Star Wars Rise of an Empire RP

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
After the opposing Admiral closed the link, I had noticed that Dieau had made his way to the bridge and had most likely witnessed the entire conversation. I nodded in his direction and then indicated for him to look ahead at the rapidly approaching Republic fleet. Forsaking the safety of range and going in for the kill. Most Admirals would be cowering right now, being outnumbered by two to one odds and up against vastly superior ships for the most part. Not to mention my own flagship is damaged already, although so far just lightly. It was then that TND-07 kept me updated on the battle to the rear of the system. "Vice Admiral, the Nexu Class warship has been destroyed. However, our own Lucrehulk has finally been destroyed as well. The surrounding frigates and destroyers wont be able to stop those Republic forces anymore, Vice Admiral." I shrugged at the news. "It is of no importance. He has shown me what I desired. This man prizes the lives of his clones and sailors. So, lets use that against him." I announced, as I directed Dieau's attention to the holo map, as I again was pleased with a chance to show off my tactical brilliance. I gestured with my hands over the constantly shifting map, as I explained what I was going to do.

"This Admiral has provided me with the reaction I desired. He has shown a willingness to preserve the lives of his men. Had he not aided that troubled Republic convoy, and kept his distance from us, he could have finished us off quickly before we could escape the system. That wont happen now." I explained, as I pointed to the blue formations advancing on our red ones across the map. "This Admiral believes my forces defeated, and he is merely closing a noose around us to finish us off quickly by swarming us with overwhelming firepower. He has made a tactical blunder, as his forces draw near, I will order my fleet to take up positions within the ranks of his forces at point blank range. By doing this, our smaller and faster ships will be able to fire at will with all weapons on both their port and starboard sides. However, the Republic will have to place their shots carefully, so they do not engage in friendly fire by overshooting our ships. For fear of harming his own fleet, he will command his ships to ensure their shots. So, they wont be firing off as often as we, and will not be able to use their full arsenals." I then straightened myself and placed both hands across my back.

"Of course, if this Admiral was willing to do all that was necessary to win, including destroying some of his own ships to get to us, then we would stand no chance. And we would surely die." I then locked eyes with Dieau and smiled. "But thankfully, he is more human than that." I then grew somber and directed the mecernaries attention to the red blips that represented our group of ships, as well as Sabosen's.

"Now, as for our local battle against this Admiral and his Praetor class warship, we will do something slightly different. This ship has escorts, as it is the center of this sectors defense and contains the Admiral aboard, so it makes sense to defend it. We will turn this against him. By ordering my own ship to advance on the starboard side of his escorts flank, and the Reckoning to advance on the port side, we will effectively be hiding from the Praetor, as that particular ship, so large will be unable to attack on either side without hitting it's escorts. So, we dont have to fight it, we will remove it from the fight by hiding amongst his escorts." I then looked up out of the viewport, seeing we are now much closer to the enemy fleet, and it was about time to send the order out, as the Republic are almost bearing down on us. I then warned my mercenary however.

"But, because of this situation, the Admiral will resort to boarding parties. As at these ranges, it is the safest bet to take us out without risking friendly fire to his own fleet. But, the process is slower and less reliable. He will have to wait for each boarding party to load, take off, breach, battle within its target ship and hope they succeed. By that time, we will be leaving this sector with far more ships then he had planned for us to leave with. Of, we will still have losses, many losses. But our defeat will be far from total, and he will know that."

As we got ever closer to the enemy formation, I had to realize a hard truth just as my enemy did. I could not defeat his Praetor. At least not in this battle. But, I turned to Dieau and informed him of his duties for now.

"I fully expect the Republic to counter with boarding parties once they realize what we are up to. I will need you at theline of defense. Take whatever droids you require. We have a unit of seventy five BX Commandos at your disposal as well as the rest of the force. This includes droidekas and supers as well. Obviously you will command a horde of B1 Marines. You will be payed your standard fee. Now, you may defend my ship when ready." I commanded, as I opened my comm link to inform Sabosen of our new action.

"Sabosen, I am now ordering you to maneuver your ship to the port side of the Praetor's escort. Move in as close as possible so that you may unleash all guns possible while making it impossible for the Praetor to hit you. I will do the same on the starboard side. Also, be prepared to repel borders, as I expect boarding parties. Vice Admiral Vale out." I paced the deck and approached TND-07. The droid had noted the entire strategy and was ready to implement it on my order.

I waited several more vital minutes, so that once we make our move the Republic would have no time to react. Then, with one hand outstretched, I signaled the order. And 07 opened a link to all ships, declaring that they move their positions into the Republic ranks. And with one move, our own forces were intermixed with the Republic's. As I knew that warfare is not only about knowing your ships. But also of knowing your opponent, and me knowing that this Admiral will not risk his forces by firing recklessly has created a situation where we can hold off for an extended time. But eventually we will have to retreat, as all I am doing is prolonging the inevitable.

The Defiance rumbled and sirens screeched informing us that one of the bulkheads have been breached. One of the modular sections was compromised. I then, in a calm tone ordered that the section be ejected from the ship and to seal off the section. To prevent further damage to the ship.

"Vice Admiral, there are several hundred droids and dozens of biological officers occupying that section of the ship." TND-07 advised. I frowned. I do hate having to sacrifice sailors under my own command. So, I decided to hold off on the order.
"Inform them they have five minutes to evacuate that section of the ship, starting one minute ago." I then looked across the viewport, clearly able to see the opposing viewports on the Republic escort ship. I then spoke to 07.

"Fire all weapons when ready." I ordered, as the droid took great pleasure in ordering the attack.

All across the orbit, CIS ships were now unleashing barrages on their Republic counterparts, while the Republic retaliations had begun to commit friendly fire. It will only be a matter of moments now before Admiral Corinthi is informed and orders the reduction of ship turbo laser fire and execution of boarding parties.

I could only imagine his reaction when he realizes he has allowed me to effectively fight back despite being outnumbered when he could have destroyed me at range.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Jedi Temple Foyer
Arrana blinked, slightly shocked at the insolence and recklessness that Padawan Roderick had just shown. Had he been her Padawan, she would have never allowed him to speak to a fellow jedi in such a way, nor so blatantly refute his orders. She made a mental note to mention the incident to the Master in charge of Rodericks training.

She looked over at Erin, still looking concerned that she had offered to allow Craig to fight.

"He is what, maybe 15?" She said, whirling to face the boy. "Older by far than some who fought, and died, on Geonosis. He is not a ypungling, he should not cower in the Council Chambers with the children. Master Abaddon may need our aid, yet I am not suggesting we rush into combat. The main assault, will come from those doors." She pointed down the long hallway to the main entrance for emphasis. "And I will be there when and if they droids breach the Gate."

The Togrutan began her march towards the door, followed closely by Rhaekar.

Temple Upper Levels
Nerah Vardis has just the the speed to follow her opponent, leaping after him like a lithe jungle predator. The stood in the long hallway of the Temple, large oval windows peered out into the sky and onto the burning city below. Vardis ignited her blade, a brilliant violet light coming from its emmitter. She held it low, parallel with her leg in the Makashi fashion. Neerah had seen that armour somewhere before, in one of her old history classes during her years as a youngling. Sheets dug into her long memory, to the day that talked about... The Sith Empire.

Vardis was a blur of motion before the realization had even hit her. Running forward, she jumped through the air, landing almost on top of her enemy. As she fell, she swung her blade, a blow easily blocked with the crimson lightsaber of the Sith agent.

She backed away several feet, eyeing him carefully. Vardis had a knack for reading her enemy, for getting into their mind. She used the knowledge of their own style to defeat them, used their strengths against them. The Jedi Master probed at the siths defenses once more, fainting left, before striking hard on the right. This too, was caught in the masked man's blade, the familiar crack of lightsaber flashing echoing through the halls.

The Jedi looked at the bag, sensing their contents.

"I think you have something of mine."

As she finished the latest word, she struck, raining a flurry if elegant and fluid blows upon her opponents. Looking more like a graceful dancer than a warrior, Vardis' bladework was swift and precise, adept at ourmanuevering her enemy, yet the stranger blocked them again, with more difficulty this time.

She stepped back ahain, raking the man's measure. She was done toying with him.

"Djem So? Not bad, but how predictable."

On her last word, the man raced forward, hoping to surprise her in the middle of her snide observations. The Jedi Master leaped gracefully over the Sith, and landed behind him, shooting a kick into his back, before spinning around to face him.

"You'll have to do better than that."

She attacked again, gracefully weaving her footwork into her assault, allowing herself to slash and stab with speed and precision. Launching a bow that would have burned the man in twane, the violent beam of energy collided with the saber of the Sith. Their blades locked, as the two stared each other down.

"Is this all you want with your life, stealing, sneaking, doing The bidding of the Sith?"

He grunted, forcing her out if the bladelock and furiously hacking at her, powerstrike after powerstrike. She deflected them with difficulty, the strong attacks ill suited to be defended against by her graceful maneuvers. He swung horizontally, as if to gut her in two, but again she leaped over him. As she fell, she swung her blade behind her, and sliced open a small gash in the sack the man was carrying, it's contents slowly falling out.

She held her blade at the ready, and smiled.

"Your move...."

[Western Imperial Union]

Growling slightly at the slicing of his loot sack, Selvin swung it into his cloak and regained his footing simultaneously. Without a loss in tempo he used the force to fire the data chips on the ground at his opponent causing her to defend herself from the hail of electronic parts. Following with the falling avalanche attack Selvin hoped to catch the Jedi off guard, but was disappointed to make blade to blade contact with her saber before she spun around him to try and get past his guard.

Selvin caught the Jedi's blade with his own as she made a passing strike. Countering he swung first at her legs causing her to flip backward and he pressed again making a wide sweeping attack the scored along the wall but missed the Jedi.

She struck again while flipping past him but again found his saber ready to defend. However Selvin was no backed against the wall. He could see through his peripheral a window, and through it a long fall to death. Or perhaps an escape?

Selvin defended against another strike and swung with large amounts of strength against her. He scored a very small wound but left himself open in the process.

[Valloria]

Jedi Temple
Arran shook her head, long lekku swinging gracefully side to side. Erin had been one of her close friends as a padawan, an Even before that. They had been in the same clan together as younglings, getting up to all sorts of mischief. Whether it was hiding another students training saber, or scaring the other initiates with stories about the Sith, they had always gotten up to something.

Now, they hardly spoke. Arrana didn't know why, or when the change happened, but after one mission, Erin was different. He was now cold, and serious, devoted entirely to the Order. He had changed.

"We should get out there, they will need our help."

The Togrutan started forward, removing the long hilt of her Sabre off her belt. Battle has come to the doors of her home, a very bad mistake.

The Jedi all began forward, save for Erin, looking about the halls, as the sounds of Battle were interrupted by the rhythmic tapping of Rhaekar's saber staff along the temples floor...

Coruscant Tunnels
Shaak Ti and Plo Koon had their blades drawn, the pale blue light illuminating the path forward. Taking so many twists, turns and doubling back more than 5 times, anyone following would surely have gotten lost by now. And even as the descended further into the Heart of Coruscant, now at least 5 Kilometers beneath the surface, they had no worry about scanners, or other forms of detection. For now, they had escaped the separatist trap, and they could relax. But only slightly.

Safe as they were down in the ancient tunnels, The Jedi Masters were always on guard, continuing their grim progress towards the Chancellor's bunker. They would have to resurface at some point, but they were still far from the safety of their allies.

Behind the trio, the two clones kept watch, visors peering through the Dark, weapons held at the ready.

And in the middle of it all, the Chancellor, looking rather small compared to the imposing Togrutan and Kel Dor, clasped his hands, and smiled a hidden smile.

Temple Gardens
The smell of burned flesh permeated the air, as the droids continued their relentless assault. Like a single minded machine their ground ahead, killing all in their path. The group tasked with assaulting the South section of the Jedi Temple had landed in the Temple Gardens, several hundred meters from the Entrance itself.

Master Neerah Vardis, and her Padawan, 16 year old Jace Laur, had been in the gardens meditating, viewing the rhythmic energies of the Force in all its beauty. The first sound was that like a hurricane as the DROID drop ships ripped across the Coruscant skyline.

And one thing lead to another

Vardis thought, deftly batting aside a blaster fire from a particular persistent B2 Battle droid. Her violet lightsaber was a fan of energy as she leapt about the garden, cutting down her foes and dodging their predictable fire. Her Padawan was close behind, the pair fighting their way towards the Temples entrance.

The injured Jace had allowed his guard to drop, giving the opening to a blaster bolt that had landed square with his shoulder. The elder Jedi made a note to remind her apprentice to perfect his defensive capabilities when the Battle was over.

The pair leaped behind a large column, and eyed the Entrance, a trail of charred droids in their wake. Legions of enemy infantry were marching in great blocks towards the Entrance, but if they were fast enough, and sneaky enough, they might be able to make it in.

"Jace," Vardis huffed, drawing her Padawan near. "Remember what I thought you. Use the Force, reorganize the light, and will yourself to disappear."

"Master, I've only been able to cloak for a few..."
Vardis silenced Jace with a look.

"Either we die out here fighting, or we trust interest force, take our chances, and take our best option. You go first."

Her apprentice nodded, pleased by his masters encouragement. With a grunt, he did it, using the Force to mask his presence, with only a blur to give away his position. It would do.

The much more practiced Neerah easily slipped into her invisible state, and began creeping get along the path, a straight line to the doors of her home.To safety. The Jedi Master counted down the meters.

200....150....100...

They were going, slowly but steadily outpacing the lumbering droids. The Master through a glance behind her, and saw fires raging across the city world. War had come to the very heart of the Republic. Her thoughts were broken by a shrill gasp, and she whipped around. Standing in the middle of the path, entirety visible, Jace looked back at where he sensed his masters should be, eyes wide.

He opened his mouth, as if to say something, but was silenced. A single blaster bolt flew from one of the droids, and landed square in his chest. The boy crumpled into a heap, tunic smoking.

Vardis almost lost her force Cloak out of sheer shock. Yet, her disciplined mind kicked into gear almost instantly. She knew that there would be a time to journey her apprentice but now was no place for it. Just 50 meters now from the main entrance, Vardis stopped her cloak, and suddenly visible, willed all her strength into her force speed. Like an arrow, she shot forward, making it into the Temple, as the droids continued to close in...

Roderick, swiftly jogging down the halls of the temple, saw a crumpled body in the gardens as he looked through the shattered windows of the Temple. He saw Master Vardis swiftly enter the Temple using Force speed. "Master Vardis! Master Vardis! Are you hurt? Never mind that, if it's not fatal, we need you here. Go shut the blast doors to the garden's congregation room. If we can't stop them here, we need to make sure they can't flank our compatriots defending the hangar bay." Roderick quickly used the Force to pull down the blast shields on what remained of the windows. He cried a silent tear as he mourned the craftsmanship that went into those windows.

This is too beautiful a place to be destroyed by those who only want our death. He felt the anger surge within him. He knew he should shun these feelings, but he felt far too powerful in this form. He screamed a guttural yell, and with that, all of the pieces of glass that had been in the now-shattered windows drew themselves up and flew at the droids, impaling themselves in their thin metal frames, hampering movement and logistical capabilities. The sharper pieces managed to cut arms, legs, and even heads off of droids. But it was still not enough. Many droids remained. He had to wait for more Jedi to get here. He called out to any Jedi in the area with his mind, and then turned to focus on the droids approaching him.

[Capsland]

Grievous stopped, knowing he had lost the Jedi and the Chancellor.
"Argggggh! You Jedi will soon all perish beneath my foot!"
Not speaking to anyone in general but out of shear rage. If that didn't make him angry, Vice-Admiral Vale defying orders surely did. Grievous didn't accept failure to his demands.
He started to head back to the senate hangar where his magna guards and super battle droids had secured. He opened a holo link to Vice-Admiral Vale as he walked onto his shuttle.
"Vice-Admiral, call the retreat and prepare for my arrival on your ship."
He walked onto the shuttle, his cape blowing in the wind and the destroyed Galactic City in the background.
"Get to the Invisible Hand"
"Roger roger"
The shuttle lifted off and shot up into space, under the cover of vulture droids, it was relatively unscathed apart from a few dents where falling debris hit. It landed in the hangar of the Invisible Hand and Grievous marched up to the bridge. Taking a few minutes as the ship was very large, he finally made it. The doors opening and his six magna guards behind him. Grievous walked up the commander.
"Set a course for Utapau! Now!"
"Er...y-yes sir"
Grievous then contacted Aran.
"I am reorganising my fleet at Utapau, contact me when you have reorganised so we can continue our plans."
With that, Grievous' fleet turned around and shot into hyperspace. It left as quickly as it arrived, heading for the Outer Rim neutral world of Utapau.

[Eridanus 3]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
After the opposing Admiral closed the link, I had noticed that Dieau had made his way to the bridge and had most likely witnessed the entire conversation. I nodded in his direction and then indicated for him to look ahead at the rapidly approaching Republic fleet. Forsaking the safety of range and going in for the kill. Most Admirals would be cowering right now, being outnumbered by two to one odds and up against vastly superior ships for the most part. Not to mention my own flagship is damaged already, although so far just lightly. It was then that TND-07 kept me updated on the battle to the rear of the system. "Vice Admiral, the Nexu Class warship has been destroyed. However, our own Lucrehulk has finally been destroyed as well. The surrounding frigates and destroyers wont be able to stop those Republic forces anymore, Vice Admiral." I shrugged at the news. "It is of no importance. He has shown me what I desired. This man prizes the lives of his clones and sailors. So, lets use that against him." I announced, as I directed Dieau's attention to the holo map, as I again was pleased with a chance to show off my tactical brilliance. I gestured with my hands over the constantly shifting map, as I explained what I was going to do.

"This Admiral has provided me with the reaction I desired. He has shown a willingness to preserve the lives of his men. Had he not aided that troubled Republic convoy, and kept his distance from us, he could have finished us off quickly before we could escape the system. That wont happen now." I explained, as I pointed to the blue formations advancing on our red ones across the map. "This Admiral believes my forces defeated, and he is merely closing a noose around us to finish us off quickly by swarming us with overwhelming firepower. He has made a tactical blunder, as his forces draw near, I will order my fleet to take up positions within the ranks of his forces at point blank range. By doing this, our smaller and faster ships will be able to fire at will with all weapons on both their port and starboard sides. However, the Republic will have to place their shots carefully, so they do not engage in friendly fire by overshooting our ships. For fear of harming his own fleet, he will command his ships to ensure their shots. So, they wont be firing off as often as we, and will not be able to use their full arsenals." I then straightened myself and placed both hands across my back.

"Of course, if this Admiral was willing to do all that was necessary to win, including destroying some of his own ships to get to us, then we would stand no chance. And we would surely die." I then locked eyes with Dieau and smiled. "But thankfully, he is more human than that." I then grew somber and directed the mecernaries attention to the red blips that represented our group of ships, as well as Sabosen's.

"Now, as for our local battle against this Admiral and his Praetor class warship, we will do something slightly different. This ship has escorts, as it is the center of this sectors defense and contains the Admiral aboard, so it makes sense to defend it. We will turn this against him. By ordering my own ship to advance on the starboard side of his escorts flank, and the Reckoning to advance on the port side, we will effectively be hiding from the Praetor, as that particular ship, so large will be unable to attack on either side without hitting it's escorts. So, we dont have to fight it, we will remove it from the fight by hiding amongst his escorts." I then looked up out of the viewport, seeing we are now much closer to the enemy fleet, and it was about time to send the order out, as the Republic are almost bearing down on us. I then warned my mercenary however.

"But, because of this situation, the Admiral will resort to boarding parties. As at these ranges, it is the safest bet to take us out without risking friendly fire to his own fleet. But, the process is slower and less reliable. He will have to wait for each boarding party to load, take off, breach, battle within its target ship and hope they succeed. By that time, we will be leaving this sector with far more ships then he had planned for us to leave with. Of, we will still have losses, many losses. But our defeat will be far from total, and he will know that."

As we got ever closer to the enemy formation, I had to realize a hard truth just as my enemy did. I could not defeat his Praetor. At least not in this battle. But, I turned to Dieau and informed him of his duties for now.

"I fully expect the Republic to counter with boarding parties once they realize what we are up to. I will need you at theline of defense. Take whatever droids you require. We have a unit of seventy five BX Commandos at your disposal as well as the rest of the force. This includes droidekas and supers as well. Obviously you will command a horde of B1 Marines. You will be payed your standard fee. Now, you may defend my ship when ready." I commanded, as I opened my comm link to inform Sabosen of our new action.

"Sabosen, I am now ordering you to maneuver your ship to the port side of the Praetor's escort. Move in as close as possible so that you may unleash all guns possible while making it impossible for the Praetor to hit you. I will do the same on the starboard side. Also, be prepared to repel borders, as I expect boarding parties. Vice Admiral Vale out." I paced the deck and approached TND-07. The droid had noted the entire strategy and was ready to implement it on my order.

I waited several more vital minutes, so that once we make our move the Republic would have no time to react. Then, with one hand outstretched, I signaled the order. And 07 opened a link to all ships, declaring that they move their positions into the Republic ranks. And with one move, our own forces were intermixed with the Republic's. As I knew that warfare is not only about knowing your ships. But also of knowing your opponent, and me knowing that this Admiral will not risk his forces by firing recklessly has created a situation where we can hold off for an extended time. But eventually we will have to retreat, as all I am doing is prolonging the inevitable.

The Defiance rumbled and sirens screeched informing us that one of the bulkheads have been breached. One of the modular sections was compromised. I then, in a calm tone ordered that the section be ejected from the ship and to seal off the section. To prevent further damage to the ship.

"Vice Admiral, there are several hundred droids and dozens of biological officers occupying that section of the ship." TND-07 advised. I frowned. I do hate having to sacrifice sailors under my own command. So, I decided to hold off on the order.
"Inform them they have five minutes to evacuate that section of the ship, starting one minute ago." I then looked across the viewport, clearly able to see the opposing viewports on the Republic escort ship. I then spoke to 07.

"Fire all weapons when ready." I ordered, as the droid took great pleasure in ordering the attack.

All across the orbit, CIS ships were now unleashing barrages on their Republic counterparts, while the Republic retaliations had begun to commit friendly fire. It will only be a matter of moments now before Admiral Corinthi is informed and orders the reduction of ship turbo laser fire and execution of boarding parties.

I could only imagine his reaction when he realizes he has allowed me to effectively fight back despite being outnumbered when he could have destroyed me at range.

Admiral Corinthi
The Avenger

Bolts of laser fire began to rock across our hull. The captured republic ship began firing on my left flank, while the majority of the enemies units pressed inward. The enemy commander then showed his counter. A pack of light corvettes, the forward elements of the opposing Admiral's force, had already prepared a very exciting welcome. The enemy advanced as well, bringing their ships into a very close quarters situation. Many of their smaller ships had been pummeled greatly. However, that did not mean they couldn't do their own damage. The ships were too fast for many of our guns to track, particularly our big topside turret mounts. We began to deal significant damage to both the enemy and ourselves. Our bomber squadrons were given orders to commence runs on anti-starfighter and cruiser class ships only. Our Arquitens-class ships, now given the advantage of a much closer range of fire, were permitted to do what they were designed to to: Overwhelm the enemy's shields with enveloping fire from all sides. However, we had taken losses as well. and we watched with horror as, while scoring some pretty bad hits on a Munificent-class frigate, one of our Venators missed badly, and scored some shield-breaking hits on the starboard side of the ship. The damage was great. No significant damage to the reactors, but the engines and weapons sections were badly damaged. My own ship began destroying one ship after another, while the alarms finally came on. Shield power was critical. I donned my helmet once more, and proceeded to the elevators. I then went down to the port side hangar bay. Our troops were already prepared to do exo work, and our AT-TE's prepared for launch. Our ship now hung at a 45 degree angle, our port side facing the Defiance. I unleashed a volley of ion and turbolaser rounds at the enemies anti-starfighter defenses. I tested my equipped jetpack. All clear and ready. Our men were prepared for a standard infiltration. Break through the bridge, and kill or capture every man on the ship. A couple of teams would work on sabotaging the ships engines and main reactors, while the rest of us would either clear the ship or exfil out. Our troops, in AT-TE's and CR25s would launch once a significant number of anti-starfighter weapons were destroyed, and then SPHAs and SPMAs would be deployed, turning the enemies ship against them. The result depended on the swift capture of both the captain and the reactor core, so that the reactor couldn't be overloaded, killing both the Seperatists and us alongside them. Meanwhile I gave an order to my captains and commodores, telling them to "pick your targets and carefully select your shots.Overwhelm the enemies ships with superiority in numbers, and eliminate them." Our boys got the signal, and an entire room full of Republic Marines jumped out into the dark and cold of space. A few of the remaining guns posed a small problem, but they were taken out by skilled AT-TE pilots and personnel armed with AT weapons. We took slight casualties, but nothing major. Time was of the essence now. I lifted my head, And looked out at the face of the enemy commander. I raised my weapon, and fired at the command area as AT-TE's blew away at the glass protecting them. In the meantime our sabotage groups we already breaking out their equipment on the hull, and also at the engines. We had to stay alert for any sort of enemy threat. Our SPMAs also came down, albeit in limited numbers, allowing us some AS protection.

[Sulania]

Sabosen - The Reckoning

Sabosen watched as the CIS boarding vessels arrived on what was now her ship, her own Imperator Class Star Destroyer under the command Aran Vale. She turned to see visuals showing them docking in the hangar, and she gave the order for the magnetic shield to go back into affect. Repressurizing the hangar, and making it accessible again. One by one, the several ships unloaded droids that would now occupy one of the Republic's greatest vessels. It was now time for this vessel to be hers. The order went out to the droids to capture or kill any remaining crew members aboard the vessel.

Droids marched through the vessel, killing and capturing most of the crew. Their marches could be heard throughout the ship, the deathly sounds of Clones dying echoing throughout the halls mixed with blaster fire hitting the hull and armor in rapid fire. It seemed like only moments before droids checked in all around the ship, reporting their each individual sections cleared of all hostiles. The ship was finally and absolutely hers.

She then gave the order to set all sights on the closest Republic ships, ending the ruse they set up and bringing carnage to the Republic fleet that had congregated around her own. First setting all fire to the Victory Class Star Destroyers near the Crimson Fire in order to save it, and preserve it from further attack.

She turned to her Neimoidian Aide, who seemed to have calmed down from his typical jumpy and cowardly self and was now actually quite composed. "We have information that a Praetor Class Battlecruiser is coming close to us. That ship is immensely powerful compared to our own, what are our orders?"

Sabosen thought for a moment. The Praetor could prove a challenge for them, but it is also a high value target and given how it's not close to us enough yet to be considered a near Republic vessel, it would go against the Admiral's strategic commands. "Simply continue firing at the ships closest. Only engage the Praetor if absolutely necessary." She stated calmly.

-snipping strategic genius snipping-

Upon getting orders from the Admiral to pull up along the Praetor Battlecruiser, Sabosen immediately gave out the order to get her droid peronnel ready for boarding parties. Their clanking and marching filling the hull once more as they moved into areas that would be prime for boarding action. She would join them if boarding action does indeed occur, but she needed to stay on the bridge in order to keep up with the ever changing fight. With the Imperator in her hands, battle odds had to have increased at least a little bit. Though that Praetor surely just swung all odds back in favor of the Republic.

"Do as the Admiral says, pull in close to that ship and release the fires of Malachor down upon them!" She shouted the order, her voice clear yet booming throughout the bridge. Her voice usually had a seductive kind of feel to it, which was absent now with her over commanding tone.

Rogers and ayes filled the bridge as they began to pull in close, and already began firing all their weapons into the Praetor. This is what it must feel like to be one of the Jedi Generals that the Republic has taken to calling their Jedi commanders, commanding a ship, of Republic make no less, in a battle that would steer the course of the war. It was quite amazing, and no less stressful. Certainly didn't have much envy for them in this position.

Either way, she prepared herself for the boarding action that was sure to take place, centering herself for the coming battle so she would be better focused. If a boarding action did occur, it would likely be unwise to do the strategy of before as the opposing Admiral would expect it. She'd have to follow the Admiral's orders to the letter now, no more great risks like that.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
My ship continued to be rocked by the enemy guns as signatures of boarding parties began to scatter the scanners. I was about to re check our defense systems to repel borders but I received a transmission from Grievous, visibly upset at my disobeying orders but I was relieved to see he was finally retreating. I gave a heavy sigh of relief. As much as I wanted to see this action through, it was only meant to buy time and to thin out their numbers some while we prepare to escape. I quickly stopped Dieau from leaving the bridge. "Dieau, belay my last order. Stay placed on the bridge as we prepare to exit the system." I then turned to the command crew. Finally giving the order to begin running the hyperdrive systems and to jump to hyperspace. "We have received orders to retreat, set course for immediate jump to Garqi! All ships, begin exit maneuvers! Congratulations men, we have held our line today!" I confirmed, knowing the crew, the living ones anyways needed to hear some praise after today's actions. Then, I activated my commlink, hailing Sabosen, probably giving her some of the best news she has heard all day. "Sabosen, set new course for Garqi, we have received the Order! Make a full retreat to the Garqi System so that we may reorganize and refit. Once we arrive I will need you aboard my ship so that you may receive your new orders." I quickly fixed myself when 07 directed my attention to the starboard side.

"Vice Admiral, attention to Starboard side, the Republic is aiming for the bridge!" I spun around and immediately ordered for us to seal off the bridge to the exterior of the ship. As additional sirens sounded, the bridge viewports began to encase themselves in shielding, doing so without a second to spare. Just as we finished sealing off the bridge, the AT-TE blast impacted the ship and threw me with violent force against the floor. Droids and officers were knocked from their positions as I struggled to climb back to my feet, pain now starting to spread from my chest. However, there was no major damage, but I know we will not survive another blast like that on our bridge.

TND-07 continued to update. "Shields are gone Vice Admiral! Hull integrity is at 60%! Republic boarders are entering the ship!"

I then screamed the order.
My fleet exited Hyperspace in the Garqi system, as 07 again reminded me that several hundred Republic troopers had made it through our defenses and were in the ship.

"They will be easy to eliminate without the direction of their Admiral and the support of their fleet. Use all force necessary to eliminate them. All battle droids still aboard repel borders." I breathed, slightly easier before moving on to the condition of the Defiance.

"What is the condition of the ship?"

"The bridge is critical, if we unseal the ports the entire section would crumble. Most of our guns are damaged, the Hyperdrive is leaking, making another jump impossible and damage to the engines make in system flight difficult. Life support and comms are fully operational. But hull integrity is below 50%." I nodded with the information.

"We will have to scuttle the ship. What ships have escaped with us into this system?" TND-07 began reading the reports.

"We have three Providence Class Carriers, including the Defiance. The other two have both suffered moderate damage. We possess two Lucrehulk Battleships, both with only minimal damage. We have six Recusants and four Munificents. All in combat readiness. Count also maintains we possess 2,459 Vultures and 385 Droid Bombers." The news sank me into my command chair, in the now rather dark bridge, as the lights flickered on and off.

"So, not counting this ship, which we will have to abandon soon, we have 14 ships and a few hundred fighter/bombers. That is barely a small Squadron. What happened to the rest of the fleet?" I asked.

"Many were destroyed, more made random hyperspace jumps ending up anywhere in the Galaxy and other crashed into other ships while attempting the jump. We were lucky Vice Admiral. The Republic firepower was too great." The droid was right, despite my best efforts, I had no chance of defeating the Navy over Coruscant.

I began to pace the command deck, and then remembered Lux. And what he has told me. I then ordered to establish a working connection to the Invisible Hand, and for Lux to be summoned to my bridge. I waited for him to arrive and as he did so, opened the link to Grievous.

"General Grievous, I assure you our assault on Coruscant was not for nothing. I have in my custody a Senator from my own homeworld of Onderon. However, his his message is what is important." I opened as I stood aside so Grievous cold catch sight of the boy. I then allowed Lux to speak for himself, knowing that this was me showing that I believed him.

"Grievous, as you know Dooku is a Sith but he has been manipulating events for years." Lux started. "I have no evidence, but he cannot be trusted. He has murdered my mother for attempting to broker peace between the CIS and Republic." I then interrupted. As now we needed to be careful. I needed to help convince Grievous that Dooku was playing us, as I have become convinced, but should we fail, and Grievous informs Dooku of our actions, then we are dead.

"Dooku ordered your to plan a strike against the world of Coruscant. The most heavily defended world in Republic Space, he assured us that taking the Chancellor was not only possible, but would ensure that the Republic would sue for peace. Neither has happened and we have lost valuable military assets in the assault, and from now we will be hard pressed to even defend what territory we still control after the Republic's last offensives. I am asking you, as a military mind why would he order such an attack? Knowing the chances of success and other alternatives to continue the war?" I then crossed my hands together as I sat.

"Grievous, I do not believe we are supposed to win this war. I dont know if Dooku is working by himself or with someone else. But I do not believe the coincidences can be ignored any longer, if we are even going to survive let alone win. I mean, isn't your own participation in this war very convenient for him? I know we have no history of being friends but we have always been on the same side. I have nothing to gain from informing you of this, on the contrary, I have everything to lose. That should be enough to make you consider what I have said. I will allow you one hour to think over what I have discussed here, and then make contact again, on a different channel with me to let me know if you have come to a decision. If you have reached the same conclusion as I, then contact me so we may coordinate our efforts, and uncover what Dooku really plans. If you decide me a traitor, then dont bother contacting me." I closed the link, as I closed my eyes to ponder my situation.

I have just taken a very large risk. Against a man of whom I have admired for my entire military career. And seeking an alliance with a Commander I have sought to replace. Even if Grievous does believe me, it is still far too early to move against Dooku. We will have to act as if we suspect nothing. I then opened my eyes, and spoke directly to Lux.

"I am going to believe you. Because I respect your mother's vision. I know you do as well." I then stood up and faced him. "From this day forward, I promise you that I will do all in my power to ensure that the CIS does not continue on the dark path of being a puppet of the Sith. That the hopes, aspirations and dreams of every Confederate who cries out for independence is heard, and that they shall be free from Dooku's corrupting influence as well." Then, extending a handshake. I offered my assistance to help reshape our Confederacy, at first in secret, until we are strong enough to directly oppose Dooku.

"Lux, you may stay upon my bridge and meet my protege Sabosen. We have much to discuss. TND-07, inform me when she arrives." I ordered, as I sat myself back down. Knowing that Sabosen would see a critically damaged Defiance when she arrives. As soon as we conclude our business and wipe out the remaining clones on the ship. Then we can abandon this vessel and begin operations to rebuild our forces lost over Coruscant.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Temple Upper Levels
Neerah blocked his strike, but only just, his crimson blade slcing slightly into her robes, and no doubt leaving a superficial wound. The Jedi Master shrugged it off, and prepared fro his second attack. Hacking to the left, she realized he had left himself open. Ducking his assault,and the subsequent sparks from his blade hitting the floor, Vardis span around her opponent, making a shallow cut on the man's leg, most of the damage of which was surely absorbed by his armour. She halted her maneuver, ending up in the opposite positions they had been in just seconds before. Now it was the Sith against the window, facing the now smirking Vardis.

"Is this all you could become? You reek of fear, and of hate, with no exposure to anything but your own little world, a small minded sliver if the Force." She pointed her blade at the man. "You could be so much more."

He leaped at her, blade held high. She did not try to dodge, nor block, but instead thrusted her free hand forward, sending a powerful force shove through the air. It caught the Masked man in mid leap, an dsent him flying through the air, impacting and shattering the window. Wind whipped at Vardis, as she squinted to see where the man might have landed, the drop was precipitous, but survivable to a strong force user. The windows looked out from the central tower, our below onto the roof of the large block that housed the main body of the Jedi Temple.

There, she saw him, or rather, a small pinprick of Red light.

"Impressive," she said, nodding in approval at her opponents resilience.

Deactivating her saber, she calmly stepped out the window, and flipped through the air, before landing just meters from her opponent.

"I was right," she said, without even activating her saber. "You could be so much more."

[Capsland]

-le snip-

The fleet entered the orbit of the neutral planet of Utapau. The Republic would never suspect Grievous to retreat here. Grievous contaccted the Utapau Defence Force Commander and the leader of Utapau.
"Prepare for my arrival, if any republic spies or diplomats come looking here, you know what to do. If you fail, well... let's just say you wont have any civilians to govern and protect anymore. Hahaha"
He turned off the link before they had a chance to respond. The Grievous had been contacted by Aran Vale.
"Urgh, what does that slime want now!?"
The link turned on and the Vice Admiral started talking, Grievous was surprised at first he didn't know what to think. Vale... He knows about Sidious and the Sith. I will pay close attention to this. This came as a sudden but enevitable shock, the Sith weren't that good at hiding themselves, especially when they order the near destruction of the CIS navy in an unbeatable battle. At this point the Vice-Admiral ended the link.

Grievous walked down to the hangar, not speaking a word. This was the most silent he had ever been in his life. He boarded his shuttle and landed on the 5th level of a sink hole where many Utapauians lived. He marched off as the shuttle was landing, heading for the separatist council. He got to them as they were all conversing between themselves, talking about how much of a failure the attack was.
"Coucil members, you are in danger. I am sending you to the lava planet of Mustafar, there you will be safe."
"Safe!? General with my humble respect, I doubt the CIS can keep us safe" blurted out Nute Gunray
"Relax Gunray, as we speak, the Mustafarians are building up defences in prepariations for your arrival"
"Fine, I guess the Republic would hardly divert their resources in taking a desolate lava planet." Nute gunray, along with the other council members got up and walked to their shuttle. With 20 B1 droids following them. Within seconds the shuttle shot up and entered hyperspace.

Grievous then headed to the command station, contacting the Vice-Admiral.
"Vice-Admiral, you may know that I care nothing for the politics of this war or the CIS. I want the Republic gone and the Jedi destroyed. Unfortunately I can''t destroy wither of them without the CIS. If what you and that senator said is true then I must put my faith in you. However, if I find out and inclination that you are lying and just want to higher yourself in the chain of command then I will eliminate you... personally..."
Grievous knew that the Sith controlled the CIS and that it was doomed to fail but he had to go along with Vale's plan to ensure that the fleet, along with a very talented and experienced commander, wouldn't leave the CIS. Hopefully Vale wouldn't be stupid enough to confront Dooku about this.

[Eridanus 3]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Battle of Coruscant-Aboard the "Defiance"
My ship continued to be rocked by the enemy guns as signatures of boarding parties began to scatter the scanners. I was about to re check our defense systems to repel borders but I received a transmission from Grievous, visibly upset at my disobeying orders but I was relieved to see he was finally retreating. I gave a heavy sigh of relief. As much as I wanted to see this action through, it was only meant to buy time and to thin out their numbers some while we prepare to escape. I quickly stopped Dieau from leaving the bridge. "Dieau, belay my last order. Stay placed on the bridge as we prepare to exit the system." I then turned to the command crew. Finally giving the order to begin running the hyperdrive systems and to jump to hyperspace. "We have received orders to retreat, set course for immediate jump to Garqi! All ships, begin exit maneuvers! Congratulations men, we have held our line today!" I confirmed, knowing the crew, the living ones anyways needed to hear some praise after today's actions. Then, I activated my commlink, hailing Sabosen, probably giving her some of the best news she has heard all day. "Sabosen, set new course for Garqi, we have received the Order! Make a full retreat to the Garqi System so that we may reorganize and refit. Once we arrive I will need you aboard my ship so that you may receive your new orders." I quickly fixed myself when 07 directed my attention to the starboard side.

"Vice Admiral, attention to Starboard side, the Republic is aiming for the bridge!" I spun around and immediately ordered for us to seal off the bridge to the exterior of the ship. As additional sirens sounded, the bridge viewports began to encase themselves in shielding, doing so without a second to spare. Just as we finished sealing off the bridge, the AT-TE blast impacted the ship and threw me with violent force against the floor. Droids and officers were knocked from their positions as I struggled to climb back to my feet, pain now starting to spread from my chest. However, there was no major damage, but I know we will not survive another blast like that on our bridge.

TND-07 continued to update. "Shields are gone Vice Admiral! Hull integrity is at 60%! Republic boarders are entering the ship!"

I then screamed the order.
My fleet exited Hyperspace in the Garqi system, as 07 again reminded me that several hundred Republic troopers had made it through our defenses and were in the ship.

"They will be easy to eliminate without the direction of their Admiral and the support of their fleet. Use all force necessary to eliminate them. All battle droids still aboard repel borders." I breathed, slightly easier before moving on to the condition of the Defiance.

"What is the condition of the ship?"

"The bridge is critical, if we unseal the ports the entire section would crumble. Most of our guns are damaged, the Hyperdrive is leaking, making another jump impossible and damage to the engines make in system flight difficult. Life support and comms are fully operational. But hull integrity is below 50%." I nodded with the information.

"We will have to scuttle the ship. What ships have escaped with us into this system?" TND-07 began reading the reports.

"We have three Providence Class Carriers, including the Defiance. The other two have both suffered moderate damage. We possess two Lucrehulk Battleships, both with only minimal damage. We have six Recusants and four Munificents. All in combat readiness. Count also maintains we possess 2,459 Vultures and 385 Droid Bombers." The news sank me into my command chair, in the now rather dark bridge, as the lights flickered on and off.

"So, not counting this ship, which we will have to abandon soon, we have 14 ships and a few hundred fighter/bombers. That is barely a small Squadron. What happened to the rest of the fleet?" I asked.

"Many were destroyed, more made random hyperspace jumps ending up anywhere in the Galaxy and other crashed into other ships while attempting the jump. We were lucky Vice Admiral. The Republic firepower was too great." The droid was right, despite my best efforts, I had no chance of defeating the Navy over Coruscant.

I began to pace the command deck, and then remembered Lux. And what he has told me. I then ordered to establish a working connection to the Invisible Hand, and for Lux to be summoned to my bridge. I waited for him to arrive and as he did so, opened the link to Grievous.

"General Grievous, I assure you our assault on Coruscant was not for nothing. I have in my custody a Senator from my own homeworld of Onderon. However, his his message is what is important." I opened as I stood aside so Grievous cold catch sight of the boy. I then allowed Lux to speak for himself, knowing that this was me showing that I believed him.

"Grievous, as you know Dooku is a Sith but he has been manipulating events for years." Lux started. "I have no evidence, but he cannot be trusted. He has murdered my mother for attempting to broker peace between the CIS and Republic." I then interrupted. As now we needed to be careful. I needed to help convince Grievous that Dooku was playing us, as I have become convinced, but should we fail, and Grievous informs Dooku of our actions, then we are dead.

"Dooku ordered your to plan a strike against the world of Coruscant. The most heavily defended world in Republic Space, he assured us that taking the Chancellor was not only possible, but would ensure that the Republic would sue for peace. Neither has happened and we have lost valuable military assets in the assault, and from now we will be hard pressed to even defend what territory we still control after the Republic's last offensives. I am asking you, as a military mind why would he order such an attack? Knowing the chances of success and other alternatives to continue the war?" I then crossed my hands together as I sat.

"Grievous, I do not believe we are supposed to win this war. I dont know if Dooku is working by himself or with someone else. But I do not believe the coincidences can be ignored any longer, if we are even going to survive let alone win. I mean, isn't your own participation in this war very convenient for him? I know we have no history of being friends but we have always been on the same side. I have nothing to gain from informing you of this, on the contrary, I have everything to lose. That should be enough to make you consider what I have said. I will allow you one hour to think over what I have discussed here, and then make contact again, on a different channel with me to let me know if you have come to a decision. If you have reached the same conclusion as I, then contact me so we may coordinate our efforts, and uncover what Dooku really plans. If you decide me a traitor, then dont bother contacting me." I closed the link, as I closed my eyes to ponder my situation.

I have just taken a very large risk. Against a man of whom I have admired for my entire military career. And seeking an alliance with a Commander I have sought to replace. Even if Grievous does believe me, it is still far too early to move against Dooku. We will have to act as if we suspect nothing. I then opened my eyes, and spoke directly to Lux.

"I am going to believe you. Because I respect your mother's vision. I know you do as well." I then stood up and faced him. "From this day forward, I promise you that I will do all in my power to ensure that the CIS does not continue on the dark path of being a puppet of the Sith. That the hopes, aspirations and dreams of every Confederate who cries out for independence is heard, and that they shall be free from Dooku's corrupting influence as well." Then, extending a handshake. I offered my assistance to help reshape our Confederacy, at first in secret, until we are strong enough to directly oppose Dooku.

"Lux, you may stay upon my bridge and meet my protege Sabosen. We have much to discuss. TND-07, inform me when she arrives." I ordered, as I sat myself back down. Knowing that Sabosen would see a critically damaged Defiance when she arrives. As soon as we conclude our business and wipe out the remaining clones on the ship. Then we can abandon this vessel and begin operations to rebuild our forces lost over Coruscant.

Admiral Corinthi, Boarding the Defiance...
Prior to jump.

The blast doors slammed shut in front of our incoming fire. This was to be expected. However, now we could proceed with our boarding almost completely unobserved. However, my XO did not find the battle to be favorable, but when ships started to turn to, he gave me a call. "Sir, the enemy fleet is changing course toward empty space, and they are flaring their engines to get away from the gravity well of Coruscant. Sir, I believe they are going to attempt a hyperspace jump with you on the hull." Just then, one of my platoons registered that they had broken through the hull, and were boarding the ship at that time. "Break off, get the hell off of this ship!" My XO returned and called "I already have LAATs and MAATs coming to get you, hold tight." I gave a frantic and anxious response. I could feel the acceleration forces as the ship prepared to exit the system, with the Avenger close behind. Our LAAT/g ships came in fast, picking up our soldiers as they dropped in. Our AT-TE's released their magnetic binds with the ship, and pulled off to the safety of LAAT/c groups waiting for retrieval. Our troopers down inside the ship were beginning to make their way out, but not fast enough. With seconds left, I boarded my MAAT, and disconnected from the hull of the Defiance. Staying on the hull during hyperspace jumps could do anything since you went protected by the shielding. Most of the platoon had chosen to release their magnetic grip on the deck and instead use their jetpacks to get the hell off of the ship. However, I heard a terrible screaming come over the communications relay as the troops left on the deck were torn apart or otherwise killed as the Defiance launched into hyperspace.The worst part was that we immediately lost most of our sapper detachment that was in the reactor of the ship. However, they still might be able to strike hard, despite being cut off from our support.

They were indeed cut off. I had no way of helping those men, as my ships needed repairs and reinforcements. Still, that was a risk we all were willing to take. As the Imperator fired at close range on my Praetor, I could focus my fire upon it. However, I let my XO take charge of that. I sent a message to Kamino and Rothana, along with a message to Republic High Command, detailing the battle and requesting reinforcements. I then got into the database, and began researching the opposing Admiral, Aran Vale...



Marine Casualties: 854 Troopers KIA, 1000+ WIA, 34 MIA presumed KIA.

Ships lost: 4 Venators, 31 Nexus. Various support ships lost and over 100+ ships in need of repair. 20 ships not ready for active service.

Mission status: Draw. Possible success.

[Western Imperial Union]

Temple Upper Levels
Neerah blocked his strike, but only just, his crimson blade slcing slightly into her robes, and no doubt leaving a superficial wound. The Jedi Master shrugged it off, and prepared fro his second attack. Hacking to the left, she realized he had left himself open. Ducking his assault,and the subsequent sparks from his blade hitting the floor, Vardis span around her opponent, making a shallow cut on the man's leg, most of the damage of which was surely absorbed by his armour. She halted her maneuver, ending up in the opposite positions they had been in just seconds before. Now it was the Sith against the window, facing the now smirking Vardis.

"Is this all you could become? You reek of fear, and of hate, with no exposure to anything but your own little world, a small minded sliver if the Force." She pointed her blade at the man. "You could be so much more."

He leaped at her, blade held high. She did not try to dodge, nor block, but instead thrusted her free hand forward, sending a powerful force shove through the air. It caught the Masked man in mid leap, an dsent him flying through the air, impacting and shattering the window. Wind whipped at Vardis, as she squinted to see where the man might have landed, the drop was precipitous, but survivable to a strong force user. The windows looked out from the central tower, our below onto the roof of the large block that housed the main body of the Jedi Temple.

There, she saw him, or rather, a small pinprick of Red light.

"Impressive," she said, nodding in approval at her opponents resilience.

Deactivating her saber, she calmly stepped out the window, and flipped through the air, before landing just meters from her opponent.

"I was right," she said, without even activating her saber. "You could be so much more."

Selvin was beginning to realize the true reality of his situation. He couldn't win against such a powerful and well trained foe. He had to escape, but perhaps a different opportunity was possible.

He watched as the Jedi deactivated her saber, Selvin allowed her to speak her piece then waited for a short while before he answered.

His voice was warped slightly by the mask and came out like a growling metallic tone.

"I have no quarrel with Jedi, I'm like you, just seeking knowledge."

He continued toward the edge of the building plotting an escape.

"Why not let a student of history slip away, no one needs to know, and we both part our ways happy with what we have. Me with my homework and you with an old fashioned sense of Jedi mercy."

With that he leapt backward somersaulting and landing on a speeder. He then flipped off it and simultaneously deactivated his saber.

Selvin ran down the street. He continued to shoot glances over his shoulder expecting a Jedi to materialize behind him.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Temple Roof
Vardis shook her head, placing her saber back on her belt. As her opponent leaped away, the Jedi Master raced after him, leaping and rolling onto the same speeder. He was fast, very fast, but Vardis had one thing that could hold the advantage.

With a grunt, she leaped over the speeder, and onto the balcony that overlooked the street. Focusing her mind, she masked herself, and utilized her skill at the obscure force Cloak ability. The now invisible jedi hopped from building to building, slowly outpacing the other man.

As he drew ahead, she jumped down, landing in a crouch just in front of the Sith. Just feet from him, she disengaged her cloak and raised her saber, the point of which hovered just inches from his face.

"Going so soon?"

[Western Imperial Union]

Selvin cocked his head to the side and without warning drew his saber and hacked the jedi's blade away from him and drove his blade forward, missing her face barely and catching her shoulder just slightly. He then spun and brought his blade toward where he assumed she would be, but again he missed as she gracefully flipped over the blade. The two stood and watched one another.

Shifting over he held his saber in one hand and drew his blaster in the other. At first it appeared he was going to open fire on the Jedi but instead he fired into the glowing lights a over their heads sending smoke and sparks everywhere. He flipped backwards and jumped to a balcony on a nearby building now opening fire on the street toward the pursuing Jedi. All of the bolts were relatively easily deflected some back toward himself, however he too could easily deflect them.

Continuing to flee from the Jedi he jumped onto the roof and took off at terrifying speeds augmenting himself with the force before he dropped into an alleyway masking his presence with the force he waited. Placing his saber hilt back onto his belt.

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Orbit of Garqi-Aboard the "Defiance"
As I waited for the arrival of Sabosen and a response from Grievous. I looked down at the electro scanners so I could see the planet we were in orbit of. A agricultural world in the outer rim of rather unimportance. But it will serve as the staging area for my fleet to refit and recover, and then move in and advance on Mygeeto. The planet was quite pretty from orbit, but rumors have been spread that it is more dangerous on the planet than it would appear, as the harsh environment can present a danger. Then, far sooner than I expected, I had anticipated I had received a message from Grievous. Informing me that he was on board. Excellent, speaking clearly into the comm link while droids buzzed about moving vital supplies to what wil become my new flagship in the background. I gave General Grievous my recommendation of what he should do next. "General Grievous, we should begin to prepare ourselves for an eventual failure. So we will be ready in case such a fate does occur. I am aware that our droid armies can be shut down via a command signal from Mustafar. I would request that you see to it that this is altered, or better yet destroyed. If you can only alter it so that only a portion of our forces deactivate, that is fine. But if you can find a way to remove this threat to us altogether, then that would be ideal. Also, do not allow Dooku to know you are doing this. I do not believe it fits in with his plans. And as we have already agreed, our plans do not coincide with his own." I then proceeded to warn Grievous.

"I am sure the Republic will pursue you General, hoping to end the war by eliminating you. Once my protoge arrives I will ensure she gathers forces that will be used to aid you in the Galactic South. However, she will not be able to join you immediately so I would suggest that you fortify the Utapau system. I will begin moving about the outer rim, bringing an end to the Republic Sieges and gathering the entrapped Separatist forces. Good luck General." I closed as I continued to supervise the evacuation of the Defiance. Then, I looked over the schematics for the Lucrehulk Class Battleship, bearing the name Dur'ak. A Neimodian name. The ship was in fine shape, having its powerful shields defend it from the Battle over Coruscant. I leaned back as I examined the dine vessel, a capable warship despite it's origins as a Trade Federation Cargo Hauler. I would conduct a personal inspection later once I board, but for now, I would remain on the bridge here until I met with Sabosen and Dieau.

It was only another few minutes before Sabosen's small flight of ships exited hyperspace near us. Once I had her on scanners, I had ordered a deck cleared for her arrival. Seeing the Republic class warship at first had put me on alert, believing the Republic had gave chase. However, once we confirmed it was Sabosen's I was relaxed once more. I had just escaped from a battle, I was not eager for another so soon. Opening a channel to Sabosen, I informed her that she may board at will.

"Commodore Sabosen, you may board the Defiance when ready. Meet me upon the bridge, where we will plan our next moves. I look forward to your arrival." I stated, closing the link. I was in fact, happy she had survived. As I had grown rather fond of having her around, she provides a challenge for me and if she keeps this level of performance up she will be a valuable ally.

[Eurasian Hegemony]

Hammud sliced a droid in half, and another and another. The two clones behind him fired at any droid that managed to remain out of the Jedi's reach. They were relatively far from the rest of the Jedi and soldiers. Several droids laid on the ground at their feet. More were coming, and Hammud was growing tired. He pulled open a door on the right with the force and the clones sprinted into it and covered the Jedi's retreat.

The doors slammed shut and the trio breathed in an air of mild safety. The clones reloaded, and Hammud loosened his muscles by swinging his saber and arms. Readying himself the Jedi prepared to finally break through the assault and begin making his way to the temple.

With a blast of force power the Jedi launched himself out of the room sweeping two droids with his saber and pivoting he brought it down on a third. The clones jumped out and opened fire precisely picking off targets quickly decimating the CIS soldiers.

As the trio fought to the opposite side of the square they were actually beginning to feel a sense of victory, they could win. They could get out, One of the clones was struck in the chest a mere few meters from safety. The other clone grabbed the strap of his comrade and began to pull him toward safety but he to was cut down by the flurry of blaster shots tearing past them.

Hammud flipped to stand between the wounded clones and the droids who were again retaking the upper hand. He called out with the force, realizing he had underestimated his foes in his haste to return to the Temple.


An apartment with a perfect view of the Jedi temple

Gia Maroo stared at the bodies. He had been here, his evidence was sloppy. She had followed Selvin for years. But he always seemed just out of reach. She had wanted to kill him at first, but the more and more she tried to remember him the more she remembered the happy memories they'd had before he left her to die. Now she was uncertain what she would do when she did catch him. She was closer than ever before, but now he seemed to utterly vanish. However looking at what she had found so far, there was a single thing that stuck in her mind. The three different apartments he had squatted in all had a view from a different able of the Jedi temple. But surely he wouldn't be foolish enough to go there.

Would he?

Only one way to find out.

[Valloria]

-snipped until further instruction in OOC-

[Neros]

Abaddon | Durge

Previously...

The bounty hunter had created quite the convincing scene of struggle, and ultimately, death, at his hands. Not only that, but a nice amount of his own gear and weapons would make it ever more convincing. Perhaps this worthless Gray Jedi would be revered for defending the Temple with his life, driving away that horrible Durge! He chuckled at the thought, leaving pieces of Abaddon's suit of armor scattered about, some flesh of the Gen'Dai as well - it would look like an explosion of some sort did him in. Durge held the Masters' lightsaber in his armored hand, wondering what should be made of it.

"The Jedi would make it into a vendetta if this were to remain, and they would wish to hunt me down if I took it as well. Perhaps...Perhaps I should give it to my bidder."

"Commander Durge, are you abandoning your post?"

"Silence, worthless automaton. I am operating under strict orders from Count Dooku, do not question my strategy."

"Roger roger."

"Continue the assault - press hard against these Jedi scum. I must report to Dooku's bridge." He commanded with a lie, Jedi Master Abaddon in tow behind him - various chunks of both armor and flesh missing from his unconscious body - Durge knowing that they will regenerate in time, and that armor is easy to come by with the correct price tag, and dear Sith Lord, did this client pay a hefty price for Abaddon. So much so that Durge had to take it and miss out on his favorite hobby - killing clones of Jango Fett! He loaded the younger Gen'Dai aboard his ship, a NovaSword Space Superiority Fighter without proper name. Electing to place the Jedi Master in the cargo bay, the Bounty Hunter ensured he would not awake for a good, long while as Durge would meet the bidder and deliver him as promised.

Unaided by other ships, Durge escaped the atmosphere of Coruscant rather unphased due to the Republic's defenses instead focusing on the larger vessels at the time, and coinciding with the general retreat order given by General Grievous, Durge seemed to make no waves by leaving his post to fulfill a much different contract than the one he was serving with the Confederacy. His journey would take him to a near-by world, yet it was one that was only recently encountered due to it's positioning in the cosmos. He would meet up with the rest of the Confederate Fleet after this deal, however.

---

Presently

Durge travelled the Metellos Trade Route, an ancient hyperspace lane of commerce with quick and swift movements, avoiding detection and masterfully maneuvering through the lanes until he reached the Widek Bypass, at which point, he disengaged from Hyperspace near a dense system of nebulae and interstellar debris. His objective was N'zoth, a planet of ruthless warriors known as the Yevetha, as that was the designated drop-off point for the bounty. Perhaps the bidder came from the Unknown Regions, and N'zoth was the nearest "safe" world in which to conduct this business. It didn't matter to Durge, all that mattered was the sweet, sweet pay he would receive.

Arriving near the planet, the bounty hunter scanned the system, finding no signature matching the one given to him by his bidder. "Hm, now that's really strange. Where the hell is he..." Durge wondered aloud, running the scans once more, before a sudden shadow blocked the system's star from his viewport, blocking it's light as he realized that the ship was indeed here. Dwarfed by it's size, and rather perplexed by it's divergent shape from normal battleships of the Galaxy, Durge simply shrugged. Piloting his fighter into the cargo hold, he disengaged and landed with ease.

"Well met, traveller." A voice said as Durge emerged from his cockpit. The voice belonged to a small, thinly built man with facial tattoos and a strange look about him. Durge nodded as the man introduced himself. "I am Darth Africanus, leader of the Four Inversions." Durge contemplated the name for a moment, interesting that it was Sith in origin, yet Sith were supposed to be very much eliminated through the galaxy. To his delight, however, as the Sith were the cause of much death and destruction of his people, the Gen'Dai, upon first contact. "Welcome to my flagship, Clarity of Intent."

"Well met, or whatever. I have the goods." Durge said, not wanting to be a man of many words. He clicked a button on his armor, causing the cargo door to quickly slide open. Jedi Master Abaddon fell out of the cargo bay as a result, producing a firm, meaty thud as he did so. "Now, where is my money?"

"Patience is a virtue, Durge." Darth Africanus began, noticing the Bounty Hunter was beginning to reach for a blaster on his waist. "Yet charity is not. Your credits, as agreed." Africanus stated, producing a credit chip. Durge snatched it greedily from his hand, twisting and turning it over to check for authenticity. It was the real deal alright, and just to confirm, Durge clicked to activate a display for the balance. 1,000,000 Credits even, just for a Jedi of Abaddon's caliber. Durge had killed hundreds for even less, yet, apparently this Sith Lord had deep enough pockets to warrant such frivolous spending.

"Excellent." Durge remarked, placing the card in a special slot on his armor, retrieving the Jedi's lightsaber as well. "His blade. I had thoughts of keeping it as a trophy, but, I believe I can find a much better trophy with this many Credits." He further declared. Africanus activated the massive saber, viewing it's gray color with interest, waving it in a small circle. It was comical, though, as the total length of the weapon exceeded Darth Africanus' height, really making wieldable to Abaddon only. "I have other things to attend to. Your business is appreciated."

"Your is as well. Your speed and work is excellent - I may have other options, missions, and tasks for you later on, perhaps when you are done serving the goons in the Confederacy." Darth Africanus stated, disengaging the lightsaber and placing it on his belt. "As you can very well see, my payment is top dollar, I spare no expense. We may meet once more sometime soon. Thank you for your help, Durge." He finished, waving politely at the bounty hunter he climbed into his fighter, some servants and droids collecting Abaddon and dragging him out of the hanger.

"Much work is to be done." Africanus said, turning from the fighter as it barrelled out of the hanger and away from the Clarity of Intent, his cape blowing wonderfully as he briskly walked in the direction where Abaddon was hauled off to.

[Treko]

Ausdi Caheel(Darth Revage)-Sith Assassin-Planet Belkadan

Proposal after proposal passed through the hands of Darth Revage, but nothing interesting had come into hand. Mostly all of proposals were military ones or economic sanctions against some planet that were on the invasion route and their end was near. Though, a good piece of news did slip through and into the ears of Ausdi. It was brought in by a central intelligence spy and they usually brought in the good news. As the man walked down the long hall Ausdi arose from his throne and placed his hands behind his back. An every growing smile was on his face, but no one could tell with his mask shielding his face. With a quick bow the spy kneeled before Ausdi and asked for permission to speak.

"Permission granted. Now tell me what you have heard, spy." Inquired the Sith Lord.

"My lord, we have news that a battle over Coruscant erupted between CIS and Republic forces." Replied the spy, his voice shaking mildly.

"And? What has happened to these two factions out of this battle?" Asked Ausdi, as he walked away from his throne and crouched down in front of the spy.

"The CIS was beaten back by Republic forces, but we suspect there was an..u..ulterior motive for the attack." Choked the Spy, his face looking up at Ausdi.

"An ulterior motive?" Chuckled Ausdi, "Going for the Chancellor? That's a rather bold move. What happened to the CIS fleet?"

The spy nodded and responded quickly, "The CIS fleet retreated to the Garqi system. The fleet is under the control of Vice-Admiral Vale."

"Vice-Admiral Vale? I've heard that name before." Ausdi's smile frew evermore wider. "We shall contact the fleet and offer assistance to them."

An adviser quickly shouted a protest against this and the room became suddenly cold. Ausdi stopped and stood in place for a second or so before looking at the man who had protested. With his hand already on his double-bladed light saber the adviser knew what was coming. With a burst of speed and flick of the button a light saber was sticking through the advisers chest. "Do not ever go against my word." Sneered Ausdi, as he pushed the man off of his light saber before turning to the spy. "Send the Vice-Admiral a message for me."

Code: Select all

Vice-Admiral Vale,

I am the lord of Belkadan and very stern supporter of the CIS. Though, my planet is not aligned with the faction I will help whenever I can and from what I heard you may need it now. I have heard what has happened to your fleet over Coruscant and it's such a shame. If you believe yourself to have the strength I ask that you make your way to the Belkadan system. We have an abundance of resources that can help you in rearming and repairing your fleet. I highly suggest this option. If you do agree to this help just prep your ships to dock at the planetary shipyards. You will not be contacted by me again and you will receive no holo-call. I prefer to see my acquaintances in person.

Signed,
Ausdi Caheel

[Western Imperial Union]

Having eluded the Jedi, or so it seemed to be. Selvin removed his battle mask and made his way to the nearest store. He shoplifted a new cloak and covered himself and disappeared into the crowd. He made his way through the streets. In some places he could hear fighting but it usually seemed distant. The battle seemed to be winding down. The Separatist ships had disappeared from the sky and Clone reinforcements were everywhere, they didn't bother him as they ran to and fro.

Selvin went in search of anyone that could take him off world, he had come to Coruscant from Correllia, and he needed to get back there to get to his ship, before heading home to the outer rim. The Problem was finding a ship leaving the planet. He might have to think a little more out of the box than usual.

[Above Coruscant

Malakai was eating a piece of fruit while watching his men prepped their equipment. They had deployed onto an enemy ship during the battle. Few were left standing afterword, but they had gotten whatever it was command wanted. He had already forgotten, the previous battle like all the rest had run together like a blur. He was one of the earlier batches. And he had been in the war since the beginning. He was growing tired and could sense that perhaps things would change soon.

[Great Franconia and Verana]

Skies of Coruscant
Shaak Ti squinted into the distance, seeing smoke rising from the vicinity of the Jedi Temple. The wind whipped past her, as she accelerated even more, pusing the commandeered speeder to its limits. After losing the General in Coruscants vast connection of underground Tunnels, Masters Ti and Koon had escorted the Chancellor to the bunker, with little difficulty. It appeared that the Battle was dying down, with only pockets or resistance still remaining, scattered about the Galactic City. She realized however, the cost the Battle had taken, as bodies of droids and people littered the grounds outside the Temple.

Gracefully landing the craft by the temples now shattered landing pad, Master Ti strode forward, inspecting the debris. Her montrals picked up slight sounds of blaster fire, there were surely droids left nearby, or heavens forbid, within, the Temple. She stepped over the smoking husks of several droids, staring blankly at the Togruta.

The last time the Temple had been attacked, it seemed like forever. And here, spread about the main entrance to the Temple, tthe war bad finally come to their home.

She immediately sensed another presence as Master Neerah Vardis leaped from a lower pathway, cloak smoking slightly on her shoulder. Her usually well coifured brown hair was slightly astray, and her lightsaber was still in her hand.

"Neerah," Ti said empatheticly, "Your injured."

The other Jedi shrugged it off.
"A shallow cut, nothing more."

The Togrutan moved forward, placing a hand on her friends shoulder. Channeling the Force, she mentally bound the wound and molded the flesh back together.

"This was no blaster wound, Neerah."

"No it was not, a fairly experienced dark jedi seemingly snuck into the Temple during the attack. I engaged him and was able to reduce his prize, a sack full of datachios. I was unable to detain him."

Ti finished healing her friend, and smiled.
"It's all right Neerah, we can't always be victorious. What section were the chips from?"

"Ancient Texts."

At least it's not the Holocron Vault
Ti thought, remembering the infamous infiltration of Cad Bane.

"Well solve this mystery later, but we should return to the Temple, I sense some opposition made it inside."

The Jedi council member nearly asked about the status of Jace, but kept silent upon sensing the truth. Jace had potential, a shame, too many jedi die far too young.

The pair marched to the front entrance, and found their the grisly scene. Pieces of torn flesh, and the armour of some very large creature were scattered about the Gateway. Master Ti bent down, placing a cool hand on one of the shreds of flesh.

"It's Gen'Dai," she called over to Neerah, who was inspecting a large piece of what appeared to be a chestplate. "It must have been Master Abaddon."

Neerah placed the armour down, and bowed her head in respect.
"He died, defending his home, his friend's, and the rights of the free people's of the Galaxy. His loss is a terrible blow."
She frowned, but swiftly turned, and began to walk inside, past the scorch marks on the walls. Master Ti followed slowly behind, taking in all the evidence. Something didn't sense right, where we the body? The force was clouded, and she could not make out what was troubling her so. It was a tremor, a disturbance in the Force. She shook her head, for as much as it pained her to say, she had more important things to deal with.

Masters Vardis and Ti began marching through the halls, the ground still littered with the smoldering remains of B1 and B2 battle droids. The two masters swiftly came upon a small group of Jedi, accompanied by two Padawans.

"Arrana, Rhaekar," Ti said, bowing her head in greetings. "Erin."
The group must have been slightly surprised in some fashion of the swift and decisive end to the conflict. Even Ti had found the most rapid retreat highly suspicious.

"Have you seen Abaddon?"

[Capsland]

-snip-

CIS Command Centre, Pau City Spaceport, 5th Level
Grievous closed the transmission and turned to Tion Medon, the leader of the Pau'ans and Utapau.
"Get your flak cannons ready! Make sure the droids are in defensive positions!"
Tion Medo nervously bowed and walked out of the room. Grievous had taken in Vale's advice, it made complete sense so he contacted the droid commander on Mustafar.
"Commander, destroy the droid control facility on Mustafar and switch the droids network to the same network the Munificents use. Then contact the Separatist Council's ship and tell them to divert their course to the secret Trade Union Droid foundry"
"As you wish General, I calculate that the task will be completed in 3 standard minutes"
Grievous closed the transmission and looked outside. Thousands of battle droids marching about, forcing the natives to take up the defences. At this point the flak turrets and anti-fighter guns were ready and all droids were programmed to take up defensive positions if there was an attack. Utapau was transformed into a fortress within a few hours.

[Capsland]

Chancellor Palpatine

Palpatine's Bunker, Lower Level of Galactic City, Coruscant
Chancellor Palpatine got up, the sound of blaster fire still going on above but it seemed to be dying down. The Senate guards stopped blocked his entrance.
"I'm sorry sir but we can't let you go up there. It's too dangerous." The Guard holstered his gun by his shoulder.
"I need to address the Senate, this is a matter of complete importance! Galactic City needs me, the Republic need me. If it is so dangerous, then you can accompany me."
"As you wish, sir"
Palpatine was then escorted by his bodyguard of 10 highly trained Senate guards. He eventually made his was to the Senate Building, fortunately the droid artillery did do excessive amounts of damage to the building itself but the same couldn't be said for the ships that lay waste in the hangars. The entire city was on lock down, local garrisons and police forces had all bee mobilised to deal with the last of the droids and to stop any looting taking place. Finally it seemed order had begun to take it's rightful place on Coruscant.

Grand Convocation Chamber, Senate Building
He got close to his platform, the senators were already in their places. The Vice-Chancellor pressed the button to raise the platform in the middle of the Grand Convocation Chamber. The platform rose and the Senators all clapped, the applause was deafening. This was probably do to the high patriotic fever in the air, after the siege and the near destruction of the Senate District, the Senators were full of revenge. Wanting to get back at the Confederates and teach them a lesson once and for all.

Palpatine raised both of his arms, the applause stopped; silence.
"Senators... Today, the Republic had to endure the hardest and most painful battle yet. The CIS tried to force their hand down on the Republic and make us cave in. The even sent their most ruthless General to try and capture me. I assure you senators, this has only made the Republic stronger!"
There was an applause again, this time quieter to give the Chancellor a chance to speak.
"It has made it clear that this war has gone on for too long! It needs to be put to an end!"
The suddenly a senator from Naboo came forth, his repulsorpod hovering around the room. Jar Jar, hehe, excellent. All part of my plan.
Jar Jar spoke.
"Messa agree! They issa only one way to end this war. Messa propose, to give emergency powers of the production of clones to the Supreme Chanclla!"
The whole chamber roared with applause once again. Palpatine smiled. Then the Vice-Chancellor smacked down his staff.
"Order!"
The chamber fell silent, awaiting the chancellor's input on the proposal.
"I humbly accept. Trust me senators, this war will soon end. I will use these powers to build a 'new' and 'better' army, fit for the Republic and her people. I will not allow myself to give up this war as long as I breathe!"
The senators all clapped, while the Vice-Chancellor shouted out. "Session over"
Then the senators docked up and went to their chambers, a long night was ahead of them and the Republic.

Supreme Chancellor's Suite
Palpatine got to the Chancellor's Suite. Assessing all of the reports on the Outer Rim Sieges.
"Call up Jedi Knight Anakin Skywalker, I wish to talk to him."
"Yes sir" A guard said as he contacted Anakin through the holonet. Now it was just a matter of time before Anakin got here, he would never refuse an audience with Palpatine.

[Neros]

Abaddon

The Jedi Master spat out some fluid, blood-like, the source of life for the Gen'Dai, like any other race. His chains were too powerful to break, no matter how long he pried and struggled, even shape his form around them, he could not escape. It felt as though millions of hot needles would prod into his being at select intervals, without cause or really any distinct pattern, which made it all the worse. His prison was dark, formless, without any boundary to speak out. He cried out. "Where am I...Let me go!"

Out of the darkness, a form materialized, Abaddon not recognizing the face, but knowing the markings of a Sith when he saw one. "The place is irrelevant." He said, speaking lowly and rather condescending to the Jedi, the Sith placing his arms slightly behind his back as he spoke. "Just as your desire to be free is." It was Darth Africanus, a man Abaddon would come to know more deeply than any other person in the galaxy - even himself. "I am not your oppressor nor your executor, Abaddon. Yet, I am the gateway to your freedom."

"Freedom?" He asked, barely able to speak as the unseen needles drove once more into his sides, body, chest, everywhere at once.

"Yes, Godblessed. Your freedom. Escape. You must answer me a single question, and upon your answer, I shall set you on your way once more." Africanus stated, not introducing himself yet to the imprisoned Jedi, "What does it mean to be True Sith?"

Abaddon choked back a laugh. "It means to torture anyone in your way."

"Wrong." Africanus said, the feeling of thousands of blades grinding and digging into his flesh becoming apparent. Abaddon screamed in agony, throwing himself back in a futile effort to get away from the intense pain, but finding no solitude anywhere he trashed. "Feel it, Abaddon, feel the passion. You yearn for life, is that how you are taught as a Jedi? No, you are taught to obey. Break yourself from their dogmas, you have taken the first steps to do so when you turned Gray." Africanus said, lowering his tone, "I shall simply complete the process."

---

---

Darth Umbra sat with her legs crossed, floating, deep in primal thought as mysterious runes, patterns, and fumes circled the room around her. Abaddon sat at the very center of the entire complex ritual, unbound, his eyes staring blankly forward. Opposite of Umbra and directly across from Abaddon was Darth Africanus, floating in the same poise. This was the ancient Sith torture technique, fabled and long lost, one which put the sufferer through hundreds of years of torment in just hours and days. For someone like Abaddon, though, a Gen'Dai with a long lifespan, he will feel thousands of years of torture, conversations, propaganda.

All to serve Africanus' agenda. He would brainwash Abaddon, remold him, christen him in the ways of the Sith in just a few measly hours, passing on a collective of information and abilities through those minutes and hours spent in the chamber, the jail cell of his own mind. Africanus would play upon his fears, his motives, his true passion, unraveling the discipline forced upon him by the Jedi and in it's place, his own version of the Sith, a version he has modeled based on the teachings of Darth Plagueis, one that hails back to a time before Darth Bane. Time was wearing thin, the ritual almost completed, a sinister power growing over Abaddon.

Waves of dark, flame-like energy rose from his body, exhaling it like steam from his contracted nerve clusters. The last conversation in this ritual, the Thousand Year Conversation, was taking place has the strong Jedi Master fell into the cold, manipulative hands of Darth Africanus. The Sith Lord forged him into a soldier for his Inversions, a willing participant his struggle for both revenge and control, a Sith Lord in his own right.

---

---

"Abaddon."

"That is not my name." The Gen'Dai said, his prison changed, sitting in a chair of his own imagination rather than hanged up in chains. "I have spoken with the Dark Side, and they have given me a new name, one to show them my loyalty, my gratitude, my passion." He turned his head up to look the human in the face, eye to eye, talking with him for hundreds of years, at least, unknowing of the world outside of his prison. He has changed, radically, appearing far more sinister than what he had gone in looking like. "That name is Dread."

"Just, Dread?" Africanus asked, folding his arms at the Sith Lord that sat before him. "Not Darth Dread?"

"Darth has no meaning beyond the egos of oneself. It is a name that False Sith use to claim power. Darth is tarnished, broken, abused, and disgraced. Why would the Dark Side name one such as myself, blessed with such power and passion, something so hopelessly inferior? I shall be known by the terror that I strike into the hearts of my foes, my enemies, my rivals. A primal fear unknown to any and all creatures up until their very demise. I am Dread."

"Dread," Africanus asked, "What does it mean to be True Sith?"

"It means," Dread began, "That I am free." In an instant, the entire dream, hallucination, and ritual collapsed in on itself, plunging Dread out of darkness and into the dimly lit room which had been his prison for only a few hours. He breathed deeply, his nerves tightening and contracting as he pulsated with energy from the Dark Side of the Force, locking eyes with Darth Umbra, glancing his head to the side, knowing Darth Africanus was behind him. He stood up, his height towering over the other two Sith.

Umbra smiled a sick, ghastly grin at the Gen'Dai, who casually tilted his head at her gesture. "Look who we have here." She said, swinging her hip in a single direction. Darth Africanus spoke for him, moving to his side and placing a hand on Dread's back.

"Darth Umbra, please welcome our Fifth Inversion, Dread."

[The Rebel Alliances]

Aran Vale-Vice Admiral of the CIS-Orbit of Garqi-Aboard the "Righteous Resistance"
After waiting three hours aboard the dying Defiance I had finally decided to leave the ship and board my new flagship, what I am calling the "Righteous Resistance". A symbol of my for now very secret, resistance to the Sith. I walked about the corridors of the ship for hours. Watching as the ship, fully stocked with everything from AATs, MTTs and even Hailfire Droids and Homing spider Droids. Not to mention the countless Battle Droids of all models. This Lucrehulk alone had enough force within it to secure a small planet. However, I then made my way to my new command bridge, within the central sphere of the ship. Calling my for now, most reliable ally to the bridge with me. As I had arrived I had arrived, I pulled up a Galactic Map and then zoomed in on Mandalore. Directing his attention to the homeplanet of his culture I began to explain my plan for him.

"I need you to leave my fleet, or what remains of it and travel back to Mandalorian Space. There, I will need you to seek out and find the Mask of Mandalore. This artifact as I do not have to explain to you, will help greatly in any endeavor to unify your people." I then paused and looked over at him as he wore his T-Shaped helmet. "Unify them behind you. Of course, there will be factions who care nothing of ancient traditions. And will have to be brought to heel by force. With the rest of Mandalore behind you however, that should be little problem. I intend to not only bring the CIS to Independence. But to bring the Mandalorians back as well. For too long your people have been punished by the Republic, not treated with the respect your people and culture deserves. Reducing the majority of your kind to bounty hunters and mercenaries. With the rise of the CIS, so to will the old warrior ways. However, should we fail, then you know what happens." I then moved around the table, speaking about payment.

"Unfortunately, I do not have enough credits to spare to pay you fairly for this. Currency speaking. However, you will receive a rather large sum of 100,000 credits. But the real payment, is the completion of the task itself. You would become the new Mandalore. A position of great influence and respect among your people. I would trust that alone would make this assignment worth your time." I remarked, as TND-07 had finally updated me on the scans that were searching for Sabosen's ship.

"Vice Admiral, scans do not reveal any trace of Sabosen or her ships. Additional orders Vice Admiral?" My trusted Droid commander asked. I sighed heavily, I was starting to grow fond of having the Chiss around. She had so much potential. Yet, she may not even be alive anymore. Or perhaps she has just went missing. Either way, we cannot afford to waste any more time delaying our actions, waiting for her to arrive.

"Nutth'ebine'sabosen, is now officially MIA." I declared, marking her as 'Missing in Action'. From here on out, if she finds her way back to us, I will be relieved. But if not, then eventually I will have to declare her as Killed in Action. It would be such a waste. Then, turning back to Dieau, I officially dismissed him to proceed with his mission.

"You may leave at your own leisure, however I would suggest you not to delay too long. I will soon gather up all the forces I can and then proceed to Mygeeto, to lift the siege there. Once you have successfully unified the Mandalorians, contact me, I will have another assignment for your people." I closed, dismissing him. Pacing over to the scanners, I adjusted them to long range and to search for any signatures that were in my fleet during the Battle of Coruscant.

After several minutes of searching, we finally locked on to the traces of Commodore Lorgo Vaas as well as Commodore Torthas Bern. Both Commodores in my fleet. And so far, the only located survivors. Commodore Lorgo Vaas is a young Rodian Officer, highly aggressive and very assertive in the battlefield, however, he sometimes needs a strong superior officer to restrain him. While Torthas Bern, a Sullustan was a far more restrained Commmodore, preferring 'Nexu Pack' tactics and raiding rather than open naval battles. I opened up my link to both Officers, and immediately ordered them to rejoin my own fleet here in the Garqi system, so that we can combine our strength for our Liberation of Mygeeto, which has been under siege far too long.

"Right away Vice Admiral." Was all that was uttered by the two Commodores. Which suited me just fine. They would arrive within a hour and after they do regroup with us, we will move on Mygeeto. I sat myself down just in time for a message from an encrypted source, which TND-07 patched through to me.

The message was vague at best. However, this Ausdi Caheel claimed to be a supporter of the CIS. And was offering me aid. But it was curious. Why contact me, and not say...Dooku or Grievous? And why insist on a meeting in person? It sounded very plausibly like a trap, however, I could not afford to leave no potential aid or ally. And so, I came to a decision. I would make a side trip, with only the Righteous Resistance and see this man. But, in doing so I would leave my fleet without a vice Admiral, as I cannot delay their intervention at Mygeeto, so, I turned to TND-07.

"07, I will take this ship and see what aid can be offered. I am ordering you to leave this ship and take command of either of our Providence Class Carriers, and then once the rest of the fleet arrives, take command of them and begin operations in orbit of Mygeeto. I will rejoin you as soon as possible." I commanded, and obediently the droid did as commanded.

After he and Dieau left my ship, I ordered that we lock on to the new coordinates provided in the message. Making the jump to Hyperspace, I was sure to leave a trail of comms signals that would inform Sabosen of my new location and ship if she gets in range of them.

Assuming she is still alive.

2 Hours Later
Arriving over the planet Belkadan. I took in the sight and immediately sent down a hail to the planet from my single ship.

"This is Vice Admiral Aran Vale of the CIS Navy. I am here on the request of Ausdi Caheel. Requesting permission to land on the planet." I spoke clearly. Now, all that is needed is to await a response.