Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

   If it weren't for its location in the Outer Rim Territories, and for the fact that it was independent from the Galactic Alliance, Lianna could have easily passed as a Core World. 

   Like most planets in the Core- such as Coruscant and Alsakan- Lianna was almost a complete city-world, except for the vast sea that surrounded the two continents Anai and Landra. Anai was the larger of the two and the one with the most city sprawl, making it the ideal location for Salvan Tai's estate.

   Perhaps too ideal....

   "What if Salvan Tai's actually in Landra?" Wallen asked Xemer as their ship descended towards Anai.

   His lieutenant turned his head to look at him. "What makes you say that?"

   "Well, wouldn't it be too obvious to have an estate in the most urban continent? Landra doesn't have much city sprawl, so it would be the least likely place to check."

   "True," Xemer noted. "But what better place is there than one that's easy to get lost in?"

   "Point taken," Wallen muttered. "Well then, I suppose we'll find a spaceport city and start from there."

   "Oh joy, the suspense is killing me."

   "Shut up."

*  *  *

   "Count Dooku, you say?" Count Valmar said as he poured two glasses of wine for himself and Jacen. "Which one might you be speaking of?"

   "The one during the Clone Wars," Jacen replied. "I don't know his given name."

   Valmar smiled as he sat down in his lofty chair. "He abandoned it upon leaving the Jedi Order and becoming Count of Serenno. But what his name was before then is irrelevant. What was it that you wished to know about him?"

   "Your family was among the six Great Houses after the end of the Clone Wars," Jacen said. "Did your grandfather, or any other relatives, know much about Dooku?"

   "Such as...?"

   "Philosophical views, mainly."

   "Ah." The Count took a sip from his glass. "I don't believe Count Dooku was very...open in his opinions, and I doubt many saw it appropriate to question him, especially when he became leader of the Confederacy."

   "Understandable. But do you have any idea on what his views were?"

   "Almost none, other than that he saw the Old Republic as a corrupt and failing government, and that the Jedi were wrong in trying to support it."

   "I see." Jacen rose from his seat. "Well, thank you for your time, Your Grace."

   "Must you leave so soon?" Valmar asked. "I would be fascinated to hear from you about the Jedi. I've always taken an interest in them."

   "I'm afraid not," Jacen said. "I have...other errands to run."

   "Can't you at least stay for tonight's dinner feast?" the Count asked, rising from his seat as well. "It is, after all, my son's birthday."

   "I appreciate the offer," Jacen said, a feeling of wariness falling upon him. "But I'll have to decline."

   A small smile touched Valmar's lips. "Not even a little drink?"

   "I really must be going."

   A warning through the Force came to him, but he was too late to receive it. The windows of the Count's living room suddenly shattered as at least half a dozen beings, clad all in black robes, crashed through them, red lightsabers blazing in their hand.

   Jacen was about to reach for his own weapon when it was suddenly wrenched from his grip by an invisible hand, flying into Valmar's awaiting one.

   "I am sorry, Master Jedi," the Count said. "But I'm afraid I can't let you do that."

   Jacen glowered at him. "What is the meaning of this?"

   Valmar smiled mirthlessly. "You will find out soon enough."

   He gestured to the chair Jacen had been sitting in. "Please, take a seat. I know someone who would be fascinated to meet you."

*  *  *

   The two detectives had landed their ship in the spaceport city of Anxarta and then disembarked to find Salvan Tai, or at the very least someone who knew them.

   "There's a casino over there," Xemer noted, gesturing to a marble white-colored building nearby.

   "Why would someone as rich as Tai bother with a casino?" Wallen asked. "He could risk losing his money if he gambles. And besides, he's a Sakiyan. His species value honor."

   "And pride," Xemer reminded him. "Anyway, I wasn't saying that Tai would be there, but it's a very good place to start asking around."

   Wallen thought about this for a moment. "Good point," he said. "A very good point."

   He smiled. "Where would I be without you?"

   "A graveyard probably."

   His smile faded. "That was a rhetorical question."

   The two of them walked up to the casino's entrance and were immediately greeted by a large, burly Cathar with a golden mane of fur surrounding his face. No doubt he was a bouncer.

   "Identification, please," he growled.

   Wallen handed him his identification card. "We are detectives of Corucant Security on a special off-world mission for Galactic Alliance Intelligence."

   "The Alliance has no business here," the bouncer muttered. "This planet is Allied Tion territory."

   "We are aware of that," Wallen said. "We are simply looking for a male Sakiyan going by the name Salvan Tai."

   The Cathar snorted as he handed back the ID card. "Salvan Tai isn't here."

   "Do you know where he is, then?"

   "No." The bouncer twitched his head, gesturing at the casino's entrance. "You might find someone in there who does."

   "So...does that mean we're allowed in?"

   "Of course you are!"

   The three men looked to see a rather obese blue-skinned Twi'lek appear in the doorway behind the Cathar.

   "Let them in, Scar," he said merrily. "If there is Alliance business concerning my friend, it must be important. Come on in!"

   Wallen blinked. "Er, thank you, sir. May I ask who you are?"

   The Twi'lek grinned. "I am the manager of Colliders Casio. My name, in case you're curious, is Azul Obez."

*

   Annotation: in this chapter, I came very close to giving Count Dooku a first name. I think it was going to be based off of something Dracula-inspired, because that is one of Christopher Lee's most well-known roles. But I decided it had no relevance to the plot, so I went against the idea.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter Five

CHAPTER FIVE

   It wasn't until the White Rider jumped out of hyperspace that Kadar realized that something was wrong. The fact that another ship had appeared right behind him at the same time certainly helped.

   "Dax Goldam," Kadar muttered under his breath. For nearly seven years had this man been pursuing him, for reasons he had yet to figure out. Not that he particularly cared, of course; there were sure to be tons of people who sought for competition or revenge against him.

   He was about to activate his ships automated defense systems and prepare to evade Goldam's vessel when his comm-system chimed. He glanced at his rear-view screen to see that the other ship was remaining almost completely motionless and it didn't seem like it would be firing its weapons anytime soon.

   'Soon' being the operative word.

   Hesitantly, Kadar answered the call. "What do you want, Goldam?"

   "Your head, as always," Dax Goldam's calm and smug voice replied. "But that should be common knowledge for us now. What I really want, at the moment, is to know what business you have with Azul Obez."

   "Have you been following me, Goldam?"

   "I take it you've failed to notice the tracking beacon on your ship?"

   "I got rid of it as soon as I had arrived on Nal Hutta. How the heck did you follow me to Lianna."

   "Seven-nine-one was able to pick up on your conversation with Raaxus," Goldam said. "Now then, how 'bout you answer my question about Obez."

   "Take your blasted nose out of my business and I might let you live," Kadar growled.

   "Ooh, that's not very polite. Well, if you want to be that way-"

   Before Goldam could finish, Kadar made a wide U-turn with his ship and began firing its weapons. His opponent's vessel, which was an Amphibious Interstellar Assault Transport/infantry, was too large to evade the attack, but its strong hold was able to handle the attack.

   In response to his attack, two turrets mounted over the AIAT/i's cockpit began firing. Kadar narrowly dodged the plasma bolts and returned fire with his ion cannon turret. The AIAT/i seemed to shudder from the attack, but continued to fire.

   After activating the White Rider's twin blaster turrets and setting them to automated, Kadar considered his options. This battle could go on forever and he wasn't keen on staying out here for long. The only thing he could think of was to either fire a proton torpedo- which might only stall the large ship- or let Goldam follow him to Lianna, and find out why he had an interest in Obez.

   Well, Kadar thought, in that latter case, my curiosity would be satisfied.

   Abruptly turning his ship around, he aimed for the now-approaching planet of Lianna and advance forward.

*  *  *

   "Salvan Tai, eh?" Xemer said as he and Wallen boarded their ship. "For some reason, that name sounds familiar."

   "Well, I've never heard of him," Wallen replied. "Commissioner Orsalan told me that he's on Lianna with an estate, likely in the continent Anai."

   "Any way we can narrow it further than that?"

   "I'm afraid not," Wallen muttered. "The easiest way I can think of to find him is to ask around."

   "Right, and the continent is how big, exactly?" Xemer said sardonically. "Are you sure the commissioner didn't give us any more info?"

   "Not from the commissioner. But Director Kalenda did give out a warning: 'Beware the Snatchers.'"

   "Snatchers, huh?" Xemer said, heading for the ship's co-pilot seat. "That doesn't sound good."

   "Since when does anything?"

   As Wallen took his seat beside Xemer at the controls, he suddenly paused for a moment. For some strange, ominous reason, something didn't seem...right. He glanced at Xemer, who was mapping out a route for Lianna. If the Kel Dor lieutenant was feeling any similar intuition as he was, he wasn't showing it.

   Wallen shrugged the feeling off. Perhaps he was simply having a bad feeling about this mission. Nonetheless, however, he would remain cautious.

   Bad feelings always became reality.

*  *  *

   Due to its former ties to Count Dooku, and thus the Confederacy of Independent Systems, Serenno had not been viewed favorably by the public after the Clone Wars. When the Empire later replaced the ruling Counts with Imperial sympathizers, and then assassinated Count Adan Dooku, who was a friend of future Alliance founder Viceroy Bail Organa of Alderaan, Serenno was fully established to be an Imperial ally.

   Following the end of the Galactic Civil War, Serenno had decided to remain neutral, and was able to go unscathed during the war against Darth Vorath's Sith. And so far, it had been able to do so with the Glorian War. But Jacen knew that it was only a matter of time before it too became a battleground.

   Jumping out of hyperspace in the X-wing fighter he had learned to fly in, Jacen entered the Serenno system and began approaching the gray and green planet itself. Upon reaching a few parsecs from orbit, planetary security spoke to him via comlink.

   "Alliance craft, this is Serenno Security of the Great Houses. State your business or else return to whence you came."

   "I seek an audience with the Count of Serenno."

   "Right, and I'm just gonna let you stroll into Carannia and chat with him. State your business with him and I might consider letting you do just that."

   "I am a Knight of the Jedi Order," Jacen said. "I wish to speak with the current liege lord on what he knows of his predecessor, Count Dooku."

   There was a pause. "A Jedi, eh?" the security personnel then said. "Give me a moment."

   For a while, silence filled the comlink. When the security person finally returned, he said, "You're in luck. Count Valmar is willing to speak with you."

   Jacen smiled to himself as he advanced towards the planet. The day was certainly off to a good start.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

   "I really don't know what you want from me," Karada said as Wallen and Xemer sat down across from him in the questioning room. "I'm just a podracing legend. I don't know anything!"

   "Calm down," Wallen said. "We're just going to ask a few simple questions."

   "I want a lawyer."

   Wallen glanced at Xemer, who gave a shrug in response. Turning back to the Dug, he said, "Would you mind just answering one question?"

   "Why should I?"

   "Please. It's a simple 'yes-or-no' question. Once you answer it, we'll leave you alone and get you a lawyer."

   After a pause, Karada slowly nodded. "Go ahead."

   "Have you heard of the crime syndicate called Black Sun?"

   Another pause. "...Yes."

   "All right." Wallen got up from him seat. "Thank you."

   As he and Xemer were about to leave, they stopped when the Dug suddenly spoke again.

   "Why?"

   Wallen turned to look at him. "Pardon?"

   "Why do you want to know about Black Sun?"

   "How about you answer our questions first?" Xemer said bitterly. Wallen waved a hand to silence him.

   "Why do you ask?" he said to the Dug.

   "There's a war going on. People are dying, planets are vanishing...why are you concerned with a relatively non-threatening criminal organization?"

   Wallen let a small smile cross his face. "Let's just say that there are numerous factors playing in this war. Black Sun being one of them."

   With that, the two detectives moved out of the room, leaving Karada to ponder on his words.

*  *  *

   "Did they get him to talk?"

   Commissioner Orsalan of the Coruscant Security Force shook his head as he poured himself a mug of caf. "He demanded to see a lawyer. The only thing they managed to get from him was that he knew about Black Sun."

   "I see," Director Belindi Kalenda murmured as she took a sip from her own mug. "Not very helpful."

   The commissioner snorted. "That's an understatement."

   "So what now?"

   He shrugged. "You're the director of Intelligence. Give me some intel."

   "If only it were that easy. The Black Sun is doing its best to keep quiet. I think we were just lucky that Karada happened to have a big mouth."

   Orsalan sighed as he stared out the window of his apartment's living room. "Was it luck or- what was it?- the 'Will of the Force?'"

   Kalenda shrugged. "Whichever works."

   "Are you sure you don't have anymore intel?"

   The Intelligence director reached into her pocket and brought out a small datapad. Bringing up a list of names, she began to look through it.

   "What is that a list of?" Orsalan asked.

   "People who were affiliated with Black Sun before its disbandment. Most of them have been assassinated by rivals. Ah, except this one."

   She pressed the datapad's screen, deploying the holographic visage of a male, black-colored Sakiyan.

   "Salvan Tai was a former bounty hunter who served Black Sun before its original disbandment," she informed Orsalan.

   "Is he not still a bounty hunter?"

   Kalenda shook her head. "He was somehow able to 'inherit' some wealth from one of Czethros' Vigos, whom Tai served under."

   "So where is he now?"

   "Last we've heard, he owns an estate on Lianna."

   Orsalan nodded. "Then I suppose that will be out next stop. Any precautionary measures we should take?"

   "Just one," Kalenda said, smiling slightly. "Beware the Snatchers."

*  *  *

   "So, how did your mission to Ord Mantell go?"

   Jacen Solo looked up from his datapad, one which he had downloaded a copy of Master Zallow and the Great Houses, to see his young brother Anakin standing in front of him.

   "All right," Jacen said. "We found and caught the Dug and gave him over to Captain Nix."

   "Cool." Anakin then smirked. "It's nice to get out every once in a while instead of hanging out in the library all the time. Like right now."

   "Very funny," Jacen said as he turned off his datapad and set it aside. Indeed the two of them were in the Ossus Jedi Temple's library, which mixed the more modern design of the Jedi Archives before the Empire's purge and the ancient style which the original Jedi library on Ossus was said to have.

   "What were you reading about?" Anakin asked, gesturing to the datapad.

   "The Great House of Serenno. I'm thinking about visiting there."

   "Why?"

   "Have you ever heard about the Lost Twenty?"

   "I've heard Lexa Varr mention them a few time. Who are they?"

   "Twenty Jedi Masters who voluntarily left the Jedi Order due to philosophical reasons. Jedi Master Dooku of Serenno was the last."

   Anakin raised an eyebrow. "Dooku? Didn't I hear that he led the Separatists during the Clone Wars?"

   "Yes," Jacen said. "However, I'm curious to find out what his views were."

   The younger Solo glanced around as if to make sure no one was within earshot and then said quietly, "I hope you're not thinking about visiting Dromund Kaas."

   "How come?" Jacen replied. "Isn't that where the Dark Jedi Order is located?"

   Anakin nodded. "Master Baran told me about them when I returned from Rhen Var. I know they're supposed to be our allies, but..."

   "You don't trust them."

   "They use the dark side, Jacen. I've always been taught that the dark side is...bad."

   "Then you're too narrow-minded."

   "I don't want to lose you, brother. I don't want you to become like our grandfather."

   "You worry too much," Jacen said as he got up from the bench he was sitting on. "Tell Mom, Dad, and Jaina that I'll be leaving for Serenno tomorrow morning."

   Anakin opened his mouth, most likely to protest, but probably thought better of it. "All right," he said instead. "Have a safe trip and...may the Force be with you."

   "And with you, brother," Jacen murmured as he headed out of the Jedi library. 

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter Three

CHAPTER THREE

   Kadar had only been to Nal Hutta twice before in his career, and both times it was to accept a job from Raaxus Vosadii Avak, head of the Hutt Grand Council. He had never needed to personally deliver the bounty to Raaxus, usually giving them to agents sent to watch on his progress. But considering that Nar Shaddaa was one of Nal Hutta's moons- and thus the two were a relatively short distance apart- he had thought, Why not.

   Besides, he added in his mind, I'd like to have a word or two with 'His Greatness'.

   As his ship- a modified Pursuer-class enforcement ship- landed in one of the several spaceport cities scattered around the Hutt-ruled planet, Kadar moved from his pilot's seat and went through two lift tubes to reach the cargo hold, where the wrapped-up body of Nora Sulk was placed. After setting up the ship's security system to prevent any thieves from breaking in, he lifted up the Weequay's body and disembarked from the hangar. 

   It didn't take long for him to reach Raaxus the Hutt's palace; in fact, it was particularly located in the city's center, which Kadar found rather fitting, given the Hutt's status.

   Standing at the almost-dome-shaped palace's entrance were four Gamorrean guards. Upon Kadar's arrival, the burly porcine beings crossed their axes, preventing him from going any further.

   "Bo shuda," he said in Huttese. "My pee kasa Kadar. Oto tah stuka Raaxus."

   The Gamorrean guards blinked and then snorted, not moving their axes.

   Beneath his helmet, Kadar scowled. "Me murishani foo priza. Raaxus naga tah stuka me."

   The guards made no response, visibly baffled by his statement.

   "They don't understand Huttese." Kadar looked up to see an eyeball-like gatekeeper droid extend itself from a panel on the palace's durasteel door. "They only obey the Great Raaxus, who rarely gives them spoken orders."

   The droid's 'lids' closed slightly, mimicking an organic narrowing its eyes. "Why are you here?"

   "I am here to turn in a bounty," Kadar said, gesturing to the wrapped-up body beside him.

   "Ah, yes," the 'tattletale' said. "Just a moment."

   The droid retracted back into its panel and, a minute later, the durasteel door slowly rose up while the Gamorrean guards parted, allowing Kadar to enter. Once inside, he was instantly greeted by a tall Anx.

   The large-crested being nodded slightly at the bounty hunter. "The Supreme Raaxus awaits you."

   Kadar followed the Anx through a series of dark corridors, which were mostly deserted save for the odd Gamorrean lurking in the shadows, before finally reaching the palace's throne room.

   Within this dimly lit but lively chamber, dozens of beings of an array of species were gathered, ranging from Quarrens to Sakiyans, Dugs to Gran, and Twi'leks to Rodians. Attractive female dancers moved to music performed by a band likely restricted to an eternal contract while a young Falleen woman and a blue-skinned Kowakian monkey-lizard sat beside a slumbering Raaxus.

   The Anx, whom Kadar believed to be Raaxus' majordomo, carefully walked up to the sleeping Hutt and whispered into his fat-concealed ear. Startled by this awakening, Raaxus nearly hit the majordomo's large head with his pudgy arm. After taking the effort to lift his heavy eyelids, the Hutt saw Kadar and then curled his large mouth into a smile.

   "Well, if it isn't the notorious Kadar," Raaxus rumbled in Huttese. "What brings you here to Nal Hutta? Your presence is a rare sight around these parts."

   "I'm here to turn in the Weequay Nora Sulk," Kadar replied, gesturing again to the wrapped-up corpse he had place before the Grand Councilor's throne.

   Raaxus looked upon the body with crimson eyes and then, much to the startlement of everyone but Kadar, let out a heartily laugh.

   "You humor me, bounty hunter. I posted that bounty nearly two years ago and have since forgotten about it. You don't mean to tell me that you've been hunting Sulk for that long."

   "Of course not. I just needed a good reason to enter your palace."

   Raaxus' eyes became slits. "Then why are you here?"

   "Does the name Azul Obez mean anything to you?"

   The entire chamber went silent. All eyes turned to the lone white-armored man standing before the head of the Hutt Grand Council. Even the Falleen slave, who had shown indifference to the conversation, was now looking on with intrigue.

   When the Hutt spoke again, his deep voice now lacked the mirth which had been present in it earlier. "Why should it?"

   "He's a Twi'lek crime lord who's made a name for himself near Hutt Space." Kadar dipped his helmet. "But more importantly, he's a Vigo of the reorganized Black Sun."

   Raaxus let out a sick-sounding snort. "The Black Sun does not concern me. They are unlikely to return to the glory days they had lived while under Prince Xizor."

   "What if I told you that their leader was an old 'accomplice' of yours?"

   This gave the Hutt pause. "How are you aware of my...relationships?"

   "That's for me to know and you to figure out." Kadar folded his arms over his chest. "Also, unless I'm mistaken, he is no longer an accomplice...but a rival."

   Raaxus leaned forward, his curiosity clearly piqued. "Would you mind providing his name?"

   "Of course," Kadar said. "Xalren Mithric."

*

Huttese translations

   "Bo shuda. My pee kasa Kadar. Oto tah stuka Raaxus."- "Greetings. My name is Kadar (?). I want to see Raaxus."

   "Me murishani foo priza. Raaxus naga tah stuka me."- "I am (a) bounty hunter with prize. Raaxus wants to see me."

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter Two

CHAPTER TWO

   "I can't believe we're doing this instead of fighting Glorians."

   Jacen Solo glanced at his fellow Jedi as they made their way through the crowded streets of Worlport, Ord Mantell's capital city. "So, you'd rather put your life at stake and get killed?" he asked

   "Better than chasing after a Dug through a crowded plaza," Valisa Tor muttered.

   "Technically, it's not a chase," Jacen said. "Because he doesn't know that anyone's even after him."

   "Doesn't make this 'quick trip' go any faster."

   The two Jedi continued to move through the diverse crowd, trying not to trip over dwarf-sized Ugnaughts and doing their best to avoid bumping into towering Mantellian Savrips. Their quarry, a Dug named Karada, had yet to take notice of them, though it was only a matter of time before he realized that he was being followed.

   Jacen had heard many tales about Ord Mantell, most of them calling the planet a 'breeding ground' for bounty hunters, smugglers, and the like. His father, Han Solo, had claimed to have faced a bounty hunter here prior to the Battle of Hoth, with names alternating between Skorr, Cypher Bos, and Czethros. Whoever it was he encountered, his stories had nonetheless created an image of Ord Mantell for Jacen.

   Which had since turned out to be a reality.

   "Hey, watch it, sleemo!" a Zabrak snapped as Jacen accidentally brushed against him. "I've killed for less than that!"

   The Jedi ignored him as they kept on moving after Karada. Much to their irritation, the Dug had abruptly turned into an empty alleyway and was now heading for a hangar, where no doubt his ship laid. Knowing that by now the Dug would realize that he was being followed, Jacen and Valisa walked right past the alleyway's entrance. Jacen then reached into his pocket and brought out a comlink.

   "Philosopher to Green Prince," he murmured, employing the nicknames he and the rest of the team had decided on. "The quarry is heading for Dock Eleven. He's your problem now."

   "Copy that, Philosopher," replied the suave voice of Thann Mithric. "Moving in now. Green Prince out."

   As Jacen ended the connection, he noticed that Valisa was scowling at him.

   "'Green Prince?'" she said. "Seriously?"

   Jacen shrugged. "What can I say? It fits him."

*  *  *

   "Are you sure this is going to work?"

   Thann Mithric grinned at his Kiffar companion. "Trust me, Zarin. Just watch and learn."

   Zarin Kal held back a sigh as he and Thann moved to approach the Dug entering the hangar, coming between him and his awaiting ship. Upon seeing them, Karada narrowed his eyes.

   "What do you want?" he asked.

   "Pardon me, sir," Thann said casually. "But do you happen to be Karada?"

   The Dug snorted. "Heck no. You must have me confused with some one else."

   Thann frowned. "How unfortunate. I was really looking forward to meeting a legend."

   This gave the Dug pause as he was about to head for his ship. "Legend?"

   "Yes, Karada has become quite famous for his podracing victories on Malastare and Mon Gazza."

   The Dug blinked and then smiled humbly. "Well... those were nothing compared to that close one on Ando Prime."

   Thann raised an eyebrow. "I thought you said you weren't Karada."

   The 'legendary' podracer chuckled. "Ah, yes. My mistake. I thought you were... agents sent by my rivals."

   "Nonsense! We're avid fans!" The Falleen Jedi gestured to a door which, unbeknownst to anyone besides himself and Zarin, led to another hangar where their own ship lay. "In fact, would you mind attending our club? My friends and I have been dying to meet you."

   Karada grinned. "Why not? No harm in that."

   "Of course not," Thann said as he and Zarin led Karada to the door. 

   Once they were in the hallway connecting the two hangars, Zarin spun around and struck the Dug's face with a large fist, knocking him out cold.

   Thann grinned. "No harm at all."

*  *  *

   "Do I want to know how you guys managed to capture him?" Wallen Nix asked the group of four Jedi gathered before him at his office on Coruscant.

   "If you do," Jacen replied, "you can ask Thann and Zarin."

   He pointed a thumb at the two Jedi and upon seeing the Falleen, Wallen knew the answer... and he didn't like it.

   "You didn't..." he muttered. 

   Thann Mithric shrugged. "At least I am not like most members of my species. I only use my charms to enhance my Force persuasion."

   "Although he rarely needs to use Force persuasion," Zarin Kal said under his breath.

   Wallen sighed as he ran his fingers through his hair. He knew quite a bit about the charismatic Falleen, mostly due to the fact that he had worked under one before becoming a chief detective. To this day, he still wondered why Director Cracken had tolerated his methods.

   "You know what? Forget it." Wallen pointed at the still-unconscious Dug sitting in the corner of his office. "Carry him to the questioning room. Xemer and I will speak with him once he's awake."

   Thann grinned. "Would you like me to-?"

   "No," Wallen said sternly as he got up from his desk. "Just... no."

   While the Jedi moved Karada to the interrogation room, the detective went to get a cup of water from his dispenser. After taking a drink, he sighed. Today was going to be a long day....

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VII, Chapter One

CHAPTER ONE

   Ever since Zargga the Hutt had ascended to the Hutt Council, the cantina he had owned on Nar Shaddaa began to rise in popularity and had become very busy, even on weekdays. Ownership of the cantina had since passed on from Zargga to his Lannik business partner, who was seldom ever seen, leaving it to two bartenders- a Yarkora and an Advozse- to oversee business.

   Like any place on Nar Shaddaa, Zargga's Cantina was a flourishing hive for smugglers, criminals, and other scum. Only now, its recent popularity made its customers feel as if they were 'special'.

   Stuck-up snobbish braggarts, was the only term Kadar found befitting of them.

   The white-armored bounty hunter was sitting in an isolated corner within the cantina, away from the crowded groups of gambling smugglers. Sitting nearby, watching him intently, were two other mercenaries. One of them, a Barabel, was staring menacingly at him with blood-red eyes, while the other, a Rodian, simply took quick and casual glances at him.

   Kadar feigned ignorance, instead pretending to be interested in the band performing in the cantina, 'Lapti Nek' blasting from their speakers. He knew why the Barabel and Rodian were here; to recruit him into the Snatchers. 

   For many years ever since he had made a name for himself as a bounty hunter, the mercenary group known as the Snatchers had tried to approach him. But he had always declined their offers. That didn't stop them from persisting though. Of course, hardly anything could....

   As he sat there watching the band, which was now desperate for a positive reaction from the bored-looking crowd, as the lead vocalist had just randomly tore his shirt off and the two Zabrak musicians were smashing their quetarras, Kadar began to wonder what approach the Snatchers would use this time.

   His answer soon came when the Rodian spoke, trying to act as casual as possible. "So, Kadar, how's life been treating you?"

   Kadar said nothing, instead watching the band's lead singer get into an argument with the Weequay at the drums.

   The Rodian cleared his throat. "Many people are impressed with your capture of that Nimbanel on Carratos. Important people."

   "Important in what regard?" Kadar asked, though he wasn't waiting for an answer. The argument had escalated into a brawl on stage.

   "Well, Raaxus the Hutt, for one, as well as a majority of the Hutt Council." The Rodian took a drink from his glass of wine. "I hear that Black Sun is also taking an interest in your accomplishments."

   Kadar scoffed. "Those losers are back together? They're worse than the plague."

   The music had almost completely ceased, save for the instrumental sounds emitting from the speakers, for the entire band had begun arguing. The audience was clearly enjoying it far more than the musical performance.

   "As I was saying," the Rodian murmured, "it's only a matter of time before they start approaching you with offers."

   "Just like you?"

   The Snatcher dodged the question. "Offers that will get you stuck, that you won't get much out of."

   "That's why I work only for the highest bidder."

   "So do the Snatchers. Trust me, you'll fit right in. You'll be among your own kind, among people who think like you."

   Without warning, Kadar stood from his seat and whipped out his blaster rifle. The Rodian and Barabel were about to do the same until they saw Kadar fire his weapon, watched the plasma bolt fly right past them...

   ...and through the head of the Weequay drummer.

   All eyes in the cantina turned to the white-armored bounty hunter as he casually walked up to the stage where the Weequay laid. Wordlessly, he lifted up the alien's corpse and then turned back to the Rodian.

   "That's just it," he said. "No one thinks like me."

   With that, the bounty hunter strode out of the cantina with the Weequay's dead body, leaving behind him a room of silence.

*  *  *

   Dax Goldam hated waiting. Especially when the event he was waiting for never occurred, which had happened several times to him in the past. Listening to the boring ticking of the chrono on the wall and the thrashing of the gagged security guard stuffed in the closet didn't help matters either.

   With nearly two hours having gone by, he was tempted to just call it quits. Just as he was about to, however, his assassin droid partner said, "Master, I have a visual."

   Dax jumped out of the reclining chair he was in. "Is it him?"

   "Affirmative, master," the droid said, pointing at the viewscreen which showed the bounty hunter Kadar heading for his ship, a dead Weequay in tow. "I doubt we'll be able to reach him in time."

   Dax grinned. "That's what the tracking beacon is for."

   He patted the droid on the shoulder. "Gather up the rest of the posse, 791. We're on the hunt."

STAR WARS: INVASION

EPISODE VII

TERRORS OF THE UNDERWORLD

   

   Timeline: 36 years after the events of A New Hope

*

   Author's note: I had originally written an prologue for this, but it ended up being irrelevant to the final story.

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VI, Chapter Eleven and Epilogue

CHAPTER ELEVEN

-Rhen Var-

   "This is suicide, Soos..."

   "I told you it would be, Kral."

   The X-wing fighters of Rogue Squadron narrowly moved through enemy lines, Glorian fighters hot on their tail. Through her comlink, Jaina heard R2-D2 squeal in terror as they just barely avoided a suicide fighter.

   Soos' plan, as crazy as it was, appeared to be working. By slipping through the Glorian fleet, they were getting the fighters to follow them and perform their suicidal maneuvers. By executing a few just-as-crazy moves, they would be able to reduce the Glorians' numbers and, hopefully, not get killed in the process.

   Easier said than done, Jaina thought as she watched an A-wing interceptor dive straight into a Glorian warship....

*  *  *

   In all his life, Admiral Chaar never thought he would witness a miracle.

   One moment, his ship was on the brink of destruction, hounded by Glorian attacks. The next, said fighters had went off to pursue Rogue Squadron while the Imperial Star Destroyer Harbinger came to Chaar's aid.

   "Hang in there, Jan Dodonna," said the Harbinger's Coruscanti-accented captain Trebor Horan. "We'll escort you to safety."

   Chaar sighed in relief. "Many thanks, captain."

   With that, the Vurk admiral collapsed into his command chair and, through tiered eyes, watched as the tide of the battle turned for the greater good.

*  *  *

   "This is Gold Leader to Major Rolav; the citadel is under Alliance control. All Glorian ground forces are retreating. I repeat, all Glorian ground forces are retreating."

   Sakul smiled as he reclined in his seat. "Good work, you guys. Now get back up there and help Admiral Chaar's forces."

   "You got it, major."

   As the comm channel went silent, Sakul gazed out at the harbor, where his and Ivan's troopers were rounding up the remaining Glorians, who were pleading and begging to be executed. Of course, they wouldn't be given the satisfaction; they didn't deserve it.

   "A job well done, I'd say," said Commander Ivan as he came up beside Sakul. He had removed his helmet, revealing a middle-aged face with a pointed goatee. 

   "I must say," he said, "we make a pretty good team."

   Sakul chuckled. "That we do, commander."

   He moved his gaze to the corpse of what appeared to be a Glorian general, judging by their more polished and silvery armor. It looked as if he or she had been bisected. Going by the lack of blood, it couldn't have been done with an ordinary blade.

   Sakul shrugged any further though on it off. Whoever did this to them was obviously long gone and were most likely working against the Glorians.

   Turning back to Ivan, he raised up a bottle of Corellian beverage and two small goblets. "Care for a drink?"

   Ivan laughed. "Don't mind if I do."

*  *  *

   It was finally over.

   Jaina relaxed her shoulders as she watched the Glorian fleet retreat into hyperspace. Their forces seemed to be moving in disarray as they did so, some of the remaining fighters crashing into each other as they scurried for their respective flagship's hangar bay.

   Once they had all fled, once Jaina was certain that they wouldn't return for an unexpected ambush, she said to her fellow Rogues, "All right, guys, let's return to the Jan Dodonna. We've won."

*  *  *

   "Wow," Sev Nep murmured as he slumped into a chair. The rest of the Alliance and Imperial forces were gathered around a table set up within a fortress in the Rhen Var Harbor. Anakin sat down next to him and Jast Kyjar as food and refreshments were passed around the table.

   "Wow," the Sullustan repeated. "I never thought I would...would...."

   "See a battle to the end?" Anakin asked as he bit into a biscuit.

   "Yeah, and win!" Sev accepted a bottle of water and quickly drained it down. "I guess all of that military training which I thought was pointless paid off."

   "Speaking of training," Jast said, "I oughta learn how to drive one of those hovertanks. Lumpy's good enough with the turret. I think we make a good team, don't you?"

   The Wookiee growled in response.

   Jast sighed. "I should also learn how to speak Wookiee."

   "I'm sure my dad could give you a few pointers," Anakin said. "Or maybe Lysira could-"

   He paused, his eyes scanning the room and the table. He saw Kalvin, Tesara, and Vex speaking with their fellow stormtroopers. Animus, back in his human form, was speaking with Lieutenant Eshka, while everyone else was talking and laughing.

   But there was still no sign of Lysira Naris.

   Anakin got up from his seat. Sev, Jast, and Lumpy stared at him in confusion.

   "Where are you going?" Sev asked.

   "I'll be right back," Anakin said hastily. "Just need some fresh air."

*  *  *

   Much to his surprise, it didn't take long for him to find Lysira. She was standing not far from the harbor, staring out at Rhen Var's setting sin. What surprised him even more was what she said to him when he finally reached her.

   "I'm leaving, Anakin."

   He stopped, staring at her in disbelief. "Why?"

   She turned to face him and he saw that she was dressed in the same outfit worn by the Revanchists on Dantooine and Tatooine.

   "I can't bear to live among you and your friends, knowing that I will be regarded with contempt for my use of the dark side." She returned her attention to the setting sun. "I'll be returning to my own kind...where I belong."

   "Lysira," Anakin said softly. "You don't have to do this."

   She smiled at him. "I do, Anakin. It's for the greater good."

   On a device wrapped on her wrist, she pressed a button. Suddenly, a small starfighter of an undetermined model broke through the clouds, gracefully landing before Lysira.

   As she began to climb into the ship, she looked at Anakin one last time, smiling sadly.

   "Don't worry," she said. "Our paths will cross again one day. I promise."

   Anakin simply stood where he remained and watched as her ship rose off the icy ground and blasted off into the sky, vanishing behind the gray clouds. 

EPILOGUE

-Mandalore-

   Atinar Cabur blinked, startled by what had just happened.

   The two Jedi were gone. How and why, he did not know.

   Nor do you care.

   He twitched at the voice in his head. Right, he thought. I don't care. They're Jedi; they probably escaped somehow. I'll catch them eventually.

   Without saying a word to any of the other Mandalorians, who were just as baffled as he had been, he strode out of his home, thinking about visiting the Oyu'baat cantina for a drink.

-Kuna's Tail system-

   As the desert world of Sarafur fell behind him, Shadow sat in contemplation at his ship's controls, staring at his collection of Sith artifacts, which he had built up over the years.

   Some of them had turned out to be forgeries. The Sith sword which the Snivvian con artist Remulus Horne got from Ord Radama, for example, was such a counterfeit. The glove of Darth Vader, also from the Snivvian, was likely a forgery as well; Lord Kaan had plenty of Sith amulets, and there was also an abundance of Mandalorian crushgaunts in the galaxy. Remulus could have easily found the two and claim it to be Lord Vader's glove.

   Shadow sighed. Did he really need all of these novelty items? With his mission finished, for the time being, he no longer needed these to track Lumiya.

   True, he had originally intended to destroy them after finding each and every last one of them. But he had then taken an interest in the Sith and their lore. But was it nothing more but a mere distraction?

   He did not wish to think any further on the subject. Gathering up his 'collection' and putting it back into his travel pouch, he headed for the ship's cargo hold. Soon, the ancient relics and artifacts of the long-lasting Lords of the Sith would be nothing but debris in space....

-Elsewhere-

   The storm was approaching. It had been doing so for quite some time. Only now, it was a matter of time before it struck.

   True, the Glorains had lost Rhen Var. But it was lesser, uninhabited world, and thus not essential to the Reunification. The loss at Rhen Var had done nothing to disrupt the reconstruction.

   And with Jaden Korr under his direction, he could not only watch the events of the galaxy unfold, but actually affect them as they did.

   The Watcher smiled to himself. The storm was indeed approaching. And the galaxy could do nothing to stop it.

TO BE CONTINUED....

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VI, Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

   Shadow froze. All around him, time seemed to do so as well, for Lumiya and her apprentice had suddenly stopped moving. Underneath his helmet, he felt beads of sweat tickle down his skin. Soon, his whole body was beginning to shiver. There were very few things that could prompt these feelings of fear from him.

   Very, very few.

   His heart began to beat heavily out of anticipation and suspense. What was he waiting for, he thought. Part of him wanted to take his blade and end his own life right then and there.

   Now that just wouldn't be acceptable, would it?

   Shadow tried to keep his voice steady, but his words still came out as a croak. "Hello, master..."

   My, it is rare to hear such terror in your voice, Agent Shadow. Are you, dare I say, aware of a mistake you've made?

   "Have I made one, master?"

   Not yet, but you might be about to. If I were to unfreeze this scene right now, would you be able to swiftly kill Lumiya and her apprentice?

   "I think so, master."

   You 'think' so? Has the confidence you've displayed to me for so long been merely a facade?

   Shadow did not know what to say. He hated himself for saying that, though he knew, deep down, that his master had subtly willed him to admit his self-doubt.

   I was willing to have given you a second chance after your failure on Dxun. Was I right in doing so?

   "Yes, master," Shadow said, his confidence rebuilding itself.

   Then prove it.

   The scene unfroze and Shadow narrowly dodged a swing from Lumiya's lightsaber. He dropped to the floor and rolled, coming up behind the two Sith. Carnor Jax leaped at him, crying out in rage. In midair, Shadow grabbed him by the leg and flipped him over his head, throwing him to the ground behind him.

   Lumiya then charged towards Shadow, and behind him, Carnor was doing the same. The agent simply remained erect where he was, unmoving. The moment the two Sith's blade were about to run through his stomach, he jumped.

   From above, Shadow watched gleefully as Lumiya's lightsaber pierced through Carnor Jax's chest. The shocked reactions from both of them made it even more entertaining. 

   Enraged, Lumiya extracted her blade from her apprentice's chest, letting his now-lifeless body collapse to the floor. As Shadow gracefully landed, she lunged at him, spinning her bladed wildly. 

   The moment she was within range, Shadow grabbed her by the arm, squeezing her wrist so that she lost her grip on her lightsaber. He caught the weapon as it fell and twirled it around so that it severed the arm he was holding.

   Crying out in pain, Lumiya staggered back and then fell to her knees. Shadow held the scarlet lightsaber blade at her neck.

   Very good, the Watcher said in his head. Quite impressive. Now, let her go.

   Shadow blinked. "Master?"

   You heard me. She is beaten and unarmed. She is no longer a dire threat. With her apprentice dead, her plans and schemes have been...postponed.

   Shadow silently sighed. "Very well."

   He deactivated the lightsaber, provoking a surprised look from Lumiya. Walking over to Carnor Jax's corpse, he picked up the fallen Sith's weapon and then headed for the crypt's exit.

   As soon as he reached the doorway, he heard Lumiya speak. "Aren't you going to explore this tomb? I thought you were intrigued by the Killik Sith Lord myth."

   Shadow let out a harsh laugh. "I never had an interest for such things. If I did..."

   He turned to face her, his green eyes glowing balefully. 

   "I would be in the same position as you are right now...perhaps in a more horrific state."

   With that, he strode out of the crypt, leaving behind Lumiya and whatever secrets or answers the tomb contained...if it ever had any at all.

*  *  *

   Why is it, Jaden Korr thought, that these strange things always happen to me?

   Just like on Taris: one moment, he and Starkiller were being ambushed by a bunch of Mandalorians. The next, Jaden had suddenly awoken in a dark room. This time, however, he was not alone.

   "Where the heck are we?" he heard Starkiller ask, though he could not see him.

   "Your guess is as good as mine," Jaden replied. "I must say though, this gives our Mandalorian conflict and 'anti-climatic' solution."

   "Well, I couldn't take any chances," a third voice said. At the same time, a gold light began to illuminate the room. Jaden shielded his eyes from the sudden brightness.

   "Who...who's there?" he asked.

   "I am," the voice said. "That is all you need know."

   "No, it's not," Starkiller growled. "Tell us why you brought us here!"

   "Actually, I only wanted Jaden Korr. But two of you is no problem."

   "You better start making sense soon," Jaden said. "To start off, who are you?"

   The voice laughed, sending chills down the Jedi's spine. Squinting, he could make out an indiscernible shape in the center of the gold light.

   "I am the Watcher."

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VI, Chapter Nine

CHAPTER NINE

   The AT-AT moved slowly towards the Rhen Var Harbor, firing its heavy laser cannons at turrets and stationary weapons place throughout the harbor. At its feet, AAC-1 hovertanks and Saber-class fighter tanks rode into the enemy's territory, all weapons ablaze. 

   Troopers- of both Alliance and Imperial types- marched alongside the vehicles, firing their blaster rifles and rocket launchers as weapons establishments missed by the AT-AT. Meanwhile, airborne troopers equipped with jet packs bombarded enemy forces with mortar launchers and fully-charged thermal detonators.

   On the front lines, Anakin Solo deflected enemy fire with his lightsaber. At his side was Animus, who had taken on the form of some vicious feline creature, lunging and clawing at Glorians who dare to come too close. Nearby, Kalvin was assisting the munitions expert Ulen Valsar in directing the assault troopers; Sev, Tesara, and Vex were amongst their respective trooper teams; and Jast Kyjar and Lumpy were piloting a hovertank, though the former's piloting skills left a lot to be desired.

   All of this, yet no sign of Lysira.

   When they had left the base, Anakin thought he had seen her amongst everyone else, but now he had lost sight of her and could not feel her presence through the Force. Of course, she could have been masking her presence. But for what purpose?

   Anakin shook his head, clearing his thoughts. There wasn't any time to ponder, only to focus on the battle and hope to win it.

*  *  *

   In all his life, Vral Chaar never thought it would come to this.

   As bridge officers ran to-and-fro in panic, Chaar simply stared out the viewport, forlorn as flames started to surround it. This must have been what his ancestor had witnessed moments before his own demise, only without the feeling of despair welling up inside of him.

   The Vurk hung his head dejectedly. He had hoped to make his family proud. And now he was going to die in a blaze of anything but glory....

*  *  *

   "We've lost Rogue Eight!"

   Jaina Solo bit her lip as Jer Topaz's X-wing fighter went up in flames. Shadow Leader's plan had been a very complex and fool-proof one, which involved distracting the Glorians and diverting their firepower away from the Jan Dodonna.

   Clearly, the Glorians were not falling for it. Nearly half of Shadow Squadron had been destroyed almost immediately, their leader among the casualties, and Rogue Squadron were already beginning to get shot down like flies, with Topaz and Celcia Halis being the first.

   To Jaina, it was looking like the Battle of Rhen Var was going to end the same as Kaal and Agamar; with the Glorian Empire's victory. 

   Her solemn musing was interrupted by the crackling of her intercom. She braced herself for whatever piece of bad news was going to come through it.

   "I have an idea."

   Her brief feeling of relief was replaced by her surprised at who said those words. "Soos?"

   Out of all of the members of Rogue Squadron, Soos Marko was the most pessimistic, displaying grim and dismal utterances whenever hope seemed lost. Out of everyone, he was the last person Jaina expected to come up with an idea to achieve victory.

   "What's your plan?" she heard Kral Nevil ask.

   "You really want to know?" the Phuii pilot asked. "It's...kind of stupid-"

   "Just spit it out!" Shyra Jaaz snapped. "I've got a Glorian on my tail!"

   "All right, here it goes. But believe me, you're not going to like it..."

*  *  *

   General Dalax watched the AT-AT storm into the harbor, its turbolasers firing. Rockets from the AAC hovertanks flew in all possible directions, a good majority of them striking their targets and sending a number of Glorians flying off to their demises. 

   This just didn't make sense, Dalax thought. From what he could tell from his monitor, which showed the space battle over Rhen Var, things were going well for the Glorian Empire. But down here....

   It just didn't make sense. His entire army- both ground and space forces- were using the exact same complicated tactics and strategies. Even if the enemy did have an AT-AT or not, his forces should still have the upper hand.

   "It's such a pity to see such great minds fall to their arrogance."

   Dalax stiffened, his heart beating faster than it should have been. He had thought himself alone in the command room, all of his subordinates having left to carry out their orders throughout the harbor.

   Knowing that he would regret it, the general turned around to see a fairly young human woman standing before him. She was dressed in a black robe, with crimson armor worn over it. Her eyes, as dark as her hair, seemed to be as black as the void.

   Dalax tilted his head, his fear subsided by his wonder at the woman's vaguely familiar appearance. Cautiously, he said, "Who, may I ask, are you?"

   The woman smiled, though it was not a warming one. "If you have to ask, you needn't know."

   "Fair enough," Dalax muttered, eying her carefully. "Do you happen to know why my forces are...faltering."

   "Why do you assume that I do?"

   "Perhaps it's because of what you said, about 'great minds' falling to arrogance."

   She laughed mirthlessly. "Ah, yes. I'm sure you could tell that I was referring to you."

   Dalax blinked, momentarily confused. "I...I beg your pardon?"

   "Oh, please." She walked past him and up to the structure's doorway through which the ongoing battle could be seen. "You were so confident in your schemes and calculated chances that you failed to prepare yourself for this union between the Imperial Remnant and the Galactic Alliance."

   Dalax scoffed. "Their association means nothing. It would be no different if the Alliance had called in for reinforcements from Coruscant.

   "Ah, but you forget." The woman turned to face him and a ray of sunlight leaking from a crevice in the ceiling created a disturbing gleam in her eyes. "The Imperial Remnant was once an empire, not unlike your own. They still know how an empire works. They know what its people are like, how its military operates. And they know now how to exploit its faults, especially after witnessing the fall of two- technically three- different empires.

   "And, more often than not, arrogance is one of those faults."

   Dalax stared at her in bewilderment. "Where are you going with this?"

   She smiled. To him, it felt like an ice sickle was being stabbed through his heart. "I thought it was quite clear, general. You have lost this battle."

   He shook his head. "No, we shall prove victorious! Our ground forces may fall, but my fleet will cripple the enemy and see to the rest of them down here."

   The woman shook her head. "No, I don't think they will."

   Before Dalax could reply, he felt his throat tighten, putting pressure on his windpipe. As he gagged for air, he watched as the female raised a black hood over his head.

   "As I was saying, it's a pity." She reached into a pouch hanging around her waist and brought out what appeared to be a mask. "People like you have had so much potential, and yet you waste it when you become overconfident and arrogant."

   She donned the mask...and realization dawned on Dalax.

   The Revanchist, slayer of many Glorians, unveiled a lightsaber hilt from her robe and ignited its scarlet blade.

   "Before I kill you," she whispered, "take pride in the fact that you were at least able to witness a part of your invasion before your death."

   She raised the blade, poised to bisect him. "Some of your friends can't say the same."

   

Star Wars Invasion: Episode VI, Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

-Sarafur-

   "We can go on about this charade forever," Shadow said, "but the result will be the same."

   Lumiya dropped to the floor as the cloaked being flung a razor-like disk at her head. As it completed its course and started to head back for its master, she raised her lightsaber and sliced the weapon into two pieces.

   "I will still win."

   Much to her surprise, the disk's two halves rose up from the floor and began to spin around her head, buzzing like an angered nest of bees.

   "It's a pity that I destroyed your lightwhip on Dxun," Shadow said as he dodged a wild swing from Carnor Jax's lightsaber. "Otherwise, this would be no problem for you."

   "Who said it was?" Giving into the dark side, Lumiya called upon the Force and unleashed a blast of lightning, which instantly turned the disk halves to dust.

   Shadow let out a dark, mirthless laugh. "Impressive...for a Sith. I still wonder how your kind have managed to live on for so long."

   Glowering, Lumiya lunged at him, twirling her scarlet blade. The moment she was within a few feet away from him, he performed a backflip, flying over Carnor Jax, who had been attempting to attack him from behind. The two Sith stopped in their assault and turned to face Shadow, who was now standing at the entrance to the tomb's main chamber.

   "Before I kill you," he said, "I must satisfy my curiosity. Just what exactly compelled you to follow a Shistavanen legend about a Sith Lord who couldn't possibly have been able to exist?"

   "To see if the legend was true," Lumiya replied, watching the cloaked warrior warily.

   "Ah, and is it?"

   "Partly." She raised her lightsaber. "You won't live long enough to find out."

   Shadow's cackling laugh rang throughout the crypt. "That is where you're wrong."

   Simultaneously, the three combatants lunged at each other and the chamber was alive again with clashing blades.

-Mandalore-

   The Mandalorian landspeeder came to a stop before a fort-like structure located on Keldabe's outskirts. Jaden and Starkiller's guide, who had yet to identify himself, stepped out of the speed and signaled for the two of them to follow him.

   "I'll admit that it may not look like much," the Mandalorian said. "But I call it home."

   "Is there any point in this little trip?" Starkiller asked bitterly. "The fate of the galaxy is at stake and you expect us to take a tour of your house?"

   The Mandalorian grunted. "Trust me; you'll be glad you did."

   The two Jedi followed him into the structure. Inside, the rooms were rather simple in design, with only a few pieces of furniture and other necessities present. The Mandalorian continued across the room and came to a stop before the holographic bust of a man Jaden did not recognize.

   "Have you ever heard of the Mandalorian Excision?" the large man asked.

   "I believe so," Jaden said.

   The Mandalorian lifted the holoprojector's base up from its stand. "Then you have heard of Aran Cabur?"

   "I can't say I have."

   "Didn't think so." The Mandalorian stared at the holographic face and sighed. "He was our Mand'alor during those times. His clan were said to be the strongest of the clans, hence their name, Cabur, which is Mando'a for protector.

   "As Mand'alor, he defended our world from the Old Republic and the Jedi when they attacked. He kept on fighting even when all hope seemed lost. As such, after he fell, he was known forever more as Mandalore the Valiant."

   "So, what does this have to do with your lust for vengeance?" Starkiller asked.

   The Mandalorian turned to him, his dark eyes burning with fury. "Aran Cabur was not just a valiant warrior. He was not just Mandalore."

   He puffed out his chest. "He was my ancestor. And I am his last descendant, for my kin have fallen to an illness that has plagued our clan for centuries."

   He stepped forward, looming over Jaden and Starkiller. "I am Atinar Cabur, heir to the title of Mandalore. And I will have my revenge."

   Reflexively, the two Jedi ignited their lightsabers just as a dozen Mandalorian warriors lunged at them from the shadows....

*  *  *

   Tick tock. The clock was ticking. Time was running short.

   He had not anticipated the Mandalorian to pull this stunt. It was not his job to predict, only to watch, and wait. He was, however, confident that Jaden Korr would escape alive. He had to.

   Tick tock. The minutes were trickling down like droplets of rain.

   The conflict on Sarafur did not seem to be progressing well. While it was normal for Agent Shadow to toy with his targets, he did not usually let them live for so long.

   No matter, he thought. If either of these incidents came to the worst possible outcome, he could always interfere in the most subtlest way possible.

   Tick tock. The clock was ticking. Time was running short; his patience slowly wearing thin.... 

*

   Author's note: I'm thinking about going through my past stories and replacing the chapter breaks (*  *  *) with location names.