Star Wars Herding Nexu - The Jedi Academy (Legends with some Disney Canon)

HK-47
  • AndrewJTalon

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    - - -

    Mara was, by her nature, an early riser and a light sleeper. So it was a bit infuriating that she hadn't been able to nail down a particular issue she'd been having since she got here until it entered the dining area of the temple and announced itself:

    Namely, where Skywalker was getting fresh meat and fruit to feed not only her, but Rotta on a daily basis.

    "Report: Master, the hunt was successful," a rust red humanoid-shaped droid reported as it marched into the plain dining room, "stocks are refilled and I killed many organic meatbags."

    The droid had sinister red glowing eyes, and a heavy blaster slung over its back. It seemed utterly out of place in the peaceful, organic surroundings.

    Luke smiled at the droid, sitting at his simple wooden table with Mara, Rotta, and Artoo.

    "Good work, HK! Any trouble with the new chassis?"

    "Answer: No Master. You have done very well in your upgrades. I feel three thousand, three hundred fifty two point nine one three years younger," the droid replied, "may I go assassinate some sapient meatbags now?"

    "No, not now HK," Luke said, smiling indulgently. The droid's face was emotionless, but Mara could swear the thing was pouting.

    "Statement: As you wish, Master. Query: Will these new meatbags be staying long?" The droid asked.

    Luke nodded.

    "Yes, they're my first students. This is Mara Jade," he said, gesturing to her, "and Rotta the Hutt."

    He gestured to Rotta, who was not a morning being. The Hutt was eating, but still looked groggy. Artoo nudged him, and the Hutt coughed and sat up straight.

    "Uh, yeah, hello," he managed.

    "Introduce yourself, HK-47," Luke said, and Mara's jaw dropped as the droid did just that.

    "Introduction: Hello, meatbags and inferior droids. I am HK-47, human-cyborg relations and assassin droid. I am in Master Luke's service."

    "You got the assassin droid of Darth Revan working again?!" Mara gasped. Luke smiled and nodded.

    "Yeah. I didn't have time to do much work on him before Endor..."

    And before Mara revealed herself as a spy and fled, she mentally added. Not that she was feeling guilty over that... Much.

    "... but afterwards, I found the time and fully restored him," Luke finished, beaming. "With Aphra's help."

    "Of course," Mara grumbled.

    "Observation: Ah, the female meatbag recognizes me? Good! I am pleased my reputation is intact. Query: Are you the same Mara Jade who was an Imperial spy and assassin?"

    "Yes, that's me," Mara said dryly, eating some meat. "I guess I can thank you for the food?"

    "Explanation: Yes. Master allows me to hunt fresh game for his food and entertainment. Expansion: I even get to cook the food. While not as satisfying as killing it, it is amusing to imagine the humiliation the meatbag is suffering while I cook and season it for consumption by a superior being such as the Master."

    The droid shrugged.

    "Qualification: It is not much, but it beats being a-ugh-protocol droid!"

    "He also keeps watch over the grounds," Luke said.

    "Statement: I am unhappy to report no attempted assassins tried to infiltrate the temple last night, Master," HK-47 stated. The droid looked upwards, wistfully, "perhaps that will change soon? The more Jedi that are here, the greater the chance of attack?"

    "That... Seems likely, yes HK," Luke said with a nod. Rotta gulped nervously, but a reassuring smile from Luke calmed him.

    HK-47 nodded.

    "Relieved Statement: Good, I was worried it would be this boring forever! I will hope you bring many more Jedi here, to provide even more targets for me to utilize my skills against."

    Luke chuckled and nodded.

    "Go ahead and recharge, HK. Good work."

    "Statement: Thank you Master." The droid turned and walked off. Mara still stared in disbelief at Luke.

    "You... You're putting one of the most efficient and famous assassin droids in galactic history to work getting you food and patrolling your grounds?!"

    Luke smiled and nodded.

    "He's also a wealth of knowledge about the Jedi, the Old Republic, the Sith Empire-So much of it," Luke said, "and it makes him happy... Well, not as happy as he would be killing people, but still..."

    Artoo beeped in amusement. Luke nodded to his loyal astromech.

    "Besides, Artoo likes him."

    Artoo beeped something loudly in binary. HK-47 stomped back, and glared with glowing red eyes at the little droid.

    "Statement: The Death Star still only counts as ONE kill. And Master Luke did most of the work! Fabrication: And I am not jealous!"
     
    Ezra, Sabine and Aphra
  • AndrewJTalon

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    - - -

    Mara woke up to a strong presence in the Force. It wasn't familiar, but it was benign... If... Annoyingly happy. She sat up in her bed and blinked blearily as the presence opened her door. Another person was with him-Female, and also wayyy too happy this late at night.

    The man was tall, blue haired and tanned, dressed in spacer garments and wearing a lightsaber on his belt. His hair was shaggy, and he had a five o'clock shadow on his face. Not that Mara could see much of it, given the woman with him.

    She was muscular but curvy, with warm eyes and outrageously colored hair. She wore multi-colored Mandolorian armor, that was clearly well used. The two were making out feverishly, their passion so intense they didn't notice when Mara cleared her throat.

    But bouncing a can off the tall man's head got their attention.

    "Ah, er, sorry," the man said, his arm tightly wrapped around the shorter woman's waist.

    "Didn't know it was occupied!" The woman said cheerfully.

    Mara sighed heavily.

    "You must be Bridger, and Sabine Wren," she stated.

    "Ezra's fine," the young Jedi said with a smile, "you must be Mara."

    "Or Celina," Sabine stated dryly, eyeing her in suspicion. Mara sighed and rubbed her face. Ezra cleared his throat.

    "Well, uh, sorry for disturbing you but-"

    "Room at the end of the hallway is empty, and soundproofed," Mara growled, "now beat it."

    Neither looked unhappy with her tone. Ezra grinned and dragged Sabine off. The Mandolorian woman actually giggled as they vanished down the hallway, and into the spare room. Mara groaned, got up, and shut the door, before grumbling as she dove back into her bed.

    Well... She could only hope those two were just so happy to see each other they were giving into their passions, and they wouldn't be this bad in the morning.

    - - -

    She was wrong. She was completely, utterly wrong.

    "Awww... You cooked this for me?" Sabine cooed as Ezra set down some breakfast. Thankfully they were at another table, away from Luke, Rotta, Artoo, Ahsoka, and Mara.

    "Got pretty good at it, remember?" Ezra said back, nuzzling her. She took a bite of the food, beamed, and then kissed him messily. "Mmm..."

    "I do remember," Sabine sighed happily, and they began to feed each other.

    "Ughhh," Rotta moaned, "I can't eat and watch this..."

    The Hutt closed his eyes and began to eat blindly. Ahsoka chuckled at the looks of disgust on Luke and Mara's face.

    "They've been apart for several years now," Ahsoka said, "they're finally together and happy. You can't hate on them for that."

    "I don't hate on them," Luke muttered, "but they're really kind of nauseating."

    "They'll get it out of their systems and go back to normal," Ahsoka soothed.

    "I hope so," Mara growled, "otherwise they're going to enjoy eternity in eachother's arms... Dead."

    "Mara, calm down," Luke said gently, "it's gross, but it's not that bad..."

    "I think I'll sit in your lap for breakfast, Ezra," Sabine said cheerfully, sliding in. "Now you can cuddle and feed me!"

    "Great idea!" Ezra cheered.

    "Oh come on!" Mara hissed.

    Luke finally smiled, and chuckled.

    "Come on guys," Luke said calmly, "you've had your fun."

    Sabine and Ezra smirked over at Mara. She scowled.

    "You were pranking me?!" She demanded.

    "A little," Sabine admitted, "but we are actually this happy to be back together. So uh... You'll kind of have to deal."

    "Speaking of," Ezra said with a grin, taking Sabine's hand, "wanna go use the Nightbrother's med bay to see if you're pregnant yet?"

    "Wanna use it to make sure I am pregnant?" Sabine cooed seductively. Ezra picked Sabine up in his arms, and went out the door so fast Mara swore he used Force Speed. Luke sighed.

    "Well, we're not going to see them for the rest of the day," he said, "who wants to go train? Far, far away from the temple-?"

    "Me," Rotta and Mara voted, holding their hands up.

    "I'll go do my rounds for the temple," Ahsoka said, getting up and heading out while laughing softly, "you prudes."

    "Deviant," Luke shot back, chuckling a bit himself.

    "Anything to get away from that disgusting affection," Mara shuddered.

    "HEY LUKE CATCH ME WHEEEE!"

    Luke sighed and held out his arms. He used the Force to catch Doctor Aphra, and then rotated her to sit next to him. The archaeologist happily pushed herself into his lap, laughing as she hugged him.

    "Aw, is that any way to treat an old friend?" She asked. She looked back over her shoulder, batting her eyes. "Hey Mara! You look good! Nice to see you too!"

    Mara grit her teeth and stabbed her food. Luke cleared his throat.

    "Aphra," he said, and he pushed her off his lap with the Force, "we already had to endure Sabine and Ezra's affection fest. Let's not add to it."

    "Awww..."

    - - -

    It wasn't like Mara Jade resented Doctor Aphra. Well, any more than she resented anyone else associated with Luke.

    It wasn't hard to discern that she and Luke had... Some kind of history together. Aphra was an energetic, cheerful person, but she reserved all her physical affection for Luke. Her touches lingered just a bit too long, and her gaze locked onto him.

    It was nauseating, really. That she could be so close to him and he just let her...?

    "Hey, your rock's gonna fall," the perky archaeologist commented. Mara started out of her meditation, and several rocks fell to the ground around her. She turned a venomous glare over at Aphra, who smiled all too innocently.

    "Sorry," she said. Mara sighed, and glared across the training clearing.

    Luke and Rotta were going through lightsaber katas. The young Hutt was very determined, and practiced the strokes over, and over, and over again. She recalled that Luke sometimes had to float the big Hutt back to his room by nightfall, as he had a tendency to keep practicing even when he should be resting.

    Still, all his hard work was paying off-Rotta wielded his lightsaber with a lot more confidence now, and Luke complimented him as they sparred.

    "One, two, three-Good! Now, you need to keep reaching out. Don't overfocus!" Luke coached the big Hutt as their sabers clashed. Mara glared back at Aphra, who continued to smile.

    "You distracted me. Got a scheme in mind or do you just want to annoy me?" Mara grumbled.

    "Oh, I'm prrrettyyyy sure I'm already annoying you," Aphra said, plopping herself down next to her, "but I do have something more specific to tell you!"

    Mara sighed and closed her eyes.

    "And that is?" She grumbled, trying to resume her meditation.

    "Don't break his heart."

    Mara's eyes snapped open, and she turned to gape at Aphra in outrage. Aphra though was looking... Serious. For her, anyway.

    "Excuse you?!"

    "You heard me," Aphra stated, "don't break his heart. Don't toy with him. Don't lead him on."

    "I-Look, I don't know what you're thinking," Mara stated, "but I have zero interest in Skywalker. Period. We're... Well we might be friends, but that's it! And even that is a big ask-!"

    "Sure, sure," Aphra smirked, "I'm just letting you know... Don't break his heart."

    "Or what? You'll kill me?" Mara asked, green eyes flashing dangerously. Aphra stared back, her own dark eyes quite cold.

    "If I have to, yes," Aphra stated calmly. Mara didn't drop her hackles, but she was assessing the amoral archaeologist a lot more clinically. Her assassin droids were near the edge of the clearing... And her Wookie bounty hunter was nearby, but hidden.

    She had to admit, she may have been underestimating her. So Mara changed tactics.

    "Why do you care?" Mara asked. "You two are over."

    Aphra was silent for a moment. She sighed, and pulled her hat off. She clutched the ridiculous cap in her hands, looking down at them, before she looked back up.

    "Luke and me... I... He's special to me," Aphra admitted, "he... Changed my life. And yeah, I do care about him. Maybe enough that I was tempted to... Ya know... Settle down."

    "You?" Mara asked incredulously. She reached out through the Force, expecting to sense Aphra's usual shield of intense emotion. The archaeologist was very good at hiding her thoughts via purely mundane ways...

    And all she felt was pain. Images of Luke looking at her, holding her, smiling at her...

    Aphra slowly nodded, at Mara's realization.

    "But I can't," Aphra sighed, "I knew he was going to go fight Vader and the Emperor... And I realized, I was too scared of seeing him fall and fail. I couldn't have faith that he would survive... Or even triumph. I... Luke doesn't need someone who can't believe in him... But he needs someone to look after him. Since Solo's not here... I'll do it."

    She fixed Mara with a steely glare.

    "So yeah. If you break his heart? You're going down."

    "I did try to kill him," Mara pointed out, "several times."

    Aphra snorted.

    "So did I. All unintentionally," Aphra retorted, "and he still cared for me. So yeah."

    "Mara? You're up!" Luke called. Mara looked up at Luke, and stood up. She ignored Aphra's stare as she headed into the training ring.

    Luke treated Mara to a smile, as she ignited his father's lightsaber. He held up his own, set for training mode.

    "Ready?" He asked.

    "Don't you dare hold back, Skywalker," Mara returned with a smile.

    "I would never dream of it," Luke replied. He thrust and swung fast, using some basic Shien, before he transitioned to a few quick strikes in Djem So. She countered with Ataru, and transitioned to Shien to counter his strong blows.

    There was a smile on his face as they clashed, and one emerged on her own.

    Break Skywalker's heart? Please! She'd break his face first...

    - - -

    Rotta slithered on by, settling down next to Aphra. The archaeologist beamed up at Rotta.

    "Great work, Rotta! You're getting better all the time!"

    "Thanks, Doctor Aphra," Rotta panted. He lowered his voice.

    "Gotta say, I'm really happy I'm not sparring with Miss Jade," he muttered, as Mara and Luke sparred aggressively, "you... you think Master Luke can handle her?"

    "Oh, I'm very confident he can," Aphra chuckled. Rotta chuckled along, sensing there was a joke but not quite understanding it.

    Humans could be so strange...

    - - -
     
    Kyle Katarn Arrives
  • AndrewJTalon

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    - - -

    Luke hummed as his senses picked up a strong Force presence moving towards them. He opened his eyes as he ended his meditation, rising to his feet and heading out.

    Rotta and Mara were doing deflection training in the yard outside the temple, while Ahsoka and Ezra sparred. Aphra was off doing some research on their growing Jedi Library. Sabine was cleaning her guns, and looked up at Luke as he passed by.

    "Expecting trouble?" Sabine asked. Luke shook his head, as a light courier starship flew down through the clouds.

    "No... But it is an unusual presence," Luke admitted. He headed to the hanger, after waving Ezra and Ahsoka and sending the message to keep practicing.

    He and Sabine made it to the hanger bay, as the courier touched down. The hatch opened, and a young, pretty woman in standard spacer gear walked down the gangway. She beamed and held out her hand.

    "Master Skywalker? I'm Jan Orrs, New Republic Agent."

    Luke shook her hand. Sabine smiled in recognition.

    "Oh yeah! You helped with the attack on Scariff, and the destruction of the Arc Hammer!"

    "As for the first? Yeah. As for the second? Still classified," Orrs said, and winked, "but yeah. My partner, Kyle Katarn, has a problem, Master Skywalker."

    "He's very strong in the Force," Luke observed, "incredibly strong."

    Jan nodded.

    "Yeah... Apparently his dad was a Jedi. We tracked down an Inquisitor named Jerec to Ruusan. That was a kriffing nightmare."

    As if by teleporter, Doctor Aphra popped up in the hanger bay with a grin.

    "Ruusan?! You've been to Ruusan?! Incredible! Did you find the Valley of the Jedi?!"

    "Jedi AND Sith, but yeah," Orrs said, and Aphra practically squealed in excitement, "Kyle grabbed some holocrons and built himself a lightsaber, and somehow, he was able to beat a former Jedi who had gone dark."

    "That's very impressive," Luke said, "we'd be glad to take him as part of our Order, if he'd like to join."

    Orrs' smile became a bit crooked.

    "Yeah... He really needs instruction... Come on."

    She led Luke, Sabine, and Aphra up into the ship. They passed a droid who was snickering to himself. They entered the rec room... And Jan pointed up.

    There he was: A messy haired, bearded man in old Jedi garb... Stuck to the bulkhead.

    "Uh, yeah, hey Master Skywalker," Kyle said, "that's what I call you, right?"

    "Luke is fine too," Luke said. Aphra tilted her head and asked the question on everyone's mind:

    "How did you get up there?"

    Kyle shrugged.

    "There's this Force ability I learned from a holocron? That's like Lightning, but not Darkside... And... I can't stop doing it."

    "So," Luke began, doing his best to keep his voice compassionate and not burst into laughter, "you're stuck... Thanks to static cling?"

    "Pretty much," Kyle said. "So... Little help? Without laughing?"

    "I promise," Luke said.

    "I don't," Sabine said, before she burst into gales of laughter.

    "How much are you going to pay me?" Aphra asked seriously.

    Jan snickered.

    "Looks like you found where you belong after all, Kyle."

    Kyle rolled his eyes.

    - - -

    Because Kyle Katarn is awesome... But getting stuck to the hull of his ship thanks to a Force ability is also fitting with his luck.
     
    Back in the Days - Part 1
  • AndrewJTalon

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    - - -

    Ord Mantell had started as a weapons depot, but the good climate and abundant natural resources, as well as proximity to several major hyperlanes turned it into an economic power. Casinos, clement banking laws, and the beautiful natural wonders brought in huge numbers of tourists. The pink clouds and other eccentricities made it a popular getaway across the galaxy, even during the Imperial period.

    Luke had been here a few times, but only on Rebel business. Now? He was here on Jedi business.

    But it was proving to be much more relaxing than the previous times. No bounty hunters were after him.

    He and Artoo wandered about the island of Avilatan. It was volcanic in nature, with trails, hotsprings, beaches and boat tours for the outdoor-minded tourist, and casinos, clubs, and restaurants for the more indoor inclined. An authentic museum detailing the civil war over three thousand years ago stood nearby a sports bar. Swoop Bike races went on underneath a tropical flower garden. Every kind of entertainment was presented, but it lacked the raw seediness of other pleasure worlds Luke had been on.

    Still, the Force was warning of danger. Luke checked his datapad-The New Republic informant had passed on a tip from a singer in the area. As well as an invitation.

    He paused as he spotted a holosign just outside a club: A beautiful platinum blonde woman, with mother of pearl colored irises, played a double viol in an alluring, silvery dress. He checked the datapad, and then headed up to the front office.

    A heavyset Gammorean was the only one there. He looked up from his desk with a scowl.

    "We're closed, genius. Come back in a few hours," he grunted in Huttese.

    Luke held up his datapad.

    "I have a personal invitation from Tionne," he said gently, "I'd like to know where I can find her."

    The Gammorean scowled more deeply.

    "What are you, a stalker or something?"

    "No, it's right here," Luke said, pointing to the datapad. The Gammorean read through the invitation, then looked back up at Luke. He scowled at Artoo for a long moment, before he fixed his eyes on Luke.

    "She mentioned something about a visitor, yeah," he said. He pushed a holocomm towards Luke, "left you a message."

    Luke took the holocomm, and played the recording. Tionne stood in some fashionable street clothes, smiling like a sun.

    "Hello, Master Skywalker. I've been so excited to meet with you! I've collected Jedi lore and history since I was a little girl-My grandmother got me into it. You can meet me in the courtyard of the Nobody's Inn. We should be able to talk alone there. I really can't wait to talk to you! Most recently, I learned the most exciting things about Darth Revan, and his abduction by the Leviathan! And his subsequent entrapment by the Sith Emperor-Oh, but I'll save me-Save us some time when we meet! See you soon~!"

    She winked and blew a kiss, before the recording ended. Luke stared intently at the holocomm, the danger sense in the Force screaming even more loudly.

    "How did she seem when she left this with you?" Luke asked. The Gammorean oinked in thought.

    "She seemed... A bit tense," he admitted. He then grinned widely. "Still! You're really Luke Skywalker? That Jedi who killed Vader? Can I get your autograph?!"

    Luke chuckled, and nodded to the eager Gammorean.

    "After I've met with Tionne. It's a promise."

    "Thanks, Master Skywalker, sir," the Gammorean said happily.

    - - -

    Nobody's Inn was a quiet, elegant white building on Avilatan's southern end. The local tourist Holonet links described it as a beautiful, peaceful spot for tourists to relax, meditate, and take in the ocean environment. It had been built after the Great Galactic War with the Sith Empire, by a local celebrity of some sort: A former smuggler, apparently, who was a war hero to the Republic.

    It seemed a little too clean and pristine for that sort of person... But then it had been three thousand years.

    Luke walked the stone paths, native plants filling in the gaps, as he approached the courtyard behind the large inn. He could hear the sounds of shoreline scavengers crying out, the roll of the surf... And music.

    A double viol was being played, and a sad, ethereal song washed over his senses. Even as the danger warning grew stronger.

    Luke headed in, Artoo rolling behind him. The song continued. Luke turned a corner, and then another, into the courtyard proper. It was wide, walled in by white tiled walls. White stones carved through a well kept garden, like a river. Many small shelters of wood dotted the landscape, all built to face south to behold the ocean's beauty.

    In the middle of a sandy spot, sitting on a wooden bench, Tionne played her song. Her elegant fingers plucked the strings, filling the air with sweet, melancholy music. Her awareness in the Force was actually quite strong-She noticed he had entered, but kept her rhythm as she continued to play.

    A man in a dark cloak sat at a nearby table under a shelter. He sipped some tea. Luke walked up to Tionne, Artoo hanging back a bit.

    "Hello Tionne," Luke said softly, "I take it you need some help?"

    Tionne stopped playing, and looked up. She pursed her lips.

    "It would be appreciate, Master Jedi," she said softly.

    The man in black leaped, igniting a red lightsaber and swinging it for Luke's head!

    A moment before it would have struck, Luke pulled out his own lightsaber, ignited it, and parried the blow. He smoothly turned, deflecting and parrying his assailant's next furious strikes. Luke then thrust out his hand, and with a Force push sent the attacker flying.

    He slammed into a bench, and got up. His hood fell away, revealing a tanned human with short cropped blonde hair. His jaw was thick, almost lantern shaped. His eyes burned yellow, as he pointed his red lightsaber at him.

    "Luke Skywalker," the man rasped, "you slew the Emperor, you slew Darth Vader. I now take revenge for them!"

    "Who are you?" Luke asked, "what's your name?"

    The man's Force presence wavered a bit, but he gritted his teeth.

    "I have no name. I need no name. I am my master's Wrath-And you will die!"

    - - -

    As you might guess, this is Kam Solusar. Here we're changing things up a bit-He was still the son of a Jedi Knight. He was captured and tortured into obedience by Vader and the Inquisitors. He was an experiment in creating a more obedient Inquisitor, by suppressing his memories with technology and torture. He became active as an Inquisitor some time after the Battle of Yavin, and has been tasked with hunting down Rebels and Jedi. Hence why he hasn't shown up until now.
     
    Back in the Days - Part 2
  • AndrewJTalon

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    - - -

    The Inquisitor dashed forward, thrusting his lightsaber for Luke's chest. Luke dodged to the right, then brought up his lightsaber to deflect his enemy's follow up swing. Luke parried the next strike, shutting off his lightsaber and ducking underneath the burning plasma blade. He thrust his lightsaber forward, reactivating it-

    The Inquisitor jumped back with the Force, narrowly avoiding the blade going through his stomach. Luke stood warily, sizing the Inquisitor up.

    "You fight well," Luke complimented him, "good instincts."

    "I was trained..." The Inquisitor trailed off, stalking around like a caged nexu, "a long time ago."

    "I can see that," Luke observed, walking along as the two circled eachother. Tionne stared, covering her mouth in horror. Artoo had retreated nearby her.

    The Inquisitor glanced at Tionne, and then back at Luke.

    "Why is your droid protecting her?" The Inquisitor demanded.

    "You took her hostage to lure me here," Luke said, "shouldn't I be concerned with her safety?"

    "I... I have no quarrel with her," the Inquisitor stated angrily, "harming her would be meaningless! You are my target!"

    Luke tilted his head, as the two continued to circle one another, slowly, carefully, the hum of their lightsabers filling the courtyard air.

    "That's not what you usually hear from an Inquisitor," Luke said, "in my experience... You're drunk off the Darkside."

    "I use the Darkside... It gives me power," the Inquisitor shot back, "but wasting it... What is the purpose?"

    The Inquisitor struck again, striking furiously in Juyo. He lashed out with several lightsaber blows, before dropping underneath Luke's counterstrike and slamming both of his feet into Luke's stomach. Luke lashed out with the Force, sending the Inquisitor flying away.

    The Inquisitor landed and dashed for Luke again. Luke grabbed some sand with the Force and cast it up into a cloud into his opponent's eyes. As the Inquisitor blinked through the distraction, Luke flanked the man and thrust for his saber arm.

    The man swung around, meeting the blade and locking the burning sabers against one another. He pushed back hard, and Luke took a step back, another... Before he summoned up his full strength, and stopped. The Inquisitor struggled, sweat beading on his brow, before Luke shoved him back, hard.

    The Inquisitor nearly lost his footing, and tried to throw a blast of the Force at Luke. Luke dodged, and unleashed one right back. The Inquisitor flew backwards, barely able to land on his feet before Luke fell upon him. Luke's lightsaber blows rained down on him like a lightning storm, as the Jedi Knight pushed his incredible strength in the Force through every strike.

    Just like his father had.

    The Inquisitor's lightsaber split, the half-crescent becoming a full circle around the handle. A second lightsaber blade, blood red, ignited on the other side. The Inquisitor spun it around himself, before swinging the weapon wildly at Luke. Luke parried and deflected every swing, weighing his options.

    He didn't want to kill this Inquisitor. His presence in the Force was dark, but... Not like the Emperor. Not even like his father's. And his mind... It was struggling, even as he attacked.

    He was full of conflict...

    But the only way to stop him might be something fatal... Luke's precognition wasn't giving him many futures, and yet...

    Luke leaped up over the Inquisitor's swinging blades, backflipping and landing some distance away. He eyed his opponent, and the Inquisitor stared back.

    Then... Music echoed in the courtyard. Luke and the Inquisitor looked over at Tionne, as her fingers played frantically over her double viols to notation Artoo was displaying with his holoprojector. It was relatively upbeat, a swinging jizz number... And yet there was a mournful tinge to it. A touch of the melancholy. Like it was homesick.

    "What... What is that...?" The Inquisitor asked. Tionne breathed hard, playing the song.

    "You remember it, don't you?" Tionne asked, "even after everything Vader did to you... That the Darkside has taken from you... You remember it..."

    The Inquisitor shook his head, and reached up to his temple. He gritted his teeth.

    "No... No, I-I can't remember that..." He muttered, "it's pain... It's all pain...!"

    "You remember it, because it's something your father knew," Tionne went on, "Ranik Solusar... A Corellian Jedi... From Kor Vella Mesa... You know it because it was written and played there first...!"

    "N-NO!" The Inquisitor shouted, "I DON'T-NO-STOP IT!"

    "It's your true self," Luke said, as the Inquisitor staggered about, "everything the Emperor suppressed in you... It's still there. You don't have to live like this-"

    "SHUT UP!" The Inquisitor bellowed, swinging his lightsaber around, "you can't... My mission... I HAVE TO OBEY!"

    "No you don't," Luke insisted, "you have a choice! You can choose! You can break free-!"

    "NO!" The Inquisitor roared. He threw his lightsaber at Luke, the weapon spinning like a deadly chakram. Luke deflected it, bouncing it back. The Inquisitor was running, flipping up to catch his weapon before swinging it down upon Luke. Luke reached up, stretched out with the Force...!

    He stopped the Inquisitor and the man in mid air. The Inquisitor's eyes widened in shock, just before Luke thrust his open palm forward.

    The Inquisitor lightsaber shattered like glass, the blades instantly dissipating. In the same motion, Luke used the Force push to slam the man down onto the ground, hard, cracking the pavement stones from the impact. The man panted for breath desperately, the wind knocked out of him.

    He stared up at the clear blue sky... Tears running from his yellow eyes.

    "Kill me..." He murmured, "I... I failed... I have... No future left..."

    "No," Luke stated, "there's good inside you..." He knelt down beside him. Tionne walked up slowly, still playing the music, as Artoo rolled up alongside her protectively. Luke looked up at her. Tionne swallowed.

    "I remembered a Jedi Masterin the archives, one who looked like this man," Tionne said, "He was called Ranik Solusar... He had a wife and son, got expelled from the Order by the Council for it."

    She looked down at the man in sympathy.

    "What Vader and the Inquisitors did to him..."

    "My... My name," the man whispered, "so long ago... What... What was it...?"

    "Let me help you remember it," Luke said gently.

    The Inquisitor... Very slowly nodded.

    Luke looked down at the man. He rested his hand over his forehead, and concentrated. His shields of hatred, rage, and fear were still strong... But Luke powered on through, an opening being made by the memories associated with Tionne's music.

    Inquisitor Jerec torturing him with lightning... Vader choking him and tossing him around like a ragdoll... The Emperor cackling as his own dark lightning ripped screams from his throat... Strapped into a chair as things were shoved into his mind...!

    Luke pushed past it all... To find the music playing in the background of a small, comfortable family home. Corellia's busy speeder lanes filled the window nearby. A woman, dark haired and beautiful, danced with a tall, handsome blond man. Both looked towards the man in the memory, smiling with love and affection...

    "Come on, Kam-Your favorite song's up!" The woman said.

    "I don't wanna dance by myself," Kam huffed.

    "You'll be dancing with us," his father consoled, chuckling. Kam looked up and, with a smile on his face, raced up to hug them...


    -The Inquisitor screamed, as Luke pulled his hand back. He panted hard, eyes wide. He stared up at Tionne and Luke, slowly calming down.

    Then... Like creaky gears turning... A small smile emerged.

    "Kam," he whispered, tears stinging the corners of his brown eyes, "my name... Is Kam..."

    - - -

    Luke and Tionne took Kam to the local hospital. They said he'd been injured in an accident, and they'd taken it at that. Clearly more than enough less than legal things happened around here the hospital had learned not to ask too many awkward questions.

    Tionne, Artoo and Luke watched Kam recover in the hospital room. It was Luke who broke the silence first.

    "You were able to reach him," Luke said gently, giving her a smile. She blushed and looked down.

    "I... I just played something I thought might appeal to him," she murmured, "something that he might have remembered-"

    "Yeah, but the odds of finding just the right song?" Luke asked, "remembering a Jedi who looked like him? And connecting the dots, that fast?"

    He turned to Artoo, who bleeped the probability. Tionne's eyes widened.

    "That much?!"

    "Yeah," Luke said, looking intently at the beautiful young woman. "You said you've always had a connection to Jedi history... It goes more deeply than just a passion."

    "You mean..." Tionne trailed off, her eyes going wide, "I'm... Force sensitive?!"

    "Not very strong right now, but yes," Luke said. Tionne frowned.

    "So... How not strong?" She asked.

    Luke hesitated.

    "It's hard to say," Luke admitted, "I'm not an expert. It might just be because you're not trained... The point is, it's there."

    Luke smiled as he looked over at Kam. Tionne followed his gaze, staring at the man.

    "And I know I'd want you as part of my order," Luke said, "you figured out how to reach Kam. You probably know more Jedi history than anyone else in the galaxy right now..."

    Tionne was silent, still looking intently at Kam. Luke sensed her mulling things over. He held up a hand.

    "You don't have to answer right now, but-"

    "Yes," Tionne said with a smile, "I... I'd love to. Especially since, well... Kam's going to need a lot of help, isn't he?"

    "Yeah," Luke said with a nod, smiling warmly back, "but he's got us now."

    "We've all got one another," Tionne said, "isn't that how the Force works? We're all connected? All in this together?"

    "Absolutely," Luke laughed.

    - - -

    I had this song playing in my head for the scene: Gershwin's "Summertime", but you can choose anything you'd like.
     
    Last edited:
    By Superspleen: "Lop"
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Lop scratched her ear as the waiter droid brought her, Luke, and Ahsoka their nerf steaks. Luke smiled after he smelled the seasonings on it.

    "Smells zesty." the Togruta said.

    "I wish you were able to try some of the really good stuff." Lop replied.

    Luke raised an eyebrow.

    "Seafood's a pretty big part of the local diet on Tao." Lop told him. "The Empire dumped a lot of industrial waste in the waters though. Hurt the fish population pretty bad. It's gonna be a while before we can cook a lot of the dishes we used to be able to make without needing to worry about poisoning ourselves."

    "You've got a beautiful planet." Luke told her. "I've never seen a culture like Tao's before."

    "Thanks. It's gonna be a lot more beautiful once their factories are gone. So, how many other Jedi are there?"

    "Two humans from Lothal, Jai Kell and Dhara Leonis," Ahsoka replied. "We've also got an Ithorian and a Human from a place called Hammertown."

    "That's...it?" Luke nodded.

    "We're looking for anyone else. Rebel Alliance Intelligence is keeping contact with us about any other prospective Jedi. We've already got a new temple being prepped on Yavin IV. It's not much but we're putting things together one step at a time."

    Lop cocked her head.

    "I can visit Tao every once in a while, right?"

    "Yep," Luke asked. "Keep contact with your family, keep an eye on what's going here, anything like that."

    Lop sighed.

    "I took part in the resistance on Tao because I wanted to make my father proud, because I knew the Empire was going to wear my home away to nothing if I didn't stand up for the people I cared about."

    "We do take 'no' for an answer," Ahsoka told her. "If you want us to leave you to think it over, we can..." Lop put up her hand.

    "I...it's OK. I'll go with you. The Yasaburo family's going to be in good hands even without me. Plus, I've got a much better chance of finding my sister if I go with you instead of staying here. We'll have to talk with my father about this but I think he'll see where we're coming from."

    "Your sister?" Luke asked. Lop looked down.

    "I'll tell you later."
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 1
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    Mara had woken up to a feeling of... Something missing. Like the brightness had gone out of the temple. It had become familiar, but... Unpleasantly so.

    She made her way to breakfast, grunting in response to the various greetings from Rotta, Ahsoka, Katarn, Aphra, Bridger, Wren and Orrs. She took her caff, drained it, wolfed down her breakfast, and got to work training.

    Which generally meant a spar with the only person who didn't have to hold back on her... Aside from Rotta.

    She and Katarn sparred in the training grounds right outside the temple. Mara struck first, thrusting furiously for his chest. He parried the blow, countering with a sweep for her legs. She jumped over it, feinting for his head before twisting her saber for his chest again.

    He maintained a very tight defense though, again deflecting her strike and continuing on with three quick thrusts-Two feints, and then a strike aimed for her head. She let him clash against her saber... Switched it off, ducked down and thrust for his belly!

    "Woah!"

    "ACK!"

    A wave of Force sent her tumbling back, and she landed hard on her back. She sat up and scowled, as Katarn chuckled.

    "First rule I learned when opponents pull that kind of trick? Make some space," Katarn said. He walked over, and extended a hand. Mara stared at it for a moment, before she slowly reached out to take it. Katarn pulled her up to her feet.

    "Learned that from a holcron too?" Mara asked, her voice now carrying the hint of respect.

    "Well... That and the ghost of my mentor," Katarn admitted. Mara stared, and Katarn sighed.

    "Okay, yeah, I know how it sounds but it's the truth-"

    "First Skywalker, now you?" Mara demanded, "how many Jedi Ghosts are there around here?!"

    Katarn gave Mara a crooked grin.

    "You have to admit, it's nice to have any kind of edge on the Darkside," he said, "if it's in the form of ghosts? I'm not complaining."

    "That, or you and Skywalker are crazy," Mara sniffed. Katarn shrugged, flipping his blue lightsaber in his hand.

    "Please. He and I are among the sanest people you will ever meet," Katarn stated.

    Orrs, who was working on her datapad on a nearby bench, snorted.

    "You and sane do not belong in the same language family," Orrs shot at him. Katarn rolled his eyes.

    "And yet, we're both still alive," he shot back. Orrs shook her head.

    "That is entirely thanks to the Force. There is literally no other explanation!"

    "So in a way, it's all thanks to me," Katarn grinned. Mara shook her head.

    "You two gonna need sound insulation like Bridger and Wren?" She asked wryly.

    "Of course not!" Orrs stated.

    "Absolutely not!" Katarn added.

    "We're just just friends," Orrs contributed.

    "Good friends," Katarn emphasized.

    Mara got to wore her smug face for the first time in a long time. It felt very good, all things considered.

    She spun around, lightsaber burning brightly, as she levelled it at HK-47. The assassin droid's face was, as usual, expressionless. However, the way it looked at her seemed... Approving?

    "Observation: Good reflexes, Mistress Jade. You are becoming better at detecting me. Compliment: Of my master's harem, you are the member I approve of the most."

    "I am not part of Skywalker's harem!" Mara growled, "get that through your processor or I'll tear you apart!"

    Katarn and Orrs were both covering up their smiles. Surprisingly, Katarn was doing a much better job of it. HK-47 nodded.

    "Condescension: Of course, Mistress Jade. Statement: One of the other Jedi meatbags is approaching. They are using the appropriate security codes. Statement: They might still be infiltrators here to attack, so I might finally get some excitement."

    "So that's what that was," Katarn observed, "that... Little niggling feeling in the Force. It's really annoying."

    An A-Wing fighter descended through the clouds, flying to the temple. Mara extinguished her lightsaber and jogged over to the temple. Katarn and Orrs followed, both curious more than anything else... But alert.

    They entered the hanger just in time to see the A-Wing land. Ahsoka was already out on the hanger floor, moving to meet the visitor. The hatch opened... And two long ears poked out, before the rest of a brown, female Lepi in yellow and red clothing leaped out.

    "Hello Lop!" Ahsoka said cheerfully. The Lepi grinned back, showing off her buckteeth.

    "Hey Ahsoka!" She replied, hopping over to hug Ahsoka. Ahsoka returned the good warmly, and Lop spun around. She blinked at Katarn and Orrs, then smiled.

    "Oh hey! You're the new Jedi, right? Katarn?" Lop asked.

    "That's me," Kyle said cheerfully. Lop beamed back.

    "Great to meet you! I'm Lop!" She hopped over, and gave Kyle a hug as well. Which he took without too much issue, patting the Lepi girl on her back. "Mmm! This place was so lonely for so long!"

    She turned to hug Orrs, who held up her hand instead. Lop blinked, then shook her hand. She turned to Mara... Who glared.

    "I don't do hugs," she stated.

    "That's a very sad thing to say," Lop declared. She then brightened, as Mara sensed two more familiar presences in the Force, "OH! Ezra! Sabine!"

    The Lepi sped up to Bridger and Wren, who looked disheveled... As usual. They gladly returned Lop's hugs, and the Lepi paused by Sabine. Her eyes brightened.

    "Oh my... You're pregnant?!" She cried happily. Wren beamed, glowing like a newborn sun. Bridger looked proud. Katarn looked about as nauseated as Mara felt over all this wholesomeness, while Orrs was just amused.

    "Yup!" Sabine said happily, patting her stomach, "medical droid on the Nightbrother confirmed it a few weeks ago!"

    "Ooh! Ooh! What are you going to name it?" Lop asked eagerly.

    "Mira," Ezra said.

    "Kanan," Sabine said, at the same time. The couple looked at one another.

    "Kanan if it's a boy," Sabine clarified. Ezra chuckled and shook his head.

    "It's gonna be a girl."

    "We promised it would be a surprise," Sabine growled. Ezra held up his hands, smiling good naturedly.

    "It is! I just know it's gonna be a girl."

    "Force powers ruin the surprise!"

    "I don't think it's a Force vision," Ezra replied, hugging his wife's shoulders even as she pouted, "I just know it's gonna be a girl."

    "Boy."

    "Girl."

    "Ooh! There's so much to plan!" Lop gushed, as she led the happy couple away. Katarn grimaced.

    "Urgh... I thought it was bad enough when they were banging all the time... Now this?"

    "Dibs on not being a babysitter," Orrs volunteered.

    "Same," Ahsoka stated.

    "Agreed," Mara added.

    "Don't look at me," Katarn said, holding up his hands and waving them, "that is a job for droids."

    "Statement: Your prejudice offends me, Jedi," HK-47 stated, "addendum: Just try it and find out what happens, Meatbag."

    Katarn was about to retort... When another Force presence lit up the area. Everyone turned to see a small, sleek shuttle approaching the hanger bay. Mara's keen eyes and memory swiftly identified it.

    "A T-6 shuttle," Mara observed.

    "I thought I was the only one with a functioning model left," Ahsoka murmured, "they were made for the Jedi Order almost exclusively!"

    "HK?" Mara asked.

    "Statement: The appropriate codes have been entered. The most recent, sent by Master Skywalker. Optimistic Statement: Perhaps some raider meatbags I could dispatch?"

    The shuttle came in for a slow, easy landing, the wings swinging from vertical to horizontal position. On the side of the ship was the name in stylish Aurebek letters: Lore Seeker. A loading ramp dropped, and a very attractive woman with platinum blonde hair, pearl eyes, a blue dress and a wide smile descended. She had a double viol slung over her back, and was pulling along a large suitcase.

    "Oh! Hello, Commander Tano!" She said in a bright, beautiful voice, "it's me, Tionne! We spoke on the holo?"

    "Yes, we did! I didn't know you'd get here so soon," Ahsoka said, graciously shaking the young woman's hand, "is that T-6?"

    "Oh yes! It is! I found her rotting in a used starship's lot near Lotho Prime! She's a genuine Jedi Order shuttle!" The young woman said excitedly. "I mean, the salesman tried to tell me that it was used by Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, but please. So did the last ten starship salesmen I met-Oh!" She bowed to Mara, Orrs, and Katarn, "hello! I'm Tionne! Uh, Master Skywalker invited me to join the Order!"

    "Along with a former Inquisitor, right?" Katarn asked. Tionne flushed.

    "Oh... Poor Kam's still recovering, but he said he wants to come. He just has to be cleared by the doctors-He's really very sweet, once he was freed from the mind control," she said.

    "People usually are," Mara deadpanned. Still... Since they were probably going to be working together...

    "I'm Mara Jade, former Emperor's Hand," Mara said.

    "Kyle Katarn, former Stormtrooper, Rebel operative, current Jedi, sort of," Kyle said cheerfully.

    "Jan Orrs. I'm actually employed," Orrs contributed.

    Katarn and Mara shot her glares, as Orrs smiled innocently. Tionne pretended not to notice.

    "Introduction: I am HK-47, human meatbag relations. And are you sure you're not an Imperial Infiltrator?"

    "Very sure," Tionne said, eyeing the droid warily.

    "Statement: Disappointed again. Excuse me."

    The droid stomped off. Tionne looked back at the organic beings.

    "It's very nice to meet you all," Tionne said, bowing again. "Sorry, really nervous-"

    "TIONNE!"

    Mara looked back. Doctor Aphra was grinning, and running up to Tionne. The beautiful blonde woman grinned back, and captured the archaeologist in a tight hug.

    "Doctor Aphra! Oh, it's so good to see you again!"

    "So, did that tip you sent to me for Luke get you in trouble?" Aphra asked. Tionne nodded.

    "Well, yes and no... But he's going to be all right! I mean, both of them!"

    "Great!" Aphra laughed, "come on! Let's start going through your collection, and start cataloguing everything!"

    "Ooh! Should we start from Tython's colonization and move our way forward?" Tionne asked.

    "Well, that's the traditional Vandreen method, but I was thinking we could try the Ziostian dating system..."

    The two's excited chatter trailed off as they went up into Tionne's ship. Ahsoka glanced back at Mara, Katarn, and Orrs.

    It was Mara who broke the silence first.

    "Oh good. Now there's two of them," Mara deadpanned.

    "Well, least she's enthusiastic... And healthy," Katarn observed, raising an eyebrow. Jan elbowed him. "Ow! What?"

    "Nothing," Orrs said, all too calmly.

    "Ugh," Mara grumbled, as Orrs and Katarn argued. She walked over next to Ahsoka, who was observing the fight with a smile.

    "Mushy idiocy, romantic nonsense, overly enthusiastic morons..."

    "It's great, isn't it?" Ahsoka asked, beaming. Mara snorted. She didn't say no... She wasn't going to say yes though, either. Instead, she changed the subject.

    "Shouldn't Skywalker be back by now?"

    Ahsoka shook her head.

    "He said he's checking out two more potential Force sensitives. One is apparently on Eol Sha. The other, Bespin."

    "Eol Sha's a doomed world thanks to its tectonic instability," Mara observed, "all that's left are some nomads descended from ancient settlers, and an Imperial mining operation. And Bespin has definitely seen better days. He couldn't have found any better leads?"

    "One step at a time, Mara," Ahsoka said calmly, "any Force users out there have become very good at hiding themselves. Luke's got his work cut out for him."

    "Please," Mara sniffed, "if I couldn't kill him... What chance does the rest of the galaxy have?"

    - - -

    The world was rich in metals and energy. Its surface was rough, like the shattered shell of a great egg. Yet even with endless volcanos and earthquakes, life hung on in this beautiful, violent world.

    Very angry, very hungry, very ravenous life, an entire pack of which had surrounded Luke the moment he had emerged from the landed Daybreaker.

    The lead monster had been saddled, and was ridden by a tall, broad, muscular man. His hair was long and done in braids, many adorned with beads, arranged like the wild mane of a great nexu. His face was stony, his eyes hard. His beard was ragged, poking out from behind a gas mask. He wore only a vest of animal hides, leather pants, and old looking manufactured boots. In one hand, he held aloft an ancient vibroblade.

    "If you are of the sky people," the man boomed, with calm, terrible certainty, "you will die."

    For some reason, Luke felt irritated with Mara. Not for the first time, and definitely not for the last.

    - - -

    I'm doing a bit of revision of some characters again. This will be Gantoris, who was the first student of Luke's Jedi Praxeum to die. His fate will not necessarily be the same, but that depends on how you like the changes I will make to his character.

    First off? His appearance is essentially this:


    ronon.jpg
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 2
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    The Force was strong with this man. So it was obvious what Luke had to do... Not that Artoo appreciated Luke approaching the armed man with ravenous monsters at his beck and call without a weapon in hand.

    To his credit, the man didn't attack. His beasts growled, but he held up his hand and they stilled.

    "My name is Luke Skywalker," Luke spoke, "what is yours?"

    The man scowled behind his mask for a bit, before he answered curtly:

    "Gantoris."

    "You can sense my intentions, Gantoris," Luke spoke, his voice loud, clear, and calm, "that I do not come here to fight you. That I am not your enemy. You know this to be true."

    Gantoris stared back at Luke, his mask and stoic face hiding his feelings outwardly. On the inside... Luke could sense a great deal of caution, but also a keen mind. Despite his speech and apparel, this man was not stupid. He was sizing Luke up, and comparing what he could detect with all of his senses to his experience.

    Gantoris then slowly dismounted, sliding off the back of the reptilian beast. The pack growled, but another look from him and they fell quiet. Gantoris walked out, his vibroblade still in his hand... But not pointed at Luke.

    "How?" Gantoris asked.

    Luke remained perfectly calm, and weighed his answer carefully.

    "We call it the Force," Luke said, "and it's why I've come to see you."

    - - -

    Gantoris, after a bit of thought, went with Luke into the Daybreaker. He looked around the interior of the ship, a bit confused, but not frightened. He accepted a seat, and some water. Luke sat across from him. Gantoris drank of the water, then set it down. And Luke did his best to explain the Force, the Jedi, and the Empire.

    The Empire Gantoris was familiar with. Their patrols had been going out, attacking his people. They were the "sky people" he had referred to, and the images in Gantoris' mind, the anger and rage at all they had done...

    Gantoris finished his water, and was quiet after hearing everything Luke had said. Then, he spoke his story:

    "I was... Gifted with foresight, from a young age. I was able to sense when an earthquake would happen, or when a storm was coming. Better than even the elders. I became a hunter, and a warrior-We've had to defend ourselves from the other tribes for as long as anyone could remember. I grew up, took a wife, had a daughter... I was happy. My powers... I learned how to sense the intentions of others. To command beasts. I was made our chief, after my father died."

    Gantoris trailed off. His face was like stone, but inside... His emotions were raging like the volcanos that dotted this world.

    "I had a vision of doom. Metal ships, men in white armor... A Dark Man. All used fire and lightning weapons to slaughter my tribe. I had a vision of my grandfather's tomb. We buried our dead in the Resting Mountain, the only stable ground anyone's found for centuries. I saw... A metal box, in my grandfather's grave. I needed it, but I didn't know why. I left, my wife's brother taking charge of the tribe until I returned. I went... I found the box."

    He slipped the box out of a leather satchel, and set it on the table. To Luke's keen eyes, it definitely looked Old Republic in origin-A hard lockbox, with a genetic scanner. The model was common, but it was built very tough.

    Luke looked back into Gantoris' eyes.

    "And then what?" Luke asked softly.

    Gantoris' eyes hardened. Rage and grief billowed up inside him. Visions of burning bodies crossed via the Force into Luke's mind. A ruined, blackened camp, only the dead left behind.

    "I returned and..." Gantoris fell silent, his face the stone mask again. Luke nodded, and conveyed his own memories of loss.

    Of the Lars homestead, burning. Of the bodies of his aunt and uncle, burnt and blackened.

    "You understand," Gantoris whispered. Luke nodded.

    "The Empire has taken much from both of us," Luke said quietly, "but that is why the Jedi exist. To fight such evil. To bring justice to the galaxy."

    "The scale... I can't grasp it," Gantoris admitted. Luke nodded.

    "It's overwhelming... But I can train you to understand. To use your power for the good of the galaxy."

    Gantoris fixed a stare on him.

    "I have only known protecting my tribe, my family," he said softly. Luke nodded.

    "I know. But as a Jedi... We must think of the innocent of this galaxy as our tribe. Our family. To stop those who would strike down the helpless."

    "If I was a Jedi, I could have stopped it, I could have..." Gantoris trailed off, his face still stoic even as self loathing and rage burned inside him.

    "Even the worst of the enemy tribes would never slaughter women and children," Gantoris growled softly, "would never butcher the elderly. The warriors... We competed, but to destroy those who can't fight back? What sense does that make?"

    "They enjoy using their power against the helpless," Luke stated, "because it makes them feel more powerful. But to be a Jedi? With our great power? We use it to protect the weak, and the helpless. To defend them."

    Gantoris looked down at his hands.

    "I cannot leave," he said, "not until my family, my people, are avenged."

    Luke considered immediately saying that revenge was not something the Jedi practiced... But Gantoris' emotional state suggested that was a bad idea. Instead, Luke drew upon the lessons he'd learned from Han on hard bargaining, and Leia in negotiation:

    Find a different angle of attack.

    "Destroying them won't bring back your family," Luke said carefully, and Gantoris glared fiercely, "however, the Imperials will keep doing this to the other tribes. Just like yours. Until they are stopped." He met Gantoris' glare calmly.

    "The mission of a Jedi is to fight for everyone. Being selfish with this power? Is not an option. As a chief... You understood this, correct?"

    Gantoris weighed Luke's words carefully. He slowly, reluctantly nodded.

    "It is true," Gantoris murmured, "it was a great honor... But a great responsibility. Yours is... Even more so. Do you... Think I could do it?"

    "The future is always in motion," Luke said, "but you have strength. And experience. What do you say?"

    Gantoris eyed Luke carefully. He pushed the box to Luke.

    "This box... Was important," he said, "I must know what is inside it."

    Luke nodded. He hit a few buttons, and the genetic scanner opened up.

    "Put your finger there," Luke said, pointing it out. Gantoris placed his finger on the scanner. The box clicked, whirred... And opened. Gantoris looked inside, and pulled out the contents:

    A single, slightly bulky lightsaber, with a handle of leather. He turned it over in his hands, and looked questioningly at Luke. He smiled, pulled out his own lightsaber, and ignited it. Gantoris' eyes widened as he beheld the burning green plasma blade.

    "This is a lightsaber," Luke said, "the weapon of a Jedi. Not as clumsy or crude as a blaster-Those weapons the Imperials used. An elegant weapon, for a more civilized age."

    Gantoris found the power button, and ignited the blade. A burning yellow blade emerged. Gantoris stood up, and moved to the center of the recreation area. He swung the lightsaber around, in well practiced motions, getting used to it. He glanced over at Luke.

    "There's no weight to the blade," he said.

    "No. It takes a lot of focus to master it," Luke explained. Gantoris studied the weapon, practicing some swings and thrusts.

    "My grandfather, then, was a Jedi?" He asked.

    "Most likely," Luke said, "probably crashed here, long ago."

    Gantoris doused the weapon, and turned to Luke.

    "I have nothing left, Luke Skywalker," he said, "I will go with you... But the Imperials must answer for what they have done. Before they do it to someone else."

    He knelt, and bowed his head.

    "I ask you... Please... Teach me the ways of the Jedi," Gantoris asked.

    Luke stepped over to Gantoris, and lifted him up by his shoulders. Luke nodded.

    "I will... Welcome to the New Jedi Order, Gantoris. It won't be easy."

    Gantoris, for the first time, smiled.

    "Good."

    - - -

    How's that?
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 3
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    Luke and Gantoris decided to take the long way to the Imperial base. While the Daybreaker could have taken then there in a few minutes, that would have been easily detected. Luke though was going to call on Artoo to help, make no mistake. The droid wasn't enthusiastic about that, but the prospect of getting to ride to the rescue was agreeable to the little droid.

    Gantoris was somewhat amused by the little droid.

    "A machine of metal has... Feelings?" He asked.

    Luke nodded.

    "Absolutely. You try to slight him, and he'll remember."

    "I will avoid it then," Gantoris said. Artoo beeped smugly.

    Gantoris brought his pack of reptiles to heel, with only a little difficulty. He called them 'rills', and his people had been using them as mounts for generations. He made one of them carry Luke, who rode bareback as he didn't have another saddle. They set off across the rough terrain, Luke rather enjoying the experience. The rill was eager to obey, not quite tame, but not feral either. It saw Gantoris and Luke as alphas, and would do as they wished.

    There was something about riding such a graceful creature that appealed to Luke. Something majestic, like the tauntaun, or the wampa, or even the rancor Luke unfortunately had to kill in the depths of Jabba's Palace.

    The journey took two standard days. During this time, when they took brief breaks, Luke would tell Gantoris more about the galaxy. He also did some light sparring with the giant man, and taught him a little bit about the Force. Gantoris absorbed it all with machine like focus. He took to practicing what he could as they rode. Luke was, frankly, amazed at the man's focus and drive.

    Though, as he looked around the broken, ragged landscape, he imagined that those traits had let him survive here. And thrive.

    Until the Empire.

    They caught sight of the Imperial mining facility at twilight on the second day. They used the jagged landscape to conceal their approach, finally stopping about two kilometers off. Luke pulled out his binocs, and scanned the perimeter.

    "It's pretty lightly defended," Luke said at last, "most of the defenses are passive... And..."

    He zoomed in. There were simple tents inside the base. He could see dirty humanoids in rags being herded by Stormtroopers. He handed the binocs to Gantoris, who looked through the device. His grip tightened on them, as his anger rose.

    "Slavers," Gantoris growled. Luke nodded.

    "This is what the Empire does," he said.

    "Then we liberate them. Tonight," Gantoris declared.

    Luke hummed.

    "Getting in through the sensors will be tricky," he said.

    "These... Sensors," Gantoris mused, "they react to living things, yes?"

    "Yes," Luke said. Gantoris handed the binocs back to Luke, and pointed out a spot on the wall, near the entrance.

    Luke looked. A few wild rills were grazing on hard plants near the entrance. There were autoguns on the tops of the entrance, and Stormtroopers at the gates... All of whom ignored the big lizards.

    Luke grinned.

    "I see what you mean," he said.

    - - -

    Night fell. The pack of rills approached the gates. Luke and Gantoris had removed the saddle, and anything else that might indicate these were tamed rills. They clung to the undersides of the rills, their bellies swaying as they headed for the gates.

    One of the two Stormtroopers guarding it watched, his feelings of boredom alleviated a bit by the presence of the creatures. He held up his blaster, ready to shoot one for amusement.

    He fired two shots... And with two swings of his lightsaber, Luke deflected them both back. The trooper and his companion fell over, and the rills continued onward. The autoguns above remained silent.

    Inside, there wasn't much. Just prefab buildings for the Imperials, the mine entrance, and the tents for the slave workers. About two dozen troopers came around to the rills as they entered, shouting in confusion and irritation.

    Luke hummed. The garrison for a mining base of this size would be small, only about fifty troopers. Half of them were here... It would do.

    "Now," Luke murmured to Gantoris. He reached out with the Force... And the Rills stampeded, roaring in fear. They trampled a dozen of the stormtroopers, the others panicking and firing.

    This is when Gantoris and Luke moved.

    Luke leaped out, ignited his lightsaber, and began to move through the Troopers with speed and skill. A Force Push sent one barreling into his fellows, knocking them all out. A swing of his lightsaber, and two lost their hands and went down. Three more tried to fire on Luke, but he deflected their blaster bolts right back at them, bringing them down.

    It wasn't much of a challenge, so Luke was able to focus a bit of attention on Gantoris, and how he fought.

    The man was quite quick despite his size, and very strong. Luke suspected he had figured out Force Might unconsciously, as he disarmed troopers by slicing their blasters in half, and then punched right through their plasteel armor with his bare hands.

    Gantoris deflected a blaster shot back at a Trooper, then charged another. He thrust the lightsaber right through the trooper's shoulder, making him scream, before he slammed his head down onto the ground. His foe unconscious, Gantoris moved on, closing the distance between him and the Trooper and punching his lights out. He fell, his shattered helmet lying around his head.

    The rest of the garrison soon came out, and while numerous, the chaos of the rills still rushing about and their fighting might made the conflict quick. Luke could sense the garrison commander's panic, and saw a nearby shuttle on a pad. He saw the commander rushing towards it. He hit his commlink.

    "Artoo? Now," Luke stated, "the shuttle."

    The Daybreaker flew overhead, firing its ventral laser cannons. The shuttle exploded, as the garrison commander fell away from it, covering the top of his head. He looked up, trembling, as Luke and Gantoris approached him. Gantoris pointed his lightsaber at the frail looking human with thinning hair, and growled.

    "You... You massacred my tribe," he snarled, "you murdered my wife and daughter...!"

    "It-It was standard procedure!" The man whimpered, "and-and you're Jedi! You-You won't kill me-I-I'm-!"

    "You murdered my tribe," Gantoris repeated, advancing on the man. The commander curled up in a ball, and sobbed, as Gantoris stood over him. He raised his lightsaber, his eyes burning with the reflected light of the burning shuttle.

    "I-I'll give you anything!" The commander whimpered, "money! Power! I-I have connections-Please! PLEASE! Just don't kill me!"

    Luke was only a few steps behind, his lightsaber at the ready. Already, he was wondering if this was a mistake.

    Revenge was the path of the Darkside. He had made that clear, in as subtle a way as he could, over the past two days to Gantoris. The man's anger was strong, and Luke couldn't blame him. His entire family, slaughtered...

    Would Luke have to stop his would-be recruit? What would that do to their relationship?

    Gantoris hesitated, glaring down at the sniveling little man. Luke could sense his pity, and his self hatred for feeling that way.

    Gantoris looked back at Luke, briefly, and then down at the man. The garrison commander was weeping outright.

    The pity... Won out, as Gantoris turned off his lightsaber. He shook his head in disgust.

    "You are not worth killing," Gantoris growled, "you are a coward. Deprive of your power, you face your end with tears."

    He took a deep breath.

    "There is no honor in ending your life," Gantoris declared.

    The commander looked up, relieved.

    "Oh... Oh thank you... Thank you...!"

    Gantoris shook his head, and turned to Luke. Luke nodded, approvingly.

    "Your... Republic will punish him?" Gantoris asked.

    "Yes, they'll-"

    Danger flashed in the Force. Gantoris sensed it too, as he reignited his lightsaber and swung around. He batted a blaster bolt... Right back into the garrison commander's throat. The little man's savage grin turned into a horrified gape, as he crumpled to the ground.

    Gantoris lowered his lightsaber, glaring in disgust at the corpse.

    "Coward," Gantoris seethed, "you got what you deserved."

    Luke nodded grimly. He really couldn't argue with that.

    "Lords?"

    Gantoris and Luke turned. The slaves had emerged from their tents, staring in confusion, and a bit of hope. An old man, leading them, immediately went to his knees and bowed to the two.

    "Lords... Thank you! We will serve you, however you wish!" The old man cried. His fellow slaves fell to their knees as well-Twi'leks, humans, and many others. Gantoris... Was contemplative.

    "You know," Gantoris admitted softly, "once... I dreamed of having followers like this. A long time ago."

    Luke stared at him.

    "And now?"

    Gantoris stared back at Luke. He shook his head. He walked up to the old man, grasped his shoulders, and pulled him up to his feet.

    "I am not a Lord," he announced loudly, "neither of us are. We are your liberators."

    He paused for a moment, before continuing.

    "We... Are Jedi."

    Luke allowed himself a small smile. Maybe he wasn't a terrible teacher, after all...

    - - -

    It took some time for a New Republic ship to arrive, but thankfully, Luke's name did get the machinery of bureaucracy moving a bit faster here and there. The relief shuttles flew down, and as they did, the Daybreaker flew off. Luke let Artoo handle the piloting, as he headed back to the recreation area.

    Gantoris sat on one of the leather couches, eyes closed. His emotions were clearer than they had been when they'd first met. He slowly opened his eyes, and nodded to Luke.

    "How are you, Gantoris?" Luke asked, as he sat on the other side of the round couch. Gantoris was silent, contemplative.

    "... When you found me, I was planning to die," he said.

    "Oh?" Luke asked. Gantoris nodded.

    "If you had not arrived... I would have gone into that base to die, fighting them with my last breath," he said, "my family... My tribe... All of it gone?"

    He looked over his lightsaber.

    "The tribe was everything to me," he murmured, "all that I was, went into serving it. Protecting it. I failed them. I thought... I had nothing left. Nothing but to join them in death."

    "And now?" Luke asked.

    "Now...?" Gantoris looked up at Luke, the ghost of a smile on his face.

    "Now... I am alive. I do not know what awaits us, but... I am eager to find out what it is."

    "As am I," Luke said with a nod.

    "What is our destination?" Gantoris asked.

    Luke smiled back.

    "We're going to find another Force sensitive. He's an old man who apparently got rich as a gas mining prospector. He knows where to be for the best eruptions, always before they happen... And he lives alone. Completely alone."

    "Sounds like an old shaman," Gantoris hummed, "crazy men who lived away from the tribes. Could speak with the dead. See the future."

    "How did you deal with them?" Luke asked. Gantoris snorted.

    "Stayed long enough to trade for what you wanted from them... And got out, before the fumes of the burning herbs got to you."

    "Well, if he's got burning herbs? I promise," Luke assured him, "we'll get out quick."

    Gantoris nodded.

    "Good."

    - - -

    Tatooine, Anchorhead

    Ahsoka could see why Anakin and Luke had wanted to leave Tatooine so much. Every time she visited, the urge to turn back and hop back on her starship got stronger.

    It was so dry, so desolate. The people had to be wrapped up in tough, handspun clothing to protect themselves from every hazard, ranging from the sandstorms to the suns above. Every thing here was determined to harm you in some way.

    She nestled deeper into her cloak, appreciating it's toughness as she walked out of the Anchorhead port building. Her companion, taller and broader, did the same.

    It was especially taxing on him. Even among humans, his complexion was quite pale. It made his copper red hair stand out more.

    "Gah," he muttered, "Tatooine. I hate this planet."

    "Agreed," Ahsoka said quietly.

    "Sure you couldn't have made Ezra come instead?" Cal Kestis asked wryly, "I'm sure he'd be ecstatic to be here again."

    "He's fussing too much over Sabine, he'd be distracted," Ahsoka said reasonably, as they walked the streets of Anchorhead. With the defeat of the Empire, and Jabba's loss, the New Republic had stepped in with some funding for the dry, windy world. They'd been able to raise and fund some defensive militias, just like the first settlers did. These militia members now patrolled the streets, as people went about their lives.

    It was subtle, but you didn't have to be a Force Sensitive to feel a sense of hope on the wind. With the Force, Ahsoka felt a lot less fear around.

    Not much, but enough.

    "I've got my own wife to look after too, ya know," Cal muttered, as he caught a pickpocketing child trying to run into him, and sent him off on his way. The child scowled, but ran off as the two Jedi watched him flee before they resumed talking.

    "Yes, but Merrin's busy managing the grounds," Ahsoka pointed out, "she doesn't need you distracting her from that."

    "Admit it: You're just jealous that you're single," Cal replied, giving her a teasing smile. Ahsoka huffed as they headed for the main city cantina.

    "I am not jealous," Ahsoka stated, "you youngsters just lack self control. Besides," and as they stepped into the Cantina, Ahsoka gave Cal a wry look, "if I was single, I wouldn't feel the need to show off."

    Cal grinned wryly, rubbing the stubble covering his pale face.

    "That was a Nightsisters' Ritual. Had to be done outside, in the open," Cal said. Ahsoka snorted.

    "Sure, keep telling yourself that," Ahsoka grumbled. She frowned and paused by a table full of rowdy Rodians. Cal frowned.

    "What?" He murmured, his senses scanning around for a threat. He could sense two strong presences in the Force, but neither felt hostile.

    "Someone... Very familiar," Ahsoka murmured, "almost..." She shook her head.

    "How familiar?" Cal asked.

    "Someone..." Ahsoka shook her head, "it's impossible. I'm... Let's get going."

    "You sure?" Cal asked. Ahsoka nodded, looking straight ahead.

    "Positive."

    They headed into the back. Ahsoka held up a piece of flimsy, and the bartender waved them in to the back. They went past a privacy cloth, through a door guarded by two grim looking Trandoshans, and finally went downstairs into a well appointed room. The decor was nice, but restrained: Shadowsilk embroidered chairs and couches, around a holotable. All set upon what looked like an old but well kept Chandrillan rug.

    It looked pristine... But the Force warned of eyes, and even people in the room they couldn't see. All ready to do them harm in an instant if commanded to.

    "Well, well, well," said a familiar, scratchy voice, "look who survived Order 66."

    Ahsoka and Cal turned to a hidden door, that opened from behind a nearby painting. A tall, pale Rattataki woman emerged, looking far fitter and athletic than her age would suggest. She was dressed in a dark blue top, and a skirt, embroidered with gold and other precious metals. Her hair was short and white, as she sat down and lounged on the couch.

    "Ventress," Ahsoka said, nodding stiffly, "it's... Been a while."

    "Surprised to see me?" Asajj asked, holding up a crystal glass. A being clad in dark fatigues and a balaclava appeared in a poof of smoke, poured her some wine, and then vanished with another burst of smoke. Ventress drank from it, as she waved her guests to sit on the other couch. Ahsoka did carefully, while Cal was far more casual in his body language. He leaned back, looking relaxed, while his senses were at high alert.

    "A little, yes," Ahsoka admitted, "but after all we've been through? It would have been strange if you had died."

    "Well," Asajj said, after finishing her wine, "it helps I made a lot of connections as a bounty hunter. Useful ones."

    "So, you're the Scorekeeper?" Cal asked.

    Asajj nodded.

    "I had some issues with the Mandalorian-inspired trials to be recognized as such," she said, "but I achieved it. I think Jabba thought it was hilarious, given how high my bounty was."

    "He always did have a twisted sense of humor," Ahsoka muttered. Ventress held out her glass, and the same mysterious being with the balaclava appeared, took it, and vanished-All in smoke.

    "So, what brings you here?" Ventress asked, "I'm not taking bounties on any more Jedi, so you don't have to worry about that."

    "We wanted to ask you to join us," Ahsoka said, "and help restore the Jedi Order."

    Ventress stared in disbelief. She then began to laugh, so hard she wrapped her arms around her belly and nearly rolled off the couch. Cal raised his eyebrows, as Ahsoka remained stoic. Ventress finally calmed down, wiping her eyes, and grinned at Ahsoka.

    "That's hilarious," she deadpanned.

    "I don't mean full time," Ahsoka said, "obviously... But there are a lot of Darksiders out there. We have a better chance against them together... A chance to make the galaxy a better place."

    "Like the Old Order did?" Ventress asked wryly. Ahsoka sighed. Cal leaned forward.

    "The Old Order did make a lot of mistakes," Cal admitted, "which is why we're hoping not to repeat those. Reaching out to you is one of them."

    "I was never actually a Jedi, you know," Ventress stated, "I was, at best, a Padawan-"

    "Same for us," Cal said, gesturing to himself and Ahsoka, "and we've all had to survive in the real world. That's why we're reaching out to you: To make the New Jedi Order something that won't get so insular, it misses a threat like Palpatine again! One that does make life better in the galaxy!"

    "You wouldn't have to quit anything," Ahsoka emphasized, "your position means you could do a lot of good... But we want to build a real community for Jedi. For Force users. To give them hope. To keep them from being turned into weapons... Like you were. Isn't that something you'd want to do?"

    Ventress was quiet. She held out her hand.

    "Funny you should mention that," Ventress said, "because I just got a very similar offer. Ruto?"

    The mysterious balaclava clad figure appeared. Ventress nodded to him. He vanished... And another hidden door opened. A tall, regal looking Miralian lady in a dark cloak walked in.

    "Ventress, I understand you're busy but-"

    Her jaw dropped. So did Ahsoka's.

    Ahsoka's eyes narrowed. She had her white lightsabers ignited and was on her feet in an instant. The Miralian woman drew a blue lightsaber and pointed it at Ahsoka. A tense silence fell, as Ventress grinned and Cal eyed the two enraged looking women warily.

    "So... I take it you've met?" Cal quipped.

    "Ahsoka, you remember Barriss, don't you?" Ventress asked, grinning like a hungry nexu, "I'm sure you've got so much to catch up on..."

    - - -

    Yes, Ventress employs Kage. Who are basically space ninjas. Wouldn't you employ them too?
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - Bariss Interlude
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    As for Book of Boba Fett...

    - - -

    Barriss Pelaeon, Imperial Jedi, was walking out the main terminal doors of the Anchorhead Spaceport. Her son Mynar kept pace with her, wearing plain clothing under a black cloak like hers.

    As they circled around the corner to the main doors out into Anchorhead proper, Bariss breathed in the harsh desert air. The twin suns burning overhead.

    It was strange that this little world should be the birthplace of so many powerful Jedi and Sith... Yet she supposed that was the nature of the Force. The unexpected, the incomprehensible.

    She and Mynar headed into the streets proper. Mynar almost bumped into two men carrying an elaborate painting-It seemed to be of Jabba the Hutt. While Bariss didn't like the subject, she had to admit, the workmanship was exquisite.

    "Oh, sorry," Mynar said politely. The two workers politely excused themselves, moving on their way... Just before a flash in the Force made Mynar drop down. Bariss followed, using the Force to push the two workers down just as a bright pink speeder bike flew by.

    'YEAH! HAHAHAHA!" The pilot of the vehicle, a young human girl in leather vest, pants, and with a cyborg arm, laughed as she flew about wildly. A few other such youths, riding the same model of speeder but in varying bright hues, joined her as they flew down the street wildly. Numerous people dodged out of the way in a panic. Militia members held up their blasters to fire stun blasts, but one of the youths used a sonic emitter in a cyborg arm, and they went down covering their ears.

    Getting involved in local issues was not one of Bariss's goals... But this much fear and confusion...

    "Mother?"

    "Follow me!" Bariss ordered as she got to her feet.

    She used Force Speed, and climbed up the side of a building to leap up onto the rooftops. She ran and jumped gracefully, to move ahead of the youths.

    Her son kept pace, right behind her. She leaped forward to a clearing intersection, and stood in front of the youths. Mynar landed beside her, staring in baffled disgust at their speeders.

    "Those scooters re for rich layabouts and their children on Coruscant," he muttered, "why are they using them here?"

    The leader of the gang held up his hand, and his fellows all slowed. They began to circle Bariss and Mynar, like hungry razor sharks. The leader smirked.

    "Well, well, well... What have we here? Hot school marm, and her little brother?" He asked.

    "I am Bariss, this is my son Mynar," Bariss said calmly, "I would like you all to cease your activities now."

    The youths laughed.

    "I've got my dad's starship for the weekend, and we're gonna mess up this poodoo hole planet however we like!" He said mockingly, holding up a cybernetic hand, "what's some Chin-bret mom and her son gonna do to stop us?"

    "Oh come on, Skad," the leather clad girl who had nearly run Mynar over simpered, "he's pretty cute. Let's not mess up his good looks, huh?"

    "Shut up, Drash!" The ringleader huffed, adjusting his cybernetic eye, "like I said... You wanna stop us? You better have more than words!"

    Mynar flushed a bit, but scowled at the young girl. Bariss shook her head, and shrugged.

    "Well... I tried," she said. She ignited her lightsaber... And tried very hard not to enjoy the gobsmacked looks on the faces of the cyborg children.

    The fight took about two minutes, at best. The cyborgs were tied up with rope one of the grateful shopkeepers gave to them, and their colorful speeders were lashed together. Bariss led them away, up to the local militia headquarters.

    The man on duty, a Gran, rose up and nodded with a grin.

    "Well done," he spoke happily in Huttese, "you caught them! Want the bounty?"

    Bariss hesitated.

    "Depends on the nature of the bounty," Bariss said, "it's not for them dead, is it?"

    "No," the Gran stated, holding up a flimsy, "it's from their parents: 'Returned safely to be punished.'"

    The youths all groaned. Skad grimaced.

    "My dad's gonna kill me," he moaned.

    "If you were my son," Bariss stated firmly, "I would do far worse."

    Mynar nodded at the fearful looks on the cyborg's faces.

    "She would. Trust me," Mynar said.

    "We'll be good," Skad muttered.

    Drash looked up at Mynar hopefully, batting her eyes.

    "So uh... Can I get your holo number or...?"

    "No," Mynar stated flatly. Bariss shook her head at the crestfallen look on the girl's face. Still, it was nice her son was so handsome.

    She thought he was, of course... But then, she was his mother.

    She turned back to the desk Gran, who had presented some flimsies to her.

    "Now, I just need your Bounty Hunter's Guild license..."

    "
    Ah..." Bariss waved her hand, exerting her will with the Force, "you've seen my license and everything is in order."

    "I have seen your license and everything is in order," the Gran reported. Bariss smiled.

    "Also... Can you point me in the direction of the head of the Bounty Hunter's Guild? I need to talk..."

    - - -

    Yeah, I hated the Mod Gang. The concept of a gang terrorizing Mos Espa and Boba Fett having to take them over is very interesting... But their appearance and attitude didn't fit. They were like a bunch of rich kids slumming it for kicks. Tatooine is not southern California, it's FREAKING TATOOINE. It's a desert world, with a desert culture, that wouldn't have fucking Vespa gangs! Swoop bike gangs of rough and tough kids who actually have had a hard life, not these Power Ranger rejects! Fuck you Disney!

    So in this universe, Boba had to fight like... The Black Sun and other gangsters to become daimyo of Mos Espa. Who had killer cyborgs. And he could have taken a young gang of actual kids under his wing to teach them honor and respect. But they'd be an actual street gang, not these losers.
     
    Interlude: Jungle Heat
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Well, someone had to write this... So it may as well be me...

    - - -

    Luke knew Yavin IV could get very hot, and with the humidity? It could be nightmarish. So he'd made sure to install a decent air cooling unit in his quarters. Oh, he was going to add a central unit for all the rooms, but until more people came? He wasn't going to expend any more money than he had to.

    He had been raised as a moisture farmer on Tatooine, after all. You held onto your credits like you did your moisture. He didn't know if charity was a Jedi trait, but he figured as long as he didn't have a pressing need to buy something, he was doing okay.

    So he was nearly to sleep, relaxing in his bunk, enjoying the climate control... When his door opened. He sat up.

    "Aphra?" He murmured.

    "It's too kriffing hot," Aphra groaned. Luke flushed a bit. He was far from the blushing, virgin farmboy when he first met Aphra, but... Well... Her in nothing but shorts and a sports bra?

    Yeah, that was definitely hot.

    "And you're the only one with climate control," Aphra stated, walking in as the hatch closed behind her. Luke sighed, and made to get out of the bed.

    "All right, I'll let you-"

    Aphra pushed a hand against his chest, and smirked.

    "Nope... You're staying right here~," Aphra said cheerfully, jumping in and cuddling up, "now go to sleep, Luke. I want my cuddle bug."

    Luke sighed, and leaned back with the sexy archaeologist. He tried to imagine his Aunt Beru's underwear.

    Okay, that helped... A little...

    Then...

    The door opened again. Luke looked up. Mara Jade, in just as heart stopping-ly brief an outfit as Aphra, stepped in.

    "Okay Farmboy, no more hording your climate... control..." Her green eyes narrowed.

    "Am I interrupting something?" She hissed. Aphra looked up and beamed.

    "Wanna join in?" She asked.

    "What," Luke and Mara managed. Aphra beamed.

    "Look: Either you go and suffer in the heat and humidity, orrr... You join me and cuddle up with the hunky Jedi Master," Aphra said, "I mean, you could make a big noise about it and act like you hate it... Or... You can just join us. Like it's no big deal."

    "Of... Of course," Luke muttered.

    "It-It's no big deal!" Mara growled. "I just don't want to deal with your poodoo!"

    "Then if it's no big deal, just join us," Aphra said.

    Luke blinked. He had worked things out. There's no way Mara would go for it. Sure, he had some hints she might feel something... More for him, but... She wouldn't fall for that kind of insane, twisted logic-

    "Fine," Mara muttered, "scoot over."

    ... Okay, so she would.

    She took Luke's other side, and cuddled up.

    "Uh, Mara?" Luke asked.

    "Just shut up," Mara muttered, "I just want to sleep, Farmboy. I'm not remotely attracted to you."

    "Strangely specific denial," Luke sighed. He held her and pulled her tight. She didn't object.

    Neither did Aphra, but... She never did.

    The door opened once more. Ahsoka looked in, in her own skimpy clothing.

    "Luke, I... Ah," she smirked, "I see you're occupied."

    "Room for more~!" Aphra cheered.

    "Shut up, Aphra," Mara groaned, "no more. Go stay in your ship!"

    "That uses up fuel!" Ahsoka complained.

    Luke was keeping his eyes shut. There was way too much distracting stuff to see.

    "Okay," Aphra said, "I know how to decide this: Tickle fight! You win, you get to sleep with Luke!"

    "You'll lose. Instantly," Mara stated.

    "That all depends on your definition of losing!" Aphra chirped.

    "That's it," Luke sighed, "I'm sleeping on the floor."

    - - -

    Meanwhile, in the Fool's Array, Rotta was hard at work in the engine bay. The hyperdrive was threatening to overheat. The air was wavering from the heat leaving the engine, joining the extreme humidity.

    Well... For humanoids. Rotta didn't know what they were complaining about...

    Things were just fine for him.

    - - -

    Because I've gotta be me.
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.1
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    Bespin. Luke still had bad feelings over this world. He knew why. He'd talked it out with some therapists Leia had made him go to. He'd talked about it with Aphra and Mara too, but that had been... Less helpful.

    But also helpful? Women, geez.

    "City in the clouds?" Gantoris asked, his eyes slightly widened in wonder, "incredible... I almost want to call it magic."

    Artoo beeped something snarky, and Luke shot a glare at his droid.

    "It is... Pretty amazing," Luke admitted, "when you think about it."

    Luke veered away from Cloud City, adjusting his course. He immediately felt better, though he tried not to think about that too much.

    "Lando's coordinates should be accurate," Luke said to Artoo. The droid beeped back in the affirmative.

    "Is this Lando not reliable?" Gantoris asked.

    "He usually is... Nowadays," Luke admitted.

    Another floating cloud city soon came into view. This one wasn't too different in concept from Cloud City, but the architecture was far different: More jagged and with far straighter lines. It was a harsh contrast with the endless clouds and streams of vapor.

    "Who are we looking for?" Gantoris asked.

    "He's an exceptional tibanna gas miner," Luke said, "like I said."

    Luke closed his eyes, and focused.

    He could sense one mind here. He let his shields drop, just enough to let the mind know he was coming.

    The Force presence was... Alarmed. But Luke was able to narrow down where it was. He headed for a landing platform on the outskirts of the city platform. There was a makeshift repulsorlift raft attached to it by a metallic cable, cobbled together from several unrelated craft. Luke brought the Daybreaker in for a landing, smoothly bringing it down on the landing pad. He shut down the ship, and got up. He and Gantoris headed down the ramp, onto the landing platform.

    Gantoris frowned.

    "To live so far away... Will he be... Friendly?"

    Several old Imperial probe droids began to float up, with stun beams charging up. Luke and Gantoris ignited their lightsabers.

    "Doesn't look like it," Gantoris muttered.

    "Don't worry, we're very persuasive," Luke said.

    - - -

    A bit short, but we're still going!
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.2
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    Luke took care to not destroy the droids-He could see a lot of custom modifications had gone into each one, and he was loathe to ruin them.

    Gantoris wasn't as well versed in such work though, so he just smashed his way through them. They made it to the door to the landing pad, which was locked up tight. The droids tried to surround them, but it was really a losing contest for them-They just weren't made to fight.

    After eight droids went down, a loudspeaker crackled to life above them.

    "Go away! I don't have anything worth stealing! And I'm certainly not worth killing!" An older man's voice rang out, annoyed.

    "We're not here to kill you, old man!" Gantoris growled, but he stopped further shouting when Luke held up his hand.

    "We're not here to rob you, sir," Luke called out, "we just wanted to talk. And you may suspect why."

    Luke doused his lightsaber, and he nodded to Gantoris. The warrior hesitated, but he shut off his own lightsaber. Luke held his hands out, spreading them wide.

    "We just want to talk. We won't harm you. I promise."

    Silence fell. The nearby door finally opened up, slowly rising. Luke and Gantoris watched the massive door slide up, revealing the sole occupant of the city bit by bit.

    He was middle aged, with dusky skin. He had a beard that was going white from dark brown, and fast. His eyes were clear in a wan, aged face. Atop his head he wore a helmet with retractable goggles, which were currently held up over the brim of his helmet. His clothing was a simple but tough high altitude technician's suit, with a vest and belt covered in tools. He eyed them warily, as Gantoris sized him up and Luke assessed him.

    "Mister Streen, I presume?" Luke asked.

    Streen snorted, but nodded.

    "Well! If you're here to talk, talk," the gas miner huffed, "I'll put some tea on."

    - - -

    The apartment was extremely nice, given the general state of the decrepit cloud city. But it was rather messy, Streen keeping his tools all over the place. Even so, he had a couch, which he allowed Luke and Gantoris to sit on while he grabbed a spare chair from somewhere and sat down. They all sipped their tea in silence for a time, only the sound of the automatic cooking droid filling the air.

    Streen looked over at them, still wary.

    "So... You wanted to talk, right?" Streen asked, "I'm not very good at that, I'm afraid. Haven't gotten much practice."

    "You live alone," Gantoris stated. Streen snorted.

    "Great deductive work there. You also know you broke my droids?"

    Gantoris stared intensely at him... Then nodded.

    "I apologize," he said.

    Streen blinked, and sighed.

    "Yeah, well... I may have overreacted," he admitted, "I live like this, well..."

    "Because you can't stop hearing and feeling other's thoughts and emotions," Luke said. Streen stared at him, gobsmacked.

    "How did you-?!"

    "Because it's something we can do, as well," Luke said, "and other things. Through the Force."

    "The Force?" Streen hummed, "I'd heard about it... Heard about... Jedi... Long ago..."

    "That's what we are," Luke said. He held out his hand, and made Streen's chair rise up into the air. Streen yelped, and held onto the armrests in shock. Luke smiled apologetically, and slowly lowered the chair back to the floor. Gantoris watched, impressed.

    "That... Wow... Hoo," Streen muttered, shaking his head, "wow... Okay."

    "Before the Empire, people like us would have joined the Jedi Order," Luke said, "or been found, at least. Why weren't you?"

    Streen shrugged.

    "I... Well, I was born on Nar Shadda. Jedi were all for the Republic, right? Well, I guess I was outside the system. I'd barely heard of them by the time I was fifteen-And by then, the Clone Wars had broken out. I didn't want to fight... Couldn't stand being around other people... So I became a gas miner."

    "A very good one, too," Luke said with a smile.

    "Yeah," Streen snorted, "but all the credits in the universe can't make a man less lonely."

    Streen leaned back, and considered Luke.

    "You'd want me to join your Order? I'm no warrior."

    "Many Jedi weren't," Luke said consolingly, "I'm not asking you to join us to fight through the entire Empire. But you have a gift, a great power. If it's trained properly, it can do a lot of good-For yourself, and for others."

    "What makes you think I am a good man?" Streen snorted.

    "Well, you could have tried to kill us," Luke offered, "but you didn't."

    "You do not have the need to kill, to harm," Gantoris contributed, "you are... Kind, despite everything."

    Streen was silent, contemplating his tea. He looked back up.

    "If you can teach me how to... Control this gift," Streen said, "let me rejoin the galaxy? Then... Kriff it. I'm in."

    Luke smiled and nodded.

    "Start packing then. Let's get going."

    - - -

    Streen didn't take long to pack-Despite his wealth, his belongings were few and modest. He did insist on bringing along a few of his droids-They would come in handy.

    Before he left though, he untethered his repulsorlift raft, and let it float away. Luke could feel a sense of relief radiating from Streen, as he watched the raft sail away into the clouds-Vanishing into Bespin's atmosphere.

    "Won't need it anymore," Streen said, "and... Well... All the memories I've got associated with that thing? Were no different from my memories here."

    "Now you are unfettered," Gantoris said with a nod, "a new man."

    "A new man?" Streen smiled. "I like the sound of that..."

    Streen went up into the Daybreaker, soon followed by Gantoris. Luke lingered a bit outside, smiling up at the sky.

    So far, so good. He'd found two more Force Sensitives for the Order. Both eager to join, and decent guys as well.

    He only hoped Ahsoka and Cal were doing as well in their mission...

    - - -
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.3
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Anchorhead, Tatooine

    - - -


    Mynar had been a bit delayed, taking a holocall in the waiting room of the Scorekeeper while his mother went to go see her. Since it was high priority, it was hard to avoid. Still, it was a tad surprising who was on the other end.

    "Father?" Mynar asked. His father smiled.

    "Mynar, how are you doing?" He asked.

    "I'm all right, Father," Mynar said, "what are you calling for? Is it an emergency?"

    "Potentially," his father said, "we got a tip that Ahsoka Tano is also on Tatooine: Probably for the same reasons you and your mother are. To recruit the Scorekeeper and any other Force Sensitives."

    Mynar blinked. He definitely recalled Ahsoka Tano. The tall, beautiful Torgrutan had always seemed incredibly beautiful, even in her wanted posters. Okay, especially in her wanted posters. Yes she was the enemy, but she'd made quite the impression on his young psyche.

    His mother had held onto some posters for some reason. He'd gotten part of the story from his father, and his own research: Apparently his mother had framed Tano for the bombing of the Jedi Temple. And from how his mother would go silent on the subject... It really hurt.

    Which was terrible, but his young fighter pilot Jedi Knight brain couldn't help but focus more on the prospect of meeting her... Wow...

    "So I suggest you stick with your mother at all times," his father continued, "any incident involving them might be... Unfortunate."

    Mynar nodded.

    "Of course, Father," he said.

    "And no pining after Rebels, please?" Pelaeon asked. Mynar scowled.

    "Father! I-I don't do that!"

    "Just saying, you're barely out of your teens and... No, I'm sure you'll be fine," his father said, smiling fondly.

    "Yes Father, we will absolutely..."

    He trailed off as he felt his mother through their Force Bond. She was surprised, enraged... And guilty. There were similar flares of emotion from the room next door.

    "And I'll be right back!" He stated quickly, shutting off his holocom. He dashed into the room, lightsaber at the ready...

    And saw his mother and Ahsoka Tano standing off, lightsabers burning, as they glared hatred hard enough to melt durasteel. Some tall redheaded human Jedi was standing behind her, holding his lightsaber but keeping it unlit.

    And the Scorekeeper, Asajj Ventress herself, was sitting on a couch between his mother and Tano, looking amused. She held up a hand, and a pipe appeared. She began to smoke cheerfully.

    "Today's far more entertaining than I thought it was going to be," she admitted happily.

    "Uh, Mother? Miss Tano?" Mynar tried.

    Ahsoka shifted her glare over his mother's shoulder.

    "Who's this? Your boy toy?" Ahsoka scoffed.

    "This is my son," Bariss growled tightly.

    "Uh, Lieutenant Mynar Pelaeon, Imperial Jedi Knight, Miss Tano," Mynar introduced himself, hoping he came off as confident.

    "You married an Imperial Officer?" Ahsoka growled, glaring white hot death at his mother. "You spread your legs for anyone who would take you in, huh?! Pump out this whelp as insurance against being killed?!"

    Mynar gaped. Yeah, suddenly Ahsoka Tano had become a lot less attractive.

    His mother tightened, as her presence in the Force grew. Her rage was burning like a forest fire. Yet when she spoke, it was calm and controlled.

    "Insult me all you like, Ahsoka Tano. You deserve to, for all that I did to wrong you," Bariss stated, "but you will not insult my husband or my son ever again. Understand?"

    Ahsoka sneered.

    "And what will you do to stop me, traitor?"

    "Enough," The Scorekeeper sighed, holding up her hand. She snatched the lightsabers out of her hands with the Force, holding them up between them, "you two aren't going to wreck up my house with your spat."

    She leaned back, contemplating the two glaring Jedi. She shook her head.

    "Honestly, I don't see why you two can't work together," she said, "one learns to let go of debts and slights in old age. Or so I've heard."

    "I fail to see why anyone has to fight here," the redheaded man finally spoke up, "or die. We're all Jedi, right?"

    "No Jedi works for the Imperials!" Ahsoka spat.

    "I'm trying to change the Empire for the better, from the inside," Bariss said, teeth gritted, "the more our two sides fight the worse the destruction will be!"

    Ventress yawned, leaning backwards on her couch.

    "Ugh... You two debating about politics is just as interesting as it sounds," she whined, "listen: You two will have to work your poodoo out somewhere else... But I'm in a good mood today. So I'm willing to compromise. All right?"

    "I'm listening," Bariss managed, as Ahsoka scoffed.

    "I'll work with both Jedi Orders," Ventress said, "you're going to need a neutral party to deal with your stupid drama. And it's very entertaining, watching you two posture. I don't see a need to be aligned with anyone in particular. Staying neutral but friendly to all works best for me. Besides, Jedi don't throw fun parties."

    "Hey now," the redhead said, "you haven't experienced one of our parties on Yavin IV. Drunk Luke is hilarious."

    "I'll take that into consideration," Ventress said, "but for now? Neutrality suits me just fine. Not until I have a better idea of what you two can do."

    Ventress smirked, and cast the lightsabers back to their owners, where they were extinguished. Ventress pulled out two holo chips. She floated them over to Ahsoka and Bariss. Ventress took a long drag from her pipe, and blew smoke up into the air.

    "To you, Tano? This is a bounty someone tried to post on Kam Solusar. He's recovering on Dac, where Princess Leia and her husband are going to visit him and a friend of theirs very soon: Doctor Cilghal: Niece of Admiral Ackbar? I rejected it, but some scabs took it happily. With so many targets in one place, they won't resist. You and Kestis here can help them out."

    "When were you going to tell us that?!" Ahsoka demanded.

    "When you two stopped bickering like a pair of unruly children," Ventress snorted.

    Mynar's mother had the grace to bow her head, and clip her lightsaber back to her belt.

    "My apologies for that," she said.

    "Always the subservient one," Ahsoka grumbled, taking the holochip. Bariss sucked in a breath, but said nothing.

    "And for us?" Mynar asked, as Bariss grabbed the holochip floated to her.

    "There is a Jedi Master and her padawan on Felucia," Ventress stated, "they have been hiding out for a long time. They avoided an assassin of Vader's some time ago. They're good-I had to investigate myself. More scab bounty hunters will be trying to take them down. You can save them, then try to convince them to join your little order, despite them having every reason to reject you Pelaeon."

    Ventress smirked, looking at them through the twisting tendrils of her smoke.

    "I wonder which of you has the harder task?"

    "Come on Cal," Ahsoka grumbled. She glared death at Bariss, "this isn't over."

    "No, it isn't," Bariss agreed, "but for now... We both have important tasks. Mynar? Call ahead to the ship: We need to get going, now."

    "
    Yes mother," Mynar said. He looked over at the redhead. "I didn't get your name."

    "Cal Kestis, Jedi Knight," he said with a nod, "and uh... Good luck, kid?"

    "To us all," Mynar said. He tried a polite bow to Ahsoka. "Good luck, Miss Tano."

    "Hmph," Ahsoka grunted, "least she raised you with some manners."

    "Unlike you," Bariss shot back.

    "Get going, already," Ventress grumbled, shaking her head, "brats!"

    - - -

    How was that?
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.4 Written by Superspleen
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Foamwander, Dac

    Cilgahl stood next to her patient, who was standing beside her with his eyes closes. On the other side of the viewport was an expansive reef overflowing with fish and marine plants. Kam's breathing was steady, his hands open and at his sides. Her presence was a calming one, just like usual.

    Cilgahl had met him right the landing pad when he was dropped off and had been a constant companion of his from that very moment. She never spoke unless he'd finished and her insights were as deep as the oceans of her home world. Ackbar's niece was putting him on the path to getting a firm grip on himself after years of service to Palpatine.

    Kam wondered what he'd do without her.

    "I want you to reach out with your mind," Cilgahl told him from her spot on the couch. "Take in everything." Kam took a deep breath and shuddered a little.

    "It's cold but there's...so much movement. So much life. I can feel the sun a little."

    Colgahl nodded. They were maybe three meters beneath the surface so sunlight was easily penetrating the surface of the water.

    "I can feel the movements of the fish."

    "How many?"

    "Two schools at the moment. Wait, no, three."

    "How do they move?" the Mon Calamari asked.

    "They're darting behind some weeds. I think they can tell a predator is nearby but they're not sure where." Cilgahl smiled.

    "Anything else?"

    "Too much to focus on, to be honest." She giggled.

    "Alright then. Open your eyes." Kam did so and took in the sight of the reef.

    "I remembered what you told me about being near Palpatine. About how there was no warmth when he entered a room. How there was no warmth in your surroundings." Kam sighed.

    "Palpatine was like a black hole, a force of pure cold darkness. It was..."

    "Unnatural?"

    "Yes. My quarters when I served the Empire were just colored white, grey and black. They felt lifeless."

    "In that case, do you know why I had you do this?" Kam nodded.

    "The water outside is cold but it's a natural cold. There is light in it, life in it. It's vibrant." Kam smiled.

    "I could feel a bit of warmth from you as well. I take it that means we've gotten satisfactory results."

    "You could say that." Kam looked at her oddly.

    "I don't know if it's just because I'm still processing what I've felt just now or me going back to a normal sleep schedule, but you're somewhat more attractive than I first noticed."

    Cilgahl blinked and her whiskers quivered with embarrassment. She put a hand on her head.

    "I think it's just you." Thankfully, her com link chirped and she answered it.

    "Yes?"

    "The Falcon has arrived in system," Gial told her. "They should be here in a half hour."

    "Thank you uncle."She looked at Kam, who was now somewhat red in face.

    "I'd...like to continue with the exercise if possible."

    "Of course." The Mon Cala smiled.

    "Try not to let my beauty distract you."

    "I will try my best," he said bashfully.
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.5
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Foamwander, Dac

    - - -

    Leia was tensed up from the moment they'd left Coruscant. But as they landed on the landing pad at Foamwanderer Hospital on Dac, Han could see her knuckles turn white as she gripped her dress. He held out a hand, and rested it on hers gently. She started, and looked up at her husband.

    "Sorry," she murmured, "I'm just..."

    She glanced at the holocommunicator. Han followed her gaze, and nodded.

    "I know," he said softly, "I've been resisting the urge to call back all flight, too."

    Leia smiled warmly.

    "I know Winter and Chewie will look after them," she said, "but... Still..."

    Han nodded. He touched the flimsy of the twins he kept in his jacket. Leia watched him, and beamed.

    "Come on, let's get this over with so we can go back and see 'em," Han declared, standing up and guiding his wife out by her hand. She graciously accepted as they walked out of the Falcon's cockpit. Threepio was waiting at the entrance, polished and fretting as usual.

    "Ah! Apologies, Mistress Leia, Captain Solo: I came out of my recharging cycle right as we landed! I hope I'm not jumping the blaster, as it were?"

    "Not at all, Threepio," Leia said with a fond smile, "we just had to make some checks as we landed."

    "Oh, naturally, naturally!" Threepio said, as the landing ramp descended. They headed down slowly.

    "By the way, Captain Solo," Threepio said cheerfully, "I again must thank you for the Cybot Galactica Model P0 Recharging and Maintenance Alcove! Oh, I've needed sooo much maintenance! I was completely wrong about you!"

    Han smirked softly.

    "Not at all, Threepio," he said, "I'm a man of hidden depths."

    Leia covered her own smile. The fact of the matter was, Han had bought that elaborate recharge station for one reason only: It ensured Threepio was silent whenever he was aboard the Falcon. And as fond as she was of the golden droid... He did have a bad habit of blundering into places at the most inopportune times.

    Han squeezed her hand, his smile mischievous. He knew what she was thinking, all right. She returned the smile, as they met their guide at the hospital entrance.

    Yes, they would definitely be enjoying Threepio's recharging station on the way home...

    - - -

    The interior of the hospital was like most modern Mon Calamari architecture-Pristine white corridors with soft, organic lines. Ever since Dac had joined the New Republic as a founding member, it had been getting a lot more offworlders. So they'd begun to expand their presence on the surface of their world to accommodate all the new traffic.

    Some people had trouble telling Mon Calamari apart. But it was easy to identify Cilghal, with her dark orange skin, and peppy attitude, as she talked with several interns.

    "Cilghal!" Leia cheered, waving her hand.

    Cilghal looked away, and beamed happily.

    "Princess! Captain!"

    Cilghal nodded to her interns, and they headed off. Cilghal then walked over and hugged Leia and Han. Han accepted it in good humor-Ackbar's niece was just too nice to push away.

    "It's so good to see you!" Cilghal said happily. She nodded to Threepio. "You too, Threepio! I'd hug you, but, you know-"

    "Oh no! You are free to hug me as well!" Threepio said cheerfully, "I have recently been upgraded with a full system waterproofing! Thanks again, Captain Solo!"

    "Don't mention it," Han said, as Cilghal gamely hugged the droid. She pulled back after he awkwardly embraced her back, and beamed.

    "Do you want to get to business immediately? Or can we socialize first? There's a great new restaurant that opened up near the hospital!"

    "Business first, then we'll have more time for leisure," Leia said cheerfully, much to Han's faux horror. She smirked at him, as he sighed and nodded.

    "As the Princess wishes," he said.

    Cilghal led them down several corridors, until they reached an office area. She led them to a conference room, the door of which shut tight behind them. The beautiful ocean was on full display before them, overlooking a gorgeous reef teeming with thousands of aquatic creatures, lit by Dac's ever present sun. Cilghal sat down at the table, as Leia, Han and Threepio took some seats.

    "Sorry, I don't have my own office yet," Cilghal apologized, "I just use this room for private chats. Anyway! I've begun doing the tests as you asked. Just with volunteers, mind you. People are touchy about invasions of privacy, given the Imperial years..."

    "And?" Leia asked.

    "Well, I have found a few potential candidates for Force Users," Cilghal said carefully, "using Kam's responses as a baseline. But they're almost all within the margin of error." Cilghal sighed and bowed her head.

    "I'm really sorry, Leia," she said, "I wish I had better news."

    "It's all right," Leia sighed, "the Jedi Temple's records were all destroyed or confiscated. Having to start over from scratch was never going to be easy."

    "I guess it wouldn't be as easy as someone just floating a cup over their head, huh?" Han asked. Cilghal smiled wryly.

    "It would be nice if it was that easy, but apparently it's very rare for telekinesis to emerge in untrained Force Users," she said. "Still, I-Oh, Captain Solo? You might want to move to another chair?"

    "Why?" Han asked... Just as the chair creaked, and gave way. Han's reflexes were still on point, so he was up on his feet in an instant before the chair would have sent him falling down to the floor. He stared down at it, and then back at Cilghal, eyebrows raised.

    "... Thanks," Han managed, grabbing another chair and slowly sitting in it. Cilghal nodded.

    "Yeah, we got a big shipment of lousy chairs last week. They've been doing that all-Threepio, you'll want to-"

    "ACK!"

    Threepio fell hard to the floor, his reflexes not as sharp as Han's. Leia and Han looked over at the struggling droid, and then over at Cilghal.

    "How did you know that was going to happen?" Leia asked slowly.

    Cilghal shrugged.

    "Like I said, we got a really lousy shipment of chairs! The owner of the company is Quarren, and our administrator began buying them as a gesture of goodwill but he just... Oh hang on a second."

    Cilghal tapped her communicator.

    "Alosa? Check on Mister Gadus please?"

    An annoyed huff came over the communicator.

    "I checked him twice today, Doctor, he's just... Oh no wait, he's crashing! Get the cart!"

    "Try 30ccs of Razzopam, that should do it," Cilghal advised. She waited, tense. It took a few minutes, before a response came over.

    "He's stable. He'll be all right, Doctor. One of the newbies accidentally gave him Dialaphin, which mixed with his post-op meds and-"

    "I know, I passed my first year at med school, thank you," Cilghal growled, "tell the newbie his patient should be dead! And he'd better be more careful next time!"

    "Yes Doctor," Alosa replied, before Cilghal closed the channel. She turned back to her friends, smiling.

    "Sorry about that," Cilghal said, "it has been hectic."

    Leia and Han very slowly looked at one another, communicating silently. They then turned to look at Cilghal.

    "Cilghal," Leia began, "did you by any chance test yourself for Force Sensitivity?"

    Cilghal blinked, as Threepio awkwardly got back up to his feet.

    "Why? Do you think I might be a candidate?" She asked.

    "You're not just doing all this to mess with us, are you?" Han asked, eyes narrowed.

    "Doing what?" Cilghal asked. The two humans and droid stared at her. The doctor stopped, and looked thoughtful. Her whiskers quivered with embarrassment.

    "Oh. Ohhh..."

    "Yeah," Han quipped.

    "Oh my," Threepio muttered, "how embarassing."

    Cilghal held her head in her flipper-like hands.

    "Oh Stars... I did all this research into what I could find of Jedi Mind Healing and the Force to help Kam, but... Ohhh..."

    "You do have a tendency to hyperfocus," Leia said consolingly.

    "Look on the bright side," Han grinned, "you found another candidate for Luke's Jedi School."

    "I just became a resident," Cilghal groaned.

    "You don't have to join if you don't want to-" Leia tried, but Cilghal dropped her datapad loudly on the table.

    "No!" Cilghal cried.

    At Leia and Han's surprised looks, she quickly shook her head.

    "I-I mean, honestly, I would love to! I don't know if I could, but..."

    Her face became wistful, like a child staring up at the stars for the first time.

    "I've read legends about Jedi healing people with their powers. If I could learn that... All the beings I could help? It would be amazing! It's just... It's a lot to take in, all at once."

    Leia reached out and squeezed the Mon Calamari's hand. Cilghal immediately felt a lot less tense, in the Force and elsewhere.

    "It's all right," Leia said soothingly, "let's go get dinner, huh? We can bring some to Kam too. It'll be a celebration."

    Cilghal's whiskers fluttered again in embarassment.

    "I... I hope he'll be happy to know he's not alone," she murmured.

    Han and Leia's holocomms went off. Han got his first, as Leia felt something strong through the Force.

    "This is Solo?"

    "Han," Ahsoka's worried face came into view, "there are bounty hunters after Kam. I don't know when they'll get there but-!"

    A alarm went off overhead. Leia, Han, Cilghal and Threepio looked out to see doctors and nurses begin rushing about, as security Mon Calamari began running down the hallway.

    "Kam!" Cilghal gasped.

    "Yeah, we know," Han stated, "how far away are you?"

    "Maybe an hour?" Ahsoka winced.

    Leia unclipped her lightsaber, as Han pulled his blaster.

    "Get here as soon as you can, we're gonna need the back up," Leia ordered.

    - - -

    Cilghal can come off as a tiny bit of a ditz because she gets so into what she's doing, but she's a wonderful, kind and very smart person. At least that's how I am characterizing her. Just a fun little quirk for her.
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - 4.6
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Felucia

    - - -

    No sapient in their right mind would ever choose to live on Felucia. It was a harsh, hostile jungle world, ruled by creatures that fed from the Force itself. What colonies had been established were few and far between, heavily guarded and walled.

    In all honesty, Bariss had no idea of where to start. The bounty hunter report Ventress had given her wasn't too specific-Just a set of grid coordinates where someone with a lightsaber had been seen.

    She was sure showing up in an Imperial corvette would spook them. And a Lambda shuttle to boot, that Mynar piloted with his expert skill over the gigantic flowers and trees of the steaming jungle world.

    Or maybe it would let them see her coming...

    Bariss closed her eyes. She reached out through the Force, as far as she could.

    The world was teeming with life, so rich and strong... And yet...

    There was a source of darkness here. Something strong, and unnatural.

    Nearby was something just as strong, unnatural... But bright.

    Bariss opened her eyes. She looked at the navigational computer screen. She pointed to a location beacon.

    "There," she said, "land there."

    "Are you sure, Mother?" Mynar asked. Bariss nodded.

    "Absolutely," she stated, "go."

    Mynar punched it, and out of the colorful jungle top rose a tethered mining platform. It floated above the jungle, covered in rust and grime visible even from here.

    Mynar made a face, but slowly came in for a landing on one of the landing platforms. The wings folded up the landing gear lowered, and the lumbering shuttle settled down. The landing ramp lowered, and Bariss and Mynar walked out slowly.

    Discarded bins of rusty supplies dotted the area around the landing platform. A few structures, providing shelter, towered over them like the rotting remains of a great beast. Bariss frowned deeply, scanning about.

    "It still has power, despite however long it's been online," Mynar commented, "I don't like this."

    "Neither do I," Bariss murmured. The Force flashed through her mind, and she held up her hand. A rocket flew at her from one of the abandoned buildings. She reached out with the Force, and the rocket hung in midair, its thruster burning loud and hard against the energy holding it back. Bariss grit her teeth as Mynar ignited his lightsaber.

    "Mother!" He shouted.

    Four more rockets burst from another building. Mynar switched to his blaster, and fired-He hit one, and it exploded with a deafening bang! The blast caught the other rockets, but the follow up blaster bolts forced him to rely on his saber.

    "Nngh...!" Bariss threw both hands forward, and twisted the rocket around. It flew right back at its sender, exploding on impact and sending several troops flying. Bariss' eyes widened as she recognized the armor they wore.

    "SCAR Troopers!" Bariss cried, pulling out her own lightsaber to deflect blaster bolts, "make for the shuttle-!"

    Another flash in the Force, and Bariss yanked her son down. The shuttle exploded, the force of the blast knocking Bariss and Mynar into the center of the floating mining platform. They were on their feet in an instant, back to back, blue lightsabers humming loudly.

    Out of the shadows, a man in scarred Stormtrooper armor with a bandolier and a heavy repeating blaster walked out. Alongside him walked... A Zabrak woman, with black hair and burning red lightsaber tonfas. Her short black hair waved slightly in the breeze, as she approached with a smirk.

    There were dozens of troopers all around them. That they were acting this openly didn't bode well for what they thought of Bariss and Mynar's chances against them.

    A distant memory tugged at Bariss's mind... Someone...

    "My name is Maris Brood," the Zabrak woman introduced herself, "Bariss Offee. I remember the day you bombed the Temple... My best friend died that day."

    Shame and guilt ate at Bariss, even as she tried to retain her composure.

    "You were a Padawan?" Bariss whispered, horrified. Maris nodded.

    "I tried... I tried to stay on the lightside," she admitted, "but my old master... She's gone now. Can't help me." Pain filled her features briefly, before she grinned back at them. She fixed her glowing yellow eyes on Bariss.

    "My new master saved her. Can't let her out yet, but when she's ready... We'll save the galaxy from itself," Maris went on. She held up her sabers, but the trooper rested a hand on her shoulder.

    "Brood. Remember," the trooper stated. Maris scoffed.

    "I don't have to do everything-!"

    The trooper just stared intensely at Maris. Maris scowled, then turned back to Bariss.

    "You and your handsome son should join the winning side," she said, her grin slowly returning as she looked Mynar up and down.

    "And whose side would that be? A Sith's?" Bariss asked calmly, "don't be ridiculous."

    "You fell to the Darkside before," Maris chuckled, "it wouldn't take much to fall again... Maybe then you'd understand..."

    "You'll have to kill us!" Mynar growled. Maris licked her lips.

    "Mmm... Handsome and stupid? Just my type," she hissed.

    "Brood," the trooper stated coldly. Maris sighed.

    "Fine," she huffed, "I've got the kid though."

    Maris raced forward, swinging her lightsaber tonfas right for Mynar's head. Mynar parried the two strikes, but a loud sonic wail screamed and he fell back, trying to cover his ears. Bariss winced, but focused on using the Force to block out the noise.

    The trooper charged her, wielding an electro baton. Bariss swung to slice it in half... But the electro field repelled her strikes. They came hard and fast, as the trooper swung the weapon around with expert finesse and brutal strength.

    Bariss slammed her hand down into the floor, unleashing a Force Wave in all directions-But the trooper, anticipating this, leaped over and threw flashbangs. Bariss closed her eyes, focusing entirely on the Force, as she deflected the trooper's next brutal strikes.

    Mynar was still fighting against Maris, but the former Padawan clearly had more experience-She was toying with Mynar, letting him think he had control over the fight, before she resumed dictating the pace easily. She knocked his feet right out from under him, and tried to slice his lightsaber in half!

    Mynar reached out with the Force, and threw a flurry of metal shards and shrapnel into Maris' face. The Zabrak screamed, and unleashed a Force blast right back. He was sent flying back into a hard bulkhead.

    "Mynar!" Bariss shouted. The trooper swung his electro mace hard, and launched an electrowhip at her. Bariss tried to catch it with the Force, but it wrapped around her wrist. Electricity screamed through her, ripping a shriek of pain from her mouth.

    "AAAAHHHHH!"

    She blocked the next strike by the trooper, but she was slammed into the deck. She rolled away, back onto her feet, facing Maris and the trooper.

    Maris grinned, holding up Mynar by his collar.

    "It's really for the best," Maris said, almost consolingly, "he'll never make it under your tutelage... But under my master's...?"

    "Mother! Don't!" Mynar shouted, "Keep fighting!"

    Bariss sucked in a breath. The trooper shook his head.

    "You should never have had a son, if you couldn't sacrifice him when it was necessary," the trooper intoned.

    A presence in the Force erupted behind her. Several troopers screamed and fell out of the nearby building behind her, their limbs in pieces. Maris and the trooper looked up, shocked.

    "What in the hell-?!" Maris tried, as the second level soon erupted with screaming Stormtroopers and droids.

    The lone doorway to the building slowly opened. A figure stepped out, wearing metallic heels that clanked against the metal deck.

    Whoever it was wore a deep blue cloak over her face and body, but Bariss could sense her... Her presence in the Force was strong... And bright.

    "It's been a while since I've had visitors," the woman spoke, "certainly not here."

    "Who the hell are you?" The trooper demanded, as Maris growled. She held her burning lightsaber against Mynar's throat.

    The woman tilted her head slightly.

    "I came to the Temple with just one word on it... And that's what they called me," she said. She lowered her hood, revealing a woman only a little younger than Bariss, with deep black hair and dark blue eyes. A scar decorated the underside of her chin. She took a careful stance, and ignited her yellow lightsaber.

    "Call me Eff," she introduced herself, "and holding hostages isn't the Jedi way... Wouldn't you agree, Lady Pelaeon?"

    Bariss smiled, and settled into her own combat stance.

    "I agree, Master Eff," she said. She charged!

    Bariss fell upon the trooper, casting debris into his face with the Force. He deflected some of it with his electro baton, but Bariss was getting strikes in now. He tried the sonic blaster again, but Bariss lashed out with the Force and crushed it.

    Maris laughed as Eff pointed her lightsaber right at her.

    "You really think you can move faster than me? At that distance?" Maris laughed mockingly.

    Eff's eyes narrowed. Her heels unlocked.

    "My master trained me in his technique," Eff explained, "simple... But effective."

    "And what's tha-?!"

    Eff moved. Maris barely dodged out of the way as the yellow lightsaber blade passed scant centimeters from her stomach. Mynar got back on his feet, reigniting his lightsaber, as Eff stood next to him.

    "The battle is over," Eff stated.

    "What the kriff do you-?!" Maris gaped-Her lightsaber tonfa had been cut in half. "Wha-How-?!"

    Mynar used the Force, and blasted Maris Brood back into the nearby building. She fell down, limp and unconscious. He panted hard, trying to stay on his feet. Eff rested a hand on his shoulder.

    "Take it easy," she said gently.

    "Can't," Mynar grunted, as his mother continued to fight the trooper. He clicked his communicator, "Rally Gren, now!"

    TIE Fighters soon screamed overhead, one blasting the nearby building to pieces. The trooper looked up at that, at Eff, Mynar, and Bariss as she threw a rusty droid at him.

    He ducked down, ran for Maris, scooped her up, and sprinted for the edge of the platform. He jumped off, and ignited a jetpack he used to fly down into the jungle. His surviving fellows followed, soon leaving the platform deserted as TIE fighters circled overhead.

    Eff raised her lightsaber, but Bariss shook her head.

    "They won't attack you, I promise," Bariss said.

    "The Empire has been hunting me a long time," Eff stated.

    "I know," Bariss sighed, "but... I'm trying to create a new Jedi Order. One that will make the Empire... into what it was supposed to be! Not the monstrous abomination Palpatine made it into!"

    "I've heard," Eff said warily, "but... Your past is a bit worrisome."

    Bariss bowed her head.

    "I know," she said softly, "I won't pretend otherwise... But if I can come back from the darkness..." She looked up, determined, "then so can the Empire. We can't end this war by choosing sides. We can only do it... By making both sides able to come together. In peace!"

    Eff stared back at Bariss for a long, silent moment. She then sighed.

    "And you want... Me to help?" She asked.

    "Please," Mynar said, "the only alternative is that Darksiders will take over the Empire... And the war will never end, that way!"

    Eff sighed softly. She then nodded.

    "I'll go along... On the condition," she held up her hand, "that I can leave at any time."

    Bariss nodded slowly.

    "Agreed," she said. Eff nodded back. She smiled and offered an arm to Mynar, who gladly took it.

    "Now then... Let's get back to your ship. I think we have a lot to talk about...

    - - -

    I know Eff is spelled "F" in the Star Wars Visions short "The Village Bride", but that doesn't really work in the Aurabesh alphabet. So she's "Eff".

    f_by_majorart007_df4sfm4-fullview.jpg



    Her master's, and now her, signature skill is the lightning dash strike. One fast strike, guided by the Force, virtually unstoppable.

    And yeah, I know you were expecting Shaak Ti... But I've got other plans for her.

    The trooper will be gone into more in a later chapter, but Superspleen is the one who created him.
     
    Interlude: Mods
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    SS Daybreaker, In hyperspace to Yavin IV

    - - -

    Luke emerged from his cabin, yawning a bit. He looked over the general recreation and meeting area of the ship, which contained the holoterminal, the eating and meeting area, and a few other odds and ends.

    Including Streen, who was examining Artoo alongside one of his modified probe droids.

    "Streen?" Luke asked.

    The older man looked up, grinning a bit in embarassment.

    "Ah, sorry. Couldn't help looking over your R2 unit," he said, "the modding work on him is incredible!"

    "Yeah," Luke said with a grin, walking over to kneel next to his astromech, "he's an amazing piece of work."

    Artoo beeped smugly. The probe droid hovering nearbly scratched and beeped a response. Streen hummed.

    "Apparently he's got all sorts of modifications that aren't working anymore," Streen said. Luke glanced at Artoo suspiciously.

    "Oh yeah? Like what?"

    "Well, his rocket jets apparently haven't worked in decades," Streen said. Luke stared incredulously at Artoo.

    "Rocket jets?! You have rocket jets?!"

    Artoo beeped a quick explanation.

    "I get that they're illegal, but we were literally fighting against the government!" Luke shouted. "You could have told me sooner!"

    "Now now, not his fault," Streen soothed, "a lot of it was data locked by his previous owner. An Anakin Skywalker, I believe?"

    Artoo blooped in the affirmative. Luke sighed.

    "All right, I get that. Still! I like tinkering with you, Artoo. I want to make you the best I can."

    Artoo hummed, then beeped a possibility.

    "All right," Luke said, "how do I unlock it all?"

    Artoo beeped out a more lengthy explanation. Luke made a face.

    "I have to what? How is that a requirement?!"

    "Guess your dad didn't want you to have all options available until he was sure you were going to carry on the family line," Streen chuckled. Luke sighed.

    "I'll... Definitely ask Aphra on a date."

    Artoo blooped.

    "Or Mara! Fine! Not that she'll go for it," Luke sighed, "now please grant me full access?"

    Artoo hummed... Then beeped happily. He projected a full list of modification options via holo. Luke's eyes widened and he grinned. A similar grin emerged on Streen's face. His probe droid whistled, impressed.

    "Micro missile launchers?!" Luke gasped, "you have any idea how amazing that is?!"

    "And an ion blaster mount? Man, thought those were outlawed!" Streen grinned. He turned to Luke.

    "Let me see what I've got in my luggage! Maybe we can get some of these things online before we come out of hyperspace!"

    "Kriff yeah!" Luke cheered.

    Gantoris, who was meditating in his quarters, held in a sigh.

    Maniac sky people with their killer machines...

    - - -

    Because Anakin and Luke would absolutely trick Artoo out with as many cool and dangerous features as possible.
     
    Lost but Not Forgotten - Final by Superspleen
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    Foamwander, Dac

    Cam raced through the halls of the hospital, past patients asking doctors and med droids what was happening. The rooms were a menacing mixture of red and black, reminding him too well of where he was trained when he served the Empire. His lightsaber was in his quarters, leaving him his wits and the Force.

    "Cilgahl, what's happening?" he asked into his comlink. There was only static on the other end. Kam grit his teeth and tried to find his 'therapist' through the Force. She was still a ways away but he got a slight fix on her position. Kam forced a security door open and made his way up a stairwell that led to an outdoor garden. When the door opened, he saw himself looking at men in red and black armor aiming their weapons at him. The pattern on their helmets looked like that of the heads of target dummies.

    "Hands up Solusar," said one of the men. He pointed a blaster pistol at Kam's head. "We don't need to make an ugly scene here. We're at a hospital, there's already enough injured here."

    Kam slowly put his hands up.

    "Good."

    "May I ask who I'm speaking too?"

    "I'm Razor, and you're a prisoner of the Guavian Death Gang. Well, until Y'ull Acib gets you. He really wants you gone. He already had enough on his plate before you tore apart his data center. Keeping Xizor's niece out of power takes enough of his resources without having to put down one of Palpatine's lapdogs."

    "I don't serve his regime anymore."

    "You think he cares?" Razor asked. "Really, after all the damage you caused, do you think he cares? We bring you him, the Guavian Death Gang becomes one of Black Sun's elite formations."

    Kam snorted.

    "You think we're a joke, do you?"

    "Not quite. I just think you'd like to be working for Savan is all. The poor girl could use strong men like you as her trouble shooters." Kam sneered.

    "Or maybe even her bedmates." Razor tried to smack Kam in the head with the butt of his pistol but Kam sent him flying into a boulder with a Force Push then swept the leg of the soldier closest to him. The former Inquisitor grabbed the soldier's rifle and fired it into the torso of another one. The rest of the squad starting shooting at him. Their aim was eerily accurate, almost like they had some sort of targeting computer in their heads. Whatever the case, their shots were too close for comfort. Kam clipped another one in the forehead after setting the blaster rifle to full auto.

    The rest of the Guavian soldiers took position behind the rocks and plant life, with Razor taking shots at Kam whenever he could get the ex-Inquisitor within his sights. Kam sent a boulder flying at one of the soldiers, sending him flying down the durasteel stairs. He used the Force to fell another tree to serve as a barrier. Still, the Guavian soldiers were getting closer and closer.

    But before one of them could aim at his stomach, he heard the sound of a lightsaber igniting followed by shots from a blaster pistol. The soldier went down and Razor was thrown against a tree by something invisible. He fired at another soldier when he saw a man and woman in spacer garb jump down near him followed by Cilgalh and a group of Mon Cala soldiers that immobilized the rest of the Guavians with some sort of electrified net.

    "Arrest them immediately!" shouted the officer in charge. "Once they're in cuffs, make sure no other civilians have been harmed!"

    Kam looked at the two humans near him.

    "Leia?"

    "Wow, looks like the party got pretty far without us." Leia said.

    'Ya did pretty damn good," Han said with a chuckle. "You're made of some really stern stuff."

    Before Kam could reply, Cilgahl had him in a near death grip as she looked over his injuries.

    "No signs of serious burns from blaster bolts," she said as she scurried from side to side. "No bruises. You're lucky. You got away completely unscathed."

    "That wasn't luck," Han told her. "That was skill. You and Luke are gonna do a lot of good. You and your doctor."

    - - -

    If I'm honest, I'm not entirely satisfied with this bit. But I'll rewrite it later. Just wanted to get this over with, I guess, before the arc began to drag.
     
    Settling In - 1
  • AndrewJTalon

    Well-known member
    Founder
    - - -

    Kam Solusar looked down upon the wide jungles of Yavin IV. The rich green rainforests spread out underneath him like a living carpet. He could feel the strength of the lifeforms on the world the moment they dropped out of hyperspace. It was almost overwhelming, like being exposed to the sunlight after years underground.

    "You okay?"

    Kam turned and nodded to his hostess, the woman flying him here in her own personal starship. The green Twi'lek captain smiled warmly at him, as he looked out the forward windows.

    "I'm all right, General Syndulla," he said, "it's just... Incredible."

    "Captain," Hera corrected him gently, "I retired. And yeah... It is that."

    "I really like it," Jason Syndulla, the captain's son, said happily as he looked out over the great jungles from the copilot's station. He looked over at his mother briefly. "I'd love to stay here and learn the Force, you know."

    "I know," Hera says, "and I'll be happy to let you..."

    The young man with green hair grinned and threw his fist into the air.

    "When you're fifteen," she said.

    "Aww! Mom!" Jason whined, "come on!"

    "No backtalk!" Hera huffed.

    "You're not even old enough to fly a speeder legally!"

    "But I'm sitting here," Jason said smugly, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned back in the copilot's chair. Hera twitched her hand, and the ship pitched starboard. Jason yelped, having to hold onto the console tightly.

    "Hey!"

    "You're sitting there with locked controls for a reason," Hera said, chuckling.

    "A stupid reason," Jason grumbled.

    A memory bubbled up out of the cloud of Kam's past. Words from his father.

    "Don't be in such a hurry to grow up," he stated, "childhoods are a luxury."

    Jason looked up, a bit shocked. Kam cleared his throat, and looked back out the windows.

    "Or... So I've heard," he managed.

    He could feel Hera's smile through the Force. Jason was a bit disappointed, but didn't rebel again as they came in for a landing. The moment the Ghost settled down in the Yavin IV hanger, Jason leapt up and ran out.

    "I'm gonna go see Ezra and Sabine!" He shouted, "I bet she's as big as a Star Destroyer now!"

    "Just don't let her hear you say that!" Hera called after him. She looked up at Kam, an apologetic smile on her face.

    "Thanks for putting up with us," she said, but Kam shook his head.

    "No, no... It was all right," he bowed, "I... I know you've had issues with... Inquisitors-"

    "You were an Inquisitor," Hera said gently, "but you broke free. You have nothing to apologize for."

    Kam chuckled softly, wringing his hands a bit.

    "I... Thank you," he said, nodding to her, "for everything. Letting me near your son is... That is a lot of trust you're giving me."

    "Luke said you were better, and so did Doctor Cilghal," Hera replied, looking him over carefully, "and... Well... I'm a good judge of character."

    Kam felt a strange relief at that, and nodded.

    "Thank you, once again," he said.

    Her small astromech rolled up on his wheel, and blurted out a string of binary. Hera sighed, and grit her teeth.

    "I told him not to take the speeders!" Hera growled.

    Out the window, Jason shot past on one of the Ghost's speeder bikes, laughing loudly.

    "If you'll excuse me, I need to go discipline my son, Kam," Hera said, heading out fast. Kam nodded.

    "I understand..."

    - - -

    Kam took his duffle bag of a few things the Hospital had donated to him, and headed down the ramp. He regained his cautious smile when he saw Luke and Tionne waiting for him. As well as the blue astromech R2-D2.

    "Welcome to Yavin IV, Kam," Luke said, holding out his hand. Kam shook it eagerly.

    "It's good to be here, Master," he said.

    Luke shook his head.

    "You don't have to call me that if you don't want to," he said gently.

    "It... Just felt right," Kam mumbled. Tionne walked up and hugged him tightly.

    "Ooh! It's so nice to see you!" She chirped. "You look much better!"

    "Ah, well, thank you!" Kam chuckled. "It's all thanks to Doctor Cilghal-"

    "Now now," said Mon Calamari doctor said, walking down the Ghost's ramp with several articles of luggage, "remember? You can just call me Cilghal. I prefer it, Kam."

    Tionne's pearly eyes fixed on Cilghal, as the Mon Calamari doctor walked up to shake Luke's hand.

    "It's a pleasure to meet you at last, Commander Skywalker," Cilghal said happily, "I'm sure Kam and I will learn a lot from you!"

    "I'm hoping that's the case too," Luke said with a beam, "Tionne can guide you to your quarters."

    "Yes," Tionne said, all smiles, as she wrapped her arms around Kam's large right bicep, "I'd be more than happy to!"

    Cilghal blinked her large, yellow eyes. She still smiled, even as she wrapped her own arm around Kam's left bicep.

    "Wonderful! I can tell we're going to be fast friends!"

    "Oh, the very best," Tionne replied brightly. The slightly confused Kam was led off by the two women, who kept smiling tightly at one another the whole way. Luke watched them go, and shook his head.

    "Poor guy," he muttered.

    Artoo chirped something snarky. Luke scowled at his loyal droid.

    "What do you mean I'm no better off?!"

    - - -

    The Millenium Falcon

    Somewhere in Hyperspace

    Leia had taken an ambassadorial flagship back home for Coruscant-Apparently some emergency had sprung up that only she could deal with. He would have gone with her... But then Lando had sent an emergency message. And honestly, if it was something involving Lando? Han didn't want Leia involved.

    Which suited her just fine.

    Chewbacca had hoped to go back with Leia, but Han had pointed out that whatever trouble Lando was in would probably get Han killed without him. Chewbacca had pointed out that the same could be said for both of them, but... Well... Better odds together.

    Besides, whatever trouble Lando had gotten into this time could at least be entertaining.

    Han looked upon the face of his best human friend... Next to Luke... On the holo. Lando looked appropriately ruffled and dischevled.

    "So, ex-lover looking to settle the score again, Lando?" Han quipped, as Chewbacca chortled. Lando shook his head.

    "Nothing like that, come on man! I solve that myself... Now," he amended, at Han's dubious look.

    "No, remember that Jedi I thought I'd found-?"

    "Who turned out to be a fraud? Who could forget?" Han asked dryly.

    He didn't think his favorite jacket would ever smell right again after that.

    "Well, I got a lead on the real thing this time," Lando said. Han raised an eyebrow.

    "Let me guess: He's a magician at a casino on Nar Shadda."

    "Close," Lando said dryly, "if by Nar Shadda, you mean Spice Mines of Kessel. And by magician, you mean escaped slave."

    Lando widened the gain on the holoreceiver. Han was treated to the sight of a teenaged boy with curly, messy brown hair and ragged clothing. Said boy was holding Lando at blaster point.

    He was wearing the rags that the prisoners of Kessel were issued, this was true. And that look of fear and desperation in his eyes... Han had seen it plenty of times before.

    "I got a lead on a kid who could crush guard's heads with his mind," Lando said carefully, "so I snuck in to take a look... And got taken hostage."

    "Look: I don't trust anything, damnit," the kid growled, trying to sound tough, but breaking Han's heart a little more, "I-I can't trust anyone... So you get me onto a ship, off here, and then I'll think about trusting you!"

    "And you couldn't make it back to your ship because...?" Han prompted.

    Lando sighed.

    "He staged a jailbreak and the security is now out in force," he explained.

    "Of course it is," Han sighed. He leaned in, and looked the kid right in the eyes.

    "We're going to come in, and get you out of there," Han said, "and take you someplace you can get help. I promise. Just don't hurt my friend there, okay?"

    The boy trembled, but held the blaster steady. He nodded.

    Han tilted his head slightly.

    "At least not too much."

    "HEY!" Lando squawked.

    - - -
     
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