage three Trandoshans approach your vehicle.
> "This isn't good."

Scorpan: "Not to worry.  We'll just have to dispose of them quietly.”
> Master Scorpan pulls out his lightsaber club and cuts a hole in the floor of the tank.  Where everyone shuffles out.
???: “What’s taking so long?”
> The hatch of the tank opens, but no one exits.  The three approach cautiously right before all of them are grabbed by the ankles and dragged underneath the tank.  You knockout the scaly hunters before shoving them back into the tank, and sealing it off with your lightsaber.
Scorpan: “Nice and quiet like.”
> Your small party moves behind a wall where you pull out a pair of macro binoculars to survey the area.
> “There’s the communications array and the power generator.  Approximately 600 meters due northwest.”
Scorpan: “We’ll also need to locate the central command center.  We should be able to figure out where the rest of the prisoners were transferred from there.”
> “Found it.  300 meters directly east.”
Scorpan: “We won’t be able to conceal our presence for long.  We’ll have to split up to ensure success.  I’ll take care of retrieving the data we seek.  You lead Chieftain Iron Will to rescue the Wookies and transmit a signal to the fleet.”
> “You can count on me master.”
> The two of you split up.  Believing that the other will succeed.
> You wouldn’t think that a seven foot tall hairy monster could be sneaky, but in fact they were just as good at maneuvering as you were.  Making you feel a little at ease.
> As you approach your target you see at least a dozen Trandoshans standing guard around the prisoner cages.  With another handful monitoring the communications dish.
> “Guess its time to make ourselves known.  You free your people and I’ll get the word out to the Republic.”
> The chieftain gives a growl of approval, and you both get underway.
> The Wookies make their way over to the power generator and begin setting charges.  Waiting patiently in the shadows until they make their move.

???: “Hey one of them has escaped.  Get him.”
> Blast.  Hurry up you fuzzballs.
> As the lone assailant runs after the Wookie he turns the corner to see the entire side of the wall covered with explosives.
???: “Ah oh.”
(BOOM)
> With a thunderous roar power is cut off to all of the facility.  Leaving only emergency power systems operable.
??? “We’re under attack.  They’re freeing the prisoners.  You two stay here and protect the transmitter.”
> As soon as they leave you jump in and cut down the remaining guards.  Leaving you to complete your mission.  You just wish you had paid better attention when Anon tutored you on how to slice a computer console.
> “Please tell me there isn’t a password for this infernal contraption.”
(Bzzzt)
> “Banth poodoo.  That just figures.”
> You rip open the console and start crossing wires.
> “I hope I never have to do this again”
???: “Freeze you worm!”
> Not moving an inch.  You feel the presence of two Trandoshan slavers behind you.  With their weapons locked and loaded.
???: “Hands in the air.”
> You do so slowly.  Then, when they lower their guard you grab their weapons with the Force and raise them to the sky.  Igniting your lightsaber and spinning around to cut them down.
> With them out of the way you were finally able to concentrate on the task at hand.  Hacking your way through the security measures you begin transmitting a signal into space.  Where hopefully the Republic would be ready to receive it.

> Now all that was left was to help the Wookies capture this base.  With your lightsaber in hand you make your way to a group of large metal pens.  Approximately ten feet tall that had been electrified before the destruction of the power generator.
> Most of the guards had left to pursue your allies.  Making the remaining troops little more than a clean-up.
> After they were taken care of you rip off the metal doors imprisoning the Wookies by using the Force.  With them freed they quickly begin rampaging through the compound.  Confiscating weapons and bashing Trandoshans into the dirt.  Maybe you wouldn’t need reinforcements after all.
Scorpan: “Applejack we have a problem.”
> “What is it?”
Scorpan: “Their leader has escaped, and he took everything with him.  We need to find him.  If we can find a landing pad we may be able to cut him off.”
> Finding some higher ground you pull out your macro binoculars again and scan the area.
> “Over that way.  I see a cargo ship.”
Scorpan: “Then let’s move.”
> Less than a minute later.  Both you and Master Scorpan were standing on the landing pad with lightsabers in hand, but there was nobody here.
> “You think he decided to go into hiding instead?”
Scorpan: “Not likely.  These are Trandoshans we’re talking about.  They have two primary reasons for living.  To hunt and to survive.  If he hasn’t decided to run than that can only mean-.”
> Without warning a large section of the landing pad begins to open up.  Revealing an underground elevator, and it was bringing something up.
> That something was roughly as big as the cargo ship, but it had legs.  That wasn’t all though.  It was equipped with two laser cannons, a mortar launcher, rockets, mini-guns, and two massive mechanical claws.
> “What in the universe is that monstrosity?”
???: “Greetings Jedi.  I’d like to congratulate you on making it this far.  My name is Blisk Dorgon, and I’d like to introduce you to my favorite toy.”

Scorpan: “You’re the ring leader of this operation?”
Blisk: “That’s right, and since you’ve both gone so far out of your way to destroy my business you’re both going to repay in full.  By becoming my most prized trophies.”
> “Give it your best shot slimo.  You have no chance of capturing a Jedi.”
Blisk: “Well if you insist.”
> You begin to hear the humming of the giant machine’s engines powering up it’s main cannons.  As the both begin to glow from the inside.
Scorpan: “Applejack move!”
> Without hesitation you flash our of the mechanical terror’s firing path.  After that you don’t know what happened.  The blinding light, deafening explosion, and tremendous shockwave were too much for you to look at.
> Once they both subsided you were finally able to witness the devastation the slaver unleashed.  A long trench about twenty feet wide and six feet deep led to a massive crater.  Your guess was it was at least a hundred meters in diameter.
> “Wow, that’s some toy.”
Blisk: “I’m glad you think so.  It was designed to wrestle with Rancors, but after a few of my own personal modifications it can do much more than that.  I could probably take on an entire army with this thing.  Let alone two Jedi.  Give up now and I’ll auction you off to the highest bidder.”
> “Not a chance.  We’d rather die with honor than become some scum sucker’s whipping doll.”
Blisk: “Fine have it your way.”
> He lowers his mini-guns and takes aim at you.  With no chance of blocking his onslaught you duck behind some cover as he blasts holes through everything around you.
Blisk: “Run little Jedi run.”
Scorpan: “You took your eyes off me.”
> With one fell swoop Master Scorpan jumps onto the walker and stabs at the pilot.  However, when he does his lightsaber bounces off.  Leaving him unharmed.
Blisk: “Nice try, but it’s going to take a whole lot more than that to destroy me.”
Scorpan: “The body’s ray shielded.”

Blisk: “Good eye.  Which means your measly lightsabers are all but useless against me.”
> “Great, so what are supposed to do now?”
Scorpan: “Look for an opening.  He has to have a weakness somewhere.”
Blisk: “Yeah, good luck with that.”
> This time he fires off a series of heat seeking miniature rockets that follow your every move.  You jump and sprint every which way, but you couldn’t shake them.  On top of that the Trandoshan was still shooting at you with his other weapons.  If you didn’t think of something soon you were wither going to make a mistake, or run out of energy.
> Wait, you just thought of something.  Instead of dodging you make a b-line right for your opponent.  Using your lightsaber to deflect his fire you sprint at full speed before sliding underneath the massive walker.
> The missiles that were following you instead lock-on to the metal menace.  Literally blowing up in his face.  Unfortunately, he turns around to face you.  Without a scratch on him.
Blisk: “Okay now I’m pissed.  Forget what I said about making you my trophies.  I’m just going to send you all into oblivion!”
> “Crap I was really hoping that would work.  Any ideas master?”
Scorpan: “Just one.  Wait for my signal to strike, but until then you have to keep him his attention.”
> “Should be easy enough.  I’ve already made him angry.”
> Once again you find yourself running in circles in a desperate effort to evade his attacks.  All the while Master Scorpan drops various little items along the landing pad.  Before grabbing a large metal cable.
> Now you think you understand what he has in mind.
Scorpan: “Applejack now!”
> Scorpan tosses one end of the metal rope to you, and you begin to wrap it around it’s legs.  The top heavy walker slowly loses it’s balance before falling flat on it’s face.
> “Not so tough after getting hogtied are you?”
Blisk: “I wouldn’t be so sure.”

> Both of the monster’s massive claws push down on the ground.  Lifting it back up off the ground.
Blisk: “See it’s going to take a lot more than that to defeat me.
Scorpan: “Then it’s a good thing that wasn’t our final plan.”
> Extending both of his hands forward.  Scorpan shoves the walker back; causing it to lose it’s balance once more.  Just as you thought he regained control a series of explosions behind him.  Sending him plummeting down into a dark abyss.
> “So that’s what you were doing.  Placing mines over the elevator shaft.”
Scorpan: “That’s right.  Even if those mines didn’t destroy him that fall should have at least severely crippled him.”
> “I hope you’re right.  I wouldn’t want to face him again after an experience like that.”
> Both of you jump down.  Using the Force to slow your descent and cushion your fall.  Finding the Trandoshan death machine motionless on the floor.  Occasionally sending sparks and electrical surges from it’s broken ends.
Scorpan: “It’s over.  Now to cut you out of that robotic chassis.”
> This time when Scorpan stabs the surface his lightsaber slides inside like butter.  Cutting a rectangle where the pilot’s seat is.  To your dismay; however, when you remove the door you find it to be empty.
> “What!?  How is that possible?  He was trapped in there.”
Scorpan: “Perhaps not.”
> Master Scorpan quickly jumps from wall to wall until he reaches the surface; while you follow closely behind.  Upon reaching the top you see the cargo ship in mid-flight.  With your master jumping high into the air before throwing something at it.  Before the ship begins to rapidly ascend into space.
> “We can’t let him get away!”
Scorpan: “No, it’s fine.  We’ve completed our mission.”
> “What!?  Master how can you say that!?  That dirty slaver is getting away.”
Scorpan: “Yes he is; because, I’m allowing him to.”
> “I beg your pardon?”

> Instead of answering he simply pulls out a communicator from one of his belt pouches.
Scorpan: “Master Cadence come in quickly over.”
Cadence: “Master Scorpan we’ve almost arrived at your position wh-.”
Scorpan: “Never mind that.  You must instruct our forces to allow the freighter leaving the atmosphere to escape.”
Cadence: “Escape!?  Whatever for?”
Scorpan: “There’s no time to explain.  Just do it.”
Cadence: “Very well.”
> “You mind explaining it to me; because I sure don’t get it.”
Scorpan: “It’s very simple really.  I planted a tracking beacon on his ship before he left.  We should be able to pinpoint exactly where he went and possibly where the rest of the Wookies went.
> He sounded like he planned for this to happen in the first place.  If it were you you would have imprisoned that wretch and tortured him; until, he spilled his guts.  Easy to do, and leaving nothing to chance.  Still, even if you weren’t a fan of his methods.  It didn’t mean you didn’t trust his judgment.
Scorpan: “I know this must upset you, but believe me.  This is the only way to achieve the best result.”
> “You’re right.  I don’t like it, but it’s not my call to make.”
Scorpan: “Precisely.  Come we must inform the others.”
> Less than a minute later Republic gunships began landing at the base.  Taking the remaining Trandoshans into custody, and escorting the rest of the Wookies back to their homes.
> You had later discovered that the Trandoshan slaver was controlling that walker remotely from his ship.  Making you kick yourself for not being able to see through such an obvious deception.  If only you were more adept and Force Perception.
> When you returned to the fleet in space you were informed that Shining Armor’s forces were defeated at Bothawui and would be joining you here.
> Good maybe listening to Anon’s first experience in battle would cheer you up.

> Unfortunately, Master Scorpan informed you that you were to be leaving immediately to pursue Blisk Dorgon.  You didn’t know whether to be excited or angry about that.  One thing’s for sure though.  You wouldn’t let him escape again.
> Your next destination.  Nar Shaddaa.

End Chapter IV