Fires of the Old Republic-IC-Invite Only

[The Zeonic States]

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Above Metrobig City

Skorr II

As he listened to the Jedi he found himself increasingly annoyed by such a plain and uninteresting view of the Galaxy. The Republic was automatically right because it stood, The Empire was wrong because it operated upon the principles of Nature, The very foundation of Organic life and yet it was labeled inferior by the Jedi.

“Childish tripe.” The Warlord snorted; But he hadn’t expected much more to be honest he wasn’t surprised that the Jedi would spout such idealism. The Sky Rocketing crime rate, the vast corruption and the fact that many industries were capable of purchasing entire worlds within the Republic pointed to the falseness of her idealism.

The Jedi would promptly carried out of the Bridge and the Warlord resumed his seat aboard the command chair and gazed downward at the Warzone below he didn’t know if the Republic would Honor their agreement or not given their presence within the system but he did know that they couldn’t depart until the Republic had withdrew.

They just fought and bled for this rocket and it would be a cold day in hell before he let It go with out a fight for it.

“Sir we have several transport ships lifting off from Metrobig city and several other settlements.”

“Likely The Slaves are being transported across the fleet. Tell the transport vessels to begin boarding the Dreadnaught. We can store a few dozen here in our personal holding cells and the rest can be stored upon the prison and supply ships we brought.”

“Yes Overlord Hursk.” The Communication Officer responded as he began carrying out the Overlords Orders.

The Republic’s presence in this battle now ended they now merely had to contend with the Natives and that they could do in the short term.

[New Aksarben]

Palace District

Metrobig City

Skorr II

Palace had been secured the majority it despite being broken rubble however as their previous examinations was collapsed but they had brought forth blasting charges from their transports deeper into the city and while the City put up its final battle against the Mandolorians the Elite got to work.

Rigging much of the Palace with explosives they were preparing to blow inward hopefully with enough force to clear passages enough to get deep into the fallen citadel and hopefully retrieve the still breathing King but there was always risk in such demolition the structure they knew was already unstable was likely crumbling in on it self as they prepared.

But there was no choice; they had to either breach and risk collapse or call their mission a failure and Mandolorians don’t fail.

One of Armored Warriors triggered the Detonator and with a brief flash of light and a massive of wave of sound the charges detonated and the rubble around the entrance was either instantly vaporized or displaced a passage through the collapsed building nearly ten meters long which obviously led into the Palace was revealed but the air was clogged with smoke and grit from the blast and already visibility was bad from the constant warfare raging across it.

Slowly and cautiously the Mandolorian warriors began advancing through the Fallen Palace; The Air was thick with stale oxygen and grit but thankfully their rebreathers allowed them mostly clear air as they advanced over collapsed stonework into what once likely been a fairly beautiful structure before being rendered rubble due to the Mandolorian Missile strike.

Twice through their explorations they had to detonate even more charges to clear passages as they made their way closer and closer to the life signatures which they were now merely on top of and with a final blast the Palaces Main chamber, the Throne room was revealed and in a tight squad formation the Mandolorians entered.

Before them were a handful of aides and attendants what appeared to be a few security personal but behind them was the figure they had been seeking.

The King.

“If they resist kill them but we need the king alive!” The Elite in Charge Barked as they advanced weapons raised.

King Quent'areli of the Squb Polyanarchy
Skor II

The King patiently waited as he heard the Mandalorians blasting towards his throne room. He was incredibly nervous about this, and terrified for what was happening to his people outside of the palace. He had no idea what was happening, because all his contact with the world outside the Palace had been cut off when the city was attacked. He only hoped his people were putting up the best fight they could, and not simply giving in to the invaders. He looked over at the caved in door as he heard the invaders moving around behind it.

When the door of the palace throne room was destroyed, the King stood up from his spot, and walked over towards them. "Welcome to the Squib-Polyanarchy palace." He said, a sad tone carried on his voice. "Take me prisoner.... Don't harm others please.... They did nothing to deserve harm. They also are not important. They were just loyal enough to me to stay here." He ordered his men to step down, and drop their weapons in Squibban, then turned to look at the Mandalorians. He wasn't regretting his decision, except for the fact that many Squib had already died.

He took out a communicator, then said to the Mandalorian party that was there, "Will tell Squib fleet to stop fighting, and Squibs on surface to stop resisting....." He turned on the communicator, but then instead of doing what he told the Mandalorians he would do, the King tapped into the communication systems of the capital city to send a message for all Squibs in the city to evacuate the city. He of course spoke in High Squibban, which all Squibs knew along with the more modern Squibban. All squibs that heard him immediately did so, abandoning any fights they were having with the invaders and using various methods to leave the city, and flee into the terrain and occasional junkyard on the fringes of the city.

The next thing the Squib King ordered was for the Squib fleet to make a final stand, and all surviving ships train their tractor beams on the ship hovering over Metrobig city, and to rip it apart. As his last act of defiance, he would make sure to make them pay for attacking his planet. He knew he would likely die after the Mandalorians realized this, but the King would do anything to stop the invasion. The force of thousands of tractor beams would easily be able to overpower the capital ship's engines and the force of the tractor beams would easily be able to rip the ship into shreds. He then put away the communicator, and looked back at the Mandalorians in the room. "There. Is done."

He didn't realize that some of his people were on the ship, along with Neeva, or he would never had done that. As far as he knew, only Mandalorians were on that ship. He would easily be able to stop it, especially if he was told that Neeva and some of his Squibs were on the ship.

[The Zeonic States]

Palace

Metrobig city

Skorr II

The situation hadn’t gone exactly as they had expected when they had breached they had been expecting a last ditch effort at defense of their King but the Squibs had surrendered surprising easily and while this didn’t surprise them given the less then stellar defense thus far it did set some of them on edge.

However several had made moves to their Blasters when the King had produced a Communicator and began speaking in some local dialect they didn’t understand it unfortunately for them none of them had thought to load up their HUD systems with a translator for this Invasion but they had enough common sense to realize it would be best if the King was honest with them in this regard.

The Elite glanced at his Companions his fearsome T-Slit visor gazing downward at the King, the being didn’t reek of nobility or soft upbringing that many of the “Royal” Families the Mandolorians had encountered had but that didn’t mean much, his Race weren’t warriors and that much was clear.

He pulled a single blaster pistol from his belt and aimed it one of the King’s Aides before simply shooting the Squib between the eyes, the other Attendants, Advisors and remaining Security were also dispatched in the space of a few heartbeats leaving the King alone with the Mandolorians.

“Radio into Hursk that we got the rodent.” He commanded.

“Yes sir.” One of the Soldiers obeyed and the rest of the group began making small talk despite just having butchered their way through the city and unaware of what the King had exactly done; Through the city the Mandolorians were unsurprised at the sudden retreat their offensive had go mostly unopposed and they had been expecting such a movement.

“Can you believe Hursk though?” One Mandolorian said.

“That he took on a entire planet with a thousand or so warriors and won?” Another Questioned.

“No that while he sent us down here to dig this rat out of a sewer pipe he was up there carving up a Jedi.” The First said.

“Oh right…She Challenged him, Can you believe it? Probably hasn’t happened since Revan and Mandolore the Ultimate.” The second commented.

“He didn’t kill her you moron.” The First said.

“Took her alive?” The Second questioned aloud.

“Indeed; She will make a fine hostage to either sell back to the Republic or the Sith, Not every day you get a Jedi even if it is a Learner.” The First said.

“Shut up, Both of you.” The Elite Commanded.

“Yes sir.” Both Echoed.

“Sir The Overlord is pleased and is requesting we bring the King aboard the Dreadnaught. He has given us a clear extraction point on the edge of the eastern half of the city.”

“Then we move.” The Elite said with a nod as he pointed his fearsome looking Mandolorian Heavy Pistol at the Squib before pressing the weapon against the furry torso of the Squiban King.

“You don’t do anything with being told to by me, I tell you to run you run, I tell you to take cover, you take cover and I tell you that it would be easier to carry you unconscious on my back rather then deal with your annoying accent I will beat you until you are unconscious.”

“Do we have an understanding?” The Commander Questioned.

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Above Metrobig City

Skorr II

The Situation aboard the Dreadnaught was pleasant; The Entire Crew knew the Invasion was wrapping up and now that the King had been captured this battle would soon end, they had been receiving reports from in the field that entire portions of the cities were being abandoned by their defenders under the Mandolorian Onslaught and the resistance had crumbled away to nothing.

However when their ships which had been preventing either the Republic Or Squibian Forces from breaching their defensive perimeter began reporting that Squibian Ships were approaching obviously to attack the Dreadnaught the Pleasant mood shifted and the Overlord redonned his fearsome Armor became all business once again.

“Tell all ships to fire at will and bring us out of the Atmosphere, Our Weapons will be more effective once we breach Atmo.” The Overlord Commanded.

“Yes Overlord Hursk.” The crewmen at their stations sounded off as the Fleet went on the Offensive once again engaging the Squibian Ships and with out their Republic Backup they all knew this would be a short offensive, however they were outnumbered here and for every Squibian ship that was destroyed another seemed to take its place and moved further away from their defensive Perimeter.

The Dreadnaughts engines were powering up and the Craft was slowly tilting upwards as it prepared to launch it self upward however then a strange thing occurred despite the increasing thrust building within the ship and their forward momentum clearly being enough to begin an upward climb they were staying stationary and the Overlord immediately knew what had occurred.

“We are caught in a concentrated tractor beam barrage!” He growled out; He had obviously underestimated the range of those weapons but he would correct that.

“Load all batteries and tell the gunnery crews to begin firing.”

“All batteries?” Sir the Gunnery Officer questioned.

“ALL OF THEM.” He screamed.

“…Yes sir.” Was the Solemn reply from the officer.

The fury of the dreadnaught was unleashed as dozen of heavy turbolaser batteries designed for engaging other dreadnaughts and Cruisers began spewing their deadly energies and plasma towards the Squbian ships and through out the massive warship the munitions teams were busy loading launchers and reloading already spent tubes, it would be at least another ten minutes before even a quarter of the ships launchers were ready but the Overlord knew that he was hoping that he could buy enough time with the main guns for the majority of his firepower to become available to him.

“Tell the Anti starship crews to get into their positions and prepare to fire but to do only after I sigil.”

“Yes Overlord.” The Onslaught continued but it seemed each additional beam added more pressure and risk to the structural integrality to the massive warship but his vessel wasn’t going down with out a fight even with a Atmosphere blocking them he was protecting enough energy to cook entire cities at those vessels and he knew it wouldn’t all be stopped.

“Sir Pressure on the Engine systems is rising and apparently we cannot achieve maximum thrust.” They were stuck and even if they had the power to achieve their maximum output in the engines which they didn’t it wouldn’t matter.

The Overlord gazed at the flaming city below and he knew he had found where he was going to die.
He didn’t feel upset, sad or even angered by it, he had spent nearly fifty Years now as a Mandolorian, he had killed more then he could possibly remembered, he had stolen, murdered, committed atrocities in the name of his people and culture and he felt content he had lived as a Mandolorian and now he would die as one and he would expect his crew to do the same.

“Tell the Anti Starship batteries to open fire, Focus all fire upwards I want a concentrated barrage. We are taking down as many of these little furry bastards with us as we can, I want this battle to go down in history as the most costly in their entire species existence.”

“Contact the Ground Teams and inform them to get clear of the city and either escape or continue to fight; their choice.”

“…Yes Sir.” The Communication Officer replied.

It had been less then a month since he had taken command of the ship already the Crew had immense respect for the Veteran War Leader.

[New Aksarben]

King Quent'areli
Skor II

The King looked away when the Mandalorians killed the advisers, many of which had been friends of the king. He nodded wordlessly when the leader of the Mandalorians gave him instructions, too distraught to say anything. He had failed his world and people, and brought devastation and destruction to his planet. He had failed as the King of the Squibs, and he felt horrible for all the Squib that had died or had been captured, as he had already realized was happening. He waited for the Mandalorians to lead him to wherever they would be taking him. Then the King registered that they had been talking about Neeva.

He realized that Neeva was likely on the Dreadnaught above the city. He felt horrible about dooming his new Jedi friend as well, but realized that if he wanted to make a final act of defiance, even her sacrifice would be unavoidable. What the king didn't know was that the Squib fleet was beginning to scatter back to their home cities on the planet, or out into space to escape the Mandalorian fleet. Very few Squib remained to keep up the tractor beam attack on the Dreadnought, and those would soon be blasted into space junk anyway. The majority of the Squib Reclamation fleet scattered towards the planet, away from the Mandalorian fleet, or even to Hyperspace, to escape being subjugated by the Sith.

The Squib King, tears in his eyes, gestured for the Mandalorians to lead him wherever they wanted him to go. His spirit had been crushed by the events of the invasion. He waited for the Mandalorians to lead him, wondering what they were going to do to him, but guessing that they were going to kill him in the end.

[The Zeonic States]

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Above Metrobig City

Skorr II

With the Massive ship firing upward and directing all of its impressive firepower into the Squib Fleet the Mandolorians were grimly awaiting what they believed was only a matter of time before their ship lost structural integrity under the concentrated tractor beam assault and just crumbled.

The Mandolorian Fleet was resigned to fight to the end even if they did have to witness the destruction of the Dreadnaught they would see as many ships fall before them as they could just as the Overlord instructed and with the entirety of the Fleet apparently focusing their tractor beam emitters solely on the dreadnaught in an effort to destroy it many were destroyed in the space of but a few seconds and as the fleet began to reform and take up positions around the opposing force their effectiveness would only increase.

But then the Squibian Fleet began what appeared to be a mass retreat; If it was brought about by their considerable causalities or something else occurring they didn’t know but the Fleet battle ended and the Mandolorian Fleet let out a cheer that echoed through out it self. Victory in its trust sense had finally come whatever had prompted the sudden assault obviously hadn’t been motive enough for the entirety of the fleet to perish in one suicidal charge.

However the Overlord despite this change of pace remained grimly aware that his Forces had come with an hair’s breadth of being deprived of a Leader due to this Vermin and he wasn’t pleased by that, not in the least but with the enemy fleet disengaging they controlled the system around the Planet.

“Any Damage done to the ship from their attack?” The Overlord Questioned.

“A few systems were overloaded by the pressure and some bulkheads are strained apparently according to engineering and our engines might need a refit once we return to port but nothing that should interfere with our operations at present.” The Engineering officer explained.

“Very good, tell the Engineers to begin emergency repairs immediately.”

“Yes Overlord Hursk.” The Officer called out.

“Inform the Troops Groundside to Hold their positions and await reinforcements.” The Overlord commanded they were expecting imperial reinforcements which should arrive any minute now.

“Do we have any readings on the advanced team that captured that king of theirs?”

“Not yet sir.” The Communication Officer replied.

Palace

Metrobig City

Skorr II

The Elite apparently Satisfied with the Kings response merely gave a nod before gesturing the King begin moving forward back the way the advanced team had came.
“Move we need to get to the Drop Ship apparently the Fleet tried some stupid last stand bullshit before most of it was scrapped but the Overlord still wants the King.” The Commander Barked.

“Yes Sir.” The Other Mandolorians Barked as they began moving up the rear as the Group of Mandolorians, King in tow began making their way through out the wreckage of the Palace before emerging into the burning warzone that was Metrobig.

Fires were raging all through out the city which left entire districts lined with thick and noxious fumes and smoke; Due to the smoke and grit it would have been hard to see the hand in front of their faces with out the advanced software and hardware that made their helmets which allowed them to see fairly well despite the poor visibility but the King they realized lacked any such aide so the Commander gestured at one of his men and then King.

The Mandolorian Nodded before gripping the King’s Wrist in an Iron Tight Vice before he began tugging him in the direction they were traveling in; Thankfully it seemed not only had the Fleet battle wrapped up but the Squib Resistance had as well they had a fairly clear path out of the city apparently.

“Come on the Drop Ship is a few klicks to the east.” The Elite grunted as the Mandolorian Squad and the Squibian King began moving at a more Rapid Pace; They had a prize in the King and they couldn’t wait to present it to the Overlord.

The Mandolorian Team kept up their hectic pace for nearly another twelve minutes only stopping twice to execute fleeing Squibs that happened across their path before they came to the Drop ship mentioned. The Craft bore the fearsome Mandolorian Sigil and had one Mandolorian Standing watch over what appeared to be nearly fifty or so Squibian Prisoners which were being herded on to the ship.

The Area around the Dropship thanks to being on the edge of the Great City was mostly unaffected by the fires and explosions that had decimated the interior of the city and thus far it was fairly smoke or fume free. But everywhere you went you could smell the flames and smoke, No doubt several chemical refineries and other processing centers had gone up given their rather noxious stench.

“Cease Loading the rest of this Lot, we got a special gift for Hursk.” The Commander said stepping forward as he approached the Mandolorian Loading Prisoners.”

“Your Late; Didn’t think you would get the King.” The Other Mandolorian Commented at the approach of the Advanced Team.

“Your Lucky day you lot, Get the Hell out of here.” The Mandolorian Commanded and it was obvious that these Squibs needed no incentive to flee almost half of the Would be Slaves were not loaded on to the Drop Ship but They all knew Hursk would care more about the King then he would about some rodents they already had hundreds if not thousands of.

“Get the craft prepped for take off while we load the Prisoner.” The Elite commanded as he gestured for the King to enter the Drop Ship, So with the King in tow the Elite Team made their way into the cramped ship before making their way to the occupied back before shoving the king on to one of the benches before two Mandolorians Sat down between him and the Commander stood leaning against the interior wall of the ship as a hum began to echo through out the ship as the engines powered up.

Soon there after a subtle sense of vertigo echoed through out the vessel and the Mandolorians knew they had taken off.

“You will see get to go before our Leader; King Squib and when you do I advise you address him with proper respect.” The Elite cautioned.

The Shuttle ride was a fairly silent, somber Affair; There was nothing to break the Silence apart from the shivering and whimpering of the Squibs taken along and the dim hiss of the air as the shuttle flew upwards heading for the high flying dreadnaught.

Soon enough the Shuttle docked within one of the many hangars across the great ship and the ramp was lowered and the slaves were escorted out before the Mandolorians and the Squbian King were allowed to exit and then they were promptly taken through the Hangar bay into an extension hall which had a turbolift which took them to another floor and another lift which took them to the Command deck.

There was no casual conversation now; The entire crew radiated a sense of acomplishment but there was no boasting or celebrations it was entirely business aboard the Warship as the King was escorted into the Command Bridge and Overlord rose to meet him.

While the Overlord towered over most sentient species he was practically a giant compared to the Small squib whom he approached before speaking in a carefully neutral tone.

"Your Majesty the Battle is lost; Your Fleet is in retreat, We have captured much of the Capital and With you we can now announce hostilities as ended."

With that the Mandolorian Glanced to one of the side viewports along the bridge before removing his helmet and gazing out into the void of space revealing his scarred visage.

"Right on time." He stated simply at apparently nothing before an Imperial Armada mass jumped into the System from hyperspace, among them were two Dreadnaughts, a Carriers and Two Frigates more then enough firepower to hold this system.

The Imperial fleet broadcasted a hail and the Mandolorians quickly recieved it and once the transmission began a hologram appeared of an elderly man in an Imperial Admiral's uniform.

"Admiral Zazibaz contacting Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore we are here to relieve you; We have come by Request of Dark Lord Krujas."

"Excellent Admiral begin sealing off the world and i have excellent news to tell you; We have their King."

"Ah that is good news; Do you think he will endorse a ceasation of hostilities?" The Admiral Questioned.

"Will you? Do you wish to see your people continued to be slaughtered or will you take the wise path and surrender the world?"

"Well your Majesty?"

[New Aksarben]

The King looked at the Admiral seriously, despite still having tears in his eyes after seeing what was being done to his people. He felt horrible for all that had happened, but he put the bravest face he could on and began speaking. "Cannot do that. Only represent Squib People, but cannot decide something important like this for self. You will need to get your answer from each Squib-city. They all have a say in total-squib-policy, not just Squib King. I only became King upon agreement of all cities." He paused for a minute, then continued. "Have heard many cities already declared which side they going with. While I King, and Master-of-Junkyards, I cannot fully make decision by self." He spoke with the bravest and most serious voice he could, and then thought of something

The Squib king took a deep breath, then declared, "I officially abdicate positions of Squib-King and Master-of-Junkyards. Am No longer King, and now am a worthless as hostage. The Squibbal must choose a new King, before decided on either side. It is part of our constitution-and-rules. Nothing involving entire species can be decided without King." He gave a smirk to the Mandalorian Admiral. He knew his life was now forfeit, but he had likely bought some more time for his people. Unknown to them, many of those who supported the Republic had realized that they couldn't stay on Skor II for now, and had begun leaving the planet, on the other side from the Sith/Mandalorian Fleet. They were either heading to already Republic-controlled Worlds, or Squib Colonies along the Rimma Trade Route or hidden along the outer Rim. Most were small trading posts, or salvaging colonies, but soon would have a huge influx of residents.

[The Zeonic States]

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Above Metrobig City

Skorr II

The Admiral and The Mandolorian weren’t surprised by the King’s Resistance and stubbornness despite his Worlds Martial Prowess failing to defeat the Mandolorians he still undoubtly considered themselves free.

“Those Cities are of no consequence; neither is this world of consequence but rather the space it surrounds is. Your people are of no consequence either; We could benefit from adding another economy into our Empire, Another Production Center and trading Hub but we don’t need it out of hand.”

“He doesn’t understand the way this situation works.” Clearly the Imperial Admiral stated it was clearly the elderly Human found the scene more amusing then threatening.

“As the entrance of this Fleet into this Sector the system has been officially annexed by the Empire; Your Throne is Forfeit regardless given your resistance but your life is still useful.”

“Mandolorian we are registering several ship profiles and signatures attempting to lift off from the Planet and we are sending fighter craft to intercept them; Do you believe this sector secured?”

“Yes Admiral I do.” The Mandolorian stated as he gazed down at the King.

“Very Good then I will issue the Announcement.” The Admiral then turned about and began issuing orders to the various members of his own Bridge Staff about apparently hacking into the Planets remaining global communication grid.

A Moment Later an Image of the Admiral was projected across the world in every Holo Display, His Words spoken on every Emergency Broadcast channel and his figure visible on every Terminal.

“Inhabitants of Skorr II.” The Admiral began a moment later in basic only for a second later for the second to be repeated in Squibian Apparently due to a Protocol Droid Translating.

“I am The Representative of the Empire, I am Senior Fleet Admiral Zizibaz of the 8th Imperial Heavy Fleet and I am in control of this sector; The Empire Welcomes its newest children into its fold.” A moment later it was translated through out the surviving worlds Communication Grid.

As the Speech was being broadcasted Imperial Fighters were intercepting fleeing Squib Vessels and broadcasting Messages of Surrender and that they were flying in what was now restricted imperial Space and should turn back. For the most part these messages were ignored and the vessels targeted by swarms of the Imperial fighter craft, the Carrier was disgorging an entire swarm of these craft through out the system.

There were easily a hundred or more Imperial Fighters speeding through out the system either to engage and intercept a vessel or returning from doing so.

“Some of you are trying to flee; No doubt fearing the Invasion by our Mandolorian Allies as a sign of the Empire’s Ill intent but how could we allow such a vital world so positioned closely to our Empire to align with the Republic? Your King, Your Ruler picked this Path for you and encouraged this subversion the blame is his and not your own.” Like before it was translated a moment later.

“In the coming days Order will be restored, Trade and Economic Growth will begin again, Skorr II will be rebuilt and its citizens given an influx of trade from the Empire, Our Outer Rim colonies and territories extend well into the “Unknown Regions, We will flood this world in goods and technologies it has NEVER seen before. But do this a New King will have to be selected, a new ruler of the Squib.” Again the Droid Translated.

With that the Image shifted away from the Posh Imperial Admiral and instead focused solely upon the Bridge of the Red Claymore and the Mandolorian Overlord and the Former Squibian King.

“Your King has attempted to align you with the Republic and anchor you into its failing influence and economy. For this treason against both the Empire and the People of Skorr II He will be stripped of his throne but who will replace him upon it? Which one of you Squib below have the Will and Fortitude to seize your peoples Destiny? Which one of you has the knowledge and cunning to see this not as an Invasion but a cultural Expansion and Growth of our two peoples.” This too was translated and the Admiral went silent for a moment and the image again went to him.

“Which one of you will work with us? With the Empire for a better tomorrow, not only for yourselves and the Empire but for the Galaxy? Which one of you will see the benefit of having such a large and organized trading partner for a…Guardian?” The Imperial stated as his cold and distant features continued to speak before the droid translated again.

“Metrobig city is a ruin but it is the seat of government upon this world and if this world sides with the Empire it will be rebuilt, it will be the seat of governance once again.”

“The Mandolorians will be leaving this system soon their business here is complete and this world will have no need to fear them ever returning should it remain loyal to the Empire.” True to his Word the Massive Mandolorian Dreadnaught which had sat parked above the capital raining death and destruction atop the city for more then six hours now began to pull upwards before slowly breaching the Atmosphere.

A little over an hour later the now unharrassed Mandolorian Fleet had assembled and were undergoing last minute repairs before their jump to Hyperspace during this time period the Admiral had continued his speech of good will and friendship, Imperial Supply Vessels were touching down all across the world bringing displaced Squibs both comfort and aid.

Imperial Transport Vessels touched down and began unleashing Imperial Troops which fought the raging fires and chemical leaks across Metrobig and other cities; The Imperials were upon the world and they were as their Admiral had promised not coming as Conquerors but as Saviours

By the Time the Mandolorian Fleet departed nearly an hour later much of the blazing inferno and noxious ruin Metrobig had been before was contained; Much of the capital was ruined but now it was no longer a burning, toxin filled ruin.

As the Mandolorians departed they caught the final bit of the Admiral’s Speech.

“As Your new Imperial Hosts it is not only our duty to rule this sector by your side but also to protect it; You have witnessed our strength, you have seen how even the Republic has been torn asunder by it. You will never need fear piracy or invasion again.”

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

In Transit to Fleet Rallying Point Echo

The Dark Lord of the Sith Darth Krujas stood upon the Bridge of his Flagship gazing out at the Assembly of Ships.

Dozens of Carriers and Dreadnaughts, Nearly a hundred Cruisers and Frigates, Untold numbers of Troop and Supply Vessels, The Fleet that had saw Taris Burn had been the majority of the Empire’s Offensive Capability but it had been incomplete.

The Fleet had been reassembled, the Remnants of the defeated 4th light flotilla, the 12th heavy Fleet, the 1st and 2nd Carrier Task Force, The 7th Dreadnaught Task Force, The 9th Imperial Specialist Corp and yet more were arriving by the Hour, the Fleet that had destroyed Taris had been incomplete either due to delay, or Damage but now Illum would see the true strength of the Dark Forces of the Sith Empire, His Fleet now numbered nearly two hundred Warships and nearly fifteen million warriors, soldiers and Mercenaries among its forces.

There were also four other Sith Lords leading individual Battalions and Companies he was their direct Superior in the Line of Command but he was granting them Wide Operation abilities and authority.

Sith Lord B’Tild a Human Male; Wealthy and Strong if Inexperienced Sith Warrior who had impressed his Master enough during the Border Skirmishes of the opening volleys of the second war to name him a Lord.

Sith Lord Gramis An Older Pure Blood Sith Male; Garmis was a practical living Legend having fought in the majority of the first conflict before losing his left hand in a fierce battle with a Jedi Master on Hoth; The Loss had sidelined him for Years before his Arm could be cloned to the degree that it would require to make him battle worthy again.

Sith Lord Atari Vurathi a relatively new Pure Blood Sith Lord who was appointed to the Position only short before this Campaign had begun; Krujas had never met the man nor did he know his Reputation he was known as a capable dualist and Force User but that was obvious merely from him having his Position.

Sith Lord Cesi Xo a Former Jedi turned Sith who defected during the outbreak of Hostilities between the Empire and Republic Five Years Prior. The Human Female had a reputation for cruelty and incredible Blood Lust and Malice During Battle and would be leading her Forces likely in an Direct Assault against the Republic.

Still despite these veterans and his near fifteen million strong band he knew he was outnumbered going to Illum.

The Republic had nearly twice that on Illum according to the latest reports he had seen. but he knew the Imperial Positions across the world had entire Armies battling across the world with the Republic no doubt that he could find many willing recuirts to battle with the Republic there but he also felt anxious this was the great moment of truth; The Beginning of the Inward Push to the Core if he could help it the first step of the final campaign.

The War would end after this if the Force Favoured him but he couldn’t help but also realize he was concentrating the majority of their fighting force into a single battle, they would strike the Republic Positions like a Hammer blow but would it be enough to crack their defences and take the world with out it boiling down into an Attrition based battle that they couldn’t win?

He feared that more then anything but he couldn’t focus upon it any longer as he turned away from the Bridge viewport abandoning his thoughts he approached the Turbolift before pressing a button and waiting for the Car to rapidly ascend to the Officers Deck. As he approached his Quarters he couldn’t help but wonder what Maghrl had learned in the Hours since he had left him previously.


As he entered the Room he spotted the Squib at the Terminal as he approached he couldn’t help but wonder if he had made a wise Decision here; he had been slowly striping Maghrl away from his Delusions and attaching more and more importance within him to embracing passions and the Darkside but what if he faced a crisis of faith on an actual battlefield? He grinned slightly as he had a solution come to mind; Upon a battlefield he would be exposed to waves of pain, terror and blood lust emanating from dozens if not hundreds or thousands of individuals and he had to get used to using that to power himself.

“Rise my Apprentice and follow me; We will discuss what you have learned of history in a moment.” As he gestured for the Apprentice to follow him down the Hall once again to the Turbolift but rather going down to ther Command deck instead they headed down to the Holding area where nearly a hundred Republic Prisoners were stored in various cellblocks a gift from the Mandolorian Warlord during the aftermath of Taris.

Krujas had been contemplating upon what to do with them and he finally had a solution as he approached one of the Cellblocks and raised a security door before only a thin sheet of metal separated him from dozens of Republic Prisoners he could see.

No doubt they were angry, hungry and tired given there were no possibilities of being returned to the Republic, No food had been given to them since their captured days before and they were given no means to sleep in any comfort, they were crammed into the Cells designed for possibly five to ten prisoners by the dozen.

“Maghrl give me your lightsaber and other equipment. You will face your first true trial as my apprentice to show exactly how well you have learned. I want every Prisoner within this Cell killed, There should be roughly twenty or so I would suspect. They should be no match for a disciple of the Darkside, Little lone you.”

“However they do have the numbers and experience. But this is exactly why you should do this trial unarmed. You cannot rely solely upon your lightsaber for defense, I have shown you how to reach out with the living force and end existence, I have shown you how to strengthen yourself with your rage and that of others. To drink in death and let it empower you.”

“Now you will show me how well you have learned my apprentice.”

With that the Dark Lord of the Sith hit the Release and the Cell Door slowly slid open and the Prisoners within stared at the Dark Hooded Figure and the Small Squib beside him but instantly their attention was brought back to the Dark Lord.

“The Man who lands the killing blow upon this Squib will be set free and given a transport back to the Republic.” With that the Sith Lord gestured for the Squib to take his place within the crowded cellblock so he could lower the gate once again.

None of the Prisoners apparently had any notions nor illusions of escape because none tried to run for it they merely now stared at the Squib; He was their hope now.

Krujas had added to the challenge he knew by making it take place within the Cellblock rather then the wider hallway, but giving his apprentice limited mobility and moving room would serve him well when he was forced to battle in a narrow or tight place.

“Do not fail me Maghrl.” The Sith Lord Instructed.

[New Aksarben]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

In Transit to Fleet Rallying Point Echo

The Dark Lord of the Sith Darth Krujas stood upon the Bridge of his Flagship gazing out at the Assembly of Ships.

Dozens of Carriers and Dreadnaughts, Nearly a hundred Cruisers and Frigates, Untold numbers of Troop and Supply Vessels, The Fleet that had saw Taris Burn had been the majority of the Empire’s Offensive Capability but it had been incomplete.

The Fleet had been reassembled, the Remnants of the defeated 4th light flotilla, the 12th heavy Fleet, the 1st and 2nd Carrier Task Force, The 7th Dreadnaught Task Force, The 9th Imperial Specialist Corp and yet more were arriving by the Hour, the Fleet that had destroyed Taris had been incomplete either due to delay, or Damage but now Illum would see the true strength of the Dark Forces of the Sith Empire, His Fleet now numbered nearly two hundred Warships and nearly fifteen million warriors, soldiers and Mercenaries among its forces.

There were also four other Sith Lords leading individual Battalions and Companies he was their direct Superior in the Line of Command but he was granting them Wide Operation abilities and authority.

Sith Lord B’Tild a Human Male; Wealthy and Strong if Inexperienced Sith Warrior who had impressed his Master enough during the Border Skirmishes of the opening volleys of the second war to name him a Lord.

Sith Lord Gramis An Older Pure Blood Sith Male; Garmis was a practical living Legend having fought in the majority of the first conflict before losing his left hand in a fierce battle with a Jedi Master on Hoth; The Loss had sidelined him for Years before his Arm could be cloned to the degree that it would require to make him battle worthy again.

Sith Lord Atari Vurathi a relatively new Pure Blood Sith Lord who was appointed to the Position only short before this Campaign had begun; Krujas had never met the man nor did he know his Reputation he was known as a capable dualist and Force User but that was obvious merely from him having his Position.

Sith Lord Cesi Xo a Former Jedi turned Sith who defected during the outbreak of Hostilities between the Empire and Republic Five Years Prior. The Human Female had a reputation for cruelty and incredible Blood Lust and Malice During Battle and would be leading her Forces likely in an Direct Assault against the Republic.

Still despite these veterans and his near fifteen million strong band he knew he was outnumbered going to Illum.

The Republic had nearly twice that on Illum according to the latest reports he had seen. but he knew the Imperial Positions across the world had entire Armies battling across the world with the Republic no doubt that he could find many willing recuirts to battle with the Republic there but he also felt anxious this was the great moment of truth; The Beginning of the Inward Push to the Core if he could help it the first step of the final campaign.

The War would end after this if the Force Favoured him but he couldn’t help but also realize he was concentrating the majority of their fighting force into a single battle, they would strike the Republic Positions like a Hammer blow but would it be enough to crack their defences and take the world with out it boiling down into an Attrition based battle that they couldn’t win?

He feared that more then anything but he couldn’t focus upon it any longer as he turned away from the Bridge viewport abandoning his thoughts he approached the Turbolift before pressing a button and waiting for the Car to rapidly ascend to the Officers Deck. As he approached his Quarters he couldn’t help but wonder what Maghrl had learned in the Hours since he had left him previously.


As he entered the Room he spotted the Squib at the Terminal as he approached he couldn’t help but wonder if he had made a wise Decision here; he had been slowly striping Maghrl away from his Delusions and attaching more and more importance within him to embracing passions and the Darkside but what if he faced a crisis of faith on an actual battlefield? He grinned slightly as he had a solution come to mind; Upon a battlefield he would be exposed to waves of pain, terror and blood lust emanating from dozens if not hundreds or thousands of individuals and he had to get used to using that to power himself.

“Rise my Apprentice and follow me; We will discuss what you have learned of history in a moment.” As he gestured for the Apprentice to follow him down the Hall once again to the Turbolift but rather going down to the Command deck instead they headed down to the Holding area where nearly a hundred Republic Prisoners were stored in various cell blocks a gift from the Mandolorian Warlord during the aftermath of Taris.

Krujas had been contemplating upon what to do with them and he finally had a solution as he approached one of the Cellblocks and raised a security door before only a thin sheet of metal separated him from dozens of Republic Prisoners he could see.

No doubt they were angry, hungry and tired given there were no possibilities of being returned to the Republic, No food had been given to them since their captured days before and they were given no means to sleep in any comfort, they were crammed into the Cells designed for possibly five to ten prisoners by the dozen.

“Maghrl give me your lightsaber and other equipment. You will face your first true trial as my apprentice to show exactly how well you have learned. I want every Prisoner within this Cell killed, There should be roughly twenty or so I would suspect. They should be no match for a disciple of the Darkside, Little lone you.”

“However they do have the numbers and experience. But this is exactly why you should do this trial unarmed. You cannot rely solely upon your lightsaber for defense, I have shown you how to reach out with the living force and end existence, I have shown you how to strengthen yourself with your rage and that of others. To drink in death and let it empower you.”

“Now you will show me how well you have learned my apprentice.”

With that the Dark Lord of the Sith hit the Release and the Cell Door slowly slid open and the Prisoners within stared at the Dark Hooded Figure and the Small Squib beside him but instantly their attention was brought back to the Dark Lord.

“The Man who lands the killing blow upon this Squib will be set free and given a transport back to the Republic.” With that the Sith Lord gestured for the Squib to take his place within the crowded cellblock so he could lower the gate once again.

None of the Prisoners apparently had any notions nor illusions of escape because none tried to run for it they merely now stared at the Squib; He was their hope now.

Krujas had added to the challenge he knew by making it take place within the Cellblock rather then the wider hallway, but giving his apprentice limited mobility and moving room would serve him well when he was forced to battle in a narrow or tight place.

“Do not fail me Maghrl.” The Sith Lord Instructed.

Maghrl
The Blood Wing

The little Squib had still been researching what Krujas had told him when the Dark Lord had arrived and told Maghrl to follow him. He had been a bit anxious to tell Krujas what he had learned from the time, which was why he got a little confused when the Turbo-lift had gone down to the prisoner holding area of the ship. The Squib guessed that Krujas wanted to teach him something, which got him a bit excited. Krujas telling him to hand over his lightsabers and other things got him a little confused, but he complied and handed his master the aforementioned items. The Squib's eyes widened when he registered that Krujas had ordered him to kill 20 people for no reason other than to train him. He knew they were Republic Soldiers, and so he swallowed nervously.

He was about to say something, but then stopped when Krujas told him that if one of the prisoners killed him, then that man would go free. That actually got him a little angry, that he was giving them motivation to kill his apprentice. Maghrl realized that he had almost expected that from the Sith by now; To put Maghrl's life in danger for training. The Squib didn't like that at all, but he had to admit it was working. He was much more powerful than he had been as a Jedi, and his ability to use the force had improved immensely.

Stepping nervously into the cell, Maghrl looked around to see what he was up against. Republic Veterans; men who had made fighting and war their profession, all incredibly desperate for their freedom, and more than willing to kill for it. Maghrl was shorter than anyone else, which would definitely make them think he would be easy to kill. But the Squib wasn't going to let that happen. He had the force on his side, and speed. Despite the tight confines, Maghrl did have plenty of room to dodge, more than the others in the cell in fact.

Taking a deep breath, focusing his mind, and pushing all other thoughts to the back of his mind, Maghrl slipped into a fighting stance, crouching down a bit and preparing to move as his quick eyes darted between the soldiers, waiting for one of them to make the first attack. Like all Jedi, Maghrl had been taught some unarmed fighting as a supplement for lightsaber training. While Maghrl didn't have much strength, he had speed and stamina. He could dodge attacks, and use those as opportunities to strike with both the force and his limbs. Maghrl also had his sharp teeth, and keen senses to help him in fighting, and if he needed to, he could always just bite one of them to cause harm.

The Squib patiently waited for the prisoners to attack him. While he waited, he began extending his mind to those in the cell, in preparation of possibly using his force abilities to make the prisoners fight each other, instead of him.

[The Zeonic States]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Prison Cellblocks

Brig Level

“Remember Maghrl; No Mercy, No Hesitation. Kill them all.” The Dark Lord stated commandingly.

A sense of desperate tension held in the air a moment and in an instant several of the Prisoners charged forward and the Dark Lord of the Sith Disappeared behind a rapidly closing blastdoor from which he could watch the conflict in both comfort and safety.

Krujas watched in silence as two of the larger prisoners charged forward in what he could tell was a mixture of martial determination and frantic belief; Belief that killing this squib would grant one of them their Freedom, Belief that they possibly could get out of this situation alive that was what drove them on towards the small organic that as all their stood in their way in freedom.

A Larger Man pulled his hand back and shoved his fist forward in a brutal Punch but before he could even observe his blow landing or missing he was yanked back by another Prisoner; The very one who had begun the charge with him in fact. The Dark Lord Grinned.

He had suspected as much; the soldiers weren’t idiots and being locked within a cell for almost a week likely had robbed them of any illusion of nobility or fairness only one would escape here from killing the squib and they would have to fight each other not only the squib to see who would walk out alive.

The Large blond man as far he could see was currently being straddled and having his head beaten into the hardened floor of the cellblock by several other prisoners but that only caught his attention for a moment as two of the other prisoners charged forward at the squib in Unison and launched a series of brutal and trained martial attacks.

Clearly the Mandolorians had captured experienced soldiers during the assault on Taris, not raw novices or recruits giving their capabilities, some of these men looked like they might even be able to hold their own against a trained force user if they were prime condition.

But unfortunately for them they weren’t.

He could tell from his apprentices stance he wasn’t going to take the offensive and while they disappointed him from his perspective Given How Maghrl wasn’t a reactionary fighter as far as he could tell; His form of assault were based around quick movement and delivering damage in lightning attacks.

The two men however were acting in unison and using each other to cover each others blind spots; now this he wasn’t expecting, from the earlier display he had expected all notions of teamwork to fall by the wayside but apparently for these two they realized if they concentrated their attacks and focused together they might be able to overcome the Squib.

While one ducked down and attempted to sweep the legs out from underneath the squib another Prisoner launched a series of punches directed at the Squib’s Midsection and Chest. This Fight Krujas realized was a testament to the Martial training of Republic forces given they apparently had little issue engaging a sentient who was below the average height of most species in the known galaxy.

The Prisoner from the charge prior rose now from the corpse of the other large prisoner and charged towards both the Prisoners and the Squib clearly intent upon using his considerable bulk and weight to flatten them all.

Through out the cell the entire room had become a free for all; during which prisoners would briefly try to engage the Squib before being fought by another Prisoner but the charging Prisoner had the Dark Lord’s Interest now, How exactly would Maghrl stop the advancing threat when he was already under assault?

This was where Sith were made or unmade, it was a trial after all.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Neeva Aloa-16-Jedi Padawan
I began to come to as I looked through the blurry vision and took in my cell. It was quite spartan and had almost nothing in it. Binders locked my wrist together as well as my ankles. And there was a single guard just outside of my cell. My vision became clearer as the minutes passed and the pain came back to me. A sign and proof that I am alive.

The Mandolorian stood and did not seem to notice my stiring. And I adjusted myself to attempt to get comfortable. I recognized his armor and stance almost...I think he was on the bridge during my fight. Yes...the one who was almost hit in the crossfire...the one I pulled out of harms way with the Force. I wonder if he even noticed? I doubt he got soft because of it but I do have a lack of understanding of Mandolorian culture. And as much, I am unsure how they think about things like that.

Does it earn respect for aiding an enemy?
Or contempt for wasting energy on an adversary?

I am not sure. I propped myself up in the corner and then looked out at his back with a blank expression. From the looks of it Krujas is still not around and we are likely still en route to the Sith Lord's fleet.

And the seconds passed slowly in the quiet of the darkness. With only dim light flickering in my cell and the occasional light in the halls. I decided I was dead soon, so I may as well attempt a conversation. I lifted my head up and let it fall back onto the cold steel hull of the ship.

"You were on the bridge...during the fight...the one who was almost hit by a blast from your commander...the one I pulled away from it. Am I right?" I got his attention as he turned around. I gave a weak smile. "Mandolorians like a entertaining fight right? How did I do?" I gave a laugh that hurt my chest. And then coughed several times. "You should already know my name. Neeva, a Jedi Padawan." I then paused several long moments.

"What is your name? You dont have a problem speaking to a prisoner do you? After all, what is the harm? I should be dead soon. I doubt Krujas will allow me to live."

I then grew silent. The realization hitting me hard for the first time since I lay on the bridge hoping for death but was denied. I was not even granted that mercy. I thought as I looked into my own reflection from a viewport across the cell block.

So this is what the Mando sees when they look upon me?

My hair was stained with blood and dirt and my face decorated with superficial cuts. One hand obviously broken and the dirty officer's uniform hiding my lower wounds that scorched my lower gut and lower chest. My eyes weary and the tatoos upon my face were covered with dried blood. With my black hair in a mess.

I have seen better days I thought to myself as I awaited a response from the Mando.

[The Zeonic States]

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Aft Brig Section

In Hyperspace Transit

Within the Cell block there were several Mandolorians Pleasantly conversing in Huttese while the majority of the Mandolorians aboard spoke variants of Basic and occasionally did so during conversation the majority of them came from sectors and sections of space where the language was secondary if it was spoke at all however that conversation ended once the Mandolorians noticed the Jedi was coming to.

The Mandolorian in Vermillion Armor who stood outside the cell questioned in Huttese if he should summon the Physician and have the Jedi put under again given that Hursk had given orders for the Jedi to remain unconscious until they had made their way to the Sith Armada’s rallying point deep within Imperial Space.

Ultimately that conversation however was ceased once the Jedi rose and spoke apparently to the Guard outside her own cell; The Other Mandolorians merely gazed at each other through the armor before shrugging they were leaving it up to the Guard himself if he wanted to bother wasting time chatting with the soon to be deceased Jedi or not.

The Mandolorian regarded the Jedi in a chilled silence; Apparently the Jedi thought that she had apparently saved him? It wasn’t a surprising notion he supposed given that the majority of outsiders even Jedi with a history of combating his culture would be unaware just how durable their armor was; He doubted that he would have been in life threatening peril even had the Jedi not moved him aside.

After a moment the Mandolorian Spoke aloud in basic; a Thick accent hung with the words but he suspected it would understandable enough for conversation.

“I am Squad Instructor Niashi.” The Mandolorian stated simply.

“And Yes I was present when Hursk Defeated you Jedi Neeva; Your defeat surprised not one of us.” He stated curtly his accent pronouncing it self with every syllable.

He had a blaster rifle pressed against his left shoulder as he gazed at the Jedi before he spoke again this time regarding apparently impending death.

“Krujas likely will sell you back to the Republic as Hostage.” The Mandolorian again stated in his accented tone.

.”Or he will kill you; Either way Your defeat has heralded it. You aren’t the first Jedi to fall to us and you will not be the last; This Conflict has granted many of our kind combat against Jedi Opponents.”

“We have brought the Sith Many Jedi during the war; Some alive, Some Dead, Either way the effort has been rewarded generously thus far.”

“Though why Dark Lord Krujas would want us to bring a mere Padawan to him…He has promised us a Fortune for our efforts thus far and I suspect he will pay even more for you though why he wouldn’t pay for your head you would have to ask him.”

He gazed at his fellows before nodding as the two other guards exited the cellblock and returned to upper levels he had no issue guarding a bound and bloodied Jedi by himself and given that the cell block was monitored and scanned he doubted that even if the Jedi did escape she would do so undetected.

“Though if what I am hearing is correct; the Next major battle will be at Illum I do indeed hope that Krujas and Hursk permit our clan to travel there. That Battle will be spoken of decades; Just as this war will be spoken of for centuries…Regardless of who wins.” He stared the Jedi down; His Fearsome T-Slitted visor gazing down at the Jedi.

He had never seen the species this Jedi hailed from; Nor had he in truth ever been this close to a Jedi that was not actively trying to kill him; it was an odd thing he ultimately settled upon and turned away from the Jedi.

“I will summon Doctor and have him return with more medication; Cannot have you dying before arriving at Krujas’s Fleet.”

[The Rebel Alliances]

Salen-Jedi Knight-30-En Route to Illum
The bridge of the ship was not the largest I have been on. And I was looking at star charts to observe our path to Illum. I had a change of plans. And everyone knows a battle will soon occur here. And Shira will be in the middle of it. And I feel like I need to be there. Even if I am not next to her, being in the same battle as her will help calm me. And ensure I can protect her in some way.

I paced the bridge and then went to my quarters. And my mind drifted back to the night we first shared. Back to when we were Sith. Or at least believed we were. Sometimes I wonder where we would be if we stayed in the Sith Order. We would not have to hide our feelings or our family. I am not quite so devoted to the Order as Shira is. I fight for her and Aran. And I dreamed of the day she will leave the order. And that day will be the day we can finally put all of this behind us and move forward.

I closed my eyes as I reached for my commlink and contacted Shira. As I waited I saw her virtual visage appear and then wished her a happy late birthday. She gave a brief smile and then returned to the task at hand. Always so focused and steadfast. She then asked me where I was at the moment.

"I am on my way to you. With what ships I could muster for the defense."
"I did not expect that. I thought you had a personal mission?"
"I decided it was not as important as you. Or the battle to be decided on Illum. By your side in the fires that are to come is right where I need to be." She smiled and seemed quite happy at the thought.
"Good, I cant wait for your arrival here. Good bye."
"Good bye." I whispered as her image blinked away.

It seems it will never be enough.

Shira Dano-Jedi Knight-25-Illum
The thought of Salen coming here excited me. We would be able to have some time together and no one would suspect anything. Two Jedi planning or catching up on old times by themselves is not a rare occurrence. And would by us an hour or so. Much longer then that and people may get curious. Cant have that. But I can dwell on that when he gets here. Until then I passed my thoughts on Neeva.

Neeva, I have not heard any message from her detailing a victory, which she would have sent by now. And that means she must have been defeated. I then closed my eyes so I could focus on her presence. And I could feel it's feint existance. She is wounded, but alive. And the only reason to keep her is to turn her over to Krujas. That is my first hunch anyways. But perhaps she will be sold back to the Republic. But, I feel as if she will be confronted by Krujas and Maghrl soon.

I wish it was me. She has little chance of surviving such an encounter. And it appears I have failed yet another apprentice. I should have never sent her alone. But I had believed that the invasion of Illum would have happened about the same time as Skor II.

It seems I cannot succeed with even my own Padawans. Perhaps the Jedi were wrong to accept me back.

Neeva Aloa-Jedi Padawan-16-Cell Block
“I am Squad Instructor Niashi.” The mando started off after a period of silence.
He then spoke of how my defeat was expected and that Krujas will pay a vast some for me. Which was already let on by his commander. And how he has no real idea why he would bother. I could tell that he was not used to dealing with either a Mirialan or a Jedi, at least under these circumstances. And then he mentioned Illum. And how he could care less who wins as long as he is allowed to fight.

"I could tell you why Krujas would ask for me directly. We have a history, or more he and my master does. And his current apprentice is my former ally. He will not give me back to the Republic. Likely he will keep me for leverage or kill me to satisfy his own pleasure. Or use me to test Maghrl or even attempt to recruit me just to add insult to Shira's injury. Point is, what he wants to do with me does not matter. Personally I hope he will just kill me. It is better than any alternatives. But I doubt it will be that simple."

The Mandolorians, and there fascination with battle will always be a mystery to me. They are even more our oppisate than the Sith. "Tell me something....why do you fight? Not the Mandolorians but you personally. Do you not consider the lives you destroy? War and battle cannot be all that you are. Some part of you must want more. Have you never considered another way of life?"

I then placed my head back on the wall once more and waited for the 'doctor'.

"I suppose you could ask me the same." I sighed as I seemed so close to resigning to my fate.

[The Zeonic States]

Mandolorian Dreadnaught Red Claymore

Aft Brig Section

In Hyperspace transit

“Krujas is a wise man then; To take an opponent and create an ally, There little more precious then life in the galaxy.” The Mandolorian Commented to the Jedi.

The Mandolorian listened in silence to the Jedi his Armor didn’t betray how he looked or felt but some Jedi he knew could read emotions so he was attempting to keep his carefully contained and Neutral; it didn’t come easy he was a man of action and emotion but he believed he found some success.

“The Sith and Jedi both care to much for Politics and Playing Diplomat and Subterfuge; Combat is the purest expression of self. It gives credence to existence and shows you are fit to exist.”

He glanced at the other Mandolorians and they nodded apparently the Doctor was on his way now.

“Why?” It wasn’t a question he was often asked nor was it something he considered overly; He wasn’t an educated man such as Hursk nor was he as wise as some of the Sith he had encountered but he had his motivations.

“The why of it is simple; My People were Obliterated by the Mandolorians under orders of the Sith during the prior War. My entire world was razed to cinders and the survivors, the Children at least were taken by the Mandolorians and were given a choice. To Become Mandolorians or be given transport to the nearest Republic Sector.” Despite speaking of the genocide of his own home world the Mandolorian was casual.

“Our World wasn’t an ally of the Republic but if I was told correctly we were allowing them to pass through our system to combat the Sith. It made us a viable Target and our world burned in a fortnight.”

“The Mandolorians Destroyed my Old Life; But they gave me a new in return and they have given me clan, family even a child.” The Mandolorian shrugged.

“The Code and Creed are my oath and belief, Clan is my family and my superiors are my Older siblings, I don’t expect you to understand the Mandolorian Sense of Honor or Pride but to the Jedi, the Republic we are little more then Pirates. But our People revel in battle, I revel in battle. I was conscripted into my Homeworlds Military at the age of eight, a spotter for artillery in the field to target incoming Mandolorian Troop transports.”

The Mandolorian paused before he spoke again and when he did so again he sighed and spoke quietly.

“The Mandolorians were disgusted with the Practice, Shoving Children into the line of battle and using them as soldiers when but days before they were civilians, Our children are given instructed from when they are Young to be proper warriors. It beats my experience starving in a bombed out wasteland being used as a shield to soak up blaster bolts.”

“The Mandolorians took in the survivors, not the Republic, Not the Sith; Clan helping Clan. Our People are united.” He stated with finality.

He hadn’t spoken about himself this much since he had first met his adopted father whom had given him his Name.

The Turbolift door down the hall opened and out walked a Duro in bloodied Surgical Scrubs pushing a Hoover Cart which was filled with various vials and tonics along with other instruments of Medicinal practice.

He spoke basic in a rough tone asking where the Prisoner was but Niashi held up his hand halting the Approaching Alien.

He glanced at a Readout on the wall and did another shrug which was barely pronounced through the thick Mandolorian Armor.

“We are nearly there; Just about an Hour or so out from the Rallying Point there would be no point wasting drugs on sedition by this point.” He stated simply and the Duro let out a curse in his native tongue as he turned the cart and around and began pushing back towards the Turbolift but not before one of the Mandolorians stopped him and scoped several items off the cart before allowing him to continue.

The Squad Instructor nodded as he was tossed what he had been expecting, a few vials of Kolto while Bacta was becoming increasingly popular the Mandolorians made do with whatever they could buy or steal in bulk.

He gestured to the other Mandolorians to take off defensive positions around him as he began the opening of the Cell before stepping into it; His Blaster rifle was aimed steadily at the Jedi’s head as he gestured for her to turn around.

After the Padawan had done so the Mandolorian slipped a hand into his belt pouch and retrieved one of the Kolto Syringes and stabbed it directly into the Jedi’s Carotid artery or its species equivalent where on a human, Duro or Wookie the Artery controlling blood flow to and from the Brain to the Heart.

“Sound Make it a bit easier to move now despite the Broken Bones.” He stated as he gestured to her hand as he removed the Syringe and placed it back into his belt pouch. Before he stepped outside of the Cell and he hit the release again and the Projection field again started once again.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Neeva Aloa-Jedi Padawan-16
The Mando, despite the conversations...was stil an enigma to me. The way he spoke...moved...acted...and carried himself. How his world was destroyed and why he fights. It was so alien to the Jedi way of life as to be unrecognizable. And he was right, we were almost there. I could feel it in the force. It told me how close I am to Krujas....and Maghrl. I seem to be near the end of my story. Regardless I have no regrets about anything. And If I was placed in the exact same situation, I find myself I would have acted in no other manner. I am a Jedi. And I know no other way of life.

"Well, Niashi...I know this must sound...strange...coming from me....and I know you likely dont give it the attention I do as a Jedi but...wherever this war takes you. May the force watch over you." I did not really know what else to say. And I had nothing to entertain my mind with while it raced in anticipation and fear over the meeting that was immanent.

Several hours passed and we seemed to reach our destination. And the guards came for me. One anonymous Mando, near Niashi spoke. We have arrived at the fleet with Lord Krujas. You will be escorted to the Blood Wing immediately. You will soon be no more concearn of ours. As the cell was opened I stood slowly and with some difficulty.

I had begun to be escorted out. And the pain came back as I started moving again. I had binders on my hadns and still wore the officer's uniform of before. After I stepped my first foot out of the cell I looked over at Niashi. My eyes seeming to peirce into his helment. And for several small moments until I spoke. And I expected to be denied.

"Squad Instructor Niashi." I said, being formal. "Would you...care to escort me to the Blood Wing?" I stated with a sense mixed with both nervousness and confidence. "It would be an honor for me. I know the Madnolorians take honor seriously. Could this be my last honor that I ask of you?"

[New Aksarben]

Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

Prison Cellblocks

Brig Level

“Remember Maghrl; No Mercy, No Hesitation. Kill them all.” The Dark Lord stated commandingly.

A sense of desperate tension held in the air a moment and in an instant several of the Prisoners charged forward and the Dark Lord of the Sith Disappeared behind a rapidly closing blastdoor from which he could watch the conflict in both comfort and safety.

Krujas watched in silence as two of the larger prisoners charged forward in what he could tell was a mixture of martial determination and frantic belief; Belief that killing this squib would grant one of them their Freedom, Belief that they possibly could get out of this situation alive that was what drove them on towards the small organic that as all their stood in their way in freedom.

A Larger Man pulled his hand back and shoved his fist forward in a brutal Punch but before he could even observe his blow landing or missing he was yanked back by another Prisoner; The very one who had begun the charge with him in fact. The Dark Lord Grinned.

He had suspected as much; the soldiers weren’t idiots and being locked within a cell for almost a week likely had robbed them of any illusion of nobility or fairness only one would escape here from killing the squib and they would have to fight each other not only the squib to see who would walk out alive.

The Large blond man as far he could see was currently being straddled and having his head beaten into the hardened floor of the cellblock by several other prisoners but that only caught his attention for a moment as two of the other prisoners charged forward at the squib in Unison and launched a series of brutal and trained martial attacks.

Clearly the Mandolorians had captured experienced soldiers during the assault on Taris, not raw novices or recruits giving their capabilities, some of these men looked like they might even be able to hold their own against a trained force user if they were prime condition.

But unfortunately for them they weren’t.

He could tell from his apprentices stance he wasn’t going to take the offensive and while they disappointed him from his perspective Given How Maghrl wasn’t a reactionary fighter as far as he could tell; His form of assault were based around quick movement and delivering damage in lightning attacks.

The two men however were acting in unison and using each other to cover each others blind spots; now this he wasn’t expecting, from the earlier display he had expected all notions of teamwork to fall by the wayside but apparently for these two they realized if they concentrated their attacks and focused together they might be able to overcome the Squib.

While one ducked down and attempted to sweep the legs out from underneath the squib another Prisoner launched a series of punches directed at the Squib’s Midsection and Chest. This Fight Krujas realized was a testament to the Martial training of Republic forces given they apparently had little issue engaging a sentient who was below the average height of most species in the known galaxy.

The Prisoner from the charge prior rose now from the corpse of the other large prisoner and charged towards both the Prisoners and the Squib clearly intent upon using his considerable bulk and weight to flatten them all.

Through out the cell the entire room had become a free for all; during which prisoners would briefly try to engage the Squib before being fought by another Prisoner but the charging Prisoner had the Dark Lord’s Interest now, How exactly would Maghrl stop the advancing threat when he was already under assault?

This was where Sith were made or unmade, it was a trial after all.

Maghrl
Prison Cellblocks, Imperial Frigate Blood Wing

As soon as the first of the prisoners began moving, Maghrl tensed and waited until they got closer to dodge. The limited room in the cells would make it more necessary for him to move with deliberate motions, and not just run around willy nilly. The first punch thrown at him was easily dodged, and Maghrl used the momentum to continue moving around the cell rapidly, his form almost blurring from the speed as he dodged and skittered out of the way from attacks.

Maghrl realized that he couldn't just dodge attacks and expect to survive. Until the two men who were working together approached him, Maghrl threw attacks with his own body, using scratches, punches, kicks, and various other attacks as he catapulted himself from person to person around the room, along with force attacks. He hurled a man who was distracted by beating another prisoner into the floor into a wall with a massive burst of force energy, easily either smashing his head open or at least knocking him out. He also used the force to choke several people as they continued to fight, sometimes able to choke more than two at once, whenever he was far enough away to focus on that. During one of those times he was distracted by choking some of the others to death, the two soldiers began attacking him, forcing him to begin weaving back and forth to avoid the punches, but his legs were swept out from under him by the other guy.

That only made the Squib even more furious about this situation. Fueling his force power with his rage, he sent out an explosion of force energy up and out in every direction, throwing the soldiers directly attacking him into the massive man who was charging them along with throwing him back into a large group of brawling soldiers, knocking out many of them in the effort. Maghrl jumped up, and ferally snarled, before savagely attacking the nearest soldier, actually biting into his neck to use his sharp teeth to full effect, effectively ripping the man's throat out before Maghrl went on to use his rage empowered abilities to choke out as many of the other soldiers, going as far to snap their necks with the power he was exerting on them.

Shortly later, most of the republic soldiers were either dead, or too weak to continue fighting. Maghrl was breathing heavily, battered, and hurt quite a bit. But he still was standing, using his rage to continue standing up and remain strong. Maghrl began absorbing the pain of the dying soldiers, along with the pain left over in the force by the now deceased ones, to become even more powerful. "Is Maghrl done now, Krujas-Master?" He asked Krujas simply, looking at the Dark Lord with his periphery vision, and wondering if he would have to kill any more people to prove his power to Krujas.