Star Wars War Chronicles: Part Two: Old Sith Wars

GREAT HYPERSPACE WAR (5,000 BBY)

For centuries, the Sith Empire founded by Ajunta Pall would remain forgotten by the Galactic Republic. That is, until it was rediscovered by two Republic explorers: Gav and Jori Daragon. After being captured by the Sith, the Empire found about the Republic, which they had only learned of from Pall, and decided to find a way back to Republic space and attack their capital.

The Dark Lord of the Sith Naga Sadow sent Jori Daragon back to the Republic, using a homing beacon attached to her ship to follow her to Coruscant. Sadow deployed his fleet on numerous worlds, invading the unprepared Republic. 

The war spanned several months and the Sith Empire was soon defeated when Gav Daragon-Sadow's apprentice-turned on his master and sent the remaining Sith fleet back to Korriban, where Sadow's rival, Ludo Kressh was waiting. Sadow sacrificed the last of his fleet to eliminate Kressh and he fled to Yavin 4, where he would remain in exile until his death.

Meanwhile, the Republic tracked down the Empire's remnants, led by regent Shar Dakhan, in Sith Space. Dakhan ordered suicide attacks, which gave the Republic the advantage they needed to end the war.

Key Figures

Pultimo; a male politician, Pultimo succeeded Fattum as Supreme Chancellor after the Unification Wars of Koros Major, and led the Republic to defend themselves from the Sith Empire's invasion.

Memit Nadill; an Ovisian male from Ovison, Jedi Master Nadill served as an adviser to Empress Teta of Koros Major and became a leader of the Jedi Order during the Sith's attack on Coruscant.

Odan-Urr; a Draethos male, Odan-Urr was the apprentice of Master Ooroo and Nadill, as well as Watchman of Koros. He had a vision of the Sith's attack prior to the war and attempted to war the Galactic Senate, who did not listen until after the Battle of Kirrek. 

Naga Sadow; a Sith/Human male from Ziost, Lord Sadow succeeded Marka Ragnos as Dark Lord of the Sith. Using the Daragons as a link, he led the invasion on the Republic until his defeat. He later exiled himself to Yavin Four.

Shar Dakhan; a Sith male, Lord Dakhan served as Supreme Commander of the Sith forces and acting Dark Lord after Sadow fled after the Second Battle of Korriban. He was later defeated and most likely killed.

Ludo Kressh; a male Sith hybrid from Rhelg, Lord Kressh led a war of his own against Naga Sadow, from whom he sought to take the title of Dark Lord. Kressh was later killed over Korriban.

GREAT SITH WAR (4,000-3,996 BBY)

The next war against the Sith started with a series of conflicts on Onderon against the Naddists, a Sith cult made in honor of Freedon Nadd, Sadow's apprentice and successor as Dark Lord of the Sith. Following the Naddists' defeat, two Jedi would fall to the dark side: Ulic Qel-Droma, who would become a warlord for the Krath cult, and Exar Kun, who would learn from the Sith teachings of Freedon Nadd. 

Together, Kun and Qel-Droma formed the Brotherhood of the Sith and led a devastating war against the Republic and the Jedi Order. Eventually, Qel-Droma was defeated and redeemed on Ossus, while Kun was killed by his own Sith rituals on Yavin 4, the place where Sadow himself had died.

Key figures

Chancellor Moluss; a male Khramboan from Khramboa, Moluss led the Republic for the last two years of the Great Sith War, after his predecessor, Sidrona Diath, was killed on Basilisk. During the trial of Ulic Qel-Droma, Exar Kun infiltrated the courtroom and killed Moluss.

Arca Jeth; an Arkanian/Sephi male from Arkania, Jedi Master Jeth was a leader during the Nadd Uprising and is presumed to be a member of the High Council. He was killed by the Krath on Deneba.

Nomi Sunrider; a Human female, Nomi Sunrider, wife of the late Andur, was a prominent Jedi Knight during the Sith War and Qel-Droma's former lover. Ten years after Exar Kun's fall, she would become Grand Master and leader of the Jedi Order.

Vodo-Siosk Baas; a Kreevaki male from Krevas, Master Baas was the former Jedi Master of Exar Kun, as well as Nomi Sunrider's second teacher. He was later killed by Kun in a duel on Coruscant.

Thon; a Tchuukthai male, Master Thon was (or later became) a member of the Jedi High Council, and was Sunrider's first teacher. He and Jeth served as prominent leaders during the war.

Exar Kun; a Human male, the Dark Lord Exar Kun was feared throughout the galaxy during the Great Sith Wat. He eventually died at his own hands on Yavin 4.

Ulic Qel-Droma; a Human male from Alderaan, Ulic Qel-Droma was born to Lien-Tsai Qel-Droma, and was the brother of Cay. Although he was a Jedi Knight during the Nadd Uprising, he later fell to the dark side and became a Krath warlord, and later co-Dark Lord with Kun. He was then redeemed at the end of the war.

Mandalore the Indomitable; a male Taung from Kuar, Mandalore was leader of the Mandalorians and an ally of the Brotherhood of the Sith. He later led his fellow warriors on Dxun and was shot down. He was later devoured by Dxun's predatory creatures.

Aleema Keto; a Human female from Koros Major, Aleema Keto and her cousin Satal were leaders of the Krath before Aleema joined the Sith Brotherhood. She became Ulic's lover at one point. She was later killed by a supernova on Kemplex Nine.

MANDALORIAN WARS (3,976-3.960 BBY)

Twenty years after the fall of Exar Kun, the Mandalorians, now led by Mandalore the Ultimate, declared war against the Republic so that they could avenge their defeat on Dxun. Thirteen tears into the war, a group of Jedi Knights known as Revanchists went against the High Council's wishes and helped the Republic, seeing to the war's end on Malachor Five. 

Afterwars, the Revanchists leader and a portion of the Republic's fleet disappeared into unknown space...

Key figures

Tol Cressa; a Human male, Chancellor Cressa became Supreme Chancellor near the end of the war, succeeding his anti-Jedi predecessor, Takkel Ravin. He accepted the Revanchist's assistance and led the Republic to victory.

Revan; a Human male, Revan was a Jedi Knight who gathered a group of Jedi called Revanchists to aid the Republic, after the High Council denied his plea. After killing Mandalore the Ultimate on Malachor Five, Revan and his followers disappeared into the Unknown Regions.

Alek/Malak; a Human male from Quelii, Alek, later known as Malak, was a Jedi General and Revan's right-hand man and informal apprentice.

Meetra Surik; a Human female from Dantooine, Jedi General Surik served as Revan's best general and was a key part to the Mandalorians' defeat at Malachor.

Koa Delko; a Quermian male, Defense Minister Delko served as the civilian head to the Republic Military and conferred with Revan during the wars.

Dral Chaar; a Vurk male, Admiral Chaar served as Admiral of the Fleet and Supreme Commander of the Republic Military. He was later killed during the battle at Malachor.

Mandalore the Ultimate; a Taung male, Mandalore succeeded the Indomitable as leader of the Mandalorians. Prior to the war, he was convinced to attack the Republic by a mysterious Sith Lord. During the battle of Malachor Five, he dueled with and was killed by Revan.

Cassus Fett; a Human male, Cassus Fett was a Field Marshal and an adviser to Mandalore. He was killed by the Revanchists on a yet to be identified planet.

JEDI CIVIL WAR/SECOND SITH WAR (3,959-3,956 BBY)

When Revan and his followers returned from the Unknown Regions a year after the Mandalorian Wars, they had declared themselves Lords of the Sith. The war that followed would devastate the galaxy, and continued on even after Darth Revan was captured. The Sith Empire was finally defeated when Revan, now redeemed, killed Darth Malak and brought forth his redemption.

Key figures

Varn Xala; a Teevan male, Master Xala was a Jedi High Councilor and interim leader of the Order during the war. He led many Jedi Knights in battle and was elected Grand Master following Darth Malak's death.

Carth Onasi; a male Human from Telos IV, Onasi was captain of the Endar Spire before its destruction, and became a good friend of Revan's. After Malak's death, he became an admiral.

Bastila Shan; a Human female from Talravin, Bastila Shan was a Jedi Knight and commander. She helped redeem Revan and the two later married. She eventually became a Jedi Master and High Councilor.

Darth Malak; Malak became Revan's Sith apprentice after the Mandalorian Wars and later usurped the mantle of Dark Lord for himself. He was later killed by Revan on the Star Forge.

Saul Karath; a Human male from Corellia, Admiral Karath defected from the Republic and joined the Sith Empire, and later became Admiral of the Sith Navy during Malak's reign. He was killed by Revan, Onasi, and Shan on the Leviathan.

 DARK WARS/JEDI PURGE

A year after Darth Malak's death, the remnants of Revan's Sith Empire were scattered, warring amongst themselves on Korriban. They were eventually united by the Sith Triumvirate, consisting of the remaining Sith warlords and their factions. 

Another year later, the Sith attacked the deteriorating Republic and Jedi Order, and would've wiped them out had it not been for a Jedi exile known as Meetra Surik. After defeating all three members of the Triumvirate, Surik and the Lost Jedi began restoring the Order and helped the Republic get back to its feet.

Key figures

Meetra Surik; after the Battle of Malachor Five, Surik was exiled from the Jedi Order and disappeared into the Outer Rim. She later returned to defeat the Sith and restore the galaxy.

JEDI HIGH COUNCIL; the remaining masters of the council (Vrook Lamar, Atris, Kavar, Zez-Kai Ell, and Lonna Vash) tried in vain to fend off the Sith, but their efforts failed. Lamar, Ell, and Kavar were all killed on Dantooine, Vash on Korriban, while Atris nearly fell to the dark side.

Darth Traya; a Human female, Arren Kae was once a Jedi Master before being exiled. She became Dark Lord of the Sith after Malak's death and formed the Triumvirate. After the other Sith Lords dethroned her, she took on the identity of 'Kreia' and accompanied Surik on her adventures, deceiving her along the way. Her rule finally came to an end with her death at Surik's hands on Malachor. [Note: it is my theory that Arren Kae and Kreia/Darth Traya are one and the same]

Darth Nihilius; a Sith Lord whose origins remain shrouded in mystery, Darth Nihilus staged the coup to overthrow Traya and take over the Triumvirate. He was later killed on his flagship, the Ravager.

Darth Sion; a Human male, Sion was born to a wealthy family and served in both Exar Kun and Darth Revan's Sith Orders. He later overthrew Traya and rivaled with Nihilus for the title of Dark Lord. Like the others, he was killed by Meetra Surik.

Mandalore the Preserver; a Human male from Ordo, Canderous Ordo fought in the Mandalorian Wars and later accompanied Revan on his adventures. Following the Jedi Civil War, he recovered the Mask of Mandalore and started to reunite the scattered Mandalorian clans left over from the wars. During the Dark Wars, he accompanied Meetra Surik in her journey to defeat the Sith Triumvirate.  

This concludes my 'report' on the Old Sith Wars. In a later post, I shall detail the Great Galactic War, the Cold War, and the events leading up to the New Sith Wars.

Star Wars War Chronicles, Part One: Pre/Early Republic

You will have to wait until August for Star Wars Destiny: Episode Five, but for now, here's a research-thing I made on the major galactic conflicts in Star Wars, with some characters and elements made up by me to fill in some spots (typed in brackets)

FORCE WARS (c.25,795-c.25,785 BBY)

The Force Wars was a civil war that took place on Tython long before the founding of the Galactic Republic. It began when the Je'daii Order was split between the followers of the light side of the Force (called Ashla by the Je'daii) and the dark side (called Bogan). 

After ten years of fighting, four followers of Ashla-known as Cala Brin, Garon Jard, Rajivari, and Ters Sendon-reformed the lightsiders into the Jedi Order. At some point, however, Rajivari fell to the dark side and led the followers of Bogan. Eventually, they were defeated, and the Jedi Order was officially established. 

WAR OF TWO EMPIRES (25,102-25,100 BBY)

This war was fought between the Hutt Empire-led by Kossak Inijic Ar'durv-and the empire ruled by the Tionese known as Xim the Despot. Little is known about the war, other than that many battles were fought on the planet Vontor, and that it ended with Xim's defeat. 

Although this war saw to the Hutt Empire's victory, it would later collapse a hundred years later.

UNIFICATION WARS (c.25,200-??? BBY)

This series of conflicts was fought between the four factions that would lead to the Galactic Republic's foundation. The faction that was comprised of worlds such as Coruscant and Alderaan was led by Dux Magnum, who would later become the first Supreme Chancellor of the Republic.

Other factions include the Corellian faction, the Kingdom of Duro, and possibly the Azure Imperium of the Azure Sector.

FIRST GREAT SCHISM (c.24,500 BBY)

The Force Wars would defiantly not be the last conflict within the Jedi Order. Sometime after the Republic's founding, a Jedi Knight known as Xendor left the Order after being denied to explore other Force religions and traditions. 

He soon formed the Legions of Lettow, along with his lover, the Follower of Palawa Arden Lyn, and led a war against the Jedi Order to defend their traditions. The schism eventually ended with the death of Xendor at the hands of Jedi Master Awdrysta Pina. 

Thousands of years later, Xendor's legions would survive through Arden Lyn, who would survive to the reign of the Galactic Empire and serve as one of Emperor Palpatine's acolytes.

FIRST ALSAKAN CONFLICT (17,018-16,700 BBY)

The first of seventeen, the First Alsakan Conflict began when Coruscant and Alsakan began competing over planets in the Expansionist Regions. War ensued, lasting for centuries, until the Bureau of Ships and Services brought it to an end.

DUINOUGWUIN CONTENTION/THE STAR DRAGON CONFLICT (15,500-??? BBY)

This conflict started when a group of Republic explorers discovered the Duinougwuin-otherwise known as Star Dragons-on the planet Murkhana. When the explorers fled, hundreds of Star Dragons chased them, and ended up attacking Coruscant. Eventually, Supreme Chancellor Fillorean managed to negotiate with the Star Dragon philosopher Borz'Mat'oh and bring an end to the conflict.

PIUS DEA CRUSADES (11,965-10,966 BBY)

The Pius Dea was a humanocentric religious sect who saw aliens being responsible for the corruption in the Republic and the galaxy. After preaching and assassinating Chancellor Stask Pers'lya, the Pius Dea had one of their own, Contispex, become Supreme Chancellor.

For the next millennium, the Pius Dea would lead crusades against alien factions across the galaxy, and the Contispex dynasty was at the head of it all. The Pius Dea were finally defeated when the last of the Pius Dea fleets were eliminated and Chancellor Contispex XIX was captured on Uquine by the Jedi Order, the Caamasi, and other allied factions.

Afterwards, Jedi Grand Master Biel Ductavis became Supreme Chancellor.

HUNDRED-YEAR DARKNESS (7,003-6,900 BBY)

Also known as the Second Great Schism, this war began when a group of Jedi led by Master Ajunta Pall began creating creatures known as Leviathans with alchemy. The Order banned Pall and his followers, who then declared war.

A hundred years later, Pall's Dark Jedi were defeated on Corbos, and their remnants were exiled to the Outer Rim. Pall and the Exiles soon discovered Korriban, homeworld of the Sith. After slaying their king, Hakagram Graush, Pall formed the First Sith Empire, declaring himself Dark Lord of the Sith.

Prominent and Key figures

And now for additional information on the leaders and key players of these many wars.

GALACTIC REPUBLIC / JEDI ORDER

Dux Magnum; a Human male from Coruscant, Magnum was leader of the Core Founders and the first Supreme Chancellor. His term lasted for at least ten years, and he was known for wearing blue-colored robes.

Fillorean; a male politician, Fillorean was Supreme Chancellor when the Star Dragons attacked Coruscant. He negotiated peace with Borz'Mat'oh and the two later founded the University of Coruscant.

Stask Pers'lya; a Bothan male from Bothawui, Pers'lya was the last alien Chancellor for the next ten centuries. He was assassinated by the Pius Dea.

The Contispex Dynasty; comprised of mainly Humans from Coruscant, all members of the dynasty served as Supreme Chancellor until their nineteenth member was arrested on Uquine.

Biel Ductavis; a male Jedi Master, Ductavis served as Grand Master and leader of the High Council during the Pius Dea Crusades' final years. He led the battle of Uquine and arrested Contispex XIX.

OTHER FACTIONS

Xim the Despot; a Human male from Argai, Xim was the son of pirate leader Xer the Eighth, who ruled the Kingdom of Cron. Xim later went on to form his own empire and conquered many worlds in the outer regions of space. He was eventually defeated on Vontor by the Hutt Empire and later died in the dungeons of Kossak the Hutt.

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Thirteen and Epilogue

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

To Toah, everything was a blur. Just as the Crimson Emperor was about to send his guards to attack Darth Nemesis, the throne room's doors opened again, and a man in dark, almost rusted armor barged in and unleashed a barrage of lightning at the guards, killing each and every one of them.

Then, from behind his back, he brought out a staff with two short blades on one end, and a small hoop the size and shape of a ring on the other. He plunged it into the ground, sending a seismic wave that knocked everyone nearby off their feet, including Nemesis.

For a while, the whole room was silent, until the armored man spoke in a voice Toah recognized all too well. "Good evening, everyone," he said. "Am I interrupting anything?"

The Emperor was the first who managed to get to his feet. "Ah...Lord Vorath. You've made quite an entrance..."

"Indeed," Vorath replied coldly. As he observed the room's other occupants, he suddenly made eye contact with Toah. The Dark Lord of the Sith let out a laugh that raised the hairs on the back of Toah's neck.

"Well, look who we have here," Vorath said with a mirthless laugh. "It's been a while, hasn't it, Toah Jarsan?"

All eyes were upon Toah. "How does he know your name?" Luke asked him.

Toah sighed. "Remember when I told you about thee Sith Kyle and I encountered many years ago?" He gestured to Vorath. "He was one of them."

"Yes, I was," Vorath said with another chuckle. "Now, may I ask why you and your Jedi friends are on Dromund Kaas? You are the only ones I were not expecting to find here."

Toah took a deep breath, unsure if he should tell Vorath the reason he was on Dromund Kaas. He glanced at Luke, who gave him a small, slow nod.

Toah turned back to Vorath and, after taking another deep breath, he spoke. "I was told that my father, Aron Jarsan, was sent here long ago by the spirit of Exar Kun."

To his surprise, the Dark Lord froze, his red eyes staring into Toah's. "Aron Jarsan, you say?" Vorath muttered. "I must admit, I never thought I would hear that name ever again..."

Toah's eyes widened. "You...you knew my father?"

Vorath slowly nodded, looking almost as if he was not paying any attention to the Jedi Knight anymore. "Yes... I knew him. A bit all too well. Many times have I tried to forget his name, but how can I forget the one man who stole everything I held dear to me, and ruined the life I once had..."

Abruptly, Vorath turned away from Toah and began walking aimlessly but slowly down the throne room. "Once, in a life I abandoned long ago, I was known as Kalon Soral."

He paused, as if waiting for a reaction from his 'audience'. When none came, he went on. "I see that my old name is not a well known one. Somehow, I'm not surprised. Anyway, I was born on Coruscant and raised by the Jedi Order. Among my peers were Aron Jarsan and...Nova Larisa."

Vorath suddenly stopped halfway towards the Crimson Emperor's throne. His eyes seemed to drift pass the armored man and into the world beyond. After a long moment of silence, the Dark Lord sighed. "I shall not bore you all with the details. To make a long story short, Aron Jarsan took the one thing I loved and, indirectly, made me the person who I am now."

He continued his way down the throne room, making his way to where the Emperor was standing. "And for that," Vorath finished, "I thank him."

The Emperor tilted his head, as if he was giving the Sith Lord an unimpressed look. "Thank you for that fascinating tale," he said dryly. "Now, may I ask why you are here? Or, better yet, what in the galaxy is going on?"

Vorath chuckled, bringing out his staff again. "That is a good question, I must admit. To put it bluntly, Espaa Valorum..."

Suddenly, the staff's tip began to glow with white energy. The Emperor quickly looked around, as if looking for a way to escape, but to no avail. Vorath slowly raised the spear-like staff at Valorum's chest. 

"You are no longer needed."

A blinding beam of light blasted from the staff, hitting the Emperor square in the chest. The Sith Lord then gave the weapon a small flick, which pulled what appeared to be Valorum's spirit from his body. An ear-piercing shriek emitted from the spirit before it was absorbed into the staff's blades.

Once the spectacle had ended, Vorath turned to face the occupants in the room. With a voice colder than Death itself, he said, "I suggest you all run back to your squabbling government on Coruscant. The shuttle Lord Ravage and the others brought you in is awaiting."

"Why?" Luke demanded, suddenly getting to his feet and striding towards Vorath. "Why haven't you learned from Palpatine's errors? Why have you waited so long to do what's been done before? Why...why are you doing this?"

Vorath gave him another, mirthless chuckle. "It's simply what we do."

With that, the Dark Lord unleashed a blast of lightning, which sent Luke flying across the room. Just as Chewbacca easily managed to catch him, the ground began to shake.

"As I said," Vorath muttered, sounding as if he did not fell the quakes, "your shuttle awaits."

Without further hesitation, Luke, Toah, and the others rushed out of the temple. Leia, Han, Chewie, and the droids headed for the Sith's shuttle, while Luke, Toah, and Kyle ran back for the Raven's Claw. In a few minutes, they were in their spacecrafts and on their way to Coruscant. 

If anyone of them had lingered, they would've noticed a large mass arising from the ground...

*  *  *

Darth Ravage scowled as he watched the two ships streak across Dromund Kaas' skyline and blast off into space. So that was it, he thought. After all the trouble he went through to capture Senator Organa and take her to Emperor Valorum, where she was to be used as a way to force the Republic to surrender, it proved to be a moot point as both the Republic and the Empire would have ended up under the Sith's control eventually. 

The Zabrak Sith gritted his teeth. Sooner or later, he thought, Vorath's plans would crumble beneath him and the Sith would need a new leader-a suitable one. Someone with enough brains and brawn to carry out the Sith's domination.

And Ravage knew that, with complete certainty, that someone would be him.

*  *  *

Toah remained silent during the entire journey from the Dromund system to Coruscant. What he had just learned from Darth Vorath was almost too much to comprehend. Did Vorath knew his father? Had Aron Jarsan caused Kalon Soral fall to the dark side? Or was the Dark Lord simply lying? But why would he lie specifically to him? What was he to Vorath, if not a potential apprentice?

He was determined to find out, and he knew the best place was the one he was raised on: Dantooine.

Toah sighed as he leaned back in his seat. This was likely his last chance to relax, for another war was on the horizon. And the Jedi would do whatever it took to save the galaxy from the Sith.

No matter what.

EPILOGUE

It had begun.

As the Sith god known as Kal-Teraz began to rise from his tomb, the spirit knew that this was the beginning of a new era. An era which would see the end of the New Republic, the Galactic Empire, and their everlasting war. An era which would see the rise of a new Sith Empire. An era which would be instigated not by Darth Vorath, nor Finis Valroum, but the spirit itself.

And soon, the galaxy would learn to fear his name and the chaos it would bring...

TO BE CONTINUED...

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Twelve

CHAPTER TWELVE

Darth Ravage growled as he searched the streets of Kaas City for Leia Organa, Han Solo, and the Wookiee and the droids they always carried around. They could not have gotten far, he thought. If he didn't find them in the next five minutes, he would have to presume that Emperor Valorum had captured them.

Suddenly, the Zabrak Sith Lord stopped in his tracks. He slowly turned his head to the side, although he knew what he was going to see. Standing before him, pitted black armor covering his usual dark robes, was Darth Vorath.

"Master..." Ravage muttered, dropping to one knee. "What a...pleasant surprise. What brings you here to Dromund Kaas?"

"I should be asking you the same," Vorath said coldly. "I thought I made it clear that all Sith under my rule were not to come to Dromund Kaas as to not attract suspicion from the Imperials."

Ravage's eyes darted around, as if trying to think of a good excuse, which came to no avail. "I-well, we were bringing prisoners to Emperor Valorum,"

Vorath gave the Zabrak Sith an inquisitive look. "Really? Who were these prisoners?"

Ravage hesitated before answering. "Senator Leia Organa and Captain Solo of the New Republic..."

Vorath's eyes flared with anger. "Did I not make it specifically clear that I wanted you to kill any prominent figure of the Republic and Palpatine's Empire dead?"

Before Ravage could answer, he was struck by a blast of lightning crackling from Vorath's fingertips.

"I thought I had faith in you, Darth Ravage," Vorath growled. "It is one thing to fail the task I have given you. It's another to disobey my orders entirely!"

"I-I can make it up to you, master!" Ravage cried, withering in agony. "Please! Spare me!"

Vorath scowled. "And just why should I believe you?"

"The last of Palpatine's Imperials are dead!" Ravage exclaimed. "I killed their leader, Moff Onneir, myself!"

Suddenly, the lightning ceased. The inquisitive look Vorath had before returned. "Is that so?" he asked. "Well...that's good to know."

Ravage winced as he got back to his feet. "And...if you'd like...I can kill Senator Organa and Captain Solo...once I find them, of course."

"I don't think that will be necessary," Vorath replied. "Unless I'm mistaken, Emperor Valorum should have made a thorough job of them by now."

He glanced at the Imperial Palace that laid ahead. "In fact, let us pay him a visit."

*  *  *

Everyone in Valorum's throne room were in total silence. Nothing could describe the shock on Leia and Han's faces at the sight of Luke, Toah, and Kyle Katarn. The only ones who did not appear to be in complete surprise were the Emperor and the black-robed man.

Valorum was the first to speak. "You must be Darth Nemesis. The Dark Lord has spoken much about you."

"Indeed," Darth Nemesis muttered, reaching for a lightsaber hooked onto his belt.

Valorum seemed to notice this and he tilted his head curiously to the Sith Lord. "May I ask why you are here?"

"To finish my job," Nemesis growled as two red blades ignited from his lightsaber. "Thrawn was no problem. You shouldn't be either."

From beneath his helmet, Valorum's eyes narrowed. One by one, his guards activated silver-bladed lightsabers. With a voice colder than the icy air of Hoth, the Crimson Emperor said, "So I take it any further dealings with Darth Vorath are out of the question."

"I do not know what you are talking about," Nemesis replied. "What I do know is that this Empire will never rise again."

"We shall see, Lord Nemesis," Valorum said. The guards began to approach the Sith Lord. "We shall see."

*  *  *

Fourteen years, Jenssar thought. For fourteen years had he been at the post of Chief of State. Since his election, the war against Palpatine and the Galactic Empire had finally ended, and the galaxy was at last at peace.

The Duros Chief sighed. In a few weeks, a new Chief would be elected and Jenssar would be returning to his homeworld of Duro. Would his successor be worthy of leading the Republic into what could be its 'Golden Age', he wondered? He had now way of knowing, but he was certain the Senate would choose someone who they would think was similar to Jenssar; a benevolent, wise leader.

Just then, the speaker built into his desk beeped, and the voice of his secretary spoke out. "Chief SoBilles, there's someone who wishes to speak with you. He says his name is Atha Prime."

"Hm," Jenssar said. "Never heard of him. Let him in anyway."

Shortly after speaking those words, the door to his office opened, and in walked a tall, male humanoid adorning crimson robes, and with some sort of breathing mask or helmet over his head.

"Greetings, Chief SoBilles," the humanoid said as he approached Jenssar's desk. "My name is Atha Prime, reformed leader of the Imperial Sentinel Guard, former senator of the Old Republic, and current member of the Science Division."

'My, you've made quite a reputation," Jenssar replied, smiling. "Come, take a seat."

"I appreciate the offer, but I'd rather stand," Atha Prime said, his voice barely sounding appreciative. 

"Very well," Jenssar said, folding his hands together. "So, what did you wish to discuss about?"

"About how things are currently playing out in the galaxy," Atha replied, beginning to pace back and forth. "According to the HoloNet News, it seems Senator Fey'lya and Gavrisom are high up in the polls."

'Indeed," Jenssar muttered, slightly wearily. "I'm sure either one of them shall be a great leader for the Republic."

"Well, the problem, Chief SoBilles, is that they won't be." Atha ceased his pacing and turned to face Jenssar. "You see, sir, the reason the Old Republic for so long after the Sith Wars was because of the House of Valorum."

Jenssar rose an eyebrow. "True, Chancellor Tarsus Valorum had a key role in the Ruusan Reformations..."

Atha nodded. "And then descendants such as Tullius and Eixes followed him and glorified the Republic's Golden Age."

"Yes, but when Finis Valorum entered the fray, the Republic was on its dying hinges. In fact, he failed the Republic by allowing Palpatine to snatch it from right under his nose."

For a brief second, Atha rolled his hand into a fist, but quickly unfolded it. "In your eyes, perhaps," he said stiffly. "But I believe, if it weren't for the Sith's schemes at the time, Finis Valorum would've saved the Republic from the ruins Frix and Kalpana had left it in."

"I doubt it," Jenssar replied. "My father knew Finis and said he was just as bad as Frix and-"

Suddenly, Atha advanced towards Jenssar's desk and leaned forward, so that the glowing scarlet eyes behind his mask could bore into the Duros'.

"Your father," Atha said quietly and bitterly, "was mistaken."

Startled, Jenssar briefly glanced at his desks speaker. Slowly and cautiously, he moved his hand towards the built-in comlink. Noticing this, Atha seized his hands with a tightening grip. 

"Don't bother," he muttered. "Your guards will no longer heed your call, for you have been relieved from service."

"What are you talking about?" Jenssar spat. "I am still the Chief of State!"

"Not anymore," Atha said coldly. "You see, Palpatine took the Republic that rightfully belonged to me. Thus, as my first act of vengeance, I created the Palpatine clone and the Dark Empire to serve as a distraction for your Republic, while I manipulated senators such as Fey'lya and Pwoe to set the stage for my return.

"Then, after I disposed of the clone Palpatine, I allowed more than a decade of peace to pass so that, when you least expected it, I could make my entrance and take back what was mine."

Before Jenssar could say anything, Atha Prime reached into his cloak and brought out a blaster, aiming it at Jenssar's forehead. 

"In case you haven't figured it out yet," Atha said quietly, "I am Finis Valorum. And this is my Republic."

And just as Atha pulled the trigger, Jenssar realized that he had failed his father.

*

   Author's note (5/12/13): With the change I made in Chapter Two, it is now set up that SoBilles was Chief from 11 ABY to 19 ABY, succeeded by another Chief who lasted from 19 ABY to 23 ABY, and then SoBilles was re-elected in 23 ABY. Since in my stories Chiefs of State have two four-year terms (like US Presidents), that would mean that they shouldn't be having elections until 26 or 27 ABY. However, in this chapter, Atha Prime mentions that they are. 

   Now then, I might have done the math wrong, and so this 'retcon' might not be necessary, but either way, I'm changing it (in my mind) so that the New Republic either holds elections earlier than we do (because it is a rather big galaxy, and I'm sure tons of people want to be 'President') or the polls to which Atha refer to have nothing to do with presidential elections. However, I have no idea what else it could be....

 

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Eleven

CHAPTER ELEVEN

"Dromund Kaas..." Kyle Katarn muttered as he leaned back in the pilot's seat of the Raven's Claw. He had nearly lost his ship on Telos IV when he and Toah followed a Sith Lord to an unknown planet and then nearly got killed by unknown warriors on Dathomir. He wasn't sure if he was up for another potentially dangerous planet.

'Have you heard of it before?" Toah asked as he got into the seat next to him. "I mean, you've been to all sorts of planets before..."

"Dromund Kaas wasn't one of them," Kyle said. "But I have heard of it. I don't much about it though, other than it has some connections to the Sith."

"Can you get us there?" asked Luke, who sat in a passenger's seat behind Toah.

Kyle grinned. "Sure I can. But if we leave alive without this ship, one of you will have to get me a new one."

Toah smiled back. "As long as we do make it out alive."

The Raven's Claw began to lift off the ground and soon, it was shooting into Yavin Four's atmosphere, on a set course for the Dromund system.

*  *  *

"Explain to me again how this is a good idea," Han whispered to Leia as they, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and R2-D2 were led into the Imperial fortress-though it seemed more like a palace-by guards armored in crimson. 

Leia's plan to get into the palace was to surrender themselves to the guards, who would most likely figure that they were Republic spies. At first, Han thought this was a good idea, but he began to have second thoughts when he realized how old and blatantly obvious it was. So obvious, in fact, that even the Empire couldn't have fallen for it.

They eventually reached a throne room, which was decorated with crimson drapes, the Imperial insignia imprinted on them. At the end of the hall sat a man in armor similar to the guards, though most of the red was black. His face was hidden by a helmet eerily similar to the ones worn by the Emperor's Royal Guards.

When the guards approached the man, he seemed to glance from them to their captives. In a cold yet gentle voice, he said, "Who are these...guests?"

"They are Republic spies, your majesty," one of the guards said. "We don't know how they got here, but they were trespassing at the palace's gates."

The man turned his head to Han and the others. "Republic spies, you say? Strange that the Republic is aware of us, considering we've never made contact with them."

"Are you serious?" Han exclaimed. "This blasted Empire has been at was with us for twelve years! And you're saying you haven't 'made contact' with us?"

At first, the masked man made no reply. Then, he let out a quiet laugh. "Ah, what we have here is a little misunderstanding."

The man rose from his throne, placing his arms behind his back. "You see, my friends, this empire...is not supposed to be like the one Palpatine forged. True, a fraction of our forces were once part of the old Empire, but they have been reformed."

"What are you trying to say?" Leia asked. The man gave another chuckle.

"What I'm trying to say, my dear, is that I am trying to reshape the Galactic Empire into what it was meant to be: a peaceful government, ruled by one, true ruler. I, Emperor Valorum, descendant of Tarsus, whose dream of a reformed Republic is much like mine for the Empire."

Han's eyes narrowed. "And where does the Republic stand in all of this?"

Although his face was concealed, Han could tell that a sly smile was crawling onto Valorum's mouth. "What Republic?"

*  *  *

Darth Nemesis silently walked through the empty streets of Kaas City-which was thought to be named Karnor by its residents-never taking his eyes off the magnificent palace that laid up ahead. As his boots splashed in the murky puddles formed by the rain, the Sith Lord began to feel a strange familiarity with the place, as if he had been here once, long ago...

*  *  *

The man dragged the corpse of a deceased Neimoidian into his master's chamber. He tossed the dead alien to the floor, letting it roll over to the cloaked being's feet.

"Good work," the Sith Master said to his apprentice. "Did he recognize your appearance?"

"Just barely," the man replied. "It took him at least until I was right about to kill him."

"Very good," the master muttered. "It appears that you have passed your final trial."

Almost as if on cue, the man dropped to one knee and lowered his head. His master ignited a red-colored lightsaber and hovered it over the man's shoulder.

"The dark side has become your ally," said the Sith Master. "At last, you have become something the real Anakin Skywalker could not. You have ridden yourself of emotions such as remorse. You have ridden yourself of Padme Amidala. You have become a true Sith Lord."

He deactivated the lightsaber. "Rise, Darth Nemesis."

The man rose to his feet. "What is thy bidding, my master?"

"You are to accompany Lord Ravage to the planet Aargau," Darth Vorath said. "There you will find former Banking Clan member and Separatist Nix Card. I want him brought before me alive."

Darth Nemesis rose an eyebrow. "Wait...Lord Ravage? You mean you have another apprentice?"

"Yes." The Sith master gave him a suspicious look. "Is there a problem with that?"

"No," Nemesis answered hastily. "Not at all. It shall be done, my master."

"Good," the Dark Lord said, turning to gaze at the swamp-like scenery out of his chamber's window. "Your ship awaits."

*  *  *

As the Raven's Claw jumped out of hyperspace and descended towards the world of Dromund Kaas, Toah began to feel some sort of dread fill him, as if something wasn't...right. He couldn't figure out for certain what it was that he was feeling, but he shrugged it off, thinking that it was due to the planet's connection to the Sith.

The small ship came to a slow land before the entrance to a city. As the three Jedi stepped out, Toah suddenly felt a stange, dark presence of sorts. Luke and Kyle seemed to have noticed it too.

"Something's not right here," Kyle muttered, putting his hand on his lightsaber. "I hate to say it...but I have a bad feeling about this."

"I agree," Luke said, looking towards the palace that stood at the end of the city. "It seems as if-"

Suddenly, his eyes widened. Before Toah or Kyle could ask him what was wrong, the Jedi Master murmured quietly to himself, "Leia..."

Without a word, Luke sprinted into a run, with Kyle and Toah struggling to keep up with him.

*  *  *

"Forget it!" Han snapped before Leia could say anything to Valorum. "We're not joining your blasted Empire! That offer didn't work before, it isn't going to now!"

"Oh, I'm afraid you don't really have a choice," Valorum replied with a chuckle. "Unless you wish to live on the streets of Nar Shaddaa."

"Let me guess," Leia said dryly. "You have an Imperial fleet ready to attack Coruscant in case we decline your offer, or you have that weapon Palpatine used to destroy Empress Teta."

Valorum responded with a harsh laugh. "No, my dear, defiantly not. However, I do have someone placed on Coruscant who will carry out an act that will make you regret declining my offer-"

Just then, the Crimson Emperor froze, his eyes seeming to gaze towards the entrance to his throne room. Leia, Han, and the others turned to see a black-robed man, holding three others by the collar, one of them, to Leia's horror, being Luke.

"Well," the man said, smiling. "Look who's here."   

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

"I don't think you should do this, Wedge," Lando said to the Corellian pilot as the two of them walked down the hall leading to Jenssar SoBilles' office. "What's done is done. You can't just fix Bastion."

"It's not Bastion that I'm worried about," Wedge replied. "It's the idea of using this weapon in general. I have a feeling SoBilles will want to use this Decimator on any planet still loyal to the Empire."

"But, Wedge," Lando protested, "there is no Empire. Palpatine was reported dead fourteen years ago, and whoever was leading the Imps on Bastion is surely gone as well."

Wedge stopped in his tracks and sighed. "I know that, Lando, but I can't just sit and watch this Republic become like the old one. I have to make a stand."

Lando threw his hands up in mock surrender. "All right, do what you have to. You've been with the Rebellion longer than I have."

"Thanks, Lando," Wedge said as he entered the Chief of State's office.

Inside, three senators sat at Jenssar's desk. Among them was Borsk Fey'lya, who noticed Wedge entering the room.

"General Antilles," the Bothan said, giving a surprisingly respectful nod. "Congratulations on your successful mission at Bastion. The Empire is now officially no more."

Wedge disregarded the compliment. "Senators, Chief...I'd like to speak with you about the...decimation of Bastion."

Jenssar eyed Wedge carefully. "You don't have a problem with it now, do you, general?"

"Actually, sir, I do," Wedge replied. "What was done to Bastion...how is it different from what the Empire's done? Innocent lives might have been lost!"

Borsk's horse-like face darkened. "Imperials are not innocent, general. What we've done is justice."

Wedge frowned. "No, sir. I hate to disagree, but what we did is not justice. Imperial or not, we could've given them amnesty, or a second chance!"

"It is too late for that," said a Quarren senator. "What's done is done. Now, do you have any further objections before we demote you?"

"Now, now, Pwoe, let's not get ahead of ourselves," Jenssar said. "General Antilles, I understand how you feel. I was also somewhat hesitant to proceed with the attack, but it had to be done, so that we could ensure peace for the galaxy."

Wedge lowered his head. "I...understand. I apologized for questioning you, sirs.:

"Apology accepted, general," Jenssar said kindly. "You are dismissed."

Wedge nodded and headed out the door, but not before briefly glancing at Borsk Fey'lya, who observed him with what almost seemed to be disdain.

*  *  *

Vorath followed the ghost of Darth Vitus to the ancient Sith Lord's old compound. It was small, rectangular, and made of steel, which had long since turned to dust. Inside the base were various objects, including expired chemicals, dusty equipment, and dead or failed experiments. 

But what caught Vorath's eye was a set of black and silver armor, suspended in animation, held within a cylindrical prison. Resting beside it was a long staff, ending with two, parallel blades.

The spirit of Vitus turned to face him. "It is yours," the ghost said.

Vorath approached the armor's cell and waved his hand over its control panel. The cylinder opened and Vorath retrieved a black helmet from it. The helmet seemed to stare at him, its empty eye sockets almost piercing into him. The Dark Lord rose the helmet and slid it over his head. As if on cue, the other pieces of armor suddenly latched onto him, and the staff flew into his hand.

A strange feeling of power filled him, a sense that he had never felt since his fall to the dark side. He rose the staff, twirled it in his hands for a few seconds...then he aimed it at Vitus' spirit.

The deceased Sith spirit's eyes widened and he backed away. "What are you doing?!" he exclaimed. "I gave you the armor of Valtheran! What do you think you're doing?!"

"Just testing it, is all," Vorath muttered as a beam of white energy emitted from the staff. When it made contact with Vitus's spirit, it began to drag the ghost towards the staff. Vitus screamed in terror, but he was quickly silenced when he was absorbed into the staff's bladed tip.

For a long time, Vorath simply stood alone in the compound, admiring his work. Suddenly, a cold voice cackled out from nowhere. Vorath was not startled. He knew who it was.

"Well, you've finally found what you're looking for," the spirit said, the same spirit who had found Jerec and the other Imperial Dark Jedi nearly two decades ago. "Now what? You're Sith are all ready to hold their own against the Jedi. We're ready to make our move!"

"Not yet," Vorath said quietly. "I still need to find Kal-Teraz, the Beast Lord."

"Ah, yes," the spirit murmured. "The Beast Lord. While you were wasting your time with the Tedryn Holocron, I discovered the location of Kal-Teraz's tomb."

"Really?" Vorath replied. "Where? On what planet?"

"One that you may know," the spirit said. "Dromund Kaas."

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Nine

EDITED 2/28/2017 I'll be coming back to this later, but keep in mind that I plan on changing the scene with Exar Kun to have it so that Luke and Toah are communicating with his holocron rather than his spirit, because otherwise that's... that's stupid. Like, even for me.

CHAPTER NINE

The first few zombies that lunged at Vorath were swiftly cut down by the Dark Lord's scarlet lightsaber. Two others tackled him from behind, latching onto his back. He managed to move his arm behind his back and eviscerate them, their remains dropping to the ground.

Vorath then focused his eyes on the ghost of Darth Vitus, who was observing the events from nearby, his visage and posture as calm as ever. How can a long-dead Sith Lord be controlling these zombies? Vorath asked himself. In fact, how could anyone control them? These creatures of the undead follow nothing but their own mindless will...

As the Sith Lord continued fighting his way through the endless hoards of zombies, he began to realize a possible way for Vitus' ghost to be controlling these creatures.

And it was what he was after.

His grip tightened on his lightsaber as he made his way towards Vitus, cutting down zombies along the way. When he reached the deceased Sith Lord, the ghost gave him a slightly surprised look.

"Figured it out, have you?" Vitus said. "Yes, the armor of Valtheran-or rather his staff-can put the undead under its user's command."

"So explain to me," Vorath growled, as he decapitated another zombie. "How is it that you, a ghost, an intangible entity, is able to wield a physical object, in this case, Valtheran's staff?"

A cruel smile tugged on Vitus' lips. "The relics of the ancient gods of the Sith have power beyond anyone's imagination. Crossing the realms of Life and Death is nothing compared to those powers."

Vorath's red eyes pierced the darkness of his hood. "Interesting," he muttered. "And, by the way, your creations...I have found them to be unworthy opponents."

Vitus gave a confused look. "What do you mean?"

"I expected them to be a challenge worth using a lightsaber against," Vorath said. "Unfortunately, I am not impressed."

Suddenly, before Vitus could reply, a strange breeze passed over Vorath and his adversaries. The Sith Lord began to slowly levitate up in the air as a violet orb of lightning began to envelope him. At the same time, the zombies were lifted up along with him, raving and groaning, confused by what was going on. Then, Vorath unleashed a blast of lightning, turning the undead creatures to nothing but dust once it touched them. The Sith Lord returned to the ground to see Vitus staring at him, mouth agape.

"So," Vorath said to the ghost. "Have I proven myself worthy of the armor of Valtheran?"

Vitus struggled to find his voice. "I...I suppose. Seeing that I have nothing else to use against you, I believe I have no choice."

The Sith ghost beckoned for Vorath to follow him. "Come. I shall give you the armor."

*  *  *

"Guess we're on Dromund whatever," Han murmured as he felt the Sith shuttle land. Turning to his wife, he added, "I sure hope this plan of yours works."

Leia did not answer him, instead waiting at the door to their cell, with Chewbacca at her side. "Someone's coming," she whispered to the Wookiee. "You know what to do."

Chewbacca gave a curt nod and readied himself at the door. Leia concentrated with the Force, hoping to cloud the mind of their visitor long enough so that she and her companions could escape. Once the door opened to reveal the Sith Lord Mordus, Chewbacca lashed out and knocked the Duros out cold.

The Zabrak Sith Ravage immediately came rushing down to the cell, lightsaber activated. Leia ignited her lightsaber as well and blocked an attack from Ravage.

"Go!" she shouted to Han, Chewie, and the droids. "I'll hold them off!"

"We're not leaving you!" Han protested.

Leia shot him a glare. "Dear, if you truly love me, you'll do what I tell you."

"Mistress Leia does have a point, Captain Solo!" C-3PO called as R2-D2 worked at a control panel to lower the ramp. "I suggest we get off this ship as soon as Artoo lowers the-"

"Zip it, Goldenboy!" Han snapped as he fired a shot at the Zabrak Sith, who had pushed Leia aside. At that moment, R2-D2 succeeded in activating the landing ramp and the two droids began to walk off the ship. Chewbacca lunged at Ravage, knocking the Sith Lord's lightsaber out of his hand. This gave Han enough time to rush to Leia's aide and get her back to her feet.

Once Han and Leia were off the ship safely, Chewie lifted Ravage up in the air and threw him at the oncoming Gammorean warrior. The Wookiee used this distraction to his advantage and ran off the ship, closing the ramp along the way. He was off the ship as soon as the ramp closed and rushed to catch up with his friends.

Once the five of them were far away from the Sith ship, Han stopped to catch his breath and observe their surroundings. Dromund Kaas was almost similar to Coruscant's upper levels, though it didn't seem to be as populated, and from afar, areas of swamp could be seen.

Han sighed. "So now what?" he asked Leia. "We're stuck here, no spaceport in sight..." He cringed. "And someone took the Falcon. I heard her engines roar just as we were leaving Bastion."

Suddenly, R2-D2 made a garbled beep. C-3PO turned to Han and Leia. "Um...Artoo says there is a...fortress of sorts just north of where we are. According to what he can pinpoint...it is Imperial-aligned."

Han and Leia exchanged uneasy glances. "How does Artoo know?" Han asked.

"Well, he says he is detecting large amounts of Imperial signatures, security codes, and-" C-3PO ceased speaking when Han gestured for him to.

The Corellian pilot sighed again. "Have another idea up your sleeve?" he asked Leia.

"Actually," she replied, "I just might..."

*  *  *

Toah was surprised that he and Luke came across no obstacles as they traveled through the long, descending hallway which they had entered. However, he knew there was trouble up ahead, for he felt the dark side of the Force surging through the walls of the ancient temple.

After what seemed like forever, the two Jedi Knights arrived at a vast, circular chamber, with only a lone sarcophagus occupying it, lying in the center of the room.

"So how do we give Exar Kun his wake-up call?" Toah asked his master.

Luke smiled. "Simple," he said as he got down to the stone floor, sitting in a meditative position.

For a while, nothing happened. Suddenly, the whole room began to shake. The sarcophagus' cover flew open and tendrils of shadow rose out of it. A dark voice spoke out, echoing throughout the chamber.

"Who is bold enough to break into the tomb of Exar Kun?"

Luke got to his feet. "I am Luke Skywalker, and this is my apprentice, Toah Jarsan. We wish to speak with your spirit in person, if you don't mind."

"I do not fulfill requests from Jedi," Kun's voice boomed. "Why are you here?"

Toah stepped forward. "I am here for answers," he said. "I've been told that I'm the descendant of a Sith Lord. I want to know if you are my ancestor."

"I have no descendants," Exar Kun declared. "If I did, I would've had an heir to claim my throne, and my empire would have lasted for years to come."

Toah sighed in defeat. Once again, another journey had proven to be a waste of time. As he and Luke turned to leave, Exar Kun suddenly spoke again.

"However," he said. "I have heard the name of Jarsan before. One time- I do not remember when- a man by the name of Aron Jarsan came to this very temple with questions of his own. I then directed him to a planet which may have the answers you seek."

"Which planet?" Toah asked.

"Dromund Kaas."

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

Darth Nemesis sat in the alleyway between an apartment complex and whatever was left of Thrawn's home. As the rain poured heavily onto his raised hood, the Sith Lord contemplated on how he was going to get into the Crimson Emperor's palace, and, once that was done, how he was going to kill the Emperor.

Nemesis was determined not to fail. If he did, he knew the punishment would be death. But, as he found out ever since he became Vorath's apprentice, he had already received that punishment many times before....

*  *  *

The young man exhaled heavily as he observed the scattered remains of the combat droids he had just fought and defeated. Nearby, his cloaked master watched on. The man could not tell if he was impressed or not, for his master's face was concealed by his hood.

As the man deactivated his double-bladed lightsaber, his master finally spoke. "Impressive. Although you still have not mastered the skills one must have to wield the weapon of Exar Kun."

"I am a slow learner," the man said.

The cloaked master let out a small chuckle. "I'm not surprised to be honest..."

The Sith Master walked past the man and summoned a holodroid. The robot stepped before the man and, through its holographic shapeshifting abilities, took on the form of a young woman.

The man glanced at his master. "Who is she?" he asked.

"Her identity is of no importance," the Sith Master replied. "Strike her down. Now."

The man turned on his double-bladed weapon again and rose it high over his head, ready to strike down the false woman, and brought the lightsaber down. It had only reached two inches from 'her' face when the man stopped and looked into the woman's eyes. For some reason, she felt vaguely familiar, as if he had seen her before.

"What are you waiting for?" he heard his master ask impatiently. "Kill her."

With one last gaze into the woman's eyes, the man brought his weapon down, cleaving the holodroid in half. A long silence followed, the man simply staring into the darkness before him.

"Very good," his master finally said, approaching him. "You have finally ridden the bane of your existence."

"What do you mean?" the man asked. "Who was that supposed to be?"

"She was once Queen of Naboo," the Sith Master replied. "During the Clone Wars, she represented her people in the Senate and was later killed by the man she loved."

"So how is she the 'bane of my existence'?" the man asked.

His master turned to him, and, for a split-second, the man could see a pair of scarlet eyes from beneath the hood that concealed the Sith Lord's face. His voice cold as ice, Darth Vorath said, "You are the man who loved and killed Padme Amidala."

*  *  *

The trip from the Jedi Praxeum to the Temple of Exar Kun did not take long, though the large forest that stood between the two buildings did delay Toah and his master. Eventually, the two Jedi Knights reached a temple that looked not unlike the Jedi Praxeum, though it looked more triangular and a lot more ancient.

The two of them came up to a stone entrance, with ancient markings inscribed on it. Toah reached for his lightsaber so that he could carve an opnening, but Luke stopped him.

"I doubt it's that simple," Luke said. "Exar Kun was said to be one of the most feared Dark Lords of the Sith. I think he would make sure his tomb would not be that easy to get into."

Toah nodded and allowed his master to step forward and analyzed the stone-made entrance. The Jedi Master ran his fingers across the imprinted writing, looking as if he felt something strange about them. After a minute or two, Luke spoke again to Toah.

"Turn on your lightsaber."

Toah gave his master a confused look. "But, you said-"

"Please do as I say," Luke insisted, activating his own lightsaber.

Hesitantly, Toah did the same, and he and Luke simultaneously pierced the stone door. The ground shook slightly as the door slowly slid down, revealing a dimly lit hallway leading into the temple.

"I thought you said that wouldn't work," Toah said after a moment of silence had passed.

"I thought so too," Luke said. "Apparently, Exar Kun knew it was so simple, that anyone would be smart enough not to try it. Which is why he made his tomb accessible that way."

"I see..." Toah muttered as he and Luke headed down the hallway. "How clever."

*  *  *

The man was on the brink of insanity. "I don't believe you..." he murmured, slowly backing up against a wall. "I've never known anyone named Padme Amidala in my whole life!"

"But did she not look familiar?" his master asked. "True, you may have never met her, but have you ever seen her in your dreams?"

The man though for a moment. "Yes..." he finally said. "I have seen her...many times, in fact. Sometimes on a beautiful planet...or a world of fire."

"Those dreams are memories," Darth Vorath explained. "Memories of a man who now rules the galaxy alongside his master. There are the memories of Darth Vader, who was once known as Anakin Skywalker."

"Why do I have his memories then?" the man asked. "Who...who am I?"

For the longest time, the Sith Master simply stood in silence. When he finally did speak, his words were enough to chill the man to the very core. "You are a clone of Anakin Skywalker. You are not the first, and if you fail the tasks I will appoint you, you won't be the last."

*  *  *

A loud noise broke Nemesis away from his thoughts. He looked up to see a shuttle of an unidentified model fly overhead, though the man easily recognized it.

It was the ship of Darth Ravage.

Nemesis growled. So, he thought, the Zabrak had come to steal his kill. He would make sure the Crimson Emperor would die by the blade of Vorath's greatest apprentice.

And, if necessary, Ravage would share the same fate.

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

After helping Remker and other fellow Jedi Knights bring the artifacts to Master Tionne's Jedi archives, Toah headed for the Council Chambers, where Luke Skywalker, Morin Tharr, Xanus Baran, and four other Jedi Masters awaited him.

"Toah Jarsan," Luke said in greeting. "We have important news for you."

Toah looked at each Jedi Master, confused. "What is it?" he asked.

The other councilors glanced at Luke. When he did not speak, a Kel Dor Jedi whom Toah knew to be Master Kro Sadoon spoke. "Shortly after you began your apprenticeship under Master Skywalker, we viewed your databanks and learned your father's name to be Aron Jarsan.

"Through further research, we discovered that the Jarsan family name went back to a Force-sensitive bloodline. A member of this bloodline was, we believe, a Sith Lord."

Toah's eyes widened at the news. "I'm...the descendant of a Sith Lord? What does this mean?"

"It means," Luke said, "that the Sith you met fourteen years ago might want to turn you to the dark side because of your heritage and use you as a way to conquer the galaxy."

Toah simply stood there, mouth slightly agape. He barely managed to speak. "So...what are going to do about this?"

Luke exchanged an uncertain glance with Morin Tharr. Turning back to Toah, he said, "When we set up the Jedi Praxeum here on Yavin Four, I sensed the presence of a long forgotten spirit. For a while, I simply belonged to a long-gone Jedi...but the other day I was proven wrong.

"I found the source of the presence I felt in an ancient temple located not far from here. I began to sense the dark side radiating from it, and spoke with the other councilors. According to Master Tharr, it is the tomb of a long-deceased Sith Lord named Exar Kun."

Toah recognized the name, having heard it in his vision on Ossus. "So you think I'm his descendant?"

"It is possible," Tharr replied. "Your ancestors had to have been human, of course. And Kun was one of the earliest known human Sith Lords."

"So, Toah," Luke said, putting a hand on Toah's shoulder. "What say we pay an old Sith ghost a visit?"

Toah gave his master an incredulous look as if to say "Are you serious?" Instead, the young Jedi Knight said, "Whatever you say, master."

*  *  *

A heavy silence followed when the projectile met its mark. For what seemed like forever, but was only a few seconds, Bastion stood still, seemingly not affected by the weapon. Suddenly, a flash of white sparked on the planet's surface and an explosion of white erupted, nearly engulfing the entire planet. The spectacle didn't last long, and when it ended, less then half of Bastion was left completely barren.

In spite of the deed being done, Wedge Antilles still kept a hold on his breath. He didn't let go of it until Captain Jal'daan's voice spoke through his headset.

"General Antilles? It's over. You may return to the Valiant."

"Yes, sir," Wedge said quietly, snapping back to reality. "I'm on my way..."

He maneuvered his fighter to turn around and head back for the Republic cruiser, wondering just jow well the Senators who had opposed this idea would react. And how it would affect him....

*  *  *

Loud, angry voices filled the Senate Chamber. In the center of the circular room sat Chief of State Jenssar SoBilles, his adviser, Verrinnefra B'Thog, and Vice Chair Trik Regan. Around them, angered senators shouted protests to both each other and to Jenssar, who hung his head slightly, uncertain on how to settle the outrage and respond to the senators' questions.

It took the booming voice of Regan to finally silence the chamber. After a brief moment of startled silence, the Ithorian spoke through his translator. "The Chief recognizes Senator Gavrisom of the Calib system."

The Calibop senator approached a loud speaker built into the marble balcony that he stood in. With a naturally high-pitched voice, Ponc Gavrisom spoke. "Chief SoBilles, many senators, including myself, are disappointed with the rushed decimation of Bastion. I thought we had come to a compromise by sending Senator Organa to negotiate a treaty with the Empire. If the offer was to be declined, Organa would've been escorted back to Coruscant and we would use the weapon.

"However, shortly after sending Senator Organa, the Chief of State sent the Fifth Fleet to use the weapon on Bastion...without escorting Senator Organa."

"On the contrary," the Quarren senator Pwoe protested, "Captain Jal'daan reported seeing the Millennium Falcon, the personal ship of Organa and her husband Han Solo, leaving Bastion.'

"True," Gavrisom replied. "But we never received a report from Organa Solo on how the negotiations went. They could have gone well for all we know, and that the Empire was falsely wiped out."

"And for all we know, the Empire could have killed Organa and Solo and stole their ship to escape." Pwoe crossed his arms defiantly. "We have no way to confirm Senator Organa's fate. She's either headed back for Coruscant or dead. Only time will tell."

Gavrisom opened his beak-shaped mouth to reply, but Jenssar held his hand up. "As Senator Pwoe has pointed out," the Duros Chief said, "we have no idea what happened to Senator Organa and Captain Solo on Bastion. I shall contact Captain Jal'daan and have him conduct a search."

"That would be a waste of time," Borsk Fey'lya said from his balcony. "It's best that we wait for Leia Organa Solo to return. If she is not back by at least the end of this month, we shall presume she is dead."

A majority of the Senate shouted in agreement, save for Gavrisom and a handful of others.

"It is agreed then," Borsk said, once the room had quieted down. He gave a pointed glance at Jenssar. "Isn't it?"

"Yes..." the Duros Chief murmured. "I suppose it is..."

*  *  *

Oricon's status as a moon was debatable. While it did indeed orbit another object, the said object was not in actuality a planet. At least not anymore.

The name Oricon once belonged to a world that was part of the Old Sith Empire during the reign of Darth Andeddu. On Oricon's moon, Andeddu's apprentice, Darth Vitus, tested experiments with Sith magic and alchemy. 

The results of these experiments to this day remain unknown, but from the evidence gathered, they were catastrophic, enough to leave the planet of Oricon nothing but a large asteroid. As a result, today the satellite that orbited Oricon was given the planet's name, though some astronomers preferred its original name, Ori-Three.   

Whatever it was called, Darth Vorath needed to find the compound of Darth Vitus, where the old Sith Lord tested his experiments. His ship slowly landed on Oricon's crater-covered surface. As he exited the ship, Vorath began to feel a strange presence in the Force, as if a phantom was lurking in the darkness of the craters. It didn't take long for him to figure out what he was sensing.

"Hello, Lord Vitus," the Dark Lord said.

A vapory mist began to form before Vorath, until it had taken the shape and image of a pure-blooded member of the Sith species.

"Welcome, stranger, to Oricon," the ghost said. "Few have come here, and none have left. What brings you here?"

"I am here for the armor of Valtheran," Vorath replied. "Your master said it was here on Oricon."

The ghost of Darth Vitus gave a malicious grin. "Indeed, it is..."

"Where is it?" Vorath demanded.

Vitus chuckled, his voice echoing throughout the moon. "If you want it, you will have to face my...children."

Suddenly, emerging from the craters came a swarm of humanoid, undead-looking beings. Vorath rose a curious eyebrow from beneath his hood. "They look quite similar to the descriptions of the undead beings that resulted from Darth Drear's experiments..."

Vitus laughed again. "Ah, I take it you've heard of him? They should look similar, seeing that I am the one who taught him how to create the virus."

Vorath said nothing as the zombies began to surround him, thirsty for blood. He ignited his lightsaber and stared coldly into Vitus' ghostly eyes. "I have braved many horrors in my life, Lord Vitus," he said. "This is nowhere near as horrific as any of them."

Vitus smiled. "We shall see about that now, won't we?"

At that moment, the zombies lunged towards Vorath....

Star Wars Destiny: Episode IV, Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

"I must say," C-3PO murmured as he, R2-D2, Han, Leia, and Chewbacca were led onto the Sith Lords' ship, "I can't recall how many times we've gotten ourselves into messes like this. More than twenty years and we still can't-"

"Shut up, droid," Lord Ravage snarled as he and the other darksiders followed their captives onto their ship. Turning to the Duros named Lord Mordus, the Zabrak said, "Set a course for the Dromund system. It's obscure enough that the Republic won't think to search for Organa there."

Mordus nodded and took the ship's controls. Just as the landing ramp raised up and Leia and the others were put in a small holding cell, the Miraluka darksider called from the cockpit. "A Republic fleet has been detected in the system. They're headed straight for Bastion."

Ravage smiled, turning to look at Leia. "I guess your benevolent Chief of State decided to go with his plan anyway. Makes you wonder how similar your Republic is to the Empire."

The Sith Lord turned away before Leia could say anything. He took out a handheld holoprojector, which turned on to show the blue, holographic replica of an armored figure. "Atha Prime," the Zabrak said, "we've captured Senator Organa, along with her husband, a Wookiee, and two droids. We are now headed for the Dromund system."

"Excellent work, Lord Ravage," Atha Prime replied. "The Dark Lord gives you less credit than you deserve."

"Thank you, sir," Ravage muttered, his voice lacking any sign of appreciation. "We shall be on Dromund Kaas in less than an hour."

The Zabrak Sith Lord turned off the projector and, after casting one last taunting glance at Leia and the others, walked towards the cockpit. The five captives remained silent, with only C-3PO breaking the silence.

"I believe I speak for everyone when I say that I have a bad feeling about this."

Han glared at the protocol droid. "Shut up, Goldenrod."

*  *  *

From the bridge of the Valiant, Captain Thrak Jal'daan observed the world of Bastion from afar. Long ago, he had once called the planet home during its time under the old Galactic Empire. And now he was about to witness its decimation. 

Ahead of his ship was a lone, X-wing starfighter, armed with the weapon that was found on Had Abbadon, which had been dubbed 'the Decimator' by Supreme Commander Garm Bel Iblis. Escorting the X-wing was a squadron of B-wing and A-wing starfighters.

"I'm in range," said the pilot of the X-wing, Wedge Antilles. "Do you want to send a few fighters to make sure Senator Organa is clear of the targeted area?"

"I'm sure she's already off-planet," Thrak answered. "I see the Millennium Falcon leaving right now, in fact."

Indeed, the Corellian ship was shooting off into space and entering hyperspace. Leia Organa Solo was surely one her way back to Coruscant. 

"You may fire when ready, General Antilles," Thrak finally said. Within a minute, a projectile had fired from the Decimator and was headed straight for Bastion...

*  *  *

Darth Andeddu lashed out at Vorath like an uncaged beast. The latter Sith Lord barely had enough time to evade the attack and make his move. Vorath swung his lightsaber at Andeddu's neck, but the ancient Sith blocked it with his own saber. Andeddu then sent Vorath flying away with a push of the Force.

Just as Vorath was getting back to his feet, Andeddu charged towards him, screaming in rage. Vorath summoned his lightsaber to his hand just as the ancient Dark Lord thrust his weapon to stab Vorath in the chest, but the younger Sith parried the attack. He then pushed Andeddu back by attacking the old one with a flurry of attacks, each one being countered by Andeddu. 

For a moment, it seemed the two Sith had come to a stalemate when, unexpectedly, Andeddu kicked Vorath in the shin and brought him to the ground, seizing his weapon. Andeddu crossed the two scarlet blades at Vorath's neck and laughed.

"Did you really think you could beat me?" the old Dark Lord sneered. "I was the apprentice of Darth Trayus, I ruled the first Sith Empire for nearly two centuries, and I learned how to cheat Death itself by using the bodies of my followers to serve as my own."

Vorath's red eyes gazed into Andeddu's empty eye-sockets. "Transfer essence," he muttered. "One of the few techniques of immortality to be successfully achieved."

Andeddu laughed. "Yes, an ability I discovered from the writings of Karness Muur. That is why you cannot beat me. That is why I am the Immortal God-King of Prakith!"

Vorath smiled, though it was obscured by the unnatural shadow surrounding his face. "You know, Lord Andeddu...kings have been known to be overthrown..."

The ancient Dark Lord laughed again. "I cannot be dethroned. You may destroy my body, but I can simply transfer my spirit to another one of my followers."

"Not unless you have any bodies to transfer to," Vorath muttered.

Suddenly, the watching followers of Andeddu collapsed to the floor, gasping for air. Confused, Andeddu moved the two lightsabers away from Vorath's neck, looking from the younger Sith Lord to his followers.

"What are you doing to them?" the ancient Sith demanded. "What are you doing to them?!"

"Isn't it obvious?" Vorath said casually. "I'm killing them. Soon, you will have no bodies left to transfer your spirit to. Soon, the so-called 'Immortal God-King' of Prakith shall fall."

As the ancient Sith Lord's followers breathed their last, Andeddu began to breathe heavily in anger. He rose the two lightsabers that he held in his hands up in the air, prepared to bring the killing blow onto Vorath. Before he could, Vorath unleashed a blast of lightning from his fingertips into Andeddu's chest.

Andeddu dropped his weapons and fell to his knees, trying to resist the pain. Vorath summoned his and Andeddu's lightsabers into his own hands and, like the old Sith had done mere minutes ago, crossed them at the Dark Lord's neck.

"And so the king falls..." Vorath muttered as he uncrossed the blades, severing Andeddu's head from his shoulders. Surprisingly, the body and its severed head turned to dust as Andeddu's spirit rose from the ashes. 

"Now," Vorath said to the now-deceased Sith Lord. "The armor of Valtheran."

A cruel smile crept onto the spirit's face. "I don't have it."

Vorath's eyes flared with anger. "What?! But you said-"

"I lied," Andeddu laughed. "From a certain point of view. While I have it in the sense that it belongs to me, I never said it was here on Prakith."

Vorath balled his hands into fists, boiling with fury. "Then where is it?" he growled through gritted teeth.

"It is within the former compound of my apprentice, Darth Vitus," Andeddu answered. "It is located in the Corva sector, on a moon called Oricon."

As the spirit began to fade away, the ancient Sith Lord added, "I doubt you'll survive Oricon. But if you do...the galaxy will have much to fear."