Star Wars: The Sith Resurrection Part VIII: Wrath of the Empire

[Chevron 7 locke]

"Tell me now. Otherwise, if my apprentice is able to kill you, I will have learned nothing, but it won't come to that, will it?"

 

"No. It will not come to that." Varith said as he looked over at Darth Inferna before looking back at her master. 'Very well, the three codes that I know of to deactivate the lockdown are: Sierra 37-beta, Katarn 41-alpha and Viren 91- gamma. As soon as I find out what the fourth code is I will glady give it to you."

 

Varith continued speaking. "Although it may not seem like it, the jedi temple is heavily armored and can most likely resist orbital bombardment from one or two ships."

 

Varith then turned toward Darth Inferna and smiled as he reignited his lightsaber. "I'm sorry my dear. I believe that it's time for you to die."

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Special Weapons instructor Tavaryn Onashi reporting for duty ma'am. Security officer for the Katarn, reporting in,"

 

Belina was busy speaking with Garja but she figured she could spar a moment. "As of now, troop deployment is being handled by Lady Selene Ordo. She knows the planet better then we do. I belive shes over there."

 

 

 

 

"Glad you could join us Jedi. I hope you are ready for some action. How's your Shinigami?"

 

Alriana looked over at Tavaryn and smiled before tunring back to the Lady Ordo. "He's doing well. He managed to get shot by a sniper but I think I managed to take care of it."

 

She looked over all the troops and then turned to Lady Ordo. "So tell me..what type of strategy do you have in mind to drive the sith away?"

[JediMaster12]

Selene cast a suspicious eye and whispered, "That was not what I meant." She had smiled as she said it. In a louder voice, she shouted, "Shinigami, you better get over here or I'll drag you here myself."

 

Tavaryn tried to hide a smile and nodded respectfully at Admiral Belina before jogging over to where Selene was, followed by Haruka and the rest of the troops. He said, "I'm guessing that is why Belina asked you to deploy us."

 

Selene smirked ate him, "Hah! You and me both know the planet better than most Republics which is why I am having you lead Tristian's calvary. They just arrived and are mustering with Sayrn's men by the river."

 

Selene then activated a disc and a 3D version of the Jasilyn plains appeared. As she spoke, the figures appeared, "Tiye and Jedi Kaltas are mustering near the hills to protect the way to the Academy. The artillery provided by Tristan will line up at the keep's boundary and will advance. Republic troops will rank and file with Generals Sayrn, Potipheras and Bas-sing-se and advance.

 

"Tavaryn, I am asking you to risk with my men to be the first to charge in on calvary and foot. Sayrn's own calvary will be in reserve."

 

Tavaryn studied the battlefield. It was a sound plan. "What about the Handmaidens?"

 

"They'll be there," Selene replied knowing what he meant. The Handmaidens were the ones who carried out the will of the Force and were known for their devotion to land and its people. The predecessors to the Shinigami if you will.

 

"Good," Tavaryn replied. He looked at Alriana before saying, "Well conceived plan. I'll take on the calvary charge."

 

"Good. You, Haruka will march with Sayrn." Selene gave a warning glance to Haruka to prevent him from protesting but he held no ideas about doing that. Instead she saw a will to fight. She then turned towards Alriana, "And you Jedi. Can you ride?"

[Alkonium]

Oblivion

 

"We'll see about that." Inferna replied, activating her own double-bladed lightsaber. "After I kill him, Master, you're next." She then leapt towards Varith in a rush of adrenaline, nearly catching him off guard.

 

Avalon

 

"Certainly. I'll do whatever I can." Kalla replied, looking to Lenatha for her response.

 

"Why do people assume I'm good with a sword? I'm a doctor, not a Bushida warrior." Lenatha responded, before calming down. "It'd better if I provide cover from a distance with a blaster, or tend to the wounded."

[Chevron 7 locke]

"And you Jedi. Can you ride?"

 

"I never have before but I'm pretty sure that I can pick it up on the go." Alriana replied as she made sure that her lightsaber was still attached to her belt. She looked over at Tavaryn before looking at Selene. "I'm ready to go whenever you are."

 

 

 

Admiral Belina turned to Garja just as her comnlink went off. "Admiral Belina. This is Science officer Koral. It looks like the computer on the Ackbar has locked up. I think we need you up so we can unlock it again."

 

Belina sighed heavily. "Admiral Garja, I would appreciate it if you kept an eye on the troops down here while I head up to the Ackbar. Hopefully this shouldn't take too long."

 

"As you command Admiral." Garja said as Belina headed toward one of the shuttles.

 

 

 

 

Oblivion

 

"After I kill him, Master, you're next."

 

Varith brought his lightsaber up to block her attack before force jumping backward and raising and unleashing a powerful barrage of force lightning at Darth Inferna.

 

"I'm sorry, but you won't be killing him today." He called out as the barrage ended and he force jumped at her.

[JediMaster12]

Tonatius diplomatically intervened, "Perhaps Lenatha that your services as medic are needed as well. Field medics are usually skilled in some weapon use." He then leaned in close to whisper, "And she wants you to stay with her daughter."

 

The Lady Governor added, "Tonatius is correct. I have heard much of your medical expertise and I thank you in regards to my brother. Perhaps now your skills will be an even greater asset."

 

**********

 

Selene looked at the Jedi with a look that Tavaryn knew too well. He saw that Selene was questioning Alriana's ability. Selene said nothing though and replied, "Then report in."

 

Tavaryn nodded and motioned for Alriana to follow. He found General Sayrn easily since he was very traditional in having his hair kept in the traditional warrior's queue. He greeted the general with the traditional warrior's grasp, "General, seasons have passed since we last met."

 

"Indeed they have General," Sayrn replied, "My understanding is that you will be leading Tristian's calvary."

 

"Yes, General." Tavaryn then introduced Alriana, "This is Jedi Alriana and will be riding with me."

 

Sayrn gave a similar look that Selene did but didn't relay his thoughts. Instead he said, "A Jedi from the Core Worlds. A long time since one has walked this world. An omen of good perhaps. I leave it to you to select mounts. Your usual is around somewhere," he finished with a gleam in his eye.

 

Tavaryn ended his conversation with a fist over his chest and led the way to the herd of stallions that had been brought along as extras by Tristian's men. He examined each one until he found one that suited him and led the animal away from the rest. It was already saddled so there was no need to do anythin. He held the leading rein out to Alriana and said, "I think this one will do. She's trained to charge but not as violent as the others though I believe some of the men call her crazy. Her name is Shayna." He stroked the animal's nose. "Go on and try her."

 

Some of the calvary from Lord Tristian's tribe saw them. One asked his friend who was strapping together a harness, "Is that who I think it is?"

 

The other looked up and looked. His eyes opened wide and he replied, "It can't be. Can it?"

 

A third, who was young asked, "Who?"

 

The first warrior replied, "That there is General Tavaryn Onashi. He's a legend among calavarymen. The only one said to have tamed a wyvern. If he is leading us, then we have a chance."

[Chevron 7 locke]

"I think this one will do. She's trained to charge but not as violent as the others though I believe some of the men call her crazy. Her name is Shayna."

 

"I survived the jedi purge," Alriana said with a smile on her face. "I think I can handle riding one of these without serious injury."

 

She climbled up on the beast and tried to keep herself upright only to nearly fall off. She looked over at Tavaryn and smiled a meek smile. "Well...this may not be as easy as I thought it might be."

 

 

 

 

Ackbar

 

Belina walked onto the bridge of the Ackbar after her short shuttle flight up to the Ackbar. She immediatly went to the station that would allow her to access the computer.

 

"This isn't good." She said aloud. "It looks like the entire computer system has been damaged. My access codes won't work. Get repair teams to work on the computer core as soon as possible."

 

"Yes Admiral." Koral answered as he and a few other men and woman got up and hurridly left the bridge.

[Alkonium]

Oblivion

 

As Varith leapt at her, Inferna activated the flame-throwers concealed in her sleeves, catching him completely off guard. "I am second only to Lord Pestilus; you are nothing." She then struck back at him with her own Force Lightning, launching it directly at him with one hand, and infusing it into the blade of her lightsaber with the other.

[JediMaster12]

Tavaryn instinctively reached out with a hand to steady Alriana as she almost fell. Shayna snorted as if laughing and pawed the ground with her hooves. Tavaryn grinned back and replied, "You need to center your weight and it helps to keep your feet in the stirrups."

 

He pet Shayna on the neck gently to soothe her and he whispered something in the animal's ear. The animal responded with a sound as if it were laughing with him. He inspected Alriana's form and said, "If you ever feel unbalanced, it's okay to grab the saddle horn and use it to steady yourself."

 

"Hey General, nice to see that you can still ride a stallion. Thought you to be too high and mighty." A group of warriors were laughing out loud at the comment.

 

Tavaryn said nothing but gave a slight tightening of his jaw. He made a couple of adjustments on some reins. He tied a length of rope to the ring on the stallion's bridle and said, "Just practice with her in a walk around me. Get a feel for her moving." His voice sounded strained as he stepped back but it was gentle.

 

**********

 

Taryn was impressed with the war camp. Having never really seen one before, it took his breath away though he was good enough not to show it. He said to Andorra, "I'm glad your mother assigned us to the river. I get the feeling that General Sayrn wants us to water bend."

 

**********

 

Jun-la managed to dock the Ebon Hawk with the Ackbar and she and Andros were walking around surveying the damage. The Mandalorian repair crew that Selene had left behind was doing a pretty good job at the repairs, even to the point of barking orders to the Republic crew.

 

Finding Admiral Belina on the bridge, she said, "Seems the repairs are going well."

 

Meanwhile Andros was examining a console that belonged to weapons. Out of habit he began to tinker with it, fixing connections that had been broken. He said out loud as he sat back and wiped his hands, "Admiral, you might want to consider having your repair crews replace all the connections for all systems. Looks like some shorted out. Could be the reason for low power to the computer and the lockout."

[Tysyacha]

Andorra's jaw fell slack. "Me? Already? I'm going to be of little use to General Sayrn if that's the case. I'm far more skilled with a blade, if my courage doesn't fail me. I had to use all my strength and mental capacity even to do the simplest water-bending tricks. Maybe I should stay out of the river and simply hack the Sith to pieces if they attack. I can certainly do so."

[Chevron 7 locke]

"Hey General, nice to see that you can still ride a stallion. Thought you to be too high and mighty."

 

Alriana looked over at the group of warriors who were laughing as she clenched her fists. She thought of possibly using the force to trip them up but then thought better of it. She didn't want to damage relations with Avalon but it was still hard to watch people making fun of him.

 

"Just practice with her in a walk around me. Get a feel for her moving."

 

Alriana nodded and the stallion gently moved forward a bit.

 

 

 

Ackbar

 

"Admiral, you might want to consider having your repair crews replace all the connections for all systems. Looks like some shorted out. Could be the reason for low power to the computer and the lockout."

 

Belina nodded as she opened up a panel and sighed as she saw the damage. "I think you may be right. The Ackbar is most likely going to be here for awhile. I'm going to see if the Katarn can spare any engineers. The more we have working on the Ackbar the better.

 

 

 

Oblivion

 

"I am second only to Lord Pestilus; you are nothing."

 

Varith quickly jumped backwards as the sleeves of his robe caught on fire. He quickly shook the robe off even as he unleashed a massive force wave at the same instant that she unleashed her lightning. He smiled grimly as he managed to force jump and dodge the lightning and brought his lightsaber down on her.

[JediMaster12]

"You can defend Cousin," Taryn replied, "and it was was pretty impressive. Still we won't know until General Sayrn gives us an assignment." He patted Andorra's arm reassuringly. "Besides you have your sword and from what my 'honorable' brother tells me, he set in a special part with the family crest on it. So looks like you are all set for either way."

 

He spotted Tavaryn with a Jedi riding a stallion. "Never thought the Sukairaidā would be leading calvary," he muttered with fascination.

 

Meanwhile Tonatius was walking with Kalla and Lenatha towards General Sayrn's table. He said to Kalla, "More likely my brother and I will be with the element benders. Element of suprise probably. You might be on foot charging, unless you guys want to be with the calvary."

 

**********

 

Tavaryn watched her progess as Shayna walked in a circle around him. It was soothing working with beasts again. He saw the look on Alriana's face and her fists and said, "Don't worry about them. Right now focus on Shayna. Have her go in a trot now."

 

"Sukairaidā, since you ride with us, we shall surely win the day," an older warrior called out giving a fist over his heart salute.

 

Tavaryn said nothing and tried to hide the blush and steel himself against the next wave of taunts from the arrogants. Hasn't been long enough.

 

Sure enough the taunt came only this time it was much more personal. "Did I hear right? the great Sukairaidā is leading calvary?"

 

Tavaryn kept his eyes on Alriana's pacing as he replied, "What you heard is truth embellished Aiden. I lead first advance calvary." His tone was even and firm.

 

Aiden Murais smirked at Tavaryn's reply. "I see things haven't changed with you. Always trying to hide the fact that it's your mother's name that gets you into places."

 

"I don't abuse it," Tavaryn replied with a glare. "If you want to make fun of me for my actions go ahead. Leave my family out of it."

 

Aiden gave a wicked smile, "Family is everything. Deeds and skeletons. Just because you managed to actually tame the greatest of beasts doesn't make you better than the rest of us. If anything it's because of your family the Elders gave you that name."

 

"Frack off," Tavaryn muttered angrily.

 

"Tsk my what a dirty mouth," Aiden continued to poke. "I wonder if your Jedi friend knows what foul language you have as well as secrets you've kept."

 

Tavaryn wanted nothing more than to punch the guy in the face. He gritted his teeth and said, "Leave her alone and leave me alone. Consider that an order."

 

"Fine, but remember this Onashi: You'll never be rid of the stigma your family name carries," Aiden replied before walking away. He did call out to Alriana, "Glad to see that you are with us Master Jedi."

 

Tavaryn said nothing but the muscles in his mouth twitched.

 

**********

 

Andros said to Admiral Belina, "I'll get to work on the main computer connectors. With your permission Admiral."

[Chevron 7 locke]

Ackbar

 

"I'll get to work on the main computer connectors. With your permission Admiral."

 

"Permission granted. Just watch out, with the amount of damage the Ackbar has taken I would keep an eye out for power surges in the consoles."

 

Belina was about to radio the Katarn to see if they had any spare engineers when a panicked voice echoed came from her comnlink. "Admiral Belina, this is ensign Tilra. I was heading for the crew quarters when I found a body laying in the corridor."

 

"The Ackbar was just in a battle ensign. I'm sorry to say this but I'm sure that we lost a few people."

 

"Admiral...I looked over the body. There was a blaster wound to his back and to his head. He was murdered."

 

Belina's eyes narrowed as she barked out orders to the bridge crew. "I want security teams on all decks now! And get a medical team down to the crew quarters. I want to find out who was killed. All security teams are to keep an eye out for any unusual activity."

 

 

 

 

 

Avalon

 

"Fine, but remember this Onashi: You'll never be rid of the stigma your family name carries"

 

Alriana continued to stay on the stallion even as she seriously considered using the force to teach the man a lesson but decided against it. This man who was messing with Tavaryn was seriously making her angry.

 

"What was he talking about Tavaryn?" She asked quietly. "What is wrong with your family name?"

[Alkonium]

"I assumed Force use and lightsaber skill would be a good complement to Element Bending." Kalla commented, but recognised she didn't have the same authority over Avalonian Warriors that she had over Republic Guardsmen.

 

"What do you have in the way of field medics?" Lenatha inquired.

 

Oblivion

 

Inferna reacted with a massive Force Wave, and once Varith was a good distance away, she launched her lightsaber at him. "Now you die, usurper."

[JediMaster12]

"No problem Admiral. This is small compared to damage the Hawk has taken in past battles," Andros replied as he got to work removing the paneling protecting the main computer. He pulled out a toolkit that he carried in his pack and began to get to work.

 

Jun-la left him to do his work and continued to look about the Ackbar. She had seen some of the damage and inwardly smiled when she recognized the carbon scoring from Mandalorian weapons. Andros was going to be in heaven since the boy had shown aptitude with computers and repairs.

 

When Belina answered the comm, Jun-la turned at the sense of urgency from the ensign. She spoke to the Admiral, "Admiral Belina, I'll head down to the area to investigate. Perhaps I can get a sense of what happened."

 

**********

 

"What was he talking about Tavaryn?" She asked quietly. "What is wrong with your family name?"

 

Tavaryn unclenched his facial muscles as Alriana advanced on Shanya. She had picked up the basics fast and he was pleased. It meant that he could summon Ryu. He let out a short sigh and replied, "Nothing is wrong with it...it's..." He tried finding a way to explain it and it was hard. He tried again, "My parents are well known among my people and they were honored for their services during the Clone wars, unusual since my father was not Avalonian. Since then, if sentients meet me or my siblings...they are rather quick to extend favors. You remember Geonosis?"

 

**********

 

Tonatius answered Lenatha's question, "They aren't really medics. They're healers and they are warriors. Pretty good with field dressings. Fourth squad in Sayrn's command is the best."

 

They came to General Sayrn's table and Tonatius saluted with a fist across his chest, "General."

 

General Saryn looked up and returned the salute. "Tonatius Iazoki, the oldest of the Iazoki twins." He looked at the others, "Another Jedi and a Twilek whom I heard knows how to fight as well as patch a wound."

 

"Yes, sir. Where would you like us to be?"

 

"Obviously the twins go with the benders, the doctor reports to fourth squad and the Jedi can be with the benders as cover," General Sayrn replied. He looked at Lenatha and Kalla, "Any questions?"

 

**********

 

Governor Starlighter surveyed the land. The advancing Sith were a fair distance away but they were moving at a steady pace. Peering through her scope, she could determine that the rate they were travelling would give them maybe 30 minutes to form up and be ready. She turned to Admiral Garja, the former Imperial and said, "We should have the divisions line up per the battle plan. Could you relay that to Selene please?"

[Chevron 7 locke]

((Can I kill Inferna now? If not let me know and I'll edit the post.))

 

Oblivion

 

Even as the force wave hit him Varith knew what to do. He qucikly managed to straighten himself out and ducked under the lightsaber that was heading towards him. He smiled as he used force speed and managed to get right up in front of Darth Inferna. He smiled grimly as he reactivated his lightsaber even as he pressed the hilt against her stomach.

 

 

 

 

Ackbar

 

"Admiral Belina, I'll head down to the area to investigate. Perhaps I can get a sense of what happened."

 

"Take a security squad with you. Whoever did this is clever. Whoever it was must have waited until we were boarded."

 

 

 

Avalon

 

"My parents are well known among my people and they were honored for their services during the Clone wars, unusual since my father was not Avalonian. Since then, if sentients meet me or my siblings...they are rather quick to extend favors. You remember Geonosis?"

 

Alriana instantly understood. "I...see what you mean. But remember this, if you hadn't used your name I most likely would have been taken prisoner by the Geonosians and would never have had a chance to redeem myself."

 

 

"We should have the divisions line up per the battle plan. Could you relay that to Selene please?"

 

Garja nodded and then saluted. "As you command." He ran off looking for Selene. She couldn't have gotten too far away.

[JediMaster12]

"I know moi chroi," Tavaryn replied, "However it is a source of jealousy among some of my people. When I was given the name Sukairaidā by the Council of Lords, that kind of sealed the deal on the jealousy part for some. For others, it is more like adulation of a war hero."

 

He knew he was going to have to explain what Sukairaidā meant since she would be hearing it for awhile. So he explained, "Sukairaidā means Sky Rider and there is a reason for that but I would rather show than explain."

 

"General?"

 

Tavaryn turned to see who was addressing him when all of a sudden he received a hard punch from a young woman dress in warrior's garb and had her face painted for battle. He gave a grunt for it was hard but he recognized who it was when she said, "What took you so long to come back?"

 

He grinned genuinely, "Murasaki. I see that you've improved with your fists."

 

"I needed to since I promised myself I would remind you why you need to visit more often and you and your Jedi friend are not even remotely ready. I had to bully Father's calvary while you decided to play drill instructor." Murasaki tried to look stern but her warm brown eyes twinkled in pleasure at seeing Tavaryn again.

 

Tavaryn returned the smile, "What can I say, I like working with animals." He glanced at Alriana and added, "Murasaki, this Alriana. Alriana, this is Tristian's daughter Murasaki. She is my cousin."

 

"Rightfully so," Murasaki grinned. She hadn't missed the tone in Tavaryn's voice and inwardly she was pleased. She extended a hand up, "I am Murasaki. If you are finished, Come with me and we will make sure you and Shayna are ready for battle. Mobilization will be called soon. And you Cousin better go get ready yourself. You know what the men expect."

 

Tavaryn gave a slight smile. "Right." He said to Alriana, "Go with Murasaki. I'll be back when the call comes moi chroi." He handed the length to Murasaki and stalked off towards the edge of the camp.

 

**********

 

Selene was doing last minute checks on the numbers. Tristian's artillery had arrived and had been positioned by the fortress. She was looking around at the armaments waiting for battle when she spotted Admiral Garja running. She intercepted him and asked, "Admiral Garja, the units are ready. What news from the Governor?"

[Alkonium]

Oblivion

 

"Well done, Varith. You have earned your place as my new apprentice." Pestilus commented Varith. "Kneel."

 

Avalon

 

"Just one: is everyone ready now?" Kalla inquired. From what she heard, it would only be 30 minutes before the Sith were upon them.

[JediMaster12]

General Sayrn regarded Kalla for a moment and then replied, "Everyone ready more or less. We must wait for the summon from Selene Ordo and your Admiral Garja."

 

"Thanks General," Taryn replied before his brother could speak.

 

"Glad to see that you caught up with us Water Lord," Sayrn replied with a grin, "And this must be your cousin correct?" He indicated to Andorra. "You are the governor's daughter?"

[Chevron 7 locke]

Avalon

 

"Go with Murasaki. I'll be back when the call comes moi chroi."

 

Alriana nodded once and then watched as Tavaryn walked away. "Stay safe Tavaryn...I'll be waiting for you." she said quietly.

 

 

 

 

"Admiral Garja, the units are ready. What news from the Governor?"

 

"The Governor says that we should have the divisions line up as per the battle plan."

 

 

 

Oblivion

 

"Kneel."

 

Varith deactivated his lightsaber and kicked Inferna's body away so that he could kneel. "I thank you for taking me as your apprentice master. I look forward to learning from you."

 

Not to mention learning new ways to kill Jedi, He thought.

 

 

Ackbar

 

Ravirn knew that his actions would bring chaos to the Ackbar but he did not anticipate that the guardsman he had killed would be discovered so quickly. He grabbed his blaster even as he finished downloading the files that he had been sent to download. Communications from Republic high command, movements of the republic fleets around the galaxy and most importantly the blueprints to each class of ship used by the republic and the command codes to the Ackbar.

 

He turned and smiled down at the republic security officers that had discovered him downloading the files. He had managed to beat them down before they even knew what hit them.

 

He tucked the datapad on the inside of his stolen guardsman armor and quickly began heading for the docking bay. It had been simple to gain access to the Ackbar. He had simply came aboard with the last shuttle of troops that had came aboard nearly a month ago.

 

 

Bridge of the Ackbar

 

Just as Admiral Belina began to issue orders again alarms began to sound throughout the bridge. "Admiral! We have unauthorized access to the ships computer! Deck 32 section 5. Dispatching security teams now!"

[JediMaster12]

Jun-la had started heading to investigate the body when the alarms started ringing. She looked around to see if it was an intruder but even the security team with her was confused. She called, "Koral, what's going on? We have an alarm blaring."

 

Meanwhile Andros had been working with the main computer. He had managed to attach a thing that looked similar to a datapad to the main line to help him assess the power flow to the computer. When the alarms went off, he thought he triggered something and checked the pad. Seeing what it was, he said, "Admiral, I am detecting an unauthorized file download. Can't pinpoint where but he must've had an access code. I can tap into the sensors to track him."

 

**********

 

Selene turned to look at the sky for a moment. She frowned slightly before turning back to Garja and replied, "Alright. Send the call to the artillery and main charging force to line up and I'll comm the first advance." She then turned to give one last look at the battle schematic.

 

**********

 

Murasaki watched the exchange between the Jedi and Tavaryn with interest and smiled. She led Shayna to the edge of the corral where other warriors were applying battle gear and paint to their mounts. She beckoned Alriana to hop down so that she could watch her. She said, "You're already saddled up but I'll show you how to apply the sigils."

 

Murasaki took up a small bowl of black paint and dipped her first two fingers in it. She then began to apply a marking on Shayna's right flank, making sure Alriana could see. She then asked, "You like him don't you?" She took a quick glance and added, "I apologize if I seem forward. I am fond of my cousin though he is more like an uncle."

 

**********

 

Stay safe Tavaryn...I'll be waiting for you.

 

Tavaryn gave a small smile as he stalked off away from the camp. He wished in his heart that Alriana would be safe and he trusted Murasaki with his life. He sighed as he entered the forest wishing that he didn't have to do this but this was war and his people and the Republic needed every tactical advantage. He came to a familiar clearing and went to a large boulder. Reaching in, he pulled out a staff and a small bundle.

 

Okay...time for Sukairaidā, he thought as he opened the bundle to reveal war paint and began applying it to his face. When he was finished and he had stashed away the bundle, he climbed on top of the boulder and, using the Force to amplify it, gave a shrill whistle and a cry, "Ai Ai Ai Ai!"

 

A roar sounded off in the distance and he gave a grin.

 

**********

 

It had been years since he last set foot upon the land he once called home. He had come close to domination but then it failed. The portal on Setna had been sealed and they were guarding it. Somehow he managed to get off that cursed ground and found a new purpose. He looked and smiled at the thought of the numbers he marched with. They will surely bring about darkness.

[Chevron 7 locke]

Ackbar Bridge

 

"Koral, what's going on? We have an alarm blaring."

 

Koral swore under his breath as his console began flashing on him. "We have an intruder aboard who managed to download most of the files on our computer. I'm still looking over what he managed to get."

 

"Admiral, I am detecting an unauthorized file download. Can't pinpoint where but he must've had an access code. I can tap into the sensors to track him."

 

Belina didn't even turn towards him as she ran to one of the consoles. "Track him and give me his current location. I want security teams on him before he can escape."

 

Ackbar Corridors

 

Ravirn passed by two more Republic solders and smiled. Taking the armor of the dead republic solder was a simple yet effective disguise. He was only two decks away from the shuttlebay and so far no one had stopped him. Despite the fact that alarms were going off and the ship was on intruder alert he was confident that he could escape the Ackbar and make it back to his destination.

 

Avalon

 

"Alright. Send the call to the artillery and main charging force to line up and I'll comm the first advance."

 

Garja bowed. "As you command," he said as he ran off.

 

"You like him don't you?, I apologize if I seem forward. I am fond of my cousin though he is more like an uncle."

 

Alriana's face turned red as she answered, "I...didn't know at first if I was growing to care for him or not at first...but eventually I came to understand that I really do care about him."

[JediMaster12]

"Yes Admiral," Andros replied wiping a smudge of dirt from his forehead. He tapped his keys on his tool. "Admiral, it could be that he was in disguise."

 

Meanwhile Jun-la was listening to Koral's report. She responded, "If he got onto the ship and no one noticed, it could be that he disguised himself as a member of the crew." She paused a moment to think and changed the direction she was headed. she had an idea. "Admiral, send available security teams to the shuttlebay. If he's in disguise he'll use that to his advantage to get off the ship. Also alert the station to send out fighters to intercept should we miss him."

 

**********

 

Selene tapped the comm, "Sayrn, time to form up. Give your commanders the signal."

 

Sayrn received the call and replied, "Yes Lady Ordo." He looked around. Tristian's calvary was ready to go but there was no sign of Tavaryn. Still orders were orders. He belowed out, "First Calvary form up. First infantry form up."

 

Murasaki had put the finishing touches on Shayna's flanks. She replied, "I am glad you care for him and I can tell he cares for you." Then she abruptly changed the subject, "There, your stallion is ready for battle."

 

Just then Sayrn's orders to form up came through. She then said, "Hop on. Time to go." She then whistled for her mount who trotted up tossing its mane in anticipation. All the warriors formed up in a line following Murasaki's lead but they were wondering where their general was.

 

Aiden voiced it out, "So Murasaki, where is the general?"

 

"He'll be here," Murasaki replied as she rode her horse up and down the line to make sure they were formed up.

 

"Right."

 

Murasaki was going to retort when a bellow that sounded low echoed over them. At that moment a shadow passed over the forming armies. The Avalonians and Republic soldiers looked up to see what it was. It flew over until it circled around and landed in front of the calvary line with a thud. It roared but the stallions and draigons held their ground. Murasaki grinned when the beast's rider came into view. Just in time.

 

The rider's face was painted all black save for the white v markings on his cheeks and forehead. He was crouched on the back of the beast holding onto the harness on the creature's horns with one hand and a staff in the other. Murasaki said out loud, "Sukairaidā you have arrived for battle."

 

Tavaryn had nearly forgotten the thrill of riding a wyvern, the predator of the skies. HE felt a sense of exuberance as he flew over the forming armies and landed in front of the calvary he was leading. He said, "Disappointed Aiden?"

 

Aiden said nothing but scowled. He moved his stallion towards a different partof the ranks. You'll get yours Onashi."

 

Tavaryn glanced at his troops. They stood formed up, ready to march. Some would die but not without honor. He knew he had to say a few words. He said, "Friends, warriors, my brothers, we come together again to defend that which is ours. We are the first meaning that the risk is greater but whether we are the first, the middle or the last, we stand and fight for our home. I know that there are those among you who think that I am not worthy of this honor but even without it, know that I will stand by you until the end. I will stand and not go quietly without a fight. I declare this day, our day!"

 

The cheers were deafening as the warriors cheered, Murasaki let out a war whoop. She galloped to where Alriana was and took position besides her. She said, "I know that war is a nasty business but don't worry, Sukairaidā has fought in battles before this. I'll stay beside you and you stay besides me. We will stand together alright?"

 

Tavaryn listened to the cheers of the warriors. He was glad they couldn't see the expressions on his face since it was covered with black paint. He responded with a war whoop of his own before turning the wyvern Ryu around to face the enemy. He commed, "Selene, Admiral Garja, this is Onashi with first wave and we are go. Signal when you are ready for the charge."

 

**********

 

The Sith forces had come across the enemy and the first wave was a line of warriors on stallions and draigons. At the head was a winged creature that beloowed out the ocassional roar. He knew what that creature was and thought it impossible. He belowed out, "Form up."

 

The troops formed up in a line. There was some distance between the two armies but that didn't matter. They had heavy duty artillery to use. He pulled out a pair of binoculars and peered. He could make out the rider of creature dressed in black and grinned. He stood in the speeder with the driver and gunman. This day would be bloody indeed. He sent a communication, "Lord Pestilus, we are formed up for attack, what will you have me do?"

 

**********

 

Tonatius held Kalla's hand and said, "Be safe moi chroi."

 

Taryn added, "And we'll be too."

[Alkonium]

Oblivion

 

"The Dark Side of the Force is strong in you, a powerful Sith you will become. Henceforth, you shall be known as Darth ... Corial." Pestilus said, placing the blade of his lightsaber above Varith's left shoulder, then the right, before switching it off.

 

Avalon

 

"And you." Kalla replied, kissing Tonatius on the forehead.

 

"We'll make it through this, I promise." Lenatha said, giving Andorra a reassuring kiss on the lips.

[Chevron 7 locke]

Oblivion

 

"The Dark Side of the Force is strong in you, a powerful Sith you will become. Henceforth, you shall be known as Darth ... Corial."

 

The cathar who had once been known as Varith and now would be known as Darth Corial smiled darkly but did not rise. "What is your bidding Master?"

 

 

 

Ackbar

 

"Admiral, send available security teams to the shuttlebay. If he's in disguise he'll use that to his advantage to get off the ship. Also alert the station to send out fighters to intercept should we miss him."

 

 

Admiral Belina nodded and opened up the shipwide communications channel. "Attention all crewmembers, there is an intruder onboard who is most likely making his way to the shuttlebay. I want security teams covering the shuttlebays and be alert, he may be in disguise."

 

Belina closed the channel and turned toward Jun-La. "Since my tactical officer isn't here at the moment I would appreciate it if you led the security team here on the bridge."

 

She then opened up a line to the station. "This is Admiral Belina aboard the Ackbar, we have an intruder aboard. If he does escape the ship be prepared to launch fighters after him."

 

 

Ackbar corridors

 

Just as Ravirn thought that he would be able to escape without having to kill anyone else he saw that the shuttlebay was being guarded by a heavily armed security team. It only took him a minute to figure out what to do.

 

He had to improvise.

 

He slowly backed around the corner and then threw himself on the floor and then fired a series of blaster bolts down the opposite end of the corridor. "Stop! Get back here!" He shouted in his best angry voice. Three of the four security members of the security team ran over to him. "He went down the corridor! I think he was heading for one of the weapons bays!"

 

The three security team members immediatly ran down the corridor and the chiss got back on his feet, walked around the edge of the corridor and then shot the lone security officer infront of the door. He stepped over the body and opened the door and then strolled into the hangerbay before sealing the door behind him.

 

All too easy...He thought

 

 

 

Avalon

 

"Selene, Admiral Garja, this is Onashi with first wave and we are go. Signal when you are ready for the charge."

 

Garja nodded and then turned to Lady Selene as he ran up to her. "I believe that the honor should be yours. I am after all a guest on your world."

[JediMaster12]

Jun-la paused and then replied, "Copy that Admiral. We'll notify you of our progress." She then turned to the members of her secuirty team and said, "We are heading to the hangarbay. Double time." She took off running with teh security detail following her.

 

"Admiral, I am detecting a sealing of the hangarbay doors," Andros replied, "Tapping into the security cameras. They should be showing up now."

 

The images were static-icky but they showed the hangar bays and what appeared to be a lone trooper sealing the doors. "That's your man Admiral," Andros said.

 

Meanwhile Jun-la found the dead security officer in front of the hangarbay doors and tapped them. She then ignited her lightsaber and jammed it in and began cutting a doorway. She said on the comm, "Is there another way in?"

 

**********

 

Tonatius returned Kalla's kiss with one to her cheek and went to be with the forward movements of the benders. These were benders that could summon their element without aid from an actual source. He gave a glance to his twin who nodded back.

 

Insoe, the commander of the healing units greeted Lenatha and Andorra, "Stay close with us. We will follow right behind."

 

**********

 

Selene nodded at Garja. "Your men are here as well." She looked at the thick dark line. "Well Admiral," and she pulled out a blade and strapped it to her waist, "The time is now." She then commed Tavaryn, her youngest brother and said, "The time is now."

 

**********

 

He was once called Tyrannus and thought that he could destroy that which destroyed his home and his people's way of life. He had been found by Lord Pestilence and served under him, waiting for a chance to strike again. This time he was under a new name, Kage for he had come back from the shadows.

 

Now he stood with the army, charged with invading this world. He looked to the subordinate under him Dirkaar and then sent via the Force to Pestilence, They have amassed milord. Shall I destroy them?

 

**********

 

The time is now.

 

Tavaryn heard the transmission. He looked up and down the line of Avalonian's and Republic guardsmen. He then spotted Alriana and Murasaki together and his heart cheered a bit. He sent through his connection to Alriana, May the Force be with you...moi chroi.

 

Looking at the enemy, he shouted in Avalonian, "For Life!"