Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Five

CHAPTER FIVE

-30,000 Years Ago-

   "Wow, Velika. If it weren't for your brown armor, I would have thought you were a Fe-Matoran, the way you're always working."

   Velika cast an aside glance to the Bo-Matoran standing in the doorway to his workshop. With a smile, the Po-Matoran said, "Idle hands are Karzahni's workshop. Busy ones are Artakha's playground."

   A bemused expression crossed the Matoran's Kanohi Zatth. "Huh?"

   "Don't mind him, Lakar," said a Su-Matoran who appeared next to the Matoran of Plant Life. "He's been talking like that for years."

   "Why?" asked Lakar, a recent arrival to the Northern Continent.

   "Beats me. Say, Velika, when you're done with... whatever you're working on, can you help me and Chiara with the supplies that have just arrived?"

   "Certainly, Sudora," Velika replied. "Just let me-"

   Suddenly, he froze. His eyes moved down to the launcher he had been working on, which used a design based on the Thornax Launchers used on Spherus Magna. Something was wrong; the power coupling he had installed was misaligned. If he didn't fix it soon, it would-

   The flash of light that followed was the last thing Velika would see for a while.

*  *  *

   "I'm sorry, Turaga. I've done everything I could."

   "I understand, Toa Daxius. You are dismissed."

   Velika awoke in time to see a Toa of Sonics walking out of the room he was in. He then turned his attention to the Turaga of Fire standing over him, a frown creasing his Kanohi Komau.

   "Turaga Kalam?" Velika murmured. "What happened?"

   "It would appear that an invention of yours exploded in your face," Kalam said. "Luckily, Lakar was able to save you from getting killed. Unfortunately...."

   The Turaga's speech trailed off, but he did not need to finish; Velika already knew what was wrong.

   "I can't feel my arms."

   Kalam sighed. "Yes, they were destroyed in the explosion. Toa Daxius was able to heal the wounds with his mask, but we don't have the means to repair them."

   Velika felt a sick feeling in his stomach. "You mean...?"

   "Yes," Kalam said solemnly. "I am sending you to Karzahni."

   He lowered his head out of shame. Once he had been among the brightest of the Great Beings, but a single mistake had turned him into a failure.

   He would make up for this. Perhaps not today, perhaps not in a thousand years, but he would correct his mistakes. Every last one of them.

   No matter what it took.

-Present-

   Gelu used his Ice Slicer to cut through the thick vines of Bota Magna. Following him were three Toa- Orde, Chiara, and Zaria; three Matoran- Kopeke, Balta, and Garan; and Kabrua, who was being restrained by iron cuffs made by Zaria.

   "I still don't see how we can trust him." Chiara had said earlier. "If he knows how to turn off our powers, then-"

   "Then why hasn't he done so?" Gelu had interjected. "Obviously he's not since Zaria can still use his powers."

   "Maybe it's a trick. Maybe he's trying to lure us into a false sense of security."

   "He's not," Orde had then said, having used his Psionics powers to read the Vorox's mind. "I don't know what exactly he's up to, or why, but I don't think he's planning to betray us."

   "Yet," Chiara had muttered.

   As the eight of them made their way through the dense jungle, the earth suddenly shook with a terrible tremor. Gelu and the Toa looked up to see giant, bio-mechanical lizards crashing through the jungle.

   "What the heck are those?" Zaria exclaimed.

   "The Agori call them Zaurans," Kabrua said. "They've been able to tame some of them, but there are still plenty of wild ones out here."

   "Great," Chiara muttered. "Maybe we should have brought a Mask of Rahi Control."

   "I doubt these are like Rahi," Orde said.

   "I was being sarcastic."

   "Quiet," Gelu hissed. "I don't think they've noticed us yet, so if we move slowly and quietly enough-"

   "I have a better idea."

   Moving faster than the others could follow, Kabrua broke free of his restraints and lunged at Gelu, pinning him to the ground and aiming his stinger tail at him. Chiara was the first to move, bringing out her Strike Spear and aiming it at the Vorox's neck.

   "One move and you're fried Takea sticks," the Toa of Lightning snarled.

   A sly smile crossed Kabrua's face but he complied with her orders to the letter, remaining stock still.

   "I appreciate the rescue..." Gelu grunted. "But I'd rather not have a Vorox on me all day."

   "It's just your luck, then, that I have no intention of sticking around," said Kabrua.

   With that, the Vorox got off of the Glatorian and ran off into the depths of the jungle. As Gelu got to his feet, another roar shook the ground.

   "Do you think they've noticed us?" Balta asked.

   Gelu frowned. "I don't know." He then turned around and froze. "Oh yeah, they have."

   The Glatorian and three Toa quickly readied their weapons as an enormous Zauran revealed its impressive set of razor-sharp teeth.

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

   "...Then a portal opened up right beneath our feet and then, wham, here I am in Po-Wahi. Somehow."

   Toa Pohatu sighed as he leaned against a large rock located in the middle of the Motara Desert, which, as far as he knew, should no longer exist. With him was the Po-Matoran Kodan, whom everyone thought to be dead until he and Kopaka met him on the Red Star, and Toa Hagah Pouks, who had somehow reverted back to his Rahaga form. Pohatu himself had changed, for he was now lacking his Nuva armor and looked as he did when he was a Toa Mata.

   Pouks scratched his chin after Pohatu had finished his tale. "This is indeed peculiar. I wonder if there's any rhyme or reason to these events."

   Pohatu snorted. "Right. Name one event that has ever had a rhyme or reason to it. Go on, I dare you." When Pouks opened his mouth to respond, the Toa of Stone raised a hand. "Never mind. That was rhetorical."

   "Maybe we should get moving," Kodan suggested. "I'm not exactly comfortable in staying in this one place. Maybe we could go to Onu-Wahi and find Mavrah."

   "Or maybe we could ask that strange bird what's going on," said Pouks, pointing to the sky.

   Pohatu and Kodan followed his gaze and saw a large, ebony-colored Rahi bird circling over them, cawing and flapping its silver wings. But what Pohatu found most intriguing about it was the black and green Matoran that was holding onto the Rahi's back.

   "What is that thing?" the Toa Mata of Stone asked.

   "A Nivawk," Pouks murmured. "The other Rahaga and I knew of one serving Makuta Teridax before the Great Cataclysm, but we weren't aware of any others existing."

   "Are they friendly?"

   Pouks frowned. "Far from it."

   As the Toa of Stone readied himself for the possibility of an attack, the Nivawk slowly and gracefully descended. Once it had touched ground, it folded up its wings and its Matoran rider disembarked from it.

   "State your names and business," he demanded.

   Pohatu exchanged glances with the other two before saying, "I'm Pohatu, Toa of Stone. The Po-Matoran is Kodan, and the not-Rahkshi is Pouks. As for our business... we're still trying to figure that out."

   The Matoran smirked. "Glad I'm not the only one, then. My name is Lerus, and my story is even more complex than yours."

   Pohatu raised an eyebrow. "You mean you heard ours?"

   The Matoran nodded. "Yeah, my hearing's almost as sensitive as a De-Matoran's. Anyway... you sure you really wanna know my story?"

   "Shoot."

   Lerus smiled grimly. "I used to be just your everyday Le-Matoran... until a Makuta forced me to share a body with an Onu-Matoran."

*  *  *

   "He's escaped."

   Takua awoke to the sound of the icy cold voice. Opening his bleary eyes and waiting for them to clear up, he found that he was dangling from a ceiling, with strong iron chains connecting his arms to a rack over his head. Next to him, in a similar situation but unconscious, was Hahli.

   Takua then moved his attention to the nightmare standing before him.

   Armored in red and silver, the being was hunched ever with a burly torso and lanky limbs somehow supporting it. Scarlet eyes glowed behind a serpentine mask and a pair of fangs jutted from its mouth. Takua instantly recognized it as the Kanohi Crast, a mask worn by the late Makuta Krika. With the large Makuta was a female being in a similar color scheme, and a cowering Steltian of the laborer class.

   "Yes, Makuta Nathuz," the latter murmured, his entire body shivering. "He was right here with the others and then when I looked, he was gone."

   The Makuta's eyes flared. "He escaped under your notice. You should have seen him running off."

   The Steltian lowered his head out of shame. "I didn't... I'm sorry, master."

   "Sorry." Nathuz took a step towards the blue and white brute and raised a clawed hand to his face. "You say you're sorry."

   The Steltian gulped and nodded. "Yes, master."

   "You let one of our prized experiments escape... and you say you're sorry, as if expecting reprieve. Is that right?"

   The brute nodded, conscious of the fact the fact that the Makuta's hand was now touching his face.

   "Do you take me for a fool?" Nathuz asked in a soft hiss. "Do you think I forgive incompetent slaves?"

   The Steltian hesitated before shaking his head. He knew what fate awaited him now.

   "In that case, apology accepted."

   Takua quickly shut his eyes as the Makuta channeled his Plasma powers and caused the Steltian's head to melt. The laborer's initial screams quickly died off and Nathuz let his body fall to the floor.

   "Get this pathetic thing out of my sight, Spyra," he hissed to the female being, who grinned wickedly and gleefully dragged the corpse away. Takua's heart immediately leaped as Nathuz then focused his blood-red eyes on him.

   "Ah, yes," the Makuta hissed. "The Av-Matoran. The bane of my people. The destined Toa of Light."

   "How do you know that I used to be a Toa?" Takua asked.

   "My brothers and I have traveled from this world to yours. We soon came across news of a Toa of Light. As such, I have made the necessary preparations."

   Takua's eyes widened. "Preparations for what?"

   "You ask too many questions. You would do well to remain silent."

   With a click from the Makuta's fingers, Takua suddenly found that he could not speak. Helpless to do anything, he could only watched as Nathuz approached him with a spike spear.

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Three

CHAPTER THREE

-100,000 Years Ago-

   So this is the world my brothers have created, Velika mused as he wandered through the graceful fields of the Northern Continent, admiring the artificial bota and roaming fauna.

   Not too long ago, the Matoran had finally finished the construction of their own universe and Mata Nui was now on his way to repair Spherus Magna. Velika had made it his personal task to observe how well the Great Spirit would perform this mission and how he would maintain the world inside him.

   "Hey!"

   Velika's attention was directed towards a female Matoran- one of Lightning, going by her blue and white armor- running towards him. After stopping to take a breath, she smiled at the faux Po-Matoran.

   "Turaga Kalam was wondering where you were. It's time to go to work."

   "Work?" Velika asked, genuinely surprised. "I thought we were finished working."

   The Vo-Matoran shook her head. "There's still a lot more to do. Come on, the Turaga's getting impatient."

   Velika mused over this as he followed the Matoran. It would seem that Angonce and the others had made the Great Spirit's internal workings more complex than he had initially believed.

   "By the way, what's your name?" asked the Vo-Matoran.

   Velika hesitated only believed. He supposed it would do no harm to use his real name, considering that the other Matoran would not know better.

   "Velika," he said quietly.

   The Vo-Matoran beamed through her Kanohi Volitak. "Mine's Chiara."

   As the two of them continued towards the village, Velika could not help but smile to himself. His life here would be a most intriguing one.

-Present-

   "Velika?"

   The incredulous statement of the name came from three beings at once: the Onu-Matoran Garan, his friend Balta, and Toa Chiara.

   Kabrua, who had delivered the news of the Great Being's identity, smirked at them. "Ring a bell for you?"

   Garan exchanged a glance with Balta before saying, "He's a Po-Matoran we met on Voya Nui. Balta and I were both friends with him."

   "I knew him as a Matoran on the Northern Continent," Toa Chiara said quietly. "The Turaga sent him to Karzahni shortly before I became a Toa."

   "And yet all this time he was a Great Being." Balta shook his head in disbelief. "Amazing."

   "I'm not sure I buy it," said Toa Helryx, who had to have the Vorox's words translated to her like Toa Lewa, Artakha, and the others who were trapped in the cursed Great Being's fortress. "What's he been doing all this time? And what's he doing now?"

   "All I know is that he doesn't want to be found by the Matoran, or anyone for that matter, and tasked me and my fellow Vorox in killing the Glatorian and his Toa friends," Kabrua replied.

   "So we have to hunt down a Po-Matoran," Toa Zaria said. "Can't say I've ever done that in my life. Any idea where he is?"

   Kabrua shook his head. "Last I saw of him, he was here in Bota Magna."

   "Then let's go find him," Toa Orde said. Turning to Helryx, he added, "I think it would be best if you, Artakha, Axonn, Brutaka, and Lewa head for New Atero, so you can catch up on recent events. The Matoran can lead you there."

   "Wait," said the Le-Matoran Tamaru said. "We have to go back? Even though we just got here? Talk about unfair!"

   "The jungles of Bota Magna are dangerous for small ones like you," said Sarob. "Even we Agori dare not trek beyond the boundaries of our village."

   "Well, can Kopeke at least go with you?" asked Macku. "He is the Chronicler, after all. Who knows what historical repercussions this quest could have."

   "And Garan and I know Velika better than anyone," Balta said. "Maybe we could reason with him."

   Orde glanced at Gelu, who, after a moment's hesitation, reluctantly nodded.

   "All right," the Toa of Psionics then said. "You three can come with us. But the rest of you have to return to the campsite."

   Macku sighed. "Well, so much for the Chronicler's Company being back in action." She turned to Kopeke and smiled. "Good luck, Chronicler."

   "Thanks," the Ko-Matoran said, returning the smile weakly. "And if I don't make it back, ask the Turaga to pick a new Chronicler."

   "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."

*  *  *

   The trio of lenses on Kopaka's mask rotated as he studied the Wall of History, located deep in the Sanctum. 

   In short, Eratus Nui had been created as a pocket dimension to imprison beings too dangerous for even the Pit to handle. However, at some point, two Makuta- Necrosis and Sorefus- had found a way to travel between dimensions, abducting Matoran left and right.

   That was where the Tribe originated; several beings had been able to escape from the Makuta with the help of a titan known only as Adran. Once the tribe had been established, Adran vanished into the mountains of Ko-Wahi, never to be seen again.

   Two Toa, named Daxius and Xadira, had then used their Toa power to create four new warriors- Deraln, Kyron, Nalrik, and Fortaan- and together with veterans Luna and Laselv, they formed the Toa Eratus, protecting the Tribe and newcomers from being abducted by the Makuta.

   As he finished reading, Kopaka stood up and looked at the Vo-Matoran who served as Eratus Nui's Chronicler. "I see that you've been through some rough times," he said.

   "Glad you noticed," the Ruru-wearer said, a hint of bitterness in her tone. "So, you plan on staying here for long?"

   Kopaka gave her an icy glare. "I don't suppose I have much choice. Though, if you are strictly referring to here in Ko-Eratus, then I'm afraid not. I have a few friends to find."

   "Well, I certainly hope you're not planning on going alone."

   Kopaka looked up to see Toa Luna standing in the doorway, her fellow Toa Eratus Laselv accompanying her. Crossing her arms, the Toa of Lightning frowned.

   "The Makuta's minions are numerous. Rahi predators patrol the skies, Toa of Shadows stalk the ground... do you honestly think you would make it out there alone?"

   "You have an entire village to protect here," Kopaka said. "Why would you sacrifice yourselves out of concern for me?"

   "We're not suggesting that we accompany you," said Toa Laselv. "Rather, we're imploring you to stay here."

   "I'm afraid I cannot," Kopaka said. "There's a fellow Toa out there and two Matoran. I have to-"

   "Odds are, the Makuta have already gotten to them," Luna said. "They'll get to you if you go out there."

   "So be it, then."

   And with that, the Toa Mata of Ice turned on his heels and strode out of the Sanctum.

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Two

CHAPTER TWO

   "The Great Beings, you say?" The Great Creator Artakha shifted his size uncomfortably in the seat supplied to him by the Agori of Bota Magna. "A daring quest indeed."

   A lot had happened in the past half-hour before this dinner. Not too long ago, three Toa- Orde, Chiara, and Zaria- and a Glatorian named Gelu had set off to find the Great Beings at the request of Mata Nui. Along the way, they had encountered Vorox and Agori native to the Great Jungle and rescued Toa Lewa Nuva. Not long after, as they were approaching a fortress which housed a Great Being, the building exploded and the party met up with Artakha and others who had been inside the fortress, along with several Matoran who were also approaching the fortress.

   And yet, in spite of all this, they were no closer to finding the Great Beings then they were before.

   "You sound like you knew them," Gelu said as he looked disapprovingly at a piece of raw meat served by the Botan Agori.

   "Not personally," Artakha said. "I heard merely their voices when my brother and I were pit against one another over the Mask of Creation. From their speech, I could understand that their name was apt."

   "It was," murmured the Agori elder Sarob, who sat nearby. "We may have not known them that well, but the things they created was proof of their capabilities."

   "Like what?" asked Toa Zaria.

   "The Baterras," the elder said bitterly. "The modified Skopio. The Element Lords."

   Gelu raised an eyebrow. "You must have lived during the Core War."

   "Indeed. I was in the service of the Element Lord of Jungle during that time, supporting his Glatorian soldiers. After the Shattering, I was elected to lead what was left of our tribe here in Bota Magna."

   "So let me get this straight," Toa Chiara said. "Artakha doesn't know anything about the Great Beings, and he's pretty old. Sarob doesn't know much more, and he's even older. So, I must ask: who does?"

   "I do."

   The party turned around to see the Vorox known as Kabrua standing before them, flanked and restrained by Agori guards.

   "He asked to see you, sir," said a female guard named Draida. "He wouldn't say why."

   The Vorox tilted his head, regarding the Toa, Gelu, and the others coldly. "I know something about the Great Beings- one of them, at least. In fact, he's been hiding among your people for over a hundred thousand years."

   "Do you happen to know his name?" asked Toa Orde.

   Kabrua smiled mirthlessly. "It is one I could never forget, for he was one of the ones who experimented on my kind. His name is Velika."

*  *  *

   Kopaka wasn't sure how long he and the female Toa had been walking, but they eventually reached the Tribe she had mentioned earlier, which happened to be located in what he knew as Ko-Koro. There, dozens of Matoran, Toa, and even Vortixx moved about, varying in shapes, colors, and sizes. They took no notice of Kopaka or the Toa he traveled with, instead going about their daily lives. 

   The two of them eventually reached a marble-colored building, which Kopaka recognized as the Sanctum, which, on Mata Nui, served as Turaga Nuju's residence. Entering the building, Kopaka and his new-found companion found a trio of Turaga standing before a fireplace, conversing amongst themselves. Upon noticing their new arrivals, the Turaga turned to face the two Toa.

   "Ah, Toa Luna," an Elda-wearing Turaga of Plant Life said to the female Toa. "I see that you have returned from your excursion. Who have you brought with you?"

   "He calls himself Kopaka, Toa of Ice," Luna said. "I found him near the North March."

   "I see." The blue and green Turaga stared at Kopaka studiously. "How did you come here?"

   "I wish I could tell you," the Toa of Ice replied. "One minute, I'm inside a Red Star; the next, a portal opens underneath my feet and drops me here."

   "He's been abducted then," murmured a Turaga of Sonics. "But then why was he not immediately taken by the Makuta? Is he a spy?"

   The third Turaga, one of Psionics, took a step towards Kopaka and raised a hand towards him, contorting her face in concentration. Finally, after a moment of rather awkward silence, she said, "He is not a spy. Perhaps Toa Luna was simply able to reach him in time before the Makuta's forces did."

   "What is this about abduction and Makuta?" Kopaka asked. "What is this place?"

   The Turaga of Plant Life smiled slightly. "There is much to tell, Toa Kopaka. As for where you are... we call this place Eratus Nui. This is the Lost World."

*  *  *

   Takua walked aimlessly across the beach of Ga-Wahi, listening to the gentle hum of the waves. He had no idea where he was headed, let alone why or how he was where he was in the first place.

   "Takua?"

   Startled, Takua jumped and whirled around to see a Kaukau-wearing Ga-Matoran standing before him.

   "Hahli?" he exclaimed in recognition. "What are you doing here? And why are you a Matoran again?"

   "I should be asking you the exact same thing," Hahli said. "And why are we in Ga-Wahi if it was destroyed with the rest of Mata Nui?"

   "If you're asking answers from me, you're asking the wrong person," Takua said. "I'm just as in the dark as you."

   "And you will forever be in the dark."

   Both Matoran froze at the sound of the cold voice. The waves suddenly became still and the wind ceased to blow over them. Neither Takua nor Hahli dared to move as the voice went on.

   "Notice how even nature itself fears my presence. I am the omen which brings about your reckoning. I am the terror that stalks the night. I am the nightmare that haunts your dreams.

   "I am Makuta Nathuz."

   Then, a red blur passed before Takua's eyes and everything went dark.

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Prologue and Chapter One

PROLOGUE

   "Has the Mask of Life been hidden?"

   One of the two Great Beings standing together nodded, glancing warily around them. "Yes, along with the guardian. I've been hearing... things about the Hand of Artakha."

   The other Great Being scowled underneath the hood of his cloak. "Its members lack discipline. Their methods of carrying out justice are unconventional. And we have yet to construct a functional and effective prison."

   The first Great Being nodded again. "What do you propose we do?"

   The other sighed. "Arctur is constructing something he calls 'the Pit.' I'll have to inquire him further, but it might be the prison we need."

   "But what about the more... unhinged? I fear that Karzahni may be prone to...." She did not finish her sentence, instead directing her gaze elsewhere.

   Noticing this, the other Great Being frowned. "What troubles you, Xera?"

   "It's him, Ilrion," Xera said quietly. "He's up to something, I just know it. He's always murmuring to himself and won't let anyone into his lab. I'm worried about him."

   Ilrion placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Worry not, my sister. Angonce and I shall deal with him. If he is up to something- something that will make this catastrophic time even worse- then we shall have no choice but to stop him."

   "I hope it will be possible, brother," Xera murmured. "Our world depends on it."

BIONICLE DESTINY

Volume II: The Lost World

CHAPTER ONE

   Toa Takanuva awoke to find himself laying on his back atop a bed of sand, a bright moon shining over him. Sitting up, he cleared his bleary vision and tried to recall what had just happen.

   He had embarked on a journey with seven Matoran to Bota Magna to find three missing Toa Nuva, among others. Upon arriving there, a large explosion occurred of unknown means. In the midst of the confusion, he had caught sight of two figures entering a portal. He immediately took pursuit and entered the portal. After that, he remembered nothing.

   Rising to his feet, Takanuva observed his surroundings. The beach was not unlike the one in Ga-Wahi on his island home of Mata Nui. Across from him, opposite the body of water which surrounded the beach, was a cliff side. Carved into it was the shape of a strange face, water pouring out from its mouth. The Toa of Light found it similarity to the Naho Falls of Ga-Wahi to be surreal.

   In fact, this entire place felt like a warped version of the island of Mata Nui. The way the sand felt between his fingers, the sound of the water emptying into "Naho Bay"... he felt as if he had been here before.

   Takanuva rubbed his hand across his mask... and froze. He had been expecting to feel the rough ridges of his Mask of Light but instead felt the smooth surface of the Kanohi Pakari he wore as a Matoran. 

   He then looked down at his hand. Instead of being white, it was blue. Just like when he was a Matoran.

   He hung his head as cold realization crept over him. Toa Takanuva was no more. He was once again Takua.

*  *  *

   Iruini groaned as consciousness returned to him. I really hate Skakdi, he thought as he reached for his Cyclone Spear and Rhotuka Launching Shield. He could not find the latter, and the former felt shorter than usual, but the Toa Hagah of Air decided not to dwell on that subject.

   Rising to his feet, he instead wondered where in the Great Spirit's name he was. Trees towered over him and a river flowed before him. He could also hear the crunching of leaves and twigs, as if something- or someone- was approaching him from behind.

   "Iruini?"

   The Toa of Air spun around, raising his Cyclone Spear, to see the hideous visage of a Rahkshi Guurahk. Iruini scowled at the azure-colored spawn of Makuta.

   "You guys sure are persistent even without old Teridax bossing you around."

   "Iruini, it's me!" the Guurahk said. "Gaaki!"

   The Toa of Air blinked. "Gaaki? What happened to...?"

   Dread pumped into his heart. Turning around to face the river, he bent down to see his reflection. 

   The face he saw was that of a green Rahkshi's.

   Turning back to fellow former Toa Hagah, Iruini frowned. "Do the Great Beings hate us or something?"

   Gaaki sighed. "Someone clearly has something against us. Come on. Let's find Norik and the others."

   As the two of them set off, the only solace Iruini found in being a Rahaga again was that he had the limited ability to fly again.

*  *  *

   The sudden weight of piled-up snow was what awoke Toa Kopaka from his slumber. Quickly rising to his feet, the Toa of Air brushed himself off... and stopped when he realized that he was no longer wearing his Toa Nuva armor, nor his adaptive armor.

   Great, he thought bitterly. It's another one of those days.

   As he began to search for his fellow Toa Pohatu, as well as their companions on the Red Star- Mavrah, Gaardus, and Kodan- Kopaka soon realized where exactly he was.

   He was in Ko-Wahi, the region of Ice on the island of Mata Nui. The only place he could think of as home. While he should have been comforted by the familiar surroundings, there was one problem with the scenario.

   Ko-Wahi, along with the rest of Mata Nui, was destroyed when the Great Spirit robot- possessed by Makuta Teridax- was reawakened. How could he be standing here?

   Before he could wonder further, the sound of feet moving through snow made him turn around. Through the blizzard, he could make out a Toa-sized figure approaching him, accompanied by an Energy Hound. When the veil of snow finally cleared, a female Toa in blue and white armor stood before him, a trident in one hand and a chain connected to the Rahi in the other. Staring at Kopaka with cold blue eyes, the stranger raised her tool at Kopaka.

   "State your name and purpose," she commanded.

   Hesitating only briefly, Kopaka said, "I am Kopaka, Toa of Ice. To be honest, I don't exactly know why I'm here or how I even got here in the first place."

   Keeping her icy stare on him, the other Toa nonetheless lowered her trident. "If you do not know why you're here, then your story must be the same as mine."

   Turning around, she beckoned for Kopaka to follow her. "Come. I shall take you to the Tribe."

   Left with little other choice, the Toa of Ice did as told. Yes, it's definitely one of those days.

Star Wars Shadows of the Sith: Episode I, Chapter Ten and Epilogue

CHAPTER TEN

   Serra winced as her back hit the pavement of the ground. She should have figured that the large alien would have been a lot stronger than her. As she struggled to rise, she saw Hrakh standing over her.

   "I'm terribly sorry, Lady Vader," he said. "My brother sometimes does not know his own strength."

   Serra gave him a baffled look. "'Lady Vader?' Seriously? You really have lost it. Now let go of my dad."

   "Only if you come with us to Honoghr and fix our home," snarled Hrakh's brother. "If not, then your father shall do it instead."

   "Yeah, like knocking him out cold is going to gain his trust." She grunted as she stood up. "Can't we, like, talk this out?"

   "That was what I was trying to do," Hrakh said. "I took it from our discussion that you weren't interested."

   "Okay, can we drop the poodoo already?" Rikk-Deri snapped. "Why is the fate of your planet so important that you need to go to such great lengths to fix it? Wouldn't the Galactic Alliance be more able to do it than either Serra or her dad? And how would they, anyway?"

   "To be perfectly honest with you, neither of us knows," Hrakh said. "Our master simply told us that either Lady Vader or a relative of her's would be able to save Honoghr."

   "Will you please drop the 'Lady Vader' stuff?" Serra said. "And who is this master of yours?"

   "That would be me."

   Serra and her companions turned at once to see a tall, dark-haired man standing before them. Going by the regal clothes he wore and the invaluable cane he carried, Serra assumed that was of nobility or some other high-status.

   "I am Count Valmar of Serenno," the man said. "For the past few years, I've been investing in the restorations of planets hurt by war, Honoghr being among them."

   "And you want me to take part in it because...?" Serra asked.

   Valmar smiled. "Because the Noghri don't fully trust me. I need something- or someone- that can win their loyalty. Considering that they practically worship Darth Vader, I needed to have them sniff out someone of their kin."

   "Ah, but you've run into a tactical blunder," Rikk-Deri said. "You've just knocked Serra's dad out could. How are you going to win our loyalty?"

   The Count shifted his gaze to Hrakh's brother, realizing that he was carrying Anakin Solo's unconscious form. Glaring at the Noghri, Valmar said, "Brakh, please gently lower Master Solo."

   Grunting, the alien brute did as told, placing Anakin on the ground. "My apologies, Lady Vader and Count Valmar."

   Serra opened her mouth to object to Brakh's use of the honorific but was cut off by Valmar.

   "Now then, would you three like to accompany me to Honoghr?" he asked. "This is, after all, for a good cause. For too long has the Galactic Alliance neglected worlds such as Honoghr, Jabiim, and Nez Peron the fortune of the restoring their former glory."

   "I don't know," Serra muttered. "If the other Noghri are like these two and are prone to brute force...."

   "Rest assured, my lady," Hrakh said. "Those in our clan, as well as others, would not dare harm you or those who pose no threat to you."

   "I'm not buying any of this," Rikk-Deri said. "Serra, how about we just leave and go back to Coruscant. Working for Peet doesn't seem so bad anymore."

   Staring at Count Valmar impassively, Serra folded her arms across her chest. "So, what if I say no?"

   Valmar frowned. "Well, I was hoping that you would be willing to grant your assistance...."

   Serra shook her head. "Sorry, but no. I don't know about you, but I don't feel comfortable about being worshiped by a bunch of big, scary aliens."

   Valmar tilted his head, his smile returning. "I understand. In that case, my friends and I will be off."

   Nodding, Serra turned around to return to the Millennium Falcon only for a sharp pain to hit her in the back and knock her out cold.

*  *  *

   Count Valmar frowned as he looked upon the unconscious forms of Serra Solo, her Rutanian friend, and Anakin Solo. He had hoped that he would have accomplished the mission without resorting to force, but he had been left with no choice.

   While the two Noghri warded off any bystanders who took notice of the scene, Valmar turned to the Mrlssi who had served as Serra and her companions' tour guide.

   "Your assistance is to be commended," the Count said dryly. "Remember, after we part ways, you are not to breathe a word of what happened here or even acknowledge its existence."

   Kepor Dagwa nodded. "I understand, my lord. However, you still have yet to hold up your end of the bargain."

   "Ah, yes." Reaching into a pocket on his elaborate vest, Valmar brought out an old, dusty book titled The Life and Lies of Pagda Luwa.

   "There you go," Valmar said, handing the Mrlssi the book. "And remember, not a word of this."

   Dagwa's beak twisted into a smirk. "About what?"

   Returning the smirk in kind, Count Valmar turned to the two Noghri and said, "Return to the ship and take our friends with you."

   "What about the vessel in which they arrived?" Brakh asked.

   Valmar smiled coldly. "I believe I will be making a purchase."

*  *  *

   Varon Krul awoke from his meditation at the sound of his comlink buzzing. Answering it by activating its holoprojector, Varon bowed his head when the visage of his master appeared.

   "Master," he murmured. "Jacen Solo has not yet arrived on Nyssa."

   "Jacen Solo is no longer a high priority," Count Valmar said. "I have a new task for you to undertake... one that may be more to your liking."

   A wicked grin crossed the Sith apprentice's face. "Name it, master."

EPILOGUE

   When news of Scur Bodalla's death reached Jutrand, Governor Pol Zurn could not have been any happier. Relieved of his burden of being affiliated with the crime lord, Zurn had become a lot more jovial and outgoing, which many found unexpected of an Advozse.

   However, the day a human male in a black cloak strode into his office, with dead guards laying outside, Zurn knew that his short-lived peace had come to an abrupt end.

   Bracing himself for what was to come, Governor Zurn said, "May I help you?"

   "The holocron you were to deliver to Bodalla," the stranger growled. "Who did you give it to?"

   "Two males- a Bothan and a human. Their names escape me."

   Ire flickered in the man's yellow eyes and for a brief second, Zurn felt his neck constrict. The sensation faded as the man spoke again.

   "The holocron's been stolen, looted from Bodalla's corpse, by a man wielding a lightsaber. Do you know who that man was?"

   "How should I know?" Zurn exclaimed. "I wasn't even there!"

   "He's visited you," the stranger snarled. "I can sense it. He visited you and wanted to know about the holocron. Who was he?"

   The Advozse raised his hands. "I-I have no idea! He didn't say! I swear-!"

   "Swear to me." 

   A scarlet blade of light suddenly appeared in the stranger's hand. As the Governor yelped out in terror, the man raised the blade to his chest.

   "Tell me his name. Or you die."

   Zurn's neck tightened again, so much that he couldn't even speak. The last thing he saw before the scarlet blade entering his chest was the sinister grin on his murderer's face.

*  *  *

   Something was not right.

   With night having fallen on Ossus, Jedi Master Lexa Varr was the only one left in the Archives, sorting out misplaced books and cleaning up whatever food or drinks had been spilled by clumsy and careless students.

   However, she felt as if something was... off. Following her instincts, she carefully walked towards the secret chamber in which holocrons made exclusively for the eyes of Jedi Masters- such as Sith holocrons- were held. Entering the vault, red and blue lights illuminated the room. All around her, rows of holocrons were stacked together. Everything was in order....

   Except one of them was missing. And deep down, Lexa knew which one it was: the holocron given to her by the Bothan spy.

   The holocron of Darth Necrosis.

   And whoever had stolen it was without a doubt up to no good.

TO BE CONTINUED

Star Wars Shadows of the Sith: Episode I, Chapter Nine

CHAPTER NINE

   Benor Sardan's cloak billowed as he trudged through the snowy landscape of Belsavis. In his hand, the Sith holocron he had taken from Scur Bodalla pulsed with dark side energy, attempting to persuade him to activate it and search it in full.

   He resisted its temptations. He had grown use to the dark long ago.

   It had come to his surprise and slight disappointment that the holocron was not that of Darth Necrosis- in all likelihood, this one got switched with Necrosis' holocron. Instead, it belonged to a Sith Lord named Darth Fatalis, who ruled the New Sith Empire after the death of the Dark Underlord. The holocron had then directed Sardan to Belsavis and he could not help but follow the trail.

   Ever since his apprenticeship, he had been fascinated with the Sith; not necessarily to train in their arts and become one but rather to simply learn and study them and their history. His master, of course, had warned him that doing so could only lead to the dark side, but Sardan disagreed.

   After what felt like hours of trudging through snow, Sardan finally reached what he presumed to be his destination: an old cabin located in the middle of nowhere. Plodding towards the shelter's front door, he took notice of the Aurebesh characters carved into the wood. He couldn't make out what they read, for they appeared to have been made in haste, but he could decipher several instances of the word "Sith."

   Reaching out with the Force, he searched for any signs of a threat. When he found none, he cautiously knocked on the door. To his surprise, it instantly swung open and a long, skinny green arm pulled him inside. As the door closed behind him, Sardan saw that the cabin's sole occupant was a tall male Ho'Din, and the only things inside besides them was a bed, some cooking appliances, and a small table with a chair. 

   Looking up at the Ho'Din, Sardan saw that the green-skinned alien's pupil-less black eyes were filled with concern.

   "Why have you come here?" the Ho'Din asked. "No one ever treks through this part of Belsavis... meaning that you've been searching for me."

   "Not you specifically," Sardan said. "I was led here by this Sith holocron."

   Upon seeing the relic, the Ho'Din's eyes widened in terror and he instantly backed away, cowering. "Where... where did you get that?" he moaned.

   "A Black Sun Vigo on Eriadu, though I'm sure it originated from the Jedi Archives." Sardan frowned at the alien's expression. "Is there something wrong?"

   The Ho'Din's snake-like hair wiggled as he nodded. "That is the holocron of... of the Winter Lord. Darth Fatalis."

   "Winter Lord? What is that supposed to mean?"

   The tall alien fell to his knees, clutching his head. "His fur was as white as snow. None saw him coming before it was too late. My predecessor fell at his hands."

   Sardan crouched down to be at eye-level with the Ho'Din. "You say predecessor as if you held a unique rank. What, exactly, is it that you do? Why are you out here in the middle of nowhere?"

   The Ho'Din sobbed as he answered. "Eons ago, this world was touched by the Rakata. They left behind... a trinket of theirs. Something... that attracted the Sith's interest."

   "What is it?"

   "A mindspear," the Ho'Din said quietly. "It allows one to transfer their memories into another body."

   The tall alien stared at him meaningfully. "In a way... it grants one immortality."

*  *  *

   Loth's eyes scanned through the list of human male Jedi who were out and about in the galaxy, along with the planet they were last known heading for.

   Valin Horn, Leritor. Jaden Korr, Fhost. Noran Raun, H'ratth. Anakin Solo, Susevfi.

   As he finished examining each holographic visage that accompanied each name, Loth sighed and handed the datapad back to the Anx Jedi Master standing before him.

   "I'm sorry, Master Madurrin, but none of these match the Jedi I saw on Eriadu."

   Madurrin dipped her large head. "Do you know what color blade he wielded?"

   "Violet," Loth replied. "And I believe his robes were gray rather than the traditional brown."

   The Jedi Master scratched her pointed chin. "There is... one Jedi who matches that description."

   "Who?"

   "Benor Sardan. Three years ago, he left his master to pursue his studies of the Sith. He has since been declared rogue and, as we call them, a Gray Jedi. Unfortunately, we know nothing of his current whereabouts."

   "Well then," Loth said with a grin. "Good thing I am infinitely patient when it comes to finding things."

*  *  *

   Silence had fallen upon Sardan and the Ho'Din for a while until the former said, "Do you know of an order of Sith around these parts?"

   The alien slowly nodded. "They've been forging alliances with criminal factions such as the Black Sun. I've heard rumors that they've also been speaking with the Hutts and the Mandalorians."

   "Do you happen to know a current location of the Black Sun?"

   The Ho'Din thought for a moment before saying, "Lok, I believe. One of the Feeorin pirates there was recently made a Vigo."

   "Then that will be my next stop."

   However, as Sardan got to his feet, the Ho'Din reached up and seized his arm. 

   "Don't," the green-skinned alien said urgently. "Only death and darkness awaits you. Your actions will do nothing to prevent what is about to come."

   Sardan wrenched his arm free from the Ho'Din's grip. "Well," he said, "someone has to do it."

Star Wars Shadows of the Sith: Episode I, Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

   "This isn't gonna be a habit is it?" Wes Janson whispered to Loth as the duo watched Eriadu officials examine Scur Bodalla's corpse. "I walk away for a few minutes and you get into trouble? 'Cause if it is, then I'm out."

   "You're free to drop out," Loth replied. "I only needed you for the delivery anyway."

   Janson merely scoffed at the Bothan's attitude.

   A few minutes later, a human male officer walked up to the pair and said, "You say that you were making a delivery to Bodalla?"

   Loth nodded. "Yes, I was delivering him that pyramidal object which the Jedi took from his body before vanishing."

   The officer typed in a few notes into his datapad before saying, "I take it, then, that you were not in league with the Jedi?"

   The Bothan shook his head. "Don't even know his name or if he is indeed a Jedi."

   "I see. You also said you heard a jetpack going off as soon as Bodalla was shot."

   "Yes. It could've been a bounty hunter."

   "We'll look into it. Thank you for the tip. Just give me your comm frequency and you can leave Eriadu until we need to call you again. Have a nice day."

   As Loth and Janson headed back for their ship, the latter said, "You can drop me off at Coruscant. I think I'm getting too old for this."

   Loth raised an eyebrow. "Too old for what?"

   "Doing stupid stuff."

   The Bothan shrugged nonchalantly. "Suit yourself. I have to report to Director Nalas anyway."

   "The Givin? Yeah, I spoke with him when he sent me to follow you. Pretty creepy guy."

   "Yes," Loth murmured. "Yes, he is."

*  *  *

   Bone-colored fingers idly tapped on a desk made of bronzium. Sunken black eyes stared emotionlessely at the nervous Bothan that stood before him. After a long moment of silence, Director Sladru Nalas finally spoke.

   "Scur Bodalla is dead and the decoy Sith holocron is gone."

   Loth cleared his throat. "Yes, well, the good news is that the real holocron is in the Jedi Order's custody."

   The Givin pressed the tips of his scrawny fingers together. "What about the stolen decoy? I highly doubt any Sith holocron is less dangerous than the others."

   Loth shifted his feet. "The person who took it was a man wielding a violet lightsaber. My assumption was that he was a Jedi and was taking the holocron back to the Order."

   "Assumptions do us no good, Agent Ja'far," Nalas said coldly. "It would be best to speak with the Jedi Order and inquire which of their members are out and about, and narrow it down to the one you encountered on Eriadu."

   Loth chewed on the corner of his lower lip. Bad enough he needed help from the Jedi once....

   "Very well," he said. "I shall go to Ossus and speak with the Jedi."

   "Good," Nalas said quietly, leaning back in his seat. "You would do well not to fail me."

*  *  *

   Serra blinked as she stared at the alien who called himself Hrakh. Rikk-Deri and Kepor were doing the same, the former muttering something under his breath.

   "The heir of Darth...?" She shook her head. "No offense, but you need to lay off the spice."

   Hrakh snorted. "I beg to differ. I've never come within ten feet of that substance. You are the heir. I know it to be true."

   Serra's face contorted in bafflement. "Okay, yeah, I'm Anakin Skywalker's great-granddaughter. But what does it mean to you?"

   Standing up, Hrakh gave her a toothy smile. "My people have long awaited the day that a descendant of the savior would complete his task and save our race from extinction."

   Serra glanced around, wondering if this was some sort of prank. "Well, I've never seen your kind before, so I don't know how I can help you."

   "Just ignore him, Serra," Rikk-Deri said. "Maybe he'll go away."

   "Please," Hrakh said with a frown. "My home is in dire straits. My master told me that you'd be able to repair it."

   "I've repaired ships and speeders, but not planets," Serra said. "I'm sorry."

   Sorrow crossed the alien's face. "But... the Elders said-"

   "Can we go now?" Rikk-Deri said, jumping off the bench. "This guy is driving me bonkers."

   Serra nodded and followed him and Kepor. Hrakh did nothing to stop them.

*  *  *

   "Get. The heck. Out of. My shop."

   Despite having a blaster trained on his head, Brakh said nothing as he lifted up Anakin Solo's unconscious form and slung him over his shoulders. Turning to the female human behind the shop's counter, he grinned.

   "I wouldn't fire that if I were you, sweetheart," he growled. "I might use this Jedi as a 'flesh shield.'"

   Ire flared in the woman's eyes. "What did you just call me?"

   Without answering her, the Noghri turned to leave the shop only to stop when a blaster bolt hit the wall beside him.

   "COME BACK HERE AND CALL ME 'SWEETHEART' AGAIN!" the human cried. "I DARE YOU!"

   Brakh rolled his eyes as he brought out his Death Commando rifle and fired a paralysis beam at the woman, knocking her out unconscious. As he strode out of the shop, he replaced the weapon with a comlink. 

   "Master, I have captured Anakin Solo."

   "Excellent work. What of his daughter?"

   "No sign of her. Hrakh set out to find-"

   He paused as he heard a feminine voice cry out. Turning around, he saw a young human female running towards him. Behind her was a Rutanian, a Mrlssi, and his brother, Hrakh.

   Brakh grinned. "Never mind, master. We've got her."

Star Wars Shadows of the Sith: Episode I, Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

   The moment the Millennium Falcon dropped out of hyperspace and into the Tapani sector, Serra knew that something was wrong. The lights which illuminated the Corellian freighter's cockpit started to flicker. The engine started to utter a sputtering sound while the entire ship began to rattle.

   "I knew this was a piece of junk," Rikk-Deri muttered.

   Anakin cursed under his breath as he tried to maneuver the unresponsive controls. After a few minutes, he finally got the ship moving again, but very slowly.

   "Rikk-Deri, what's the closes terrestrial planet we can land on?" he asked.

   "Mrlsst," the Rutanian replied after viewing the navigation grid. "Hope they have a repair station down there. Or a spaceship lot."

   It took nearly an hour, but Anakin was soon able to steer the Falcon towards Mrlsst and descend through the planet's atmosphere. As they headed for a spaceport, Serra took the opportunity to observe the city which they approached.

   A magnificent mix of agriculture and urbanization was what comprised the city. Rotund, cylindrical buildings stood side-by-side with tall, lush trees, while garden laid before it all. It truly was a breath of fresh air from the vast, worldwide cityscape of Coruscant and the not-so-bright landscape of Susevfi.

   Anakin soon found a hangar to land in and carefully landed the freighter. As it came to a stop, the ship let out a final sputter before dying.

   "Rikk-Deri's right," Serra said. "How did Grandpa managed to put up with this thing?"

   Anakin shrugged. "Even Jedi Masters are not privy to all of the mysteries of the galaxy."

   As the three of them disembarked from the Falcon, they were instantly greeted by a short, blue-feathered male alien, no doubt meant to be a tour guide.

   "Greetings," squawked the Mrlssi. "I am Kepor Dagwa. If you are new to Mrlsst, or at least this city which we call Mennaa, then I shall be your guide."

   "Well, for starters, you can direct us to a repair station," Anakin said. "Our ship is having... issues."

   "Ah, no worries," Kepor Dagwa said. "There's a local repair shop nearby owned by a woman named Jana Koral. Shall I take you to her?"

   Anakin smiled. "That would be great."

   "Excellent," the Mrlssi chirped, beckoning for the trio to follow him. "Come with me."

*  *  *

   The Sith Master grinned to himself deviously.

   The plan was working out perfectly. By sending a forged message from Jacen Solo, the Sith had been able to lure his first quarry to Mrlssi, while his apprentice handled the second. All that remained was the holocron.

   The sudden presence of one of his minions broke him away from his musings. Without looking at the Noghri, the Sith Master said, "What is it, Brakh?"

   The reptillian dropped onto one knee and bowed his head. "My lord," he growled. "The target has landed on Mrlssi."

   "Yes, I am aware of that. What of it?"

   "Shall I retrieve the quarry now?"

   "No. We must savor the suspense for just a while longer."

   Brakh snarled. "Patience is not exactly my strength, my lord."

   "It will be if I command it."

   The Noghri snorted as he rose to his feet. "Allow me to test that theory."

*  *  *

   "A YT-1300?" Jana Koral ran a gloved hand through her greasy sand-colored hair. "It's not the Millennium Falcon is it?"

   Anakin bit his lip. "I'm afraid it is."

   The female human stared at him before bursting out laughing, shaking her head. "Man, that ship's model is over a hundred years old. Why don't you sell it for a 2400 or a more recent model?"

   "Because it's sort of a family heirloom. My father would kill me if the very thought of selling it crossed my mind."

   Jana shrugged. "Suit yourself." Turning in the direction of the back of the shop, she called out, "Qetzal! Bedo!"

   Instantly, two stout pachydermoids- one a Pacithhip, the other an Ortolan- came rushing into the room. The former, in his hurry, accidentally tripped over his large tail and brought the Ortolan down with him. After quickly regaining his footing, the Pacitthip glared at Jana.

   "When are you going to get me those stilt legs you promised me?" he snapped.

   Jana simply rolled her eyes and instead said, "This guy's got a YT-1300 with a broken engine. Fix it."

   The Ortolan's eyes widened. "A YT-1300? That ship must be an antique!"

   "Yeah, I get that a lot," Anakin said. "It's at Docking Bay Six-Three-Seven. I'll meet you there."

   As the two engineers ran out the shop, Anakin turned back to Jana. "May I ask you something?"

   "If I know the answer, sure."

   "Were you raised here on Mrlssi?"

   "Actually, I was born on Fondor before my dad moved his business here." Jana shrugged. "Close enough, though."

   "Then do you know anything about the planet Nyssa?"

   She thought for a moment before shaking her head. "Can't say I have, sorry to say."

   "That's all right," Anakin said, turning to leave the shop. "Thank you for-"

   Before he could finish, he saw a large fist fly towards his face before slipping out of consciousness.

*  *  *

   "Sure is taking his time," Rikk-Deri muttered as he dangled his legs over the bench which he, Serra, and Kepor Dagwa were sitting on. "That shop didn't look very busy."

   Serra shrugged. "The Falcon is pretty old. Maybe the owner is trying to sell him a newer model."

   "While we wait, may I interest you in some history?" Kepor asked. Before Serra or Rikk-Deri could respond, the Mrlssi pointed to a tall building withing the plaza they were in. "That is where President Gyr Keela awarded his aide Noss Prisht with the Pagda Luwa Science Award. It was also where...."

   Serra held her head in her hands and groaned, hoping that her father would return soon. At that moment, she caught notice of a burly figure walking up to her. Looking up, she saw it was muscular alien with steel-gray skin. It seemed to be sniffing the air, at the same time regarding her with a mix of awe and... admiration?

   "It is true," the brute murmured to himself. "He was telling the truth... you are the one."

   "Excuse me," Serra said cautiously, feeling uncomfortable by the alien's presence. "But do I know you?"

   To her surprise, the alien propped himself onto one knee and bowed his head. "Hrakh of Clan Bakh'tor, at your service."

   "My service?" Serra exclaimed. "Is this a joke? What are you talking about?"

   The alien looked up at her and smiled. "You are of his blood. The savior of Honoghr. The Masked Man." Hrakh bowed again. "You are the heir of Darth Vader."

Star Wars Shadows of the Sith: Episode I, Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

   If it wasn't for its geographic placement, Eriadu could have easily passed off for a Core World. Boasting a great amount of city growth, it easily surpassed a good deal of other Outer Rim worlds in terms of population. In the days of the Old Republic, it was primarily controlled by the Tarkin family, who were on good terms with the Republic and later the Galactic Empire.

   Nowadays, Eriadu remained loyal to the Galactic Alliance, though it felt a degree of resentment towards the galactic government for putting a stop to alien slavery, causing quite a few economic hardships. Thus, it did not come as much of a surprise to Loth that Eriadu would secretly harbor a crime lord if it would benefit them financially.

   Disembarking from their ship, Loth and Wes Janson begin to explore the vast cityscape of Eriadu's capital. It soon came to Loth's vexation that Governor Zurn had not told them where on Eriadu Scur Bodalla was located.

   "Well, this is just swell," Janson said. "If this Bodalla was an alien, it would be a lot more easier to find him, 'cause I'm seeing a lot of humans."

   "I must stick out like a sore thumb then," Loth muttered, warding off glares from Eriadu noblemen.

   As they continued to move through the city, the duo arrived at a casino of sorts, the Aurebesh text at its entrance naming it the Gambling Gundark.

   "You know, it would make sense for a crime boss to be here," Janson said. Before Loth could stop him, the veteran pilot headed into the loud and busy casino. Cursing under his breath, Loth followed suit.

   To his mild surprise, the Gambling Gundark was quite diverse species-wise among its customers, considering Eriadu's humanocentric nature. While Janson set off to take part in games and flirt with pretty women, Loth went in search for Scur Bodalla. According to his info, Bodalla was a stout, light-skinned man with messy black hair and an expensive fur coat. Luckily, it did not take long for him to find his quarry....

   "Give me another chance, Bodalla!" cried a Nautolan male at the Vigo's table. "I've already given you fifty credits for protection! Now you want my entire business?"

   "Consider it payback," Bodalla replied, surrounded by people of immense wealth and protected by four Klatooinian brutes. "That speeder I bought off from you had a faulty engine that blew up in my face. Instead of requesting a refund, I thought of something better."

   The corpulent man slid a credit-chip across the table. "There you go, lad. Should pass you by for a couple of years on Taris... in the lower realms, mind you."

   Bodalla and his company laughed haughtily as the Nautolan grudgingly accepted the chip and stalked off. Once he was gone, Loth took his spot at the crime lord's table. The large man eyed the Bothan warily.

   "And who might you be?" Bodalla asked.

   "Special delivery," Loth said as he slid the Sith holocron across the table.

   Bodalla's eyes widened with delight as he picked up the pyramidal object with his pudgy hands. "Ah, excellent," he said as he examined the holocron's exterior. "This will be of great interest to-"

   He paused, his blue eyes staring in puzzlement. He then threw the holocron down onto the table and brought out a blaster pistol, which he aimed at Loth's head.

   "This isn't the holocron," the Vigo said coldly.

   Loth swallowed, doing his best to keep calm. "How can you tell?"

   "The holocron Pol Zurn was to deliver had the phrase 'In death, there is power' imprinted on it in the Sith language. This one doesn't."

   Loth dipped his head. "My apologies. I am simply delivering to you what the Governor gave me. I know nothing about the Sith language."

   Bodalla slowly lowered his weapon, his vexation beginning to leave his face. "Yes, well... very few do."

   "Then how do you?"

   Bodalla froze and slowly turned in his seat to see a gray-cloaked man standing before him, arms folded across his chest. The crime lord instantly raised his pistol again while his Klatooinian guards readied their vibro-axes.

   "And just who do you thing you are?" Bodalla demanded.

   "I am a knight of the Force," the stranger said. "It is my duty to purge the galaxy of the Sith's influence. If you would be so kind, I would like to know how it is you know about the Sith and understand their language."

   "I study a lot," Bodalla said with a sneer. "What's it to ya'? Now get lost before-"

   He let out a yelp as his blaster flew from his hands and into the stranger's, who then crushed it. The Klatooinians lunged to attack him but were met by a shimmering violet blade. All of those in the casino scattered for cover. Loth shot up from his seat and dashed for a nearby vending machine, looking from behind it so he could watch the fight from afar.

   The man was quite skilled and graceful, the Bothan had to admit. Deflecting the Klatooinians' attack with much ease, he disarmed the brutes and pushed them back with the Force, giving him a clear shot for Bodalla. The Vigo had smuggled the holocron into his coat and was now rushing towards the exit. The Jedi reached out with his arm and started to drag the large human towards him. Bodalla began to panic and searched his luxurious fur coat for something to fight the Jedi with.

   His frantic search ended when a blaster bolt seared through his head.

   Letting out a startled gasp, the Jedi released his invisible grip on the crime lord, letting the human's large form collapse to the ground. At the same time, Loth heard the distinctive sound of a jetpack blasting off....