Fires of the Old Republic-IC-Invite Only

[Celton]

Space Near Tarus

Dreadnaught "Red Claymore"

The Madalorian fleet dropped out of hyperspace ready for a fight. The fleet consisted of two Mandalorian Tenator Class Cruisers, one Mandalorian Dreadnaught, four lesser Cruisers, and three Interceptor Frigates. Once it became clear there was no immediate threat the fleet monitored planetary and fleet communications. Fenrir cursed to himself when he was told the the battle was practically over.

"Damn, if we had not stumbled upon that merchant fleet in-between jumps we might have got here in time." Fenrir muttered to himself." Signal all ships to take position next to the Sith fleet in orbit of Taris. Do not fire upon any Republic ships unless fired upon first until we know the situation. I will board their flagship and present myself to our new Sith employer." He then hailed the Sith fleet announcing himself and requesting coordinates to their flagship and permission to board it.

"Sir I have heard talk of how cruel these Sith are and their disregard for life. Are you sure that we will not just be cannon fodder for them?" Asked Second-In-Command Halfdan Tyrol.

"I am not sure of anything, but I have know Sith before and they are much like us. They respect and desire strength, so as long as we are strong they will not misuse us. Plus our services are not cheap, we are much too expensive to be thrown away." He said with a chuckle.

Fenrir got into his personal fighter the "Death Dancer" and began his way to the "Blood Wing" with an entourage of six other fighters.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In orbit over Taris

As the two made their way through out the lower holds of the ship away from his private hangar bay he couldn’t help but notice the Alien’s curiosity at the Machinery and Technology of the Imperial Warship. He said nothing as the squib wondered off several times as he knew the Alien would eventually find his way back but it wasn’t until they reached the end of the Exit Hall and reached the turbolift that would take them to the upper decks did he feel something through the force that made him disquiet.

He felt the emotional surge from the Alien creature and while he didn’t know its source he did know that such a lack of focus and drive would be a deadly weakness for his new Apprentice. “Focus Your Mind Maghrl; Focus on the Darkside, Feel it strengthen and empower you and all your doubts will wash away.” He stated sincerely.

Once they entered the Turbolift car and the Squib asked him about his upcoming meeting he informed him what the Ship captain had told him which wasn’t much.

“Girias Hanar Some sort of Droid designer from what was described to me.” He said simply.

“Many men seek out my favor…I am not unimportant in the Empire; But I have yet to hear of such a designer and I wonder why he would not simply sell his design to the Imperial Military if it was so effective.” He shrugged as he keyed the button and the Turbolift began rising through the ship.

“We shall meet with him and find out the details of whatever it is he wants. Oh and that reminds me while we are here…We should begin Your training; I know you must be tired but I also know you must want to learn yes? I will teach you the deepest and darkest secrets of the force but only if you pry them from me. “

He turned to eye the Alien.

"Today you first felt the Darkside...but what you felt was but a faint fraction, an echo, a fragment of it's true power."

“If you wish to someday assume my place, to become my equal…You must become strong enough to warrant such attention; I will place you on the Path to power but it is YOU who must walk it.” He patted the smaller alien on the shoulder once.

“Child I wasn’t lying when I said that you should use Your power how you wish to use it; Through me you will achieve more then a legion of Jedi could teach you. You will not fear the Darkside but you will respect it, You will not forget the light but you will Loathe it. Through me you will learn what it is to be SITH.” He stated with pride the force of his words shaking the very elevator car as it slowed and then eventually stopped.
Suddenly an klaxon blared and then intercom went active.

“Darth Krujas…A fleet has just appeared a few thousand kilometers off our stern sir facing the Planet. They are flying Mandolorian colors and broadcasting imperial IFF codes.”

He hit the intercom button next to the elevator and spoke into it.

“The Empire has purchased the Loyalty of several clans for this operation. Let them be in peace…you should be seeing a few of their ships approaching us now.” He stated and waited for the captain to reply.

“Yes sir several fighters are inbound.”

“Let them land within Docking Bay seven…Its vacant and should grant them the space they need. Have them meet me on the command deck once they are settled.”

“Yes my Lord.” The captain stated before the intercom went silent.

“Now Let us go meet this Giras Fellow.”

[Reddogkeno101]

Republic Base
Major-General Huff saw the Squib leave with the Sith Lord. He could understand why he would do that. "Ok everyone, let's clear the dead and head for the ship. We will never be able to make it with the Mandalorians arriving and the Imperial Fleet in orbit. We have 2 options men, we fight and all die; or we surrender and we live. I personally think that if we are to survive, we must surrender. I won't die for nothing. We will live to fight another day. Now let's get moving," Huff said.


4 Hours later at the Incorruptible

"Lieutenant, get me the commander of the Imperial Invasion on the line. We need a talk," Huff said
"Is it over sir?" The Lieutenant replied
"I'm sorry lieutenant, it is over." Huff said
"Ok contacting the Bloodwing's Command deck." The Lieutenant said.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Shira Dano-24-Jedi Knight
I have gathered a group of more than 200 surviving soldiers of the Republic. But many more are surrendering to the Empire. And while we have lost many vehicles we still have a good handful of craft. The plan was simple, but not easy. To as discreetly as possible gather civilians and wounded men and civilians into the transports. Civilian types built with hyperdive systems capable of holding a couple hundred each. And we have three. So we can at best evacuate all of the men I gathered and 400 civilians about. Just not enough. But we have very limited resources and surprise is everything, we will have to leave before the end of the 24 hour period. Of which left us only 15 hours. And it would take most of that to gather the civilians.

I was looking over the craft. The civilian transports and I had seen better equipment. Weak shields and no weapons. Well, all they have to do is run. We managed to find 19 fighters in different areas. Not many at all. When the plan is launched we will send the fighters ahead first and distract the fleets and attempt to cripple some systems just long enough to buy an escape. We are not trying to win a battle but to save lives. Each life lost is a loss to the Force.

I was examining the Republic Fighters as Garen Ray, my new advisor and friend approached me. He stood next to me as calm as a stone in a river. With focused eyes that watched over his men. He spoke with a cool command of the conversation.

"We need more fighters. And the Transports wont take many hits. At all."
"That is why we wont allow them to be hit."
"Easy to say."
"Not really. I try not to say anything I do not mean."
"I saw you with two padawans before. And one left with a Sith Lord. Didnt look like he was a prisoner."
"I know."
"So, are you going to..."
"Kill him?" He just looked at me with a look that said I should.
"No."
"Why not? He has betrayed the Order and the Republic and could be spilling information or something right now." He then looked at the ground as if he was in deep thought. "Well, I suppose it would be difficult for me as well. If a member of Havoc squad betrayed us I would feel shock, then anger and then I would have to kill him."
"I wont kill someone whom I have shared laughs with. Lived with. Taught. Fed and raised for a year." Then the conversation grew silent.

"I wonder if he knows that." I said as I focused on the task at hand again.

"Garen, come with me. We need to find the civilians who are willing to come."
"Yes mam."

We walked through the remains of the staging area and after some time arrived at the refugee camp. Taris civilians were being rounded up for a purpose I did not know. By their presence about 300 or so. They were under a light guard as it did not take much to keep unarmed civilians in line. A Captain was fast approaching with a weapon raised as I reminded Garen to keep cool, he had no weapon on him anyways. For appearences. The Sith spoke in a voice that said he was used to giving orders.

"Jedi, have you come to turn yourself in to the Sith Empire?" I used the skill known as 'Mind Trick' to allow me to diffuse the situation peacefully. "I already have. You are to escort me, my friend here and these civilians to sector 7B-12." He did not respond for moments and then spoke. "Of course, we will move out immediatly. Men, we will escort these prisoners to Sector 7B-12." An aide protested him. "But sir, we have been given no such orders. Are we to trust a Jedi-" The Officer cut him off. "You will do as I told you. Surely this Jedi knows resistance is futile, hence why she turned herself over."

The Sith commander had is men, that numbered about 30 to escort the hundreds of unarmed prisoners. To our transports. As I walked several steps bhind the commander in cuffs Garen leaned in. "Clever, to have them escort us to maintain appearences. No one will question Sith soldiers escorting prisoners with so much going on." I just smiled as the Sith Officer shouted at us to keep quiet, obviously only hearing enough to know we were talking but not the content of what was said.

As we entered the Staging area the Republic Soldiers I gathered quickly surrounded the Sith, our job was done. The Sith, who was only meant as an escort convoy was clearly outmatched by the Republic soldiers I gathered. And many of the men were speaking of revenge. I forced my bonds loose and grabbed my saber but did not activate it. "Garen, make sure these prisoners are not harmed. And collect their weapons. They are coming with us. And I want them spread out among the ship. Do not keep them together. Dont want them getting ideas and make sure their is always a Republic UIniform near each of them." He nodded asn went about the orders.

I then walked up to the Sith officer. "Thank you for your services to Taris and the Republic." He was clearly angered. "Darth Krujas will kill you for this Jedi." I smirked. "Perhaps. But I doubt it. He knows nothing of this, and I am sure he preoccupied at the moment."

I then turned again to Garen after all the Sith Weapons were gathered. "Load all the men, civilians and prisoners up. We need to hurry."

Neeva Aloa-16-Jedi Padawan-Mirialan
I was flying through Hyperspace as I studued the charts and came across Skor II. That is Maghrl's homeworld. Perhaps I should go there, I hear they are independent. And I could always send my information off to Coruscant. But doing so From Skor II may be a problem because they are not in the Republic. The planet is rich in resources and is not far from Sith Space, they may move against it soon.

But there is nothing I can do for it right now, and I needed to reach Coruscant. As I maintained course I put together the information that I had gathered from observing the enemy fleet. Preparing for when I present it to the Republic. I even spotted Mandalorian ships in orbit meaning the Sith and Mandalorians must have made a pact.

Over the course of many hours I finally reached my destination of the Capital of the Republic. Coruscant. The entire planet one big city. And as I broke into the atmosphere I held the ship in line as I announced my name, rank and intentions. The men on the ground cleared a landing pad and I put the craft down. Punching out of the fighter and climbing out I was greeted by Republic Military Officials. And even Jedi. As I looked closer I recognized one of the Jedi.

Satele Shan?

Well, she is the Grand Master of the Jedi Order and it would maek sense for her to coordinate stratagy with the Republic Military. I ran to them and told them of my situation and almost ran out of breath. Satele held out a hand to stop me.

"Slow down Padawan. This is not the place of such talk. We should go to more secure chambers." She then lead the group and discussed various topics with a Republic Commander. But I was too tired to listen as I have not slept in more than a day. As we arrived in the chambers the eyes turned towards me and I told them everything. Of the battle, the Sith forces, Darth Krujas, Master Shira staying behind and of Maghrls fall to the dark side.

They listened intently and when I finished the Republic Commander was the first to speak up.
"We will have to act on this soon, as a Sith-Mando Alliance is a large defeat in this war. The actual battle was not that devestating and we still have plenty of forces to work with. We only had a slightly moderate force their anyways." Then Satele was the next to say something. "Well, I would be more concerned with where they are going from here. And this Darth Krujas will be someone who derserves our attention. Neeva, you said you should expect you Master in three days time?"

I looked up at her and nodded my head in the affirmative. She then pondered it and spoke to me.
"I will assign you a Jedi Master to watch over you in that time. If Shira does not arrive by three days the Master I appoint will be your new master. I want you to train and rest and you can start tomorrow. I will need that time to search for a new mentor anyways. I would watch over you myself but I am afraid I cannot give you the attention you deserve."

I did not like the Idea of training under someone else even If I had only been training under Shira a very brief time. But I understood it was for the best. I then left and found a bed in which I could drift into an empty sleep.

OOC: I edited Neeva's part to where she travels to Coruscant

[The Janite Technocracy]

Girias Hanar
Taris, aboard the Blood Wing

Girias stood by the officers, waiting patiently for Krujas to arrive. He could sense that, for the most part, the conflict on Taris was over. His droids would have to wait for another battle. This did not bother him much, however - If the battle was this short it could only mean that the Sith were sure they would win from the beginning, or that there was foul play on the Republic's part. In both cases, Girias could reap rewards - his droids could wait for another battle, leaving him time to study the workings of Krujas and the younger Marauder that he had confronted on Dromund Kaas. He looked to one officer, presumably the ranking one among them, and asked, "So the battle for Taris is over, then? The republic have desisted? I will give Krujas whatever time he needs to see me. I understand the organisation involved in the aftermath of war. Where shall I meet him?"

[Celton]

The Mandalorians got out of their ships taking in their surroundings. There was Platoon of Sith Commandos waiting to escort them to the Bridge. The six Chiefs were lead by their Commander Fenrir Attican, as they walked through the halls of the ship with his mind he probed out at the Commandos trying to get a sense of their emotions. Even with all of his training in the Force all he could ever do was sense feelings, bend wills, and manipulate feelings. All he read from these men was a fanatical loyalty to their masters and fear of failure.

They finally arrived at the Bridge, he bowed to the Sith sitting upon a throne. The rest of the Chiefs followed his example.

"My Lord," he said with a slight bow. "I am Chief Fenrir Attican with the fleet and troops promised, how may I be of assiastance?" He said causally trying to downplay the tension in the room.

[JAYMALL LAND]

Late Night

I was woken up by Lt. Dolan as I go up to the door to answer she appears distraught. "Lt. what happened?" "The commander he.." "yes?" "he was murdered we don't know by what we don't know when". This came as a shock even in the heart of the fleet leaders still are not safe "What do we know?" "The weapon that killed him left red burns and went through and through it was a lightsaber". Well now it was no surprise that it was the siths doing, "What do we do now?" "His CO said we need to track down the killer and he said your taking us with you" "Okay ill get my padawan then we can get going" "Meet us in the war room".

[New Roman Empire]

Salen-20-Jedi Master,Taris

Salen had been ordered to see what was happening on Taris. The fleet had just exited Hyper space to find a sith fleet in orbit. "Shit, get fighters out there now and I want all weapons to fire on the fleet." Said Salen as he turned on the comms system on a Jedi channel. "All Republic Soldiers and Jedi, this is Jedi Master Salen of the 7th fleet. I see your situation is critical and we are opening hanger bay doors. If you can hear this get to a ship quickly and get on board there are way too many sith ships in orbit. Repeat Get on ship and get into our hangers. We will hold them off for as long as we can before we jump back." Then he turned the link off so he could listen to the chatter. The Republic was going to loose the planet and he could do nothing about it.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In orbit over Taris

The Dark Lord along with his new found ex jedi apprentice had made their way to the command deck of the vessel under the Dark Lord’s Guidance through the ship arrived at the bridge however his prior notion of meeting with the Hanar fellow was delayed by the sudden arrival of the Mandolorians and while he could under his men bringing them here he didn’t appreciate some petty thugs barging their away into his command deck.

However at least they followed protocol by bowing before him.

He gazed down at them he would have preferred to be clad in his normal dark robes rather than his Armor being exposed as it was but it was for the best he considered they could view him both as a warrior and their employer.

“I doubt we will have need of Your services such as they are for this campaign but I am pleased you arrived although it would have been better if you had made it to the gathering point of the fleet over the capital before departure but we can discuss your tardiness later.” He spoke calmly his voice fully of confidence and authority.

The Pleasant Atmosphere was intertupted however by the signaling from the Communications Officer that they were receiving a Hail, not from another ship within the Fleet but from the Planet Below.

“Sir it appears a Republic Vessel on the Planet is trying to establish contact.”

“Put it through.”

“Have you decided to declare formal surrender?” He spoke Aloud his visage was consumed with an overbearing confident grin.
Victory filled him, This world would be but the beginning of the imperial conquest, with this fleet, with the power he had been given he could challenge the might of the Republic himself!

However the mood was shattered as warning klaxons began blaring and status reports began flooding at yet another republic force arriving in system this one however immediately began firing upon the Imperial forces.

“Those Idiots.” He rose upwards.

“General have you betrayed me?! I would have kept my word! I follow my what Emperor dictates.”

“Cut signal we have nothing to discuss anymore General this world is going to burn for the Republic Treachery.”

“Yes my Lord.” The communication officer spoke quietly.
He glanced at his Apprentice the squib before he spoke again.

“Do you see Maghrl your Republic, Your Order, Your Master even have no concept of loyalty, trust and honor they have betrayed our agreement, I would have honored my word to accept the surrender of this world.” He spoke darkly his eyes flashing with anger.

“Transmit to the Republic Fleet I want them to understand what they are doing here.”

“Yes my lord…One moment and there!” The Chief Bridge officer exclaimed.

“To All Republic Forces that have arrived within the Taris System this is Darth Krujas the Commander of the Imperial Fleet under the order of the Dark Council. You are violating the non-aggression agreement between the Imperial Forces and Republic Forces. You have two options, Fight and lose Your lives or leave this world to me.”

“You have been warned, I will see that this Betrayal is paid for in full Republic Dogs. Darth Krujas out.”
With that he cut the transmission and glared at the gunnery officer.

“Tell the Fleet to prepare for possible combat; I don’t know if the Republic Forces here are stupid enough to engage us or not but I don’t care, I want the Destructor and Wrath to break off from the Fleet and prevent any Republic Ships from lifting off from the Planet. You heard that moronic Salen he is encouraging them to flee…I doubt they will be overeager to charge the guns of two dreadnaughts.”

“Yes my Lord.”

With his Orders being carried out the Fleet prepared for battle and the Wrath and Destructor two of the lead Dreadnaughts pulled away from the Frontlines before slowly turning its lumbering form into position above the world.

“If you see any ships…Republic or not…Destroy them. These Dishonorable Dogs will receive no more Mercy from me.” The Dark Lord spat out fuming as he sat down in the command chair.

“You Mandolorian! Return to Your fleet! If the Republic attempts to do Battle with us it will be met in kind but…As you have not yet tasted the blood of an enemy on this world yet.” His face twisted into a fearsome smile.

“You may join the Fleet for the duration of this Battle.”

“Now go.” He dismissed the Mandolorians with a wave of his hand.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Shira Dano-24-Jedi Knight-Taris
I felt....Salen? No, not now! If he is here with the 7th fleet he can make the ceasefire void and Krujas will destroy the planet! Of all the times for a rescue. I slammed my fist on the hull of a fighter and momentarily lost control. Even as a Jedi my anger at my own secret husband was great at the moment. I had to warn the men and get these people aboard the ships as fast as possible. We have no time left. "Move Garen! Get these people to safety! On the ships! I am going to town to round up more civilians!" He put an arm on my shoulder. "What is it?" I turned and was running out of patiance. At any moment Krujas could kill millions with a word. "Salen is here with the 7th fleet! We need to save as many people as possible before Taris is rendered molten slag! Now get to it!" He had clearly never seen a Jedi lose stature like this, and I was normally the picture of a statue.

I just left him and ran into the nearby city using the force to amplify my speed. As I passed by a crowd I began yelling as loud as I could that the Sith would destroy the planet and to follow me. The word spread fast and soon I had hundreds of people on top of the hundreds already on board. I killed any Sith that attempted to stop us. No one would stand in my way of getting these people out of here. I then passed by four large Sith Transport under moderate guard. We needed those for these civilians. I had gathered about 600 in a rather short time. I then charge the landing pads filled with light Sith troopers and cleaved one in half after the other. Feeling the anger. The hate. Dark side emotions. I could barely contain the rage.

I contained it, but just barely. Not actually giving myself to I fought against it. But despite my internal battle I continued my assault on the men. I activated the thermal detonators on their belts and watched as they died in explosions of flame. I found one survivor, heavily wounded. He crawled to me. Blood soaking the ground where he went. Crying out for mercy from a Jedi. I began to calm down for a moment as I finally got my feelings under control. "J...J...Jedi...you woldent kill a wounded soldier...I have a family...-" I kneeled down to him as the civilians and some pilots boarded the Sith transports. Whispering in his ear. Finally in control of my emotions.
I quickly applied some Kolto and picked him up.

As I carried the Sith over my shoulder I lead the remaining 200 or so to the original transports. We will just have to find room. AS I arrived I passed on the Sith to the men and they loaded him on the ships as the civilians tried to claw their way in. Then I realized it. I could not save everyone. Some Jedi I turned out to be. I moved silently to the front and spoke to the crowd that had yet to board.

"Listen, despite the new Sith transports we comandeered we do not have enough room for everyone. Women and Children first. After they are on board we will load as many as possible. But women and children first."

A host of alien and human families said goodbyes as crying children were taken from their fathers and put on board. Mothers comforted their children with lies on how everything would be alright. I pictured my own son here. And I could not bear the thought of it. I walked silently to a Aurek Class Tactical Fighter and strapped myself in. The Republic Commandos and pilots did the same. We still needed to cover any escape most likely. We broke off into the atmosphere with speed and as I broke the atmosphere with the civilians in tow a tear rolled down my scarred left cheek.

Neeva Aloa-16-Mirialan-Jedi Padawan-Coruscant
I woke up hours after falling asleep. I was surprised to see a Jedi Twi'lek in the next room. This must be my new master for now. He stood and introduced himself. "I am Varen Cord. You Master for the moment. I was just going over your history. Would you care to show me your sabers?" I reached in my robes and pulled out three blades. Two Shotos and a Light Whip. I could tell he was rather surprised at the light whip.

"A very difficlut weapon to master. And I trust you are proficient with it?"
"Yes Master Cord."
"Then we shall go to the training arena and spar at once. I must see your techniques for myself. You have a very busy three days with me Neeva."
"Yes Master."

I walked with him to the arena my thoughts still on Shira back on Taris. I could sense she was in danger. But, of couse she is. But My master is strong enough to handle herself. I must focus on my training for now if I will be any help in the future.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In Orbit over Taris

“My lord we have multiple incoming craft from the Planet below; The Wrath and Destructor are awaiting clearance to fire upon them.” The Chief Gunnery Officer Stated.

“Granted.” The Dark Lord Barked out in frustration. This was going so far out of what he planned, what he had intended that now he realized he would be forced to make good on this threat, the Jedi, The Republic they were too stupid to surrender, they were too stupid to accept defeat and would rather fight and die meaningless rather than admit failure.

“First they break out Agreement of non-hostilities now they are attempting to run? Show no mercy, I expect those Gnats brought down.”

“Yes my Lord.” And that the Dark Lord’s will was brought manifest as the two separated dreadnaughts began firing upon the escaping Republic ships.

“Sir! Some of those ships are bearing our IFF!” The Captain screamed in frustration.

“They aren’t carrying imperial personal now, they have their orders to secure the Republic positions and they wouldn’t violate them without at least informing us. Shoot them down.”

“…Yes my lord.” The Captain replied.

The Multiple Batteries of the Dreadnaughts were alright with Turbolaser fire as they consumed Ship after ship, Weapons designed for engaging warships were turning to bear upon Transport craft and fighters, they were consumed in the fire of the Imperial onslaught.

“What of the Republic Fleet? We haven’t received a response yet.”

“Ignore them at present they of are no concern as long as they do not attempt to help those breaking the agreement.”

He could feel the destruction, he felt it empower him, he felt the deaths and pain of dozens, hundreds of individuals as the Republic ships crumpled as they attempted to flee, even the stolen imperial transports provided no respite from the storm of turbolaser fire. No doubt some would survive but they would be a minority and he would make damn sure of that.

“Sir it appears some of the transport have a fighter escort and they are attempting to shield them…” The Navigation officer called out.

“Do we have any of our fighters in the Area?”

“Yes two squadrons that were launched earlier when we were assaulting the republic station.”

“Tell them to engage and show no mercy.” He commanded.

“Yes my lord.”

With the addition of the fighters the slaughter could continue unmolested.

“Bring the fleet into firing position.” He pushed himself up from the command chair and with a vicious growl he spoke the words of Malak three centuries before hand.

“Wipe this Pathetic Planet from the face of the galaxy!”

“But…My Lord we still have thousands of men stationed on the surface along with several Sith that haven’t returned to the fleet yet!”

“They will be a greater sacrifice to our goal…The Republic has forced the Empire to this.”

“Can we at least warn our forces and give them time to get clear of the Initial firing area?”

“Very well captain inform them but I refuse to hold my wrath back for any time longer then is exactly necessary. You have ten minutes. Make it worth it.”

“Yes My Lord thank you for your mercy.” The captain stated with a Respectful Bow.

He then headed over the to the general communications station and began speaking into the receiver upon all standard Imperial channels.

“The Republic forces are attempting to evacuate Taris, I repeat the Republic forces are attempting to evacuate Taris, we have received several instances of Republic Aggression and assaulting of our forces upon the world…The Agreement of Non-Aggression as been broken. The Surface is going to be bombarded at Republic Positions, I suggest all imperial forces within these regions evacuate to the safety of the Fleet.”

“That is all…Good luck.” The Captain stated as he ended his transmission and glanced at the Dark Lord who gave a nod.

The timer had begun; The Sith Fleet would Obliterate this planet in ten minutes.

[New Aksarben]

Maghrl
The Blood Wing, In Orbit above Taris

Maghrl listened quietly when his new master spoke to him about training, and nodded in agreement when Krujas finished. The Squib did want to train as soon as possible, but he somewhat doubted that the Sith would let him rest first. His anger at Shira was ebbing, so he was feeling more and more tired as time went on. He was having a difficult time bringing himself back to being so angry, as well. He followed the Sith Lord to the meeting after Vurk left the elevator.

The Squib was a bit surprised by the Mandalorians showing up then coming on board for a meeting. He had never seen a Mandalorian before, mainly due to Skorr II being on the complete opposite side of the Outer Rim as the Mandalorian territories. He had heard of their warrior culture, and that they were nominally allied to the Sith, but not much else. He watched them with curiosity, especially their leader, Fenrir. Maghrl noticed something a bit strange through the force as he observed the Mandalorian, however. Fenrir had a slightly larger presence within the force than the rest of his men. Most creatures had a connection to the Force, but only force-sensitives could actively use and control it. They also had a larger presence within it, due to their direct connection with it. That at least was how Maghrl understood it. 'Maybe he has some sort of force-sensitivity....' Maghrl thought to himself, but didn't vocalize his thoughts. He didn't want to make himself seem stupid in front of his new master. Instead, he subtly probed the mind of the Mandalorian leader, wondering if he would react in any way.

When the Republic fleet showed up, Maghrl felt a bit of anger at whomever was leading it. But it wasn't for them being there. It was for their stupidity and them unintentionally breaking the truce and threatening the people Taris through that. Maghrl found himself wondering if the Republic even knew that the Sith were attacking Taris. He doubted that the Republic would be stupid to send such a relatively small fleet against the Sith..... Or maybe Krujas was right, and that they really didn't care about what happened to such a backwater world. That they just wanted to fight with the Sith Empire and wouldn't care how many people died because of that. Maghrl remained silent, not sure what to think of the Republic fleet that had shown up.

Maghrl also had no idea what to think of Krujas ordering the bombardment the world, like Darth Malek had done so long ago. He felt some sorrow for the huge amount of life that was going to be cut short. Another bombardment would completely turn the planet to dust. Most of it's ruins were fragile enough, and the power of the Sith ship's weapons would reduce them to ash and any exposed surface of the planet into glass. If he really went through with attacking the planet, it likely would never be able to recover. Taris would become like Korriban, a graveyard world with a desolated and abandoned surface.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Shira Dano-24-Jedi Knight-Above Taris
I could almost feel the guns turning. And It drove me to fly straight at the Sith Fleet and target their Turbo Lasers with Proton Torpedos. I ordered all across my small Fighter squadron. "Focus attacks on the Turbo Lasers! We must shield the transports!" The republic fighters and their pilots let loose a war cry that shook the stars. I almost believed the Sith could hear us. But I remained quiet. I dodged fire with the aid of the force as one of my wingmen went up in flames. If we could destroy the Turbo Lasers we can bring heat off of the civilians and soldiers in the transport fleet. We have already lost two.

And in short time Taris would be a graveyard. And there was nothing I could do about it. I could only save who I can. I fired off more Torpedos as enemy fighters arrived on the scopes. Two squadrons. We are outnumbered three to one. Then it is an even fight. I rotated my craft and fired off my lasers at two incoming fighters and with the Force guiding my aim I destroyed both. And soon we were among them. All the fighters breaking off and engaging in individual dog fights.

But I continued to push to the Ships and attack them. To force their attention on me and my fighters. I no longer cared if it killed me. I almost wished it. I flew just over one of the destroyers and let loose my last proton Torpedos. As I drifted into the battle each second a minute. And the minutes were hours. I made sure Darth Krujas could feel my presense. Hopefully I could have him focus fire on my Fighter alone. And spare the others. I hope dthat the oppertunity of killing me would be too good for him.

I pushed my thoughts through the Force making sure everyone involved could 'hear' me. Those with command of the Force could actually hear me. But those without would only feel something.

I am right here Krujas! Come on! Kill me if you can! Now is your chance!

I continued to evade fire and fly circles around his ship. Even gaining the attention of Sith Pilots. As the battle continued I wondered how Maghrl would feel as he witnessed the destruction of millions...no...Billions of lives. All hushed by his new master. But, I still wont quit on Maghrl. He is my Padawan. As far as I am concerned Krujas is just borrowing him. Then I drifted into a flashback of when I first met Maghrl.

Shira's Flashback

I was 23. And had been a Knight only a couple years. AS I walked the Jedi Temple on Tython I passed therough the gardens and asended up the stairs. As I did I turned to notice the view, with a gentle breeze blowing my cut hair that descended to my shoulders. And scars such as the one on my left cheek seem so long ago today. From my high vantage point I saw a curious little Jedi student. A strange alien who was rather short and was covered in fur. He seemed to be having trouble meditating. And I smiled at the youth as he pressed on with his training. As I entered for my business I had come to find a Padawan Learner. And I was met by a Jedi Master who warmly greeted me and we sat and discussed the prospects.

He told me of a Twi'lek who was skilled in the Force. A human who was an excellent duelist. A Mirialan girl who was very attentive and devoted to the Jedi. And a Ithorian who was a promising Consular to be. As I listened attentively I again saw the strange alien walk in and it was clear he was frustrated. Much like myself in my youth. I asked about him and his species.

"The Squib? Surely you can do better. He has difficulty controling his emotions and was late in training. Despite his age he has only been here a couple years. He started around 10 If I am correct. He has talent to be sure but no one wants him. I have even considered putting him in the Agri-Corp just to keep him in the Order. He tries hard but seems to have difficulty. And he is a squib, a very curious and energetic species. Love to tinker, collect and 'haggle' as they call it. He will be a handful for any Knight, especially one as young as yourself."

I listened intently and with purpose. I sensed myself in this Squib. Maghrl was it? And he does have potential. And it will be more fun than training a natural. Plus I thought he was much to gifted just from sensing his potential to be in the Agri-Corp or let loose.

"I will take him. Maghrl."
"But,-"
"Dont worry. I will speak to him now."

I walked over to him and could see he was still aggrivated. I pulled out a sweet candy and a few a communicater and held them behind my back and crouched so I could look him in the eyes. Speaking in as friendly and almost nurturing tone I could manage I introduced myself. "Hello, I am Jedi Knight Shira Dano. And I have am here to choose a Padawan to train. I was hoping you wanted the job, but...if you are not interested and would rather stay here than I suppose I can find someone else...." I said with a warm smile. Still cupping the treats in my hands. Waiting to give them to him.

Neeva Aloa-16-Jedi Padawan-Taris
Activating my Lightwhip I jumped and swung it around with great momentum but my temporary master swiftly dodged it and moved in close. As he clossed distance I deactivated the Light whip and used my shotos to ward off his attacks. As He advanced to me I jumped backwards avoiding his strikes, but landed on a wall hard as I did so.

Crap, such a novice mistake! Not paying attention to my surroundings!

He came down with the saber and I hurled myself between his legs and got behind him but as I went for my saber he countered by jumping and coming down from above me. And tapped my shoulder with the hilt of his deactivated lightsaber. Meaning I lost.

"Good. You saber combat by itself is good, and you do know how to use a light whip. But let me see how you combine both Saber and the Force. Again."

He is certainly much harder tha Shira but I did as I was told and this time decided to start the next bout in my Ataru stance.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In Orbit over Taris

He sneered that sight visable from the viewport as the frigate turned to face the planet and the oncoming Republic and stolen Imperial ships. The Fighters were taking losses, but his own forces were as well but it didn’t matter those fighters were no good against warships and he knew that the fact they were even attempt to engage them meant this an effort of pure desperation and he loved it.

“Captain continue to have the fleet fire upon the Transports…Leave the Fighters to our own men in space once those worms are crushed and their foolish attempt at escape ceased we can turn our attention back to the Republic Presence on the world.” He leaned back into the Command Chair, the Seat which originally had been designed for an Imperial officer to sit at had been replaced and modified heavily since his own taking of the ship.

It now resembled a throne more so than a chair.

More and more the Republic and Empire clashed, Turbolasers, Missiles and Weapon Batteries unleashed against their Foes, The Republic Presence here was doomed and he would make sure there were only a few survivors to tell the tale of the second destruction of Taris. The Republic had brought this upon themselves, they had been given Mercy, it was squandered.

And that was when he sensed that irritating stench! That maddening presence of that moronic Jedi!

“Shira…” He let out a growl as he singled her fighter out from the group; It was easy to tell even if he hadn’t been able to sense her, Her performance was obviously guided heavily from the Force.

“Ignore that Worm!” Focus Your firepower upon the Shuttles and Transports. Through out the Fleet this order was carried out leaving the Republic starfighters to their imperial counterparts the Vast collection of Warships instead turned its massive firepower down under the Escaping ships. Once more a hail of deadly Ionized Plasma began to rain down upon the Escaping ships, It was brutal, it was merciless and it was entirely efficient the Dark Lord approved.

“Once the Transports have broken through the Atmosphere ignore them continue to get into position for the bombardment…No wait…We have several carriers that are sitting around doing nothing have the Vindicator and Paragon unleash a few of their own fighter squadrons against those ships it will give them something else to concern themselves with before we consume their world.”

The Two Carriers acknowledging the Dark Lord's Orders began spewing forth their contents the Sith Fighters out into the battle raging through space.

“Maghrl can you sense it? Can you sense the Darkside Waxing strong as we near this moment? Within but four minutes now this world, This Planet will die once again. Open Yourself to it, Embrace it! I do this for the Emperor, the Empire and for you My apprentice.” He spoke softly as he rose from his Command Chair and Approached the forward viewport of the Frigate.

“Shira I know you can hear me…You have lost here, You have failed here, The Republic, The Jedi they won’t be able to stop them from destroying this planet and you wont be able to goad them into wasting my efforts.” He was speaking in the Physical realm but his voice he was projecting his words through the force it self.

“Flee back to your crumbling Republic while you still can…No wait you can stay and watch me destroy this world.”

“How much longer captain?” He called out.

“Two Minutes My lord.”

“Two Minutes shira…Do you realize what you have caused? Rather then surrendering, doing the wise thing, Becoming a Prisoner of the Empire you doom an entire planet to destruction. And the Jedi call Sith Selfish…Such idle tripe.” He spat in disgust as he walked away from the Viewport before approaching his throne and sitting within it.

“Maghrl prepare to witness the destruction of this world.” He called out.

[Reddogkeno101]

Huff and all his men boarded the Incorruptible and started to take off. Huff wasn't happy that the Republic arrived while he was surrendering, but now he could fight.
"We're going to engage the sith. Prepare all Defences and Get all Guns ready to fire as soon as we get into orbit." Huff said. " I Hope they don't do what they did all that time ago again here."

Huff contacted the republic fleet. "Quite the timely entrance. Now let's blow these Sith to hell; THEY were the aggressors and occupied this planet, we are defending it." Huff said. "Now let's go!"


5 Minutes later-in orbit of Taris
"We're going to get shot to pieces." Huff said. "Attention Republic fleet, we're making a jump to hyperspace. Once the Wounded are treated at an undisclosed planet, we will join you over Coruscant."
At that moment, they put in the Co-ordinates of Telos, another world Revan had visited, where Atris resided at the Jedi Enclave there. That is where they were headed. "Entering hyperspace in 3,2,1..." Huff said. And then they were gone. Hopefully the Sith didn't pick up the co-ordinates.


Edit: Huff and his guard of 10 crack troops scoured the area for Transports. They were getting off planet. They found 1 Hyperspace capable mini-bus. They all hopped in and took off with all the other Transports

[Eerienar]

Jecht Cath
Taris Orbit

Jecht said not a word as he was slowly compressed into his seat, at the sheer speed of the craft as it exited the atmosphere of Taris, and entered Sith-controlled orbit. Jecht unstrapped himself, silently stepping out of the interceptor, as it docked onto the frigate. He moved to his quarters, without acknowledging the other Imperial forces. He quickly took off his robe, and removed his re-breather, allowing him to breathe freely, the air of the frigate. He stood at his personal view-port, laughing to himself as the Republic would consider their surrender. He spoke in a low voice, an monologue to himself. "Soon, the Republic will surrender, and the true might of the Empire will be known across all worlds."

Jecht looked out, to the vast reaches of space, much of it blocked by Taris. He nodded, calmed from the rage that had filled him during the battle, and that he had meditated on during his time on the interceptor. He exited his quarters once again, and headed towards the command room, to oversee Sith operations. He looked over the hologram of the battlefield, nodding to himself slowly. "This is a great victory," he spoke to those around the room. As the Republic escapees quickly zoomed into space, he sneered. "The fools. The hubris." He laughed to himself, before receiving the message sent out by the Jedi. He laughed once more, letting out a message within the Force.

Rage is strong with this one. Perhaps there is redemption in the Dark Side for this one.

[New Aksarben]

Shira's Flashback

I was 23. And had been a Knight only a couple years. AS I walked the Jedi Temple on Tython I passed therough the gardens and asended up the stairs. As I did I turned to notice the view, with a gentle breeze blowing my cut hair that descended to my shoulders. And scars such as the one on my left cheek seem so long ago today. From my high vantage point I saw a curious little Jedi student. A strange alien who was rather short and was covered in fur. He seemed to be having trouble meditating. And I smiled at the youth as he pressed on with his training. As I entered for my business I had come to find a Padawan Learner. And I was met by a Jedi Master who warmly greeted me and we sat and discussed the prospects.

He told me of a Twi'lek who was skilled in the Force. A human who was an excellent duelist. A Mirialan girl who was very attentive and devoted to the Jedi. And a Ithorian who was a promising Consular to be. As I listened attentively I again saw the strange alien walk in and it was clear he was frustrated. Much like myself in my youth. I asked about him and his species.

"The Squib? Surely you can do better. He has difficulty controling his emotions and was late in training. Despite his age he has only been here a couple years. He started around 10 If I am correct. He has talent to be sure but no one wants him. I have even considered putting him in the Agri-Corp just to keep him in the Order. He tries hard but seems to have difficulty. And he is a squib, a very curious and energetic species. Love to tinker, collect and 'haggle' as they call it. He will be a handful for any Knight, especially one as young as yourself."

I listened intently and with purpose. I sensed myself in this Squib. Maghrl was it? And he does have potential. And it will be more fun than training a natural. Plus I thought he was much to gifted just from sensing his potential to be in the Agri-Corp or let loose.

"I will take him. Maghrl."
"But,-"
"Dont worry. I will speak to him now."

I walked over to him and could see he was still aggrivated. I pulled out a sweet candy and a few a communicater and held them behind my back and crouched so I could look him in the eyes. Speaking in as friendly and almost nurturing tone I could manage I introduced myself. "Hello, I am Jedi Knight Shira Dano. And I have am here to choose a Padawan to train. I was hoping you wanted the job, but...if you are not interested and would rather stay here than I suppose I can find someone else...." I said with a warm smile. Still cupping the treats in my hands. Waiting to give them to him.

Shira's Flashback

Maghrl - Jedi Initiate
Tython

Maghrl looked up at the Jedi Knight, his curiosity and slight confusion evident on his face. As he was still maturing, his ears were too big for his head, giving him a slightly silly appearance at the time. He took a few moments to process what Shira had said, as he was still learning Basic, as he had the first few years of being a Jedi. "Knight-Shira want Maghrl for padawan? Is Shira Big-time serious? Koovy! Maghrl.... uh.... accepts!" Maghrl's face broke out in an ecstatic grin. "Maghrl afraid that would be place in Agri-Corps.... No trainer-Jedi wanted Maghrl.... Said Maghrl too emotion-feeling-full.... But Maghrl has Knight-Shira as Master-teacher now-times!" He jumped up and did a little dance, showing his happiness and excitement. Him jumping up revealed that he wasn't wearing his boots. Maghrl didn't like wearing his boots and robes, as they were stuffy for the Squib. He was used to much less clothing, or none at all. Squib didn't really need clothing due to their fur after all. He looked back at Shira, his face showing his incredible happiness from being chosen as a Jedi's padawan.

---

Maghrl
The Blood Wing

Maghrl did as his master ordered, and opened himself to the planet as a whole, marveling at the sheer amount of life he could feel from the ruined world. He felt a considerable dark side taint though, which confused him. He asked his master, "Krujas-Master? Maghrl feels big-time dark-taint on Taris. What causes that?" He felt it coming from some form of life that he had never felt before. They felt twisted, and feral. but he felt a glimmer of intelligence that was screaming out in agony. The creatures didn't seem affected by that though, as if it wasn't them that was in pain, but something within them. It severely confused Maghrl.

He watched Shira's fighter, secretly hoping that she would escape without harm. Despite betraying her, he didn't want his former master to come to any harm. She didn't deserve it in his opinion. But she was fighting against nearly impossible odds, and it would take a miracle for her to survive the Sith fleet orbiting the planet. Maghrl silently sent her a plea to leave, and escape the Sith. He just hoped that Krujas wouldn't notice that he was doing so. He would definitely not like that, as far as Maghrl knew.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In Orbit over Taris

“Captain…It is time.” He stated as he rose he had noticed some faint murmurs of emotion from the Squib but he pressed it out of his mind, Not doubt he sensed his former Masters presence was confused by it but such emotion would be weeded out from him in the days, weeks, months and possibly Years to come as he spent his life under the Tutelage of the Dark Lord.

“My Lord…We haven’t even reached confirmation from half our deployments on the Surface next. I respectfully requ-“ The Statement was cut off by the Sith lord as he raised his hand and applied a telekinetic vice grip around the Imperial’s Neck holding him several meters off the deck with his mind as he approached the viewport.

“Your Objections are noted captain but unneeded.” The Dark Lord replied as he released his crushing grip through the force as he lowered his hand to his side.

“…Yes, Yes my Lord.” The Captain stated with grim reluctance.

“Send out the Order through the Fleet…Target the Republic Rehabitation Centers and Recolonization Zones first.” He stated perhaps out of some shade of Mercy, he would target the Republic Citizens and Soldiers before moving on to their bases and possibly butchering his own troops.

“Yes My lord.” The Captain stated with a bow.

While the Battle outside was raging and the Two dreadnaughts continued to pummel the escaping vessels the majority of the Fleet had finally moved into prime firing positions.

“Maghrl you asked earlier what the Darkside presence on Taris was…I dismissed the validity of the question at the time but now I believe I will answer. Centuries ago Malak Devastated this world thus imprinting his Mark upon the world but FAR before that the Sith assaulted Taris using the force to warp living sentient creatures into weapons, into the very essence of the Darkside the Rakghouls. They are the Sith’s Children and thus bare our Mark, they have survived the destruction of Taris and the passage of Millennia and they will survive this because they like the Darkside endure.”

With a silent wave of his hand the bridge went quiet and then the Dark Lord spoke.

“Commence the Bombardment.”

There was nothing else that needed to be said as the Order went throughout the Fleet. Dozens of Dreadnaughts, Destroyers and Frigates including the Blood Wing angled their Primary Weaponry away from the fleeing republic fools and instead towards the Planet below a deafening moment of silence passed and then it was broken as a hellish firestorm escaped from the Fleet. Dozens of turbolaser mounts began impacting the surface below, Dozens became hundreds as the fleet coordinated its efforts, hundreds became thousand as the Fleet continued to pour its ionizing Hellfire upon the world, Landmasses disappeared within the firestorm, Republic Prefabs instantly were engulfed, Kilometer after
Kilometer was laid bare underneath the seemingly endless shower of destruction pouring forth from the Sith Fleet. Throughout the Force a cry was heard, Lives by the thousand were extinguished as the bombardment continued, sentient life, Native Flora and Fauna The Dark Lord could feel it ALL dying beneath his grip.

It was beautiful; a hellish pillar of light extended Kilometers upward where the Sith Fleet converged its Lethal firepower and brought it down upon the Planet, Plateau’s were flatted, Trees were incinerated, The Republic Bases would be destroyed next but this, this was a good start he reasoned.

“Maghrl can you not feel the death in the air! It is Glorious!” He let out a dark cackle as the Bombardment continued and the World died before him.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Shira Dano-24-Jedi Knight-Oribt of Taris
I ignored the Sith's gloating and continued evasive actions. But seeing as their attention was unfazed I was forced to persue the enemy fighters. As I picked up many more on scanners. Blast it! There are too many! We have to defend the last of the transports! And we were down to half. And each one destroyed was a failure on my part. I could feel their lives be snuffed out and cry in pain and how it hurt the Force. As it is composed of all living things. I shot down another fighter as I forced another one to overshoot me and I punished him with lasers from his six O'clock. I looked down below, at my homeworld. Not even knowing if my own parents were already dead. Or were killed in the transports or even waiting to die in the bombardment. I am now confident that Krujas will allow me to escape after the battle. Or the massacre.

He wants me to suffer the knowledge of knowing their is nothing I can do to help them. And live with it. For now at least. I then heard one of the last remaining pilots in my unit crackle over the radio. "Shira, you should leave now. You have done all you can. There is nothing more you can do here. And I am not going down without a fight." I called out to him frantically. "No, dont do it! I am ordering you to retreat! Leave me here and I will keep them off of you long enough for you to escape!" But it was too late. I could see him pilot his plane straight into one of the Dreadnoughts bridge. I was thankful he did not choose the flagship of the Sith. Where Maghrl was no doubt.

I then sensed a message. Or a silent hope from Maghrl...he was wishing for my escape. He does still care for me. I then looked out across the vastness of the distance between us and it seemed as if I was staring him in the eyes. I then sent him a final message for a while. I could not risk keeping in contact with him for fear of Krujas. But as long as he does not reply, he should be fine.

Maghrl. I still sense the Light in you. And I know you do too. Do not fear for me. Even if Krujas strikes me down I will be one with the Force. But I will never give up hope. And I will always return for you. I promise. Please, do not reach out to me with the Force. I will find you. Always.

I then spun the fighter into a sharp turn and saw the last of the transports leave. Only a third escaped. Just a third. Perhaps 300 lives were saved. Maybe more. At that same moment the cannons roared to life from the fleet and began its bombardment of Taris. I screamed out as the loss of so much life in the Force devestated me. Seemingly draining me of my very life.

Shira's Flashback

I stood straight up and closed my eyes with a proud smile. And bestowed upon him my small gifts. I then looked at his bare feet and how he did not wear his robes. And I knew at that moment I have found my Padawan. And knew this choice would effect both of our lives. As he quiclky ate the sweets and curiously pawed the comunicater. He seemed to learn through touch, but I would learn about that more later. Now I looked down upon him and told him how we would have to give him a Padawan braid. I then placed my hands in my robes and walked out with the overjoyed Squib running circles around me as we walked into the bright Sun shine of Tython.

Four Months Later-Dantooine
We had just mediated a Farmer's dispute and I was again with my Padawan as we walked through the Farms. AS I explained once again the way of the light. As Maghrls Basic has improved alot as I practiced with him each day.
"Maghrl, You see the farmers. The plants. Trees. Life. We all form a symbiont circle. The Force is made up of all living things from the smallest insect to the largest Rancor. We all contribute to it. And each death takes away from it. And each birth gives back. This is why we as Jedi are never supposed to take a life unless their is no other way. Why we must protect the weak and the helpless. We draw energy from the Force and we all are part of it. We must strive to master ourselves and lead a life of service. Bing gifted with the power of the Force is a responsibility we must use for the betterment of society. We must always help others in need and never think selfishly. Most citizens of the Republic look to us for leadership and insperation. We cannot act greedily. We...lead a very respected and important life as Jedi. But we do so at a personel cost. We must be the guardians of life and the Republic. Feelings such as anger, fear and greed are paths to the darkness. It is seductive and decieving. And easy to corrupt. But it is not stronger."

I then looked down at his violet coated fur and large eyes. "Do you understand my Padawan?" As he still had trouble keeping still at times he so reminded me of myself. When I was young. I then sat cross legged just outside of a wheat field and waited for him to sit next to me and answer my question.

[New Aksarben]

Shira's Flashback

I stood straight up and closed my eyes with a proud smile. And bestowed upon him my small gifts. I then looked at his bare feet and how he did not wear his robes. And I knew at that moment I have found my Padawan. And knew this choice would effect both of our lives. As he quiclky ate the sweets and curiously pawed the comunicater. He seemed to learn through touch, but I would learn about that more later. Now I looked down upon him and told him how we would have to give him a Padawan braid. I then placed my hands in my robes and walked out with the overjoyed Squib running circles around me as we walked into the bright Sun shine of Tython.

Four Months Later-Dantooine
We had just mediated a Farmer's dispute and I was again with my Padawan as we walked through the Farms. AS I explained once again the way of the light. As Maghrls Basic has improved alot as I practiced with him each day.
"Maghrl, You see the farmers. The plants. Trees. Life. We all form a symbiont circle. The Force is made up of all living things from the smallest insect to the largest Rancor. We all contribute to it. And each death takes away from it. And each birth gives back. This is why we as Jedi are never supposed to take a life unless their is no other way. Why we must protect the weak and the helpless. We draw energy from the Force and we all are part of it. We must strive to master ourselves and lead a life of service. Bing gifted with the power of the Force is a responsibility we must use for the betterment of society. We must always help others in need and never think selfishly. Most citizens of the Republic look to us for leadership and insperation. We cannot act greedily. We...lead a very respected and important life as Jedi. But we do so at a personel cost. We must be the guardians of life and the Republic. Feelings such as anger, fear and greed are paths to the darkness. It is seductive and decieving. And easy to corrupt. But it is not stronger."

I then looked down at his violet coated fur and large eyes. "Do you understand my Padawan?" As he still had trouble keeping still at times he so reminded me of myself. When I was young. I then sat cross legged just outside of a wheat field and waited for him to sit next to me and answer my question.

Shira's Flashback

Maghrl - Padawan
Dantooine
The small Squib looked up at his master and said, in improved Basic. "Maghrl understands, Shira-Master." He still had a hard time suppressing his habit of touching anything that interested him, which was almost everything. He was wearing only about half the Jedi uniform, namely the pants. He still preferred to go barefoot, so he could gather more information through the fur on his feet. Dantooine interested him greatly. It reminded him very much of the plains of his homeworld, which he had told Shira many times. He usually told his master anything that he learned that he found interesting, which was nearly everything he observed. Shira reminded him of his real mother. They were both very nice and encouraging to him, and had taught him a lot. Maghrl looked away, towards the series of hills that separated them from the main settlement on the planet. "Shira? Is true that Crystal Caves are on Dantooine?" He reached into his pocket and took out the purple crystal that he had carried with him from his homeworld. He hadn't shown it to anyone, because he thought it was very valuable. He didn't realize it was a lightsaber crystal at all. Maghrl just thought it was a very interesting gemstone of some kind.

---

Maghrl - Sith Apprentice
The Blood Wing

Maghrl's eyes widened and he nearly vomited as he felt the intense feeling of death and destruction coming from Taris. The immense dark side energy created by it made him sick at first. He hadn't been expecting such an intense feeling all at once and fell over onto his side, holding his stomach. The intense energy that was flowing through him slowly chipped away at his reluctance to fully accept it, and any remaining Light within him. "Energy..... too much...." He mumbled, trying to cope with it without completely loosing himself. But after a bit longer, he sat back up, and a bit of a grin appeared on his face. "No..... feel much stronger now..." He began chattering in Squibban, but was not really saying anything that even made sense to him. He was just overwhelmed by the sheer amount of energy flowing from the destruction of Taris.

Eventually, Maghrl calmed down, and fell silent. He felt better now, and not as uncomfortable with the dark side energy that was now filling him. He looked out the viewport down at Taris, and didn't say anything. Maghrl realized that he was feeling surprisingly little for the death and destruction still being rained down on the surface of Taris. Maghrl was letting the energy freely flow through him, absorbing as much as he could from it. He tilted his head to one side, his large eyes fixed on the planet far below.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In Orbit over Taris

The Destruction continued the bombardment rained across the world like a hurricane of death; The turbolaser fire demolished anything it touched, the Toxic swamps across the world were set ablaze, The Worlds remaining forests burned, the Republic efforts to make the planet habitable again were failing, the destruction of the ecosystem would be completed this time. However the Dark Lord held up his hand when the captain turned to him as he gazed down at the destruction befalling the Planet.

“My Lord…There are several Imperial Vessels attempting to lift off from the Planet, Some are broadcasting up to date situation codes. Should let them pass the perimeter unmolested?”

“Yes…In fact; Cease the Blockade Action entirely and recall all starfighters, Further conflict is unneeded we have already succeeded here.”

The Planet Below’s Atmosphere was Clogging with Debris and fumes from the bombardment as fires raged across entire continents from the continued bombardment and geothermic shifts due to the continued stressing of the already fragile fault lines caused Volcanic Activity all across the Planet to skyrocket, volcanos geysered forth their Molten Contents further destroying the already Decimated landscape.

“The few Survivors from the Republic shall tell the stories of this place of what they forced the Sith Empire to do. The Republic cast the stone and we returned the favor.”

The Bombardment continued to hurl more and more energy into the dead world as the Fleet continued its advance now it was striking at the Republic’s Settlements the Colonization efforts were obliterated under the Hail of Turoblaser fire. The Republic Bases, Power generation Stations, Vehicle Depots, Munitions Store Houses and Granaries were consumed, The Empire was a blazing its Sigil into the world for the second time.

Scores died in this assault and the few that survived would die in the Aftermath as the world became a superheated Molten pile of Rock within the Cosmos.

He could feel them dying, imperial, Republic, Jedi, Sith it didn’t matter he could feel the energy flowing forth, spilling upon the Force, staining it, The Darkside was reveling in this destruction, he could feel it and he was reveling in this destruction as well.

“Maghrl isn’t it beautiful?” He questioned at the explosions and aftershocks visible from space from the destruction of the Main Republic Base. The Planet was literally becoming a field of Molten Glass and it was such a pleasing sight he couldn’t contain himself any longer and he laughed, he laughed and laughed and laughed.

He must have seemed insane but he didn’t care, it was the First Strike the Empire had dealt the Republic under him and it wouldn’t be the Last.

“Shira…Run and Hide wherever you may but the Empire will find you there and destroy what you hold dear. I have already taken Your Student, I have already taken Your Home World, What will be next? Your Lover That traitor Salen? Your Life? The Entirety of the Jedi Order? Whatever you hold Precious I will take from you know this truth and perish.” He spat as he turned from the viewport and walked back to his throne before taking his seat within it.

He heard and felt the Young Aliens Astonishment through the Force; He couldn’t believe such destruction, Such Power was possible.

“Through me you will achieve a power greater than any Jedi, Through me the Darkside itself will bow to you! Now…Maghrl I wish to propose a question to you. Why do you think this occurred? Why do you think we achieved such easy victory here? Why do you think the Republic lied, cheated and fled like cowards?” He questioned curiously.

He was still trying to establish how he would teach the Young Squib but he suspected that if he learned more of the Alien’s Personality, his strengths and weakness, that would become apparent. And thus he could ensure the Squib’s loyalty and value as a tool. He spoke of making the Alien his successor and he meant it but only if he proved strong enough, only if he was worthy enough, ambitious enough and wise enough to seize Vurk’s Knowledge by the throat and refuse to release it.

[Eerienar]

Commander Alannk
Taris Orbit

The Commander kept a brisk pace as he strolled down the crowded corridors of the Frigate Blood Wing. His red eyes blinked rapidly as he looked in different directions at every moment. He kept tabs on the soldiers in the corridors. Their ranks, their dress. The initial Sith incursion on the planet of Taris had built morale greatly within the ranks of the Sith. Indeed, even it had raised the old Chiss adviser's morale. He looked about the corridor, before stopping in front of the command room. The door slowly slid open with a slight woosh. Alannk took a step in, observing the various units of crew and commanding officers rushing about.

Alannk approached the holographic display. Red and blue triangles danced about the flickering screen as he leaned over, placing both of his hands onto the terminal, and eyeing the various commanders, both from the Imperial Navy and the Sith Order. He stared down one of his inferiors, speaking in a calculating manner.

"Lieutenant," he offered a brief pause for the young man to turn his attention to the much more experienced Chiss adviser, "situation report. What are those fighters engaging, and why are they engaging them?" It was clear from the Commander's voice that this was a genuine question, and not a test of the Navy's situation assessment abilities, as he had done so many times before. He Lieutenant offered a quick salute, before speaking in a harsh, yet submissive tone, the pitch of his teenage years still lingering in his accent,

"Commander, sir!" He began, "we've intercepted Republic ships exiting the planet Taris! Under orders of Dark Lord Krujas, we have been told to expend fighters in the effort of destroying these evacuating ships! Dark Lord Krujas states that this is a direct violation of the pact of temporary peace between the two fighting forces!"

Alannk shook his head, sighing, and standing straight up. He scratched his chin, where a slight stubble had began to form. His demeanor had become much more cold, in regards to the Dark Lord's tactics. He leaned back, directing his attention to the communication's officer, and speaking in a cold voice, "Wire a message to Dark Lord Krujas. Tell him my exact words, do you understand?" The soldier offered nothing but a nod, beginning to type out his message to the Dark Lord.

"Despite any blood lust the many Sith troopers have retained since the invasion of Taris, I, Commander Alannk, advise you to pull back the Imperial fighters. Not only do I suggest that this is an unnecessary loss of life, should the Republic evacuees fire back, but I also propose that, instead of showing of our might through the force of our Navy, we could intimidate them as the enter hyperspace, and cry for their lost homeworld of Taris." The Commander nodded, showing that he had ended his spiel. The communication's officer wired his message to the Dark Lord, as a tactical suggestion for the current engagement, as well as future engagements.

The Commander turned his attention back to the Lieutenant, speaking once more, adding a movement of hands with his speech, "Lieutenant, further situation report. What is the current status of the planet of Taris?" He nodded slowly, turning to the view-port. He shook his head as the Lieutenant cleared his through, speaking in a nervous tone.

"Sir! Dark Lord Krujas has initiated immediate bombardment of the planet! Due to the failure of the Republic to uphold the cease fire between the Republic and the Sith! That is all I was permitted to know, sir!" The Lieutenant coughed, standing stiff as he waited for the Commander's reply. The Chiss simply laughed, shaking his head, and turning back to the communication's officer, calling for him to heed his message.

"Dark Lord Krujas, I, Commander Alannk, suggest that, in further engagements, if the Republic breaks a pact, that we do not immediately destroy this planet. While the resources on this planet could have been of value to the Empire, now they are simply lost, as its environment has become uninhabitable. Once again, reason before force, my lord." The Chiss nodded, signaling the end of his message. The communication's officer nodded once again, turning back, and typing his message. He spoke again, turning to the Lieutenant. At this point, he was obviously frustrated by the Krujas's lack of strategic foresight. He spoke, this time, his voice more harsh, and commanding.

"Lieutenant, report casualties during the invasion of Taris. Any incoming and outgoing requests, as well. I shall bring these to the attention of the Dark Lord at once." The Lieutenant nodded, standing stiff again, and speaking. The nervousness in this voice reaching its peak, even leading to a slight crack in the back of this throat.

"Sir, the casualties are so far unconfirmed. Suspected relatively low. No outgoing requests, however a Girias Hanar has requested the audience of the Dark Lord, in regards to his robotic manufacturing. Here is an overview of the robot's armaments." He handed over a datapad, with the robot's statistics and weapon armaments listed down. He shook his head, looking to the Lieutenant. "And the Dark Lord has not acknowledged this?" The Lieutenant shook his head. Alannk scratched his head, speaking in a low voice to himself, "Sometimes it amazes me the lack of strategic hindsight some of these Sith have." He turned back to the communications officer.

"Request to the Dark Lord. View Girias's proposal at once. I, Commander Alannk, have reviewed the modified droid's statistics and armaments. Of extreme use to the Empire, ultimately leading to less loss of sentient life." He nodded, and the communication's officer typed out his message again. The Chiss turned back to the Lieutenant, nodding, "Anything else to report?" The Lieutenant shook his head. "Well done Lieutenant." He turned to the exit, leaving the command room.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Imperial Fleet

In Orbit over Taris

The Dark Lord was reveling in the Destruction, The Chaos, The Strife the very feeling of life ebbing, the very planet dying beneath his heel. He felt like a God, He felt like he could hold the galaxy within his hand. He felt complete; This was it was supposed to be he reasoned, even Planets died before the Sith. It had happened Many times in their Orders History, They had razed entire Worlds before in their wars and he wondered if this was what Malak had felt at Taris, At Dantooine.

However given the Planet was always beginning its death throes, Its Atmosphere venting into space as the super-heated gasses eventually boiled under the continued fury of the bombardment he reasoned it was time to stop. Anything on that world that remained would be dead in short order; That be knew, that he felt within the force.

“Cease Bombardment captain, Begin forwarding Casualty reports and loss reports back to the Home world, The Fleet will Return to Dromund Kaas shortly for resupply and rearmament.”

“Yes My lord.” The Order went out through the Fleet and one by one the Ship’s stopped firing and the world below them blazed in its anguish.

“Sir you are receiving an urgent message from a… Commander Alannk?” The captain questioned with incredulity.

“Chiss?” The Dark Lord asked.

“So it seems my Lord.”

“Well relay his message already!” He snapped with impatience.

And so he listened and throughout the message the Dark Lord remained composed his raised brow was the only indication he was listening at all.

Finally when the Message ended the Dark Lord gave a weary Nod.

“The Commander has a very Flexible view of Tactics but obviously fails to consider my own perspective. Hrmm Yes I do believe we shall meet face to face; And his Point about The Droids was true enough I was otherwise engaged and the engagement on the ground had ended but I am curious about Giras’s creation.”

“Summon both Commander Alannk and Giras Hanar as soon as time permits to the Bridge. Otherwise go around standard rotation Duties, Prepare for disembarking this sector.”

“Yes My Lord.”

“Tell the Wrath and Destructor to rejoin the Fleet and assume normal combat situation duties.”

“Yes my lord.” The Captain stated.

“Now we shall see what these two can make of this situation; We have removed the Republic Presence from Taris, We have reduced its strategic importance in the war to nothing and closed a possible weak spot in our flank. Now we shall look to the future.”

"Do you have that Casualty report yet?" The Sith questioned.

"Not yet my Lord but it will be completed before we leave the System have no fear."

"We shall see Captain." Was the Dark Lord's only response.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Shira Dano-24-Jedi Knight-Coruscant
The last hours were a blur. After leaving the orbit of Taris...I...I...I dont know. I am still weakened by the sheer loss of life on the planet. And I found myself laying on a bed in some room. With plain walls and a table in the corner. I picked myself up weakly as I saw Neeva Aloa at the foot of my bed sitting in a chair. Asleep. I wonder how long she has been here? I felt so defeated. So weak. I picked myself up out of the bed and managed to make it to a wall where I was forced to sit down once more. Using the wall to prop me up. I decided to let Neeva sleep. Then my thoughts raced.

How many survived? What is the next step? Why would Salen come to Taris? How many pilots survived? Would we ever rebuild the planet? And how did this effect Maghrl?

What scared me the most at the moment was that Maghrl may actually truly embrace the darkness. That he may spread this suffering across the galaxy. That I would be forced to battle him and probably kill him.
And I still dont think I can do it. I still dont believe I can harm him. No...I was in his place once. I know how it feels to have the dark side curse through you. I know how it feels to revel in death and the suffering of others. To draw strength from battle.

The Maghrl I know will never fully embrace that. Even if he does not realize it. I will redeem him. Or die trying. Even if it kills me I wont break my word to him. Not again. My master was the same with me. I must redeem him. I then felt a slight surge of strength from my own hope and determination.

Hope. The one thing a Sith cant understand. Why we continue to fight despite impossible odds. Why we are willing to give all to protect what we hold dear. For our homes. Families and civilization. We have the hope for a better tomorrow. A time of peace.

We will go on. We will never yield to the Sith oppression. And we will triumph in the end. We always do.

I then stood as I pulled saw a holovid. In my personal belongings I pulled it out and activated.
A hologram of my son, Aran appeared in a blue flickering projection. About 1 here. As he attempted to take his first steps and fell into the arms of his adoptive mother.

I gave a weak smile and closed my eyes.

No. I have too much to fight for to give up. Aran, Maghrl, Neeva and even Salen. Whom I was still upset with over his stunt with the 7th fleet. As I sat and meditated the image of the young human boy vanished with a push of a button.

And Grand Master Satele Shan entered. I looked up at her. I saw eyes that embodied the Jedi way. She spoke with purpose and inspired strength and victory from seemingly nothing.

I stood and faced her. She spoke with a grave tone.
"That battle was a disaster for the Republic and a bad way to start this war. The Senate is outraged and the citizens are blaming us. We have attempted to use your efforts at saving lives to curb this battle's effects but they are looking past it. All they see is a world that is all but dead. I will brief you as we go. Follow me. As I proceeded to follow her I once again went into past memories.

Shira's Flashback

I saw his violet fur rustle in the wind as we spoke. The sun was setting now and we have been busy all day. And the shadows grew larger. I stood and called him over. As if calling Aran to supper in a life I cannot have right now. He ran to me once again and I told him how we would retire and I would fix him supper. He grew excited and I laughed with him as we walked back to our tempoarary quarters on Dantooine. We would be leaving for Coruscant in the morning. It would be the first time he had ever seen the world. I knew he would find it interesting and would be a great place for him to haggle and relax. We have been on many missions in the past months. And it was time to enjoy some time while I worked.

Coruscant-Three Days Later
I was on my way to our querters. I had just had to settle a Gang War in the Lower City. At least in a section of it. It took me days to do, as I tried to avoid blood loss. I entered the room and saw Maghrl playing with a holovid of mine. And how he activated as I walked in and the image of Aran appeared. I stopped immediatly. And regained my composure and while he was spending his attention on the vid I used the force to levitate it away and deactivated it. Sitting down on the bed with a flop I was silent for many moments and then spoke. Not angry but rather in a way to dismiss what he saw.

"You know you shouldnt go through my private belongings." I then saw him look at his feet and I sighed and sat across from him. "Your not in trouble. You are very curious and it drives you to discover new things and secrets. Well, I will tell you what you just saw. You saw a very special young man who is very dear to me. And holds a special place in my heart. Much like yourself, Maghrl. One day, when the time Is right I will take you to meet him. But-" I looked around and leaned in as if telling a minor secret. "Lets keep this between us, OK? I can trust you right?" I then leaned back and put my spine up against the cold wall. Still with a motherly look. I am not your average teacher. Some have told me I get too close to my Padawan. But I felt that such a strong bond is needed and will likely save both of our lives in the future.

Neeva Aloa-16-Jedi Padawan-Coruscant
I woke up and saw that Shira was gone. "She must be with Master Shan." I told myself as I picked myself up and cleaned the room. I had learned much in my saber and combat training these past few days and will show the to Shira when I get the Chance. I had felt the tremor in the Force at Taris' destruction too. But being so far away I did not get hit as badly as Master.

I decided to walk outside and meditate and clear my thoughts. As I pondered my future my robes flapped in the high winds. And the smell of smog filled my nose. But it did not bother me. I continued to meditate and eventually connected with the Living Force, and just then got the full extent of the damage.

It was sickening and vulger. How could anyone take such pleasure from this destruction. It is only further proof of why we must win. I then opened my eyes with renewed faith in the order as I began to follow Shira's trail.

[Reddogkeno101]

Major-General Huff woke up, overnight, they had reached Coruscant from hyperspace with the other Republic ships. They were just about to touch down at Republic High Command. Huff hoped his troops still on Taris were ok. As a last command, he ordered them to go to the underground and establish a base there and start a guerrilla war with the Sith and Raghouls. Huff and his guard of 10 troops walked into the building and Presented himself to General Raana.
"Sir." Huff said. "At ease Major-General," Replied Raana. "Explain what happened at Taris to me."
"Well General," Huff said. "It was a mess; the imperials had almost every single one of their troops there. They spared no expense just to blow Taris off the starcharts. Their commander, a sith named Krujas. He was quite the General. Him and Shira Dano have quite the history apparently sir. But sending the fleet there was a mistake; it gave them an excuse to attack. Think General, what would you rather have; millions of civilians, or 4,000 crack troops? That was what happened. Now General, if we are to win this war, we must take out their better leaders such as Krujas. I request that myself, Jedi Knight Shira Dano and 300 Crack marine troops board his flagship and take him out and take his flagship."
"I will ask the Jedi Council I they approve of this. We certainly do, with only 300 troops, you want to take out his entire crew and him. It would be a massive blow for the Imperials." General Raana Replied.
"Thank you sir." Huff said, exiting the building and taking a transport with his guard to the Jedi Temple.
((Rebel, this is where you either say no or yes for a crack team taking out Krujas. BTW, what temple are we using; Tython or Coruscant?))