Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

   "We should be approaching Dromund Kaas soon," Xemer announced from the ship's navigation grid. "Please hold on to your excitement. It's not like we're visiting Glee Anselm or something."

   Wallen started to chuckle lightly at his partner's sarcasm but stopped when he saw the grim expression on Kane's face. The Jedi Knight seemed to be gazing at the swirling blue tunnel of hyperspace, but his eyes were clearly focused on something only he could see.

   Hesitantly, Wallen cleared his throat and said, "Not very fond of Dromund Kaas, are you?"

   "It had been my home for nearly my entire life," Kane muttered without turning to look at him. "I can't say I've had fond memories of it during that time."

   Wallen nodded out of understanding. He tried to think of something supportive or comforting to say, but came up with nothing.

   It was just as well, for at that moment, their ship came out of hyperspace and into the Dromund system. Wallen suddenly took a harp intake of breath as the third planet of the system came into view.

   Kane smiled at him, though it lacked merriment. "You can feel it, can't you? The dark side."

   "Oh, is that why my stomach is tightening into knots? Thanks for clearing that up."

   Their ship continued to make its trek towards Dromund Kaas, passing through the planets thick and dark storm clouds, which fogged up the shuttle's viewport. After using the ship's external wipers to clear the fog away, Wallen piloted the spacecraft through the murky swamps that made up the world's landscape.

   As they passed over the gray jungles, Wallen noticed that Kane had his eyes closed shut. Recognizing this as the Jedi method of 'reaching out with the Force', Wallen patiently remained silent. After a few minuted, the Jedi Knight finally spoke.

   "Land over there."

   The location which he had indicated were the ruins of a seemingly ancient city. It was ridden with cracks in the buildings and pavement, through which flora burgeoned. This, combined with the sight of fallen statues, gave Wallen the impression that the city was abandoned.

   As if reading his thoughts, Kane said, "This place isn't abandoned."

   "How do you know?" Wallen asked as he began to land the ship.

   The Jedi gestured to the tallest building that could be seen in the city, located at its center. "I can feel the dark side stronger from there. We are not alone."

   "I would hope not," Xemer said just as the ship touched ground. "Otherwise, this mission would've been a total bore."

*  *  *

   The nine current members of the Jedi High Council sat in a circle around the man known as Tasen Denon, who stood in the cent of the Council Chamber at the Ossus Jedi Temple. Five of them were not present physically, having been sent across the galaxy to fight in the Glorian War, and instead broadcasted themselves via life-sized holograms.

   Xanus Baran, the Grand Master of the New Jedi Order, stared emotionlessly at the Dark Jedi, who wore an unreadable expression. Finally, after having studied the man long enough, Baran spoke.

   "You do realized that you have a lot to answer for."

   Tasen nodded. "I am willing to answer any questions you may have."

   "Good," Master Nira Maren said sharply. "Perhaps you can begin by explaining why several of our fellow Jedi have been disappearing."

   Tasen smiled. "I figured you would ask that. And to answer you, I will say that the Dark Jedi Order is related to these disappearances."

   Baran raised an eyebrow. "Did they voluntarily join like you and Master Viron?"

   "Some of them did," Tasen replied. "Others did so reluctantly, a couple had to be persuaded, and quite a few rejected the offer."

   "What happened to those who turned your offer down?" asked Van-Sar-Nodan, who was broadcasting his holographic self from the Raxus system.

   "I...can not say for certain."

   The human Jedi Master known as Noran Raun leaned forward in his seat. "What about the vanishing of Kashyyyk and Kaal? Can you explain that?"

   Tasen's smile faded away. "Now that is something rather complicated to explain. Only my superiors can give you a satisfactory answer."

   "Then what can you tell us?" asked Master Odan Murk, his holographic visual shimmering as he shifted in his seat. The Weequay Jedi's tone was bitter as he continued. "You said you were willing to answer any questions we had."

   The Dark Jedi's smile returned. "I can tell you why I'm here. My order requires a certain member of yours', one who will fulfill an ancient forgotten prophecy."

   "Haven't you've gotten enough?" Nira asked dryly.

   "Not quite," Tasen said. "I am here for Jacen Solo."

     

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

   "What type of planet is this?" Anakin asked as Mortis' season and time of day changed around him and Animus for the third time in the last fifteen minutes.

   Animus, striding three feet ahead of him, spared him a quick glance. "Mortis is not your average planet. You wouldn't be able to spot it easily on a map...or at all."

   Anakin stared at a nearby tree, which, only seconds ago, had looked beautiful and welcoming, but had now changed into an old, withered, and decayed look. Turning back to Animus, he said, "Care to explain its history?"

   "Its history is irrelevant," the large man muttered and spoke no more on the matter. He remained silent as he led Anakin through a colorful, fluorescent forest that nearly morphed into a narrow bridge over a lake of lava. They soon reached what Anakin presumed was their destination: a large cave surrounded by strange plants.

   He stared at the cave's opening maw which, to complete the look, had stalactites and stalagmites protruding from the roof and ground of the cave, giving off the appearance of fangs.

   "Are you afraid?" Animus asked after Anakin stared at the entrance for a moment.

   The young Jedi shook his head hastily. "No, of course not."

   A wicked grin tugged on the corners of the larger man's mouth. "Then you will be."

   Anakin turned his attention back to the cave. "What's in there?"

   "Only one way to find out, right?"

   Nodding slowly, Anakin took in a deep breath, exhaled it out, and stepped into the cave's vicious maw, becoming devoured by darkness.

*  *  *

   The somewhat recently planted gardens located outside the Jedi Temple on Ossus was truly a sight to behold. Although it certainly wasn't as lush and widespread as flora was said to be before the Cron Supernova, it was nonetheless a step forward in restoring the ancient Jedi residence. 

   Jaina Solo had always enjoyed visiting the gardens ever since they had first blossomed, basking in the peace and serenity of it all, and even more so now, with the Glorian War going on. It was nice to take a break from flying with Rogue Squadron to enjoy some quiet time off for once, even if it was for a short time.

   As she slowly made her way through the gardens, listening to the harmonic rhythm of the songbirds native to Ossus' forests, she suddenly heard a quiet voice say, "Focus."

   She turned to see a red-skinned Nikto sitting nearby, dressed in the robes of a Jedi Master, with his eyes closed. Before him were two young Jedi trainees- a male Bith and a female Tholothian- sitting in the same cross-legged position as he was.

   "Focus," the Jedi Master repeated. "Listen to the consistent and endless melody of the songbirds. Feel the light breeze that disturbs the trees' stillness. Become one with the Force."

   Jaina smiled at the teaching session she was witnessing, being reminded of her own days as an apprentice.

   "It's hard to be in a peaceful state with a war going on," she said quietly.

   Without opening his eyes, the Nikto smiled by flattening the flaps at the corners of his mouth. "Even in darkness, there is light, and in the darkest of times, there is hope for peace."

   He opened his brown eyes and aimed their gaze at Jaina. "You, of all people, should know that, Jaina Solo. Your grandfather is one of the greatest examples of that lesson."

   He rose to his feet and offered her his hand. "I am Master Narrakar Von and these are my apprentices, Sadi Karria and her friend Bal Jal'var."

   The two apprentices stood up and bowed wordlessly to Jaina, no doubt amazed by the fact that they were in the presence of whom they saw as a legendary Jedi Knight.

   Kids these days, Jaina thought. If they found out that an Ewok was Yoda's cousin's former roommate, they would probably idolize it as well.

   "Now then," Narrakar said, "what brings you here to the gardens?"

   Just as Jaina opened her mouth to reply, a low, quiet hum sounded through the gardens of Ossus. The four Jedi looked up to see a black-colored T-65 X-wing starfighter. It looked remarkably similar to the StealthX fighters recently employed by the New Jedi Order, but its color scheme was a lot more darker.

   "Sadi, Bal, return to the temple," Narrakar said urgently to his two apprentices. "And get Master Baran."

   The young Jedi did as they were told and hurried back to the temple just as the fighter landed and a cloaked figure climbed out of the canopy. Once the stranger was out, they began walking towards the other two Jedi and Jaina got a good look at their hooded face. It was a young human male with dark skin and brown eyes, and he walked with swift, confident strides.

   Jaina did not recognize the man but Narrakar clearly did, for he narrowed his eyes with skepticism. "Tasen Denon," he muttered. "I thought you and Master Viron had vanished on a mission to Boz Pity."

   Tasen Denon nodded, coming to a stop five feet away from them. "Reports on our disappearance were accurate...save for one tidbit."

   Narrakar eyed the man warily. "And what would that be?"

   "At Boz Pity," Tasen said, "we came into contact with an organization, one which is based in the Esstran sector. We encountered the Dark Jedi Order and decided to join them."

   Jaina's eyes widened. "The Dark Jedi Order? Are you saying that you and Master Viron have...fallen to the dark side?"

   Tasen smiled tightly. "I wouldn't say we 'fell'. But, yes, we voluntarily turned to the dark side, alongside other like-minded individuals."

   Narrakar crossed his arms. "Why are you here?"

   The Dark Jedi's smile widened. "I think it would be best if I spoke with Master Baran."

*  *  *

   The cold, damp cave was silent, save for the droplets of water that dripped from the sharp, seemingly lethal stalactites that hung overhead. Anakin had no idea how much further he had to go, or how far the cave even went, for he was completely blinded in the darkness.

   He felt his heart beat with fear, but he tried to calm it down. A Jedi knew no fear.

   A Jedi knows no fear, a voice from behind him repeated.

   Anakin froze, the voice still echoing in his ears. Knowing it would be pointless to look behind him, he reached out with the Force. As far as he could tell, he was alone in the cave.

   After a moment of stillness- and silence- he took a step forward. The voice returned. Nor hatred.

   Anakin immediately stopped, his breathing suddenly heavy. "Who's there?" he called out.

   No reply came. When one still did not after a few minutes, he took another step. Sure enough, the voice spoke again, this time sounding like a mere whisper in his head.

   Nor love.

   Taking a deep breath, Anakin closed his eyes (not that it made a difference) and reached out again, this time with his mind. Who are you?

   I am what you once were, what you are now, and what you may become.

   Footsteps. The slow but loud sound of armored boots hitting against the stone floor. Whoever was approaching him, Anakin could sense a strong 'dark side-aura' radiating from them. Was it a Sith? A Dark Jedi? Or some other darksider?

   His questions were answered by the loud, almost clamorous sound of breathing, clearly emitting from a respirator of some sort. It was soon followed by the hissing sound of a lightsaber activating, its crimson glow illuminating the cave.

   Letting his breath out, though it was not out of relief, he brought out his own lightsaber, igniting its azure blade.

   "I take it that you're one of my trials," he said, trying to gather his strength.

   "Do not try to mask your fear," Darth Vader replied. "The facade of confidence is one that's easy to melt."

   Anakin turned around fully to face the masked phantom that stood before him, towering over him like a giant. He braced himself as he raised his blade to defend from the Dark Lord's assault.

  

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Five

CHAPTER FIVE

   "Okay," Jast Kyjar muttered, breaking the silence that had followed Zerev's revelation. "That's great and all, and I really like the little presentation you gave us, but you still haven't answered my question: what are we gonna do?"

   Zerev signaled Xilus to turn off the map and the Ortolan did so. The small sphere in his pudgy hand began to evaporate the miniature representation of the galaxy and all of the trillions of stars and planets were sucked back into the even smaller orb.

   Turning back to Jast, Zerev said, "Well, clearly we have to stop the Glorians from rebuilding the Star Forge. How, exactly, is something we're still working on."

   "I think they still owe more explanation," Durus said after reopening the shutters. "Such as why they're even here in the first place."

   "I was going to get to that eventually," Zerev snapped, but Anakin could see the embarrassment of forgetfulness in the Siniteen's wrinkled face. "Anyway, to clear thing up for you...it's not exactly all of you that we need here on Mortis. We only needed Anakin Solo."

   Jast and the others turned their eyes on the young Jedi, who raised his hands in a defensive manner. "I...I don't know what you're talking about. I'm nothing special..."

   "Don't be modest!" Durus said. "You're the grandson of Anakin Skywalker, the Chosen One! The Hero With No Fear! Knight of the Republic!"

   "You forgot Dark Lord of the Sith," Anakin muttered.

   The Zilkin's face fell slightly. "Oh, yeah. Well, hey, everyone reaches a point in their life which makes them wish they never got there in the first place, right?"

   "I think I've gotten there long ago," murmured the stormtrooper Vex. The others ignored him.

   "Either way," Zerev said, "you carry a great legacy, Anakin, and an even greater destiny awaits you."

   "But before you can achieve that destiny," Animus added, "there are a few trials you must pass first."

   "Trials?" Anakin asked.

   The large man glared at him. "Are you a Jedi or just a living echo?"

   Before he could respond, Animus was already heading out of the chamber. As he started to follow him, Anakin turned to look at his companions. While Sev, Jast, Lumpy, and the stormtroopers showed looks of support on their faces, Lysira's remained expressionless. As the doors started to close behind him, he could've sworn he saw a glint of emotion in her eyes.

   What that emotion was, though, he could not tell.

*  *  *

   "Good day, Captain Nix," the Anakin Skywalker lookalike said with a slight bow. "And Lieutenant Xemer. I am Kane Skywalker of the New Jedi Order."

   Wallen visibly relaxed himself. "That explains the resemblance. My apologies, Master Jedi; for a moment, I had though Anakin Skywalker had returned from the dead."

   Kane smiled. "Please, just call me Kane. And it could have been worse. I could have been the resurrected form of Darth Vader."

   "Technically, you are," Wallen heard Xemer murmur.

   Wallen mentally nodded. Nearly ten years ago, Kane Skywalker was a Sith Lord named Darth Nemesis, a clone of the legendary Chosen One created by Darth Vorath. During the Battle of Coruscant, Nemesis redeemed himself by helping Toah Jarsan and Luke Skywalker defeat Vorath and bring an end to the war. Afterward, Nemesis, having changed his name to Kane Skywalker, was accepted into the New Jedi Order, though his true origins were kept secret to anyone outside the Jedi Order and the Galactic Alliance, instead coming up with a cover story that he was a lost cousin or son of Luke.

   "So," Kane said, "I take it you two are heading for Dromund Kaas."

   "Yes," Wallen replied. "Care to give us some heads-ups before we go?"

   "Eh, there's not much to watch out for," the Jedi said with a nonchalant shrug. "The youzusks enjoy the thrill of the hunt, so don't give them something they'll want badly. And the vine cats are always hungry..."

   Xemer turned his head to Wallen, and even though the Kel Dor's eyes were concealed by his protective goggles, the creases around them already betrayed the fear he felt. In spite of this, however, he turned back to Kane and said, with a bare hint of sarcasm in his voice, "Sounds like a great vacation spot."

   Kane shrugged again. "The Shawda Ubb might find the swamps welcoming, but it isn't any Glee Anselm. Especially when the swamp wampas get to you."

   Once again, Xemer's antiox breath mask hid any apprehension Wallen knew he felt. "Sounds find to me."

   Kane grinned. "Glad to hear it. Shall we head off now?"

   "Sure," Wallen said, moving past his lieutenant to board the ship. "We might as well."

*  *  *

   As the Alliance shuttle lifted up from the hangar and blasted off into Coruscant's daytime sky, a cloaked figure witnessed its ascent. Once it was gone, they brought out a small comlink and spoke into it.

   "They've received the message. They're heading for Dromund Kaas now."

   "Is the Skywalker with them?" came the response.

   "Yes," the being said.

   "Excellent. Perhaps there is still some hope for our plan to work. Now then, find the others."

   "Yes, master." The being put away their comlink and headed for their ship, mapping out a route for the Adega system on their datapad.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

   With the war going on and death unfortunately not being as uncommon a sight these days, Wallen Nix highly doubted that he would be given another boring case from GA Intelligence anytime soon. And that was perfectly fine for him. 

   For the past few years, the cases which GAIS had been giving him were murders and other crimes committed by petty, slipshod wrong-doers who always left some sort of trace of themselves behind, whether it be fingerprints or otherwise.

   Unfortunately, his hopes were shot down like an avril getting hit by an HH-15 projectile launcher when the doorbell to his apartment chimed, the computer at the door identifying his visitors to be members of GA Intelligence.

   Sighing heavily as he got up from his comfortable chair in his living quarters, he walked up to the door and opened it to see a young Omwati woman and a tall, burly human man, the latter who carried a briefcase.

   Doing his best to keep his tone neutral, Wallen said, "To what reason do I owe this visit?"

   The Omwati ignored his question and said, "Are you Captain Wallen Nix of the Coruscant Security Force's detective division?"

   Wallen eyed the blue-skinned female warily. "Yes..."

   "Born in the Inner Rim, but raised on Coruscant?"

   "Sounds about right."

   "Born fourteen years before the Battle of Yavin?"

   Now his patience was wearing thin. "Yes, I was. What do you want?"

   "Captain, we have a case for you to solve."

   Wallen fought the urge to roll his eyes. "Why wasn't I simply contacted about this?"

   "Because we have something you will need if you choose to undertake this mission."

   This piqued a bit of Wallen's curiosity, but he made sure not to keep his expectations high just to have them shot down. "So, what's the case?"

   "As you may have heard, quite a few Jedi have been disappearing," said the Omwati. "Last year, Master Ven'sol went to Taris to help contain the rakghoul plague but never returned. Thus, a few months ago, a team of six Jedi were sent to search for him. General Hawk later reported their disappearances as well."

   Wallen scratched his chin. "Have the Jedi already tied searching for the six others?"

   "Yes, and they found no trace of them...or the rakghouls." She gestured to the briefcase that her companion carried. "What they did find was a clue to their location."

   "What's the clue?"

   "I can only show you if you're willing to take the case."

   Wallen though about it for a moment before saying, "I'll take it."

   Wordlessly, the burly man lifted up the briefcase, so that its lock faced Wallen, and clicked it open, lifting up the cover. Inside laid a piece of flimsiplast scripted with the Aurebesh letters 'Trill', 'Herf', and 'Xesh', followed by the numbers '1138'.

   After looking carefully at the inscription, he looked up at the two with a raised eyebrow. "Any idea what it means?"

   "Only the highest ranking members of Intelligence know its exact meaning, which is top secret," said the Omwati woman. "But there's something more to the message than just that. Look closely."

   With the other man's permission, Wallen picked up the flimsiplast and brought it up closer to his face. He then saw, engraved on the bottom right-hand corner, backwards letters written in a small font. Excusing himself, he rushed into his apartment's bathroom and held the flimsiplast up to the mirror.

   Through the reflection, he read the etched out words: Follow the trail of Daragon.

*  *  *

   "The Daragon Trail?" Xemer said once Wallen had explained to him about their mission and their only clue. "As far as I know, the only place it really leads to from here is the Esstran sector, but what's there that the Jedi could be at."

   "I have an idea," Wallen murmured as he and his Kel Dor lieutenant headed for their shuttle at a local Coruscanti space port. "And I don't really like it. Dromund Kaas."

   "Dromund Kaas?" Xemer echoed, his voice a bit incredulous. "You mean the old Sith planet? I thought there was radiation surrounding that planet."

   "There was," said Wallen. "But Intelligence has informed me recently that most of it seems to have dispersed, as if it were never there in the first place."

   The Kel Dor slowly nodded. "So we're going to a former Sith residence. Any idea how we're going to get around it without falling into a Dark Side trap or something?"

   "The director has told me that the Jedi were going to send one of their own to accompany us. She said that he's been to Dromund Kaas before."

   "I don't think there are many people who fit that category," Xemer said. "Didn't Kyle Katarn go there once? And I think Princess Leia did, too. Maybe it'll be one of them."

   Wallen shrugged. "Who knows? I'm sure we'll find out soon."

   He was not proven wrong. As the two detectives entered the docking bay in which their GA-class light freighter was docked, they saw a tall, dark-haired man standing by their ship with his back turned to them as he seemed to examine the craft. Upon noticing their arrival, the man turned...and Wallen froze.

   The hair was darker, sure. But the face was roughly the right age and the likeness was almost uncanny. And even though Wallen had never knew the man, he had seen his face enough times to recognize it instantly.

   Standing before him was Anakin Skywalker.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Three

EDITED 3/11/2019 Changed some of the Exiles' names.

CHAPTER THREE

   Anakin followed Durus and his Herglic partner- whom the Zilkin had introduced as 'Dah', because it was the only thing the burly being could say- out of the dark chamber and into a larger, more brightly lit one. The room looked as if it belonged to the King of Onderon, with artistic ornaments and tapestries decorating the walls. In the center of the room was a large, oval-shaped table, where Sev Nep, Vex, Kalvin, Tesara, Jast Kyjar, and Lumpawaroo sat. Upon noticing Anakin, Sev beamed.

   "Am I glad to see you," the Sullustan said. He then frowned. "Where's Lysira?"

   Anakin shook his head. "No idea. I thought she would be with you."

   "I thought she was with you."

   Anakin looked at Durus, who merely shrugged. "Is she the girl with dark hair?" the Zilkin asked.

   Anakin nodded. "Yes. Where is she?"

   "Odds are she's with Animus."

   At that moment, two large doors at the end of the room swung open, allowing a burly man with dark skin to stride in, with Lysira Naris close behind him. The man stormed up towards Anakin, his brown eyes filled with rage.

   "Solo," he growled, "you're really starting to make me wish I had killed you and your friends."

   Anakin stood his ground, returning the man's glare. "What are you talking about?"

   The man, who was clearly Animus in a human form, jerked his head in Lysira's direction. "Do you have any idea who she is?"

   "She's my friend."

   The man responded with a disdainful snort. "She's more than just that. She's a Revanchist."

   Anakin's eyes widened. "The Revanchist? Lysira is the Revanchist?"

   "You got bantha meat in your ears? I said she's a Revanchist. One of five."

   "Five?"

   Animus nodded curtly. "One for each of these five planets: Dantooine, Kashyyyk, Korriban, Manaan, and Tatooine. She, of course, was the one for Kashyyyk."

   "And why is this a bad thing? The Revanchists on Dantooine and Tatooine helped us."

   The burly man scoffed. "You really don't know anything, do you?" 

   

   He turned to Lysira. "Explain it to him."

   The young woman hesitated for a moment, glancing from Anakin to Animus, before finally speaking. "The Revanchists are part of a...second Jedi Order."

   "A second one?" Jast exclaimed. "As if one wasn't enough..."

   "Why is there a second Jedi Order?" Sev asked skeptically. 

   "I can not explain," Lysira said. "Anyway, the Revanchists are basically the leaders of this order. And...see, my order values the balance of the Force. And the balance, as they- we see it, is equality of the light side and dark side, with a third power in the 'middle' to keep them in check.

   "Thus, two of the five Revanchists are light, two others are dark, and the fifth one keeps us in balance."

   "So, which one are you?" Anakin asked, already dreading the answer.

   Lysira bowed her head. "I'm...one of the dark ones."

   "Oh, that's just great!" Sev snapped. "All this time, we've been hanging out with a Dark Jedi! No wonder I thought you didn't like me."

   Lysira glared at him. "I know what you're thinking. I'm not like a Sith, or even any other Dark Jedi for that matter. I believe in bringing peace to the galaxy without using diabolical methods or enslaving people."

   "I'm sure Palpatine would've said something like that," Kalvin grunted.

   Lysira sighed. "Please, you have to believe me."

   She turned her eyes to Anakin and he immediately felt his heart skip a beat. "Do you believe me, Anakin?"

   "I...I don't know."

   Crestfallen, she turned away from him and walked to the far side of the room. She stood there silently and stared at one of the many tapestries hanging there.

   Breaking the awkward silence that fell over the group, Jast said, "So, what are we going to do now? Why are we here?"

   "I'm glad you finally asked that." Everyone turned to see a male Siniteen standing in the large doorway, along with a short and pudgy Ortolan. Both were dressed in white lab coats.

   The Siniteen gave a sheepish smile. "Sorry. I was getting a bit bored of all of this...drama."

   "Zerev." Animus nodded at the newcomers. "I'm sure you and Xilus can give some exposition to our guests."

   "Ah, yes." The Siniteen gestured to the Ortolan, who brought out a small, bronze-colored orb. He pressed a button on its side and a huge and wide map of the galaxy spewed out of it, stars and planets flying everywhere. The shutters of the room's windows then closed, placing the room in near darkness, save for the bluish light that emitted from the magnificent map. The resulting effect mesmerized Anakin. 

   "Right then," Zerev said as he moved through the room-wide map. "First off, the disappearing planets. The Glorians' original objective was to 'harvest' the stars Dina, Horuset, Kashyyyk, Pyrshak, and Tatoo One and Two. Doing so, however, would destroy the five planets they needed for their mission, which were Dantooine, Korriban, Kashyyyk, Manaan, and Tatooine, respectively."

   There was something familiar about that lineup of planets to Anakin, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it.

   "Thus," the Siniteen went on, "when the Glorians 'harvested' these stars, they also planned to transport these planets and their systems to a place in the Unknown Regions, where they would orbit artificial suns."

   "Kind of like Centerpoint Station," Anakin mused. In response to the odd looks aimed at him, he quickly added, "Before the Imperial-Sith War, my father's cousin tried to use an ancient space station as a weapon to move around planets."

   "Ah yes, I remember that," Zerev said. "Quite foolish of your father's cousin to think that he could control a Killik creation."

   Before Anakin could inquire what a 'Killik' was, Zerev returned his attention to the map. "Now then, so far, thanks to your actions, only Kashyyyk and Korriban have been abducted out of the planned five, with the operations on the others having been foiled.

   Guess Mastar Katarn was successful on Manaan, Anakin thought.

   "However, the Glorians have since begun invading the galaxy, transporting worlds that are 'minor' but still important to their operation. So far, Kaal has been the first to be abducted."

   "What are the other targeted worlds?" Sev asked.

   Zerev examined the map. "Agamar is one, along with Onderon and Belsavis. Even Alzoc Three, I believe."

   "Alzoc?" Jast echoed. "What would the Glorians want with a barren snowland?"

   Zerev glanced at Animus, who gave a slow nod. "We...have our theories."

   "Like what?" Anakin asked.

   "Have you ever heard of the Infinite Empire?"

   Anakin thought for a moment. "I can't say I have. If I did, I don't know anything about it."

   "I wouldn't expect you to. Hardly any detailed records of it exist." Zerev spread his arms out, gesturing to the stars and planets surrounding him. "Thousands of these worlds, including partially neutral worlds like Maridun, were unified under the Infinite Empire's tyrannical rule. Located on five of these worlds, however, are pieces of a map leading to an ancient factory that was destroyed millennia ago...or so it seemed."

   Anakin's eyes widened. Everything was clicking together. "You mean...?"

   Zerev nodded, his face grim. "The Glorians are rebuilding the Infinite Empire...and the Star Forge."

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter Two

CHAPTER TWO

   "Are you going to wake up anytime soon?"

   Anakin Solo opened his eyes, only to have them get stung by rays of light, and he quickly squeezed them shut.

   "Sorry about that." He felt movement nearby followed by the sound of a click. When the light disappeared, he opened his eyes again to find himself in a dark chamber, lit only by a few lanterns. Standing nearby in a corner was a large Herglic carrying an unlit lamp of some sort.

   Anakin sat up from the slab of stone he had awaken on and was about to speak to the Herglic when he heard the voice from earlier say, "Down here!"

   He did as directed and looked down to see a very small alien standing on the 'bed', his protruding blue eyes staring at him.

   "Uh...am I having a dream?" Anakin asked warily. "It really feels like I'm in some fairy tale Aunt Winter would use to read to me."

   The diminutive alien narrowed his gaze at him. "Is that supposed to be a comment on my size? I may not be visually intimidating, but I can still make a Houk go running back to its mommy!"

   "Sorry," Anakin murmured. "I've just...never seen an alien like you before."

   The small alien's features seemed to soften. "I don't blame you. I'm a Zilkin; my kind rarely leave our homeworld. We don't want to risk getting trampled on out there in the vast universe, where even a Jawa can kill you with a mere step."

   He extended his hand out to Anakin. "The name's Durus, and I take it you're Anakin Solo. Animus has spoken much of you."

   "Who's Animus?"

   Durus smirked. "Your air taxi. To be more descriptive, he's that big krayt dragon you and your friends arrived on. To be even more descriptive than that, he's the biggest stuck-up jerk that I've ever met...but he's kind of okay once you get to know him."

   "Oh, him," Anakin muttered. "I'm not really that too fond of him either. He killed a friend of mine..."

   Durus titled his head, or at least tried to due to his rather pudgy neck. "Really? Doesn't really sound like something he would do."

   Anakin said nothing in reply, not wanting to think anymore about Commander Naar's death. To change the subject, he said, "How long was I asleep?"

   The Zilkin shrugged. "Depends. Here, you were only out for at least ten minutes; you and your pals had a rough landing. Out there, however, it's probably been days or even weeks."

   "What do you mean 'out there'? Where am I?"

   Durus smirked again. "I was anticipating that question the moment you woke up. Welcome, Anakin Solo, to Mortis."

*  *  *

   Why?

   From the day his fleet had arrived in the Mirgoshir system, that was the only thought going through Admiral Bwua'tu's head. Why? Why Agamar? What value does a backwater world have to the Glorians?

   Then again, that same question to be applied to why the Glorians were on Tatooine and Dantooine, and were attacking remote, almost useless worlds such as Alzoc III.

   Maybe they're trying to make a point, Bwua'tu thought. But what in the worlds could that be?

   "Sir, I'm not sure how much more our forces can handle."

   Bwua'tu glanced at his great-nephew Wurf'al, who served as the captain of the Admiral Ackbar. "Are you going to suggest that we surrender or retreat?"

   "Yes," Wurf'al said. "We have no choice."

   The Bothan admiral scoffed. "So you're also suggesting that we let Agamar fall to the enemy."

   "We have no choice," his great-nephew repeated. "Unless you want us to lose this war."

   Those words struck a chord on Bwua'tu's heartstrings. He gazed out the bridge's viewport at the five-day-long battle, which had long since fallen in the Glorians' favor. Finally, with a heavy sigh, the old Bothan spoke.

   "Order all forces to retreat."

*  *  *

   The beeping chime of a comlink broke the silence that had fallen over the waiting team on Agamar's surface. Commander Drokk answered it and spoke to the person on the other line.

   Finally, he said to the rest of the team, "Admiral Bwua'tu is ordering a full retreat."

   "About time," Sanso muttered. "I can't wait to leave this humid dump..."

   Keyan nodded at the Chagrian, ignoring the Zelosian trooper. "Let's get on our way then."

*  *  *

   General Valkor watched with a mixed expression of satisfaction and disdain as the Galactic Alliance's forces turned and retreated into hyperspace.

   "Pathetic," he murmured. "I expected more from a galactic government's military forces."

   "Sir," his aide said, her voice a bit more urgent than before. "General Starka wishes to speak with you."

   "It can wait," Valkor growled.

   "I don't think it can," his aide said. "He's on a live connection."

   "Well then, tell him to wait! I want to relish this victory for as long as possible!"

   "I wouldn't consider this day one to get enjoyment out of."

   Valkor pivoted around to see the holographic form of General Starka himself standing before him, projecting from a mobile holoprojector. 

   "General?" Valkor said, his voice betraying the fear deep within him. "I...but the Battle of Agamar has been won!"

   "Yes," Starka said bitterly. "Against my orders. Did I not order you to abort the attack?"

   Valkor snarled. "But why? Why did you want us to abandon the mission?"

   "The Emperor has found a world of more value located in the Thanium sector."

   "And which world would that be?"

   Starka scoffed. "Why should you know or care? You don't even know what your punishment is yet."

   Valkor held back a gulp. "What is my punishment?"

   The Supreme Commander portrayed a wicked smile through his eyes. "The Kiss."

   The general's eyes widened with terror. Before he could protest, two burly guards grabbed him by the shoulders and lifted him up from the floor by a few inches. His eyes then turned to his aide, who, much to his shock and horror, was shedding her entire body as if it were a set of clothes. 

   From behind this organic shell appeared a wicked-looking, vaguely feminine creature. Tendril-like appendages stuck out from its scalp and its silver spheres for eyes glowed with malice, setting them apart from its ashen gray skin.

   This time, Valkor gulped. "A syren..."

   "Ah, you've heard the story, I take it?" Starka chuckled. "Then I'm sure you know how this will end."

   The petrified general felt one of the brutes tug his helmet off- ridding him of the only thing that set him apart from the other Glorians- as the syren leaned in to press its hideous mouth against his.

   It took all the dignity within him not to scream. 

*

   Author's note: LOL shameless Harry Potter reference (Syren=Dementor)

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Chapter One

CHAPTER ONE

   "Reports are coming in that many worlds in the further parts of the Outer Rim have fallen," General Hawk said to the Sullustan admiral sitting before him. "Among these worlds are Belkadan, Seoul Five, and Alzoc Three."

   Sien Sovv, Supreme Commander of the Galactic Alliance Defense Force, let out a heavy sigh and tapped his pudgy fingers on his desk. "Sometimes, general, I wonder if you're just making this up to make me feel bad."

   "I wish I was," Hawk said. "It seems like the Glorians are coming from the Unknown Regions, judging by the location of the planets that have fallen."

   "I doubt that we'll ever be able to confirm that," Sovv said. "Because if you're right, there are surely to be Glorian ships blockading that region."

   Hawk nodded. "Right...which would mean they'd be surrounding the entire galaxy from the Outer Rim to the Core."

   Sovv frowned as he considered that prospect. "That is...rather unsettling."

   "More so than the fact that our Jedi friends keep disappearing?"

   "Now you're just making it worse."

   Hawk shrugged. "So, what are we going to do?"

   Sovv shook his head. "I suppose we can send fleets to the trade routes those planets are on. But then again, there's still that ongoing campaign at Agamar..."

   After a moment of quiet contemplation, the Sullustan admiral finally said, "I'll send Admiral Darklighter and his fleet to the Sujimis sector. If the Glorians have seized Alzoc Three, it's very likely that they'll make their way to Orto Plutonia and Pantora, which are members of the Galactic Senate."

   Hawk nodded. "Shall I have a ground force accompany them?"

   Sovv shook his head again. "The Glorians seem to prefer staying in their lofty flagships. No, I'm sure any battle that happens at Pantora will primarily occur in orbit of it."

   "If you say so," Hawk said as he turned to leave the office. Quietly to himself, he added, "Though I'm not sure our losses would say anything about your tactics."

*  *  *

   Keyan Farlander ignored the beads of sweat that trickled down his forehead as he led his rather mismatched team of Jedi and Alliance troopers through the humid forests of Agamar. Creatures native to the planet, such as the amphibious mugruebes, lurked behind the wall of trees, their solid black eyes watching their every movement. In the sky above, he could see the ongoing fight between Admiral Bwua'tu's fleet and the Glorians', having already reached a near draw five days ago when the battle had started.

   Arrogant as always, that Bwua'tu, Keyan thought. The Bothan admiral had initially declined Admiral Sovv's suggestion of sending a small team to sneak through the Glorians' forces and arrive on Agamar. However, when the enemy showed what they were capable of after decimating another planet in the Mirgoshir system, Bwua'tu finally agreed to the proposition. 

   Although Keyan had agreed to lead the team to Agamar, considering that the planet had been his home for so long, and because of his talents as a military strategist, he was still doubtful that they would be able to reach Agamar without being spotted. Much to his surprise though, the Glorians had actually placed their fleet enough parsecs away for the team's ship to go under their notice.

   But as Keyan thought about it, he realized it wasn't that surprising after all. Agamar, like most worlds secluded in the Outer Rim, was considered to be a backwater world by many and thus had little to no value to the galaxy. That still didn't explain why the Glorians were willing to fight on for five days over it though...

   "Samakalii, are you getting anything on your scanner that suggests a Glorian camp is nearby?"

   "None whatsoever," the Dressellian muttered as he and the members of Mynock Squad followed Keyan and his Jedi team. "I'm beginning to doubt that there are any ground forces down here at all."

   "Which is strange," said the Verpine lieutenant Zix. "If they don't care about Agamar enough to send down ground forces to seize it, why attack it at all?"

   "Want to go up there and ask them?" Sanso Shu asked, a smirk crawling up on his pale-skinned face. "I'm sure they'd be kind enough to answer a few questions."

   "Zip your trap, Shu," hissed the Chagrian commander Drokk, Mynock Squad's leader. "You'll be as good as dead if you keep wasting your breath."

   "Calm yourself, commander," said the Zabrak Jedi Donhran Remker. "If you continue to speak to your soldiers like that, they might not wish to follow you."

   Drokk glared at the Jedi Knight. "They have no choice. If they don't like how I command, then they're free to live jobless in Coruscant's slums."

   Remker opened his mouth to reply but Keyan raised a hand to silence them. "That's enough from both of you. We'll get more accomplished the less you guys bicker."

   "If there's anything to accomplish," said the young woman Jasel, who was a transfer from Rancor Squad along with her friend Reeda. "I mean, if the Glorians don't have any ground forces down here, then...why are we still here?"

   "While you do have a good point," Keyan said, "we should still stay here regardless. You never know what kind of trick these Glorians may have up their sleeve."

   "Yeah," Sanso said quietly. "Like make the whole planet disappear."

*  *  *

   "Their persistence is admirable."

   Standing on the bridge of his flagship, General Valkor observed the ongoing battle over Agamar from afar, watching Alliance and Imperial fighters become swamped by Glorian forces. For five days now had the battle been like this and yet still the enemy fought on.

   "Either they really want Agamar," Valkor mused out loud, "or they simply despise the prospect of defeat."

   Standing beside him, Valkor's short and squat aide looked up from her datapad and said, "You have a message from General Starka."

   "Do I?" Valkor smiled beneath his uniquely-shaped, red-colored helmet. "What does he say?"

   "He says that you should cease the attack on Agamar."

   Valkor's stance stiffened and he turned to face his aide, his emerald eyes glowing. "Pardon? Say that again?"

   "General Starka wants you to cease the attack on Aga-"

   "Cease!" Valkor barked, following it up with a sharp laugh that echoed throughout the bridge. "Does Starka not know who I am? Does he not know that once I start something, I refuse to leave it unfinished?"

   His aide stared at him, her expression blank and her stance unwavering. "He said that it was an order."

   Valkor snorted with disdain. "Every thing that spews from his wretched mouth is an order, and I shall be defying this one."

   Although the aide's features remained emotionless, her voice became colder. "To defy the Supreme Commander's orders is to court with Death."

   "Then I shall take 'Death' to the Jeka Amphitheater as a treat." Valkor waved to the bridge's crew. "Continue with the battle. I shall see this day to the end."

Star Wars Invasion: Episode V, Prologue

PROLOGUE

From the Writings of the Watcher

   On the day the Builders arrived, none of the Sith had realized that the path to their future had been paved.

   The aliens arrived in vessels unfamiliar to them, slowly descending from the hazy sky. Sand blew in all directions as these strange objects came to a sluggish stop. The natives stared in awe and fear at the vessels until suddenly, on the largest of them all, a large metal panel hissed and detached from its frame, falling to the sandy ground with a dull thud.

   It was then that the Sith got their first look at the Builders. Tall, lanky bipedal beings, their eyes protruded from their conical heads on small stalks. Their thin arms ended with clawed, three-fingered hands and they stood slightly leaning forward because of their high heels.

   The gathered Sith stood before them in a mix of reverence and terror. Having not witnessed an event such as this before, the natives murmured amongst themselves. Were these beings here to harm them? Or were they here to help them somehow? Or were they here for different reasons altogether.

   The Sith immediately went silent however, when their god arrived. Clad in his signature ebony armor, cradling a large battle axe, the Sith'ari cautiously trudged through the sands and approached the mysterious newcomers, coming to a stop in front of the gathered crowd, standing no less than ten feet from the aliens.

   When the exalted king of Korriban spoke, his voice resonated through the air, becoming heard by even the lowliest of lifeforms on the planet.

   "Why are you here?"

   The Builders answered him. They spoke words of great power. They appeased him, lulling him into their confidence. Little did the Sith'ari knew, the Builders were in fact here not to bring gifts of power to the Sith.

   They were here to conquer them.

   Given time, the Sith'ari soon saw through their facade and led his forces against the impending invasion. Although the Sith would soon succeed in driving the Builders off of Korriban, they paid the ultimate price when the Sith'ari fell in battle. While his sacrifice indeed brought about the Sith's freedom, it also brought back the chaos of civil war that had wrought Korriban before the Unification. 

   Thus, Adas' death had brought the galaxy anything but peace.

*  *  *

   Korriban was not the only world to be touched by the Builders. On the forest world of Kashyyyk, the native Wookiees were enslaved by the Builders and the planet itself became subject to "terraformation". However, like the Sith, the Wookiees likely rebelled and had a hand in bringing the Builders' empire to shambles. 

   A similar event occurred among the Selkath of Manaan, and soon all of the Builders' slaves- the Wookiees, the Selkath, the Caamasi, and several others- united together and brought an end to the Infinite Empire and its oppression. At the time, the now liberated people of the galaxy had thought that peace and harmony had finally been established.

   Oh, so wrong they thought.

   Following the Infinite Empire's collapse, the Hutts of Varl established an empire of their own that lasted for two centuries. Under their rule, a war broke out between them and the empire of Xim the Despot. Not long after the Hutt Empire ended, a conflict arose between various factions that had been formed by the Builders' former slaves. At the end of these Unification Wars, the Galactic Republic was formed by the Core Founders.

   And that is where things began to fall apart.

   The rise of the Jedi Order; the First Great Schism; the Tionese War; the Alsakan Conflicts; the Pius Dea Crusades; the Hundred-Year Darkness and the birth of the Sith Empire; the Great Hyperspace War and the Sith Wars that followed as a result; the Mandalorian Wars; the Dark Age of the Republic; the Clone Wars; the Galactic Civil War; and finally, the Imperial-Sith War.

   Would these events had happen if the Infinite Empire was still standing? Perhaps not. If the Builders had succeeded in conquering the Sith- perhaps even eradicating them- then a majority of these wars would never have had happened.

   Thus, it was quite clear that the galaxy had been injured by the very people who lived in it. It was also clear that the only way to heal the galaxy was to cure the disease that plagued it.

   The Reunification was that cure.

   And the disease could do nothing to stop it.

STAR WARS: INVASION

EPISODE V

TWILIGHT OF THE JEDI

   Note: this story takes place thirty-six years after the destruction of the first Death Star and takes place in an Alternate Universe after Return of the Jedi.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode IV, Chapter Fourteen and Epilogue

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

   The moment the invading ships suddenly ceased firing, the surviving citizens of Kaal had briefly thought that a miraculous savior had come to save them.

   Until they saw their bringer of the Armageddon return.

   The monstrous behemoth descended through the barricade of ships that sealed off the planet from its sky. Its tendrils hung off of it like the fingers of a giant claw, anxious to grab the people and send them off to oblivion. Its tail hovered over them like a stinger ready to strike. Its single emerald eye gleamed with bale.

   It took a moment for Kyle Katarn to realize that it was actually a spaceship.

   The people of Kaal gathered into a crowd, watching in awe and despair as the craft slowly came to a stop over the ravaged city of Hoth's Provenance. For a while, everything was still and silent, until the behemoth spoke.

   "Citizens and visitors of Kaal, lend me your eats. I understand that you may consider our visit...unpleasant, but I assure you that we mean you no harm."

   "No harm?" a male human native cried. "You've just killed about forty percent of us, including my girlfriend! To the pits with-"

   A quick and efficient blast from the monster silenced the human, leaving nothing left of him but ashes.

   "Any harm we do bring is a result of others' insolence," the monstrous ship continued. "If you all willingly comply with us, your lives will be spared."

   "Now, hold on just a minute!" Governor Vakam moved through the crowds, stepping into clear view of the spacecraft. "What makes you think we'll follow you if we don't even know who you are?"

   The voice from the spaceship chuckled. "We are the Glorian Empire. Our mission is to bring eternal peace to the galaxy. And in order to achieve that, we must eliminate anyone who has proven to be a threat to the galaxy, which includes the Jedi, the Sith, the Imperial Remnant, the Galactic Alliance, the Mandalorians, and so on."

   "But we were at peace!" the governor retorted. "We were at peace until you arrived!"

   Again, the voice laughed. "Our master says otherwise. He has foreseen that this galaxy will fall back to chaos and strife as it always has. And why might that be, hmm?"

   Vakam opened his mouth to reply, but the voice cut him off. "Because clearly you enjoy war. You enjoy killing other people. You enjoy conquering worlds and fighting for them. Why else would you be doing these things for over a thousand generations?"

   When no response came from anyone, the voice made a disdainful snort. "Have you found yourself at a loss for words? Of course you have, because you know that I am right."

   After a moment of silence, Arek called up to the ship. "What are you going to do to us now?"

   "Ah, yes. I almost forgot." A loud rumble shook the earth. Suddenly, rising up in the distance, was a strange, claw-shaped building. The tip of its 'talons' sparked and a beam of energy shot towards the sun, opening up a portal at the same time.

   "This event may be a little frightening for you," the monstrous spacecraft said. "But don't worry, I'll make sure little harm comes to you."

*  *  *

   I should be dead now...

   Jaden Korr opened his eyes. Like, really dead.

   He rose up. He was no longer in Karness Muur's chamber but instead appeared to be on a moving starship, for the walls of a hyperspace tunnel could be seen moving past a nearby viewport. Realizing that he was sitting on a bed, he got off of it and stood on his feet. To his surprise, Lexa, Koria, Tal, Jovan, and Naia were laying on beds beside him as well, safely asleep. 

   As he wondered what they were doing here, the door to whatever room he was in opened and the two-headed Troig he had seen Violet with entered. Startled, Jaden reached for where his lightsaber should have been, only to find it gone.

   The Troig named Janusinmend chuckled lightly. "Do not worry, Jedi. Your lightsaber is in good hands."

   Jaden scowled at him. "How do I know you're not leading me into another trap?"

   The Troig shook both of his heads. "I apologize for tricking you earlier on Taris, but it was necessary for my mission."

   Jaden stared at him in bemusement. "Okay...mind giving me some explanation? It's probably the only thing that will keep me sane."

   Janusinmend chuckled. "Very well. First of all, an explanation on what exactly I am. I am a freelance agent- for whom exactly I will not say- and was stationed on Nal Hutta, acting as Raaxus the Hutt's court jester. Some time ago, the Glorians sent out their agents to undermine all of the major galactic factions. Violet, specifically, was tasked with infiltrating the Hutts.

   "While she was on Nal Hutta, she encountered me and saw me as a very intelligent individual and thus a potential ally. When she discovered via agents on Sleheyron that you were heading for Taris, she was afraid that you would find out about the Muur Talisman, which she sought to keep safe, and entrusted me in stopping you and your companions.

   "However, shortly after I met Violet, her ex-lover Shadow also met with me, asking me to both keep a watchful eye on Violet- whom he didn't trust- and to make sure that the Muur Talisman would be destroyed."

   "And that's where the Gen'Dai came in, correct?" Jaden said, trying to add all of this up in his head.

   Janusinmend's heads nodded. "Exactly. I do apologize for unleashing the Gen'Dai on you. When I received Shadow's signal, I had assumed he simply needed to defeat whoever Muur was possessing and destroy the talisman."

   "No hard feelings," Jaden said. "So, how did you save me?"

   The two heads smiled simultaneously. "I didn't. He did."

   Suddenly, a masked humanoid appeared in the doorway behind Janusinmend. The stranger wore black robes and red armor, and their face was concealed by a Mandalorian-esque mask.

   Jaden stared at the newcomer skeptically. "And just who are you?"

   "I am the Revanchist," the stranger said in a masculine voice. "I was on Taris, searching for Master Ven'sol in the Lower City as well. When I found out that I wasn't alone, I hid in the shadows and decided to follow you and Violet. I stayed in the corner of Muur's chamber, right by the door, and watched you fight the rakghouls. I saw you struggle with them, but knew Muur was just toying with you."

   "I see," Jaden said. "So, how did you save me from the Gen'dai?"

   "I defeated it," the Revanchist said casually. "I then took care of Muur and left the talisman with Shadow and Violet. I'm sure they're still arguing over what to do with it."

   Jaden's face became even more skeptical. "How were you able to do all of that so easily."

   "I can not give you the answer to that question," the Revanchist said. "Unless, of course, you wish to accompany me to Dromund Kaas."

   Jaden raised an eyebrow. "Dromund Kaas? I thought it was said that the incident at Korriban caused radiation there."

   The Revanchist nodded. "I'm glad your people fell for that. So, what do you say?"

   Jaden shook his head. "I don't think so. Why should I follow a total stranger to the former capital of a Sith Empire?"

   "Do you want to find your missing Jedi or not?"

   Jaden's eyes widened in surprise. "You know about...?"

   "Indeed I do. So, what do you say?"

   The masked man extended his hand. Jaden stared at it in consideration. Glancing at his still-sleeping companions, he said, "What about my friends?"

   "They may come along, if you like."

   Jaden continued to consider the offer. Even if the Revanchist was not a dark sider, he would still be in danger of falling to the dark side on Dromund Kaas. But if the man was also telling the truth, and that the information on the missing Jedi's whereabouts were on Dromund, then he would have to finish what he had set out to do.

   It only took a minute for him to finally decide, but in his mind, it took hours. He finally grasped the Revanchist's hand and shook it.

   "All right then," he said. "Let's go to Dromund Kaas."

EPILOGUE

   "You've all heard the news, I take it?"

   Admiral Sien Sovv, Grand Moff Rolan Verradun, and the gathered members of the GA Advisory Council and Moff Council all nodded. Cal Omas let out a deep sigh.

   "The Kaal system has vanished from the galactic map. The survivors of Admiral Maltar's fleet say that this was the doing of the Glorian invaders. But how could they have caused an entire system to vanish?"

   "The same way the Horuset and Kashyyyk systems vanishes," Senator Tian Nek of Sullust said, his voice filled with depression. "They just...made it vanish. It's hopeless...we're doomed."

   Moff Bor Teron snorted disdainfully. "Preposterous. A phenomenon like this is impossible. This must be some cruel trick!"

   "If it is, it's a very elaborate one," the elderly Duros senator Izrin Arapto muttered. "Anyway, I truly doubt that that is the case."

   "Agreed," Cal Omas said. "We must be alert. Admiral Sovv, I want you to strengthen defenses near systems important to the Alliance and Imperial Remnant."

   The Sullustan nodded. "Done."

   Grand Moff Verradun gave a grim look to the Chief of State. "It appears that we're on the brink of war, aren't we?"

   "To be honest," Omas murmured, "I think that we've long fallen off that brink..."

*  *  *

   "Summarize the battle for me."

   General Starka's holographic figure nodded. "Our first scout ship detected a Coruscanti freighter on the same hyperspace route Kaal was. Although its primary destination was Dalandae, our scouts found out that it was scheduled for a fuel stop at Kaal. Since we did not desire outside witnesses of our attack, the scouts attempted to destroy the ship. They managed to kill everyone on board...except for three Jedi, a squad of Alliance troopers, another soldier, and an assassin droid."

   The Emperor slowly nodded. "Did they prove any trouble?"

   "No, my liege. They scurried in terror just like everyone else on the planet."

   The Emperor grinned in satisfaction. "Excellent. I take it that the battle went well then?"

   "Yes, my liege. The Kaal system has been transported to the main region and is thus involved with the Rebuilding."

   A slow but genuine applause sounded the scarcely lit throne room. "You have done very good, general. You have yet to make me regret promoting you to Supreme Commander."

   The hologram bowed. "Thank you, Emperor. It seems that the Invasion is off to a good start."

   "Invasion?" The Emperor let out a sharp laugh. "Since the Alliance responded better than I expected, this is no longer a mere 'invasion'. No...you realize that this means war."

TO BE CONTINUED....

Star Wars Invasion: Episode IV, Chapter Thirteen

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

   "We've lost Green Five!"

   Gorshun gritted his teeth. The Battle of Kaal hadn't even lasted five minutes and already Alliance fighters were beginning to drop like flies. When Green Squadron and Mynock Squad's freighter had exited hyperspace, they were immediately greeted by a starship so large, it obscured the planet of Kaal from view.

   When the Vindication and her fleet had arrived at the same time, Gorshun was almost certain that they would be able to bring down the ship.

   So much for that, he thought.

   Blaster fire continued to hail down on him from the titanic spacecraft, forcing him to veer and make sharp turns, at some points almost causing him to crash into another starfighter. 

   "We can't go on like this, Green Leader," said Gorshun's wingmate, the Mon Calamari Rylo. "We're either gonna all die or be forced to retreat."

   "If Admiral Maltar is in command of the fleet, that last one won't be an option." The old Duros was always defiant like that, his motto being Make the best out of any battle.

   Gorshun heard Rylo sigh through his comlink. "So we have no choice but to fight and die, is that it?"

   The leader of Green Squadron nodded to himself, his face grim. "That about sums it up..."

*  *  *

   "The planet's defense systems have been destroyed, sir," one of General Starka's advisors reported.

   Without turning to the officer, instead watching the progress of the battle with the Alliance's fleet, Starka said, "Very good. And what of the inhabitants? Are they doing anything to fight back?"

   The advisor chuckled lightly. "Those who are still alive are running in disarray."

   Starka nodded with satisfaction. "I didn't expect much resistance from a mere luxury world. Inform the fleet to cease their attack and take the flagship down there so that I may address the natives."

   The officer nodded. "And what about the Alliance fleet?"

   "Oh, them." The general waved a nonchalant hand. "Eliminate them. Force them to retreat. I don't care. They have failed to prove themselves as a challenge and are thus unworthy of my attention."

   "As you command, General Starka." Bowing, the officer turned on his heels and moved to carry out his orders.

*  *  *

   The old Duros' body stood rigid on the Vindication's bridge. His large, unblinking eyes stared out the viewport, watching the fighters of Rogue and Green Squadron fly around aimlessly, trying to evade the large Glorian ship's firepower.

   So focused was he on the one-sided battle that he barely heard Captain Marria speaking. "Admiral? Admiral!"

   Maltar turned his head sharply to her, his eyes a darker shade of red than usual. Hoarsely, the Duros asked, "Yes, Captain? What is it?"

   Marria briefly recoiled, startled by the admiral's sudden change in behavior. Hesitantly, she said, "The other captains have suggested that we should retreat. We have just lost more than half of Green Squadron, a quarter of Blade Squadron, and at least two of Rogue Squadron."

   Maltar's eyes burned- with what, Marria could not tel. "Only cowards flee, captain," the admiral growled. "Are you suggesting that we be cowards?"

   Marria did her best to not show her nervousness, squaring her shoulders. "No, sir. I'm suggesting that we should be smart and escape before we waste more lives."

   The Duros' body began to shudder with fury. "I am in command here, captain! I am the one giving out the orders here, and I say that we stay here and fight!"

   "Die, you mean," Marria muttered. She crossed her arms, adopting a defiant manner. "We are returning to Mon Cala. Now."

   Shaking uncontrollably, Maltar opened his mouth to retort but was interrupted by a Ho'Din officer crying, "Sirs, incoming!"

   Marria and Maltar were barely able to turn their heads in time to see the fired projectile before it hit the bridge.

*  *  *

   The explosion could be seen from everywhere. The inferno erupted from the missile like a blanket of flame, enveloping the Vindication like a large hand would a pebble. When the fire vanished, all that was left of the Alliance cruiser were a scarce few pieces of wreckage. And if that wasn't enough for the remaining Alliance fleet, the sight of the Glorian flagship preparing to fire another projectile should have been suffice.

   It was all the captain of the next ship in the chain of command could do to muster the word, "Retreat."

*  *  *

   "I...take it that you two know each other?" Jaden said, breaking the tense silence that had lingered between Muur's accomplice and the mysterious newcomer, whom the former had called Shadow.

   "A bit two well," Shadow muttered. "Isn't that right, Violet?"

   Jaden glanced at the purple-clad woman, who visible tensed. "Care explaining why you're here?" she asked.

   "You know why." Shadow pointed at Ven'sol, but Jaden could see that he was actually pointing at the talisman around the possessed Jedi's neck.

   "You are aware of my mission, correct?" the cloaked man said to Violet. "The Watcher requires all Sith artifacts found...and destroyed."

   Violet glowered at him. "To this day you are still blinded by the Watcher's ideals. You still fail to realize the power these Sith relics hold!"

   "And you continue to advocate their ideals," Shadow remarked. "You yourself have failed to see the disasters the Sith have brought to the galaxy."

   "What you see as disasters, I see as miracles. The galaxy thrived the strongest under Palpatine's rule."

   "The same man who used the galaxy as a dejarik board? The same man who started a civil war and became the indirect cause of another? The same man who expected the entire galactic population to follow him, and him only?"

   When Violet did not reply, Shadow chuckled. "All these many, many years and you still have yet to come up with a satisfying and convincing answer to those questions."

   "Correct me if I'm wrong," Muur's spirit suddenly said, "but are you suggesting that the Sith have been nothing but a...nuisance for the galaxy?"

   Shadow nodded. "More or less, yes."

   The ancient Sith Lord cackled. "Then you must believe that the Jedi are the 'rightful solution' to the galaxy's problems."

   "Wrong," Shadow said. "Take this into consideration: if the Jedi- or perhaps their ancestors, the Je'daii- had not been created, then neither would Ajunta Pall's Sith Empire. If Pall's empire had not been created, then, if the Daragons had still discovered Korriban, then the Sith would unlikely have had evolved to the mindset of wanting to invade the Republic. And if they didn't invade the Republic, then hardly any of the Sith Wars would have happened as a result.

   "Plus, had Pall not found the Sith, people like Naga Sadow and Marka Ragnos would not have been born, for they were the results of the hybridization of their people. And thus they would not have exist to inspire future Sith Lords like Darth Bane and Palpatine.

   "Thus, it all narrows down to the Jedi. The Jedi have been the cause for...nearly everything. Which means both they and the Sith must be eradicated to acquire peace. Starting with you, Karness Muur, as well as the Jedi Korr."

   From two sheaths on his hips, Shadow brought out two blades, both sparkling with energy. "If you don't mind," he said, "I would like this confrontation to be a little challenge."

   Muur chuckled in response. "Why not kill two mynocks with one stone and destroy the entire galaxy while you're at it?"

   Shadow said nothing, standing still as if considering this. Finally, much to Jaden's surprise, the cloaked man placed his weapons back into their sheaths.

   "A sound idea," he said. "Of course, while I am not able to do as you suggest, I have just the thing to 'kill two mynocks with one stone.'"

   Shadow gave a sharp snap of his fingers and the ground suddenly trembled. Before either Jaden or Muur could prepare themselves, a large, shape-less mass burst through the walls, bellowing loudly as its plethora of corded muscle and nerve tendrils took on the shape of massive arms.

   It was Violet who voiced the question Jaden was thinking. "What...is that thing?"

   "A Gen'Dai I encountered on Seoul Five," Shadow replied. "He calls himself Morge. But you can call him your worst nightmare."

   With a gesture from his master, the Gen'Dai lunged at Jaden, moving too fast for the Jedi Knight to activate his lightsaber...