The Villem Legacy

[recoveringgeek]

Wild Space

Rancorous
Harrower-Class Dreadnaught

Interior: Rancorous Bridge

"Admiral, we've received the transmission you were expecting."



"Bring the files to my Ready Room Captain."

Interior: Admiral's Ready Room

The Imperial Captain stood stiffly at attention, a neat stack of datapads stacked on the Admiral's desk in front of him. The silver-haired Admiral turned to regard the officer, and then reached for the first of several datapads.



"So the Treaty cracks and the Republic crumbles along with it. Spacers have taken over the local economies, while Senators struggle to rein in the excesses of their elite. The Cartel grows fatter, even as they feign to offer high entertainment for the spice-addicted masses... "

  *  *  *

"The Reclamation has been dissolved, hardly a loss. The Dark Council's insatiable appetite for obscure artifacts merely gives them more trinkets to squabble over. Still, I see House Necare endures. Well, Ilireth always knew who truly wears the pants in that family."

  *  *  *

"Pathetic. The Sith hire mercenaries and Mandalorians to fight their battles, and still they advance not one parsec over the treaty line. Disputes over slaves and diplomatic envoys? Perhaps Captain, we now understand why the Emperor withdrew. Perhaps he foresaw the disarray of his forces with no enemy to face. The Empire grows feeble and sodded with disuse."

  *  *  *

"Here we are. A mere decade since Coruscant and already the galaxy turns their back on the Jedi. So too will they fade into obscurity, to become a fallen religion no one remembers. Stolen younglings, murdered Jedi Knights, have they no strength left... wait, there's Yarwin, my old friend."

The Admiral absently rubbed a faded scar on his chin.

"After all these years and still the Jedi Council does not trust your wisdom at their table. How quaint, you've formed your own council, and still you surrender leadership to a mere girl. The Force has failed you my friend, all you have left to guide you is memories, and ghosts of the dead."

  *  *  *

"Taelios? Please. Like a spoiled child hoarding his toys, he held such potential, and has squandered it all. Even Intelligence has abandoned the majority of their surveillance on him, leaving only a token spy behind. A dead assignment reporting on whimsical cavorting and grandstanding."

"He does stand as an effective warning Captain. Chase endless power, and find only endless madness."

  *  *  *

"Gray Jedi? Preposterous. What will the next report mention, purple Sith?"

  *  *  *

"I want to see the reports on Moirae Captain. Any transmissions from Lord Deius?"

The Captain shifted momentarily, before looking straight ahead as he replied.

"Admiral, Lord Deius has vanished. There have been no reported sightings of him inside Imperial Space, or anywhere else for some time."

The senior officer rubbed his scar a second time, verbalizing his thoughts.

"Deius was always unpredictable. He is fortunate to have Lord Seselis to act in his stead... "

"Jen'rhak Seselis died fighting a Republic strike force on Belsavis Admiral. An entire Moirae research facility was lost."

The Admiral leaned forward on his desk, scrutinizing the Captain.

"Deius is gone, and Seselis deceased? Who leads Moirae Captain?"

The Captain swallowed once before answering.

"Darth Vulkanus Admiral, but these most recent transmissions are... confusing. Moirae has publically declared itself a science and research arm of the Imperial forces. Darth Vulkanus has also withdrawn recently from public view. A Lord Ephese is the most recent figurehead for Moirae... "

The Admiral absently waved his hand, dismissing the rest.

"Vulkanus is a blunt instrument, not a leader. He is a weapon to wield, until his power is spent. A hundred more Sith stand in his shadow, waiting. Whomever this Ephese is, she sits on a broken chair. The resources poured into Moirae... perhaps it was the Emperor that pulled Deius from his task."

"There is one more file Admiral. The Moirae agent roster. I thought you might... "

"The Empire doesn't need more agents Captain. Even out in Wild Space I can pinpoint the exact location of our enemies, and instantly gauge their pitiful strength based on these reports, even the obsolete ones."

The Captain cleared his throat.

"Lieutenant Paskr Villem transferred to Moirae some time ago Admiral. He quickly advanced to the rank of Keeper, and advises Lord Seselis directly on matters of... "

The Admiral turned to catch the Captain in his stern gaze, before a mere gesture of his fingers snatched the remaining datapad from the Captain's nervous grasp, and delivered it to his own waiting hand via the Force. Regarding the Captain a long, silent moment, the Admiral lowered his gaze to the screen.

"This is relevant to me how Captain?"

"Admiral, I thought perhaps you would choose to... "

"Lieutenant Paskr Villem does not concern me Captain, you would do well to remember that. In fact, do you understand why we have brought the Rancorous out to this Sector for so many cycles?"

"Orders Admiral, from the Emperor himself, as you relayed to the the officer corps."

"Orders? No Captain. Our presence here is a demonstration. A reminder that there is no star system too distant, too remote, that the Empire cannot reach it. If the Emperor wants something, he extends his grasp, and his Hand is there to take it."

The Admiral absently tossed the datapad onto the desk.

"I want you to begin to make the calculations for the jump to lightspeed."

"Coordinates, Admiral?"

"Dromund Kaas, Captain."

"Sir?"

"We're going home Captain."

"Understood, Admiral Villem."

The Captain neatly saluted, turned on his heels, and quickly departed the room, back towards the bridge...

Recommended Music - Finale: Clone Wars - Overlords

[recoveringgeek]

Dromund Kaas

Kaas City

"I want to see every report on the Republic's operations in that system Captain."

"Yes Keeper."

  *  *  *

"These communication logs are incomplete. Send the team back, slice every last node they find, and remind them that almost everything is not almost good enough."

"Right away, Keeper."

  *  *  *

"Captain, what is the status of the infiltration team for Tython?"

"Keeper. We're having difficulty defeating anything more than a cursory examination by a skilled telepath. It would take decades to develop a trained mind capable of that level of deep cover, and such an investment of time could mean the entire political structure on Tython has changed."

"So what you're telling me Captain is your recruitment efforts are insufficient."

"Sir?"

"Wipe the slate clean. Don't start with trained military personnel. Start with skilled survivors. Find a sewer rat or Shyrack trainer who escaped Korriban and escaped the notice of the malicious Sith Acolytes there. Find a Twi'lek slave who endured brutality at the hands of the Hutts, and learned how to grovel so low, even an obese, slithering slug would fail to notice them. Find me a disgruntled Jedi Agricorps worker with a reputation for poor combat skills but exceptional powers of observation.

Find me a spy, Captain."

"Yes, Keeper!"

  *  *  *

"I want to know the status of the tracking beacon on Drexa Nahir's ship."

"Keeper. The technician we sent to her landing bay during her last refit and refuel on Nar Shaddaa did not return. The astromech he reprogrammed to slice the hangar bay doors came back with reports... well, these are unusual Keeper. The droid reported sounds of animals inside the bay, and our protocol droid translated this binary into the words - feeding frenzy - but that must be a mistake... "

  *  *  *

"Keeper, here are the reports on Dromund Kaas hyperspace traffic in the last twenty-four hours."

"Captain, do you care to explain this?"

"Sir?"

"These traffic control logs, Captain. This datapad in my hand. The fact that I am only just now receiving this information."

"The logs are on schedule Keeper, we just received... "

"I DON'T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT YOUR SCHEDULE CAPTAIN. I WANT TO KNOW WHY I WASN'T TOLD ABOUT THIS DATA UNTIL NOW?"

"Data... sir?"

"THE RANCOROUS YOU INEPT SCREEN-SNIFFER. THE RANCOROUS HAS BEEN IN LOW ORBIT FOR THE PAST TWELVE HOURS AND I'M ONLY JUST DISCOVERING THIS NOW?"

"Rancorous? Sir! Yes, sir, she just jumped into the system, it wasn't on any of the reported flight traffic. I can contact... "

"OUT! EVERYONE OUT, NOW!"

The entire intelligence division froze in their movements, hands hovering over keyboards and mouths open in silence to the waiting mics on their ears. The Captain snapped his arm towards the door, ordering the entire room to withdraw with a single, silent gesture. Only the faint chirping sounds of open data terminals and static-filled comm channels filled the air now. Keeper Paskr Villem walked to a side door, pressing the release with his thumb, and then stepping out into the open-air balcony beyond.

The rushing sound of the wind, and the hum of repulsorlift engines filled the air. The Imperial officer cast his gaze skyward, and uttered a single quiet word to himself.

"Shit."

Recommend Music: Imperial Attack (S)

[recoveringgeek]

As issued by Joint Naval Command, subject to Imperial Ordinance 5517.12, and in accordance with the previously agreed upon subsections of the Treaty of Coruscant, namely sections V.22 and V.24;

Imperial Naval Command (hereafter referred to as INC) proposes Security Treaty E001 in conjunction with the free, independant system of Erini. This Security Treaty (hereafter referred to as E001) is presented in full to the Erinian Council (hereafter referred to as EC).

E001 proposes no less than the following;

• An immediate presence of interdiction vessels as determined by the INC to patrol and protect the hyperspace corridor E070811 (hereafter referred to as the Eri Gap). Such vessels will include as a minimum one Harrower-Class Dreadnaught, or three Oppressor Battle Cruisers, and accompanying support craft.
• The interdiction vessels will immediately secure flight traffic along the Eri Gap, and conduct random, persistent inspections of all incoming and outgoing ships to ensure no contraband, banned weapons of distinction, or at-large criminals of note are present.
• The interdiction vessels will only ensure the safe, uninterrupted passage of trade goods, medical aid, and support personnel via the Eri Gap.
• The interdiction vessels are not responsible for the protection of Rhos IV (hereafter referred to as Erini), and defer all planetary defense to the Royal Erinian Navy (hereafter referred to as the REN).
• The immediate and ongoing assistance of the INC to provide personnel, training, support craft, and direct supervision of any REN space operations and relief efforts. Such assistance stands ready at the behest of the REN.
• The immediate and ongoing assistance of the Imperial Army to provide personnel, training, support vehicles and direct supervision of any Erinian ground operations and relief efforts. Such assistance stands ready at the behest of the REN, and will be coordinated with the Office of the Imperial Generals.
• The relocation and safe habitation of any or all Erinian nobility, diplomatic staff, and political servants to a protected world of the INC choosing. Such assistance stands ready at the behest of the REN or the EC.

E001 also proposes the following ancillary conditions, to be fulfilled upon agreement of the primary treaty conditions;

• Immediate, consistent, ongoing shipments of medical aid, raw materials, and support personnel to assist with the recovery and reconstruction efforts of both the REN fleet and civilian targets of terrorism.
• Upgraded trade designation with the Empire, allowing for priority trade and first point of refusal for trade negotiations, including but not limited to the Republic, and the Hutt Cartel(s).
• The permanent establishment of a sovereign embassy site on Dromund Kaas, to be afford all the rights and privileges as native Erinian soil.
• The establishment of first point of refusal for trade negotiations for the Empire, including but not limited to the Republic, and the Hutt Cartel(s).

Signed this Centaxday;

Admiral Eldarus Villem
HCD Rancorous

Admiral Augustus Grice
HCD Omnipotence

Admiral Hagun Orun
Imperial Naval Command

General A.R. Quist
Imperial Army

[recoveringgeek]

Dromund Kaas

Kaas City

The comlink beeped twice, before Lieutenant Paskr Villem keyed open the channel.

"Yes?"

"Lieutenant. Admiral Villem has arrived, and demands an immediate... "

Recommend music: The Emperor Confronts Luke

The comlink cut to static, and a heartbeat later, the door to the operations room opened. Support staff all looked to the door as it slid open with a faint hiss, and the distinct, crisp white uniform of an Imperial Admiral passed the doorway. The operations chief gave Lieutenant Villem a brief glance, and the Lieutenant dismissed him with a single nod. The Imperial staff all quietly vacated the room, and Admiral Villem crossed the floor to stand on the far side of an immense holographic projector. Lieutenant Villem stood calmly, and snapped a tight salute, before returning his hand to his side.

"Admiral."

"At ease, Lieutenant Villem."

Paskr sat back down, staring at the senior officer across the glowing surface of the holoprojector. The Admiral regarded the junior officer for several long moments, before speaking in his usual commanding tone, idly glancing around the cramped chamber.

"If you are engaged in intelligence matters, shouldn't such activities be conducted in the headquarters of Imperial Intelligence?"

"Moirae has secured these private offices, to ensure none of our most sensitive files are exposed to unnecessary personnel."

"Which is to say that Imperial Intelligence has devoted their resources to more pressing matters, such as violations of the Treaty of Coruscant, illegial trade of Imperial military files, and the Silence Keepers, to name but a few. There is little time left to be spent chasing wayward rogue Sith and ineffectual matching of wits with adolescent Jedi Masters."

Paskr opened his mouth to reply, but allowed only silence to fill the air, knowing the Admiral was not pursuing a debate, just an agenda. Admiral Villem keyed up the holographic terminal, and the rotating, swirling image of the Erinian System came into view. The projector zoomed in on the star, Rhos, and then the fourth planet orbiting the star.

"Tell me Lieutentant. How is it the Silence Keepers have taken such an interest in a unremarkable system such as Erini, and the Moirae, the supposed best and brightest of the Empire, had not one whit of advance warning of such a campaign?"

"We have detailed files on Erini, and a dozen other systems of note. The Silence Keepers have not... "

"You have nothing, Lieutenant. Nothing. You have squandered the resources allocated to you, and diminished the Empire's standing with neutral systems that are considered in play. Systems such as Erini."

"Does this mean Admiral that you are lending the support of your staff to Darth Ephese ongoing objectives?"

"Darth Ephese? Tell me Lieutenant, where is Darth Ephese? Her ship was last reported in the Tatooine System, and has not been seen since. The Dark Council have their own matters to attend to, and the Darths each answer to a power higher than themselves, whether they choose to acknowledge it or not.

I have not come to offer any assistance. I too have my orders Lieutenant, and they are directed at strengthening the Empire, not pursuing ghosts or artifacts. Captain Exus has requested an immediate transfer off of the Rancorous now that we are returned to Imperial space. He has not the fortitude for the role. He requested an administrative role, and I saw fit to grant it. He now reports for duty in a remote field office overseeing ice mining on Hoth. It is suited to his narrow skill set and lack of vision."

Paskr regarded the Admiral silently, as Erini rotated past his field of vision, followed by trailing asteroids.

"Have you chosen his successor then?"

"I have Lieutenant. You will fulfill your duty long overdue, and take your place at my side on the bridge of the Rancorous."

For the first time in a long time, Paskr was caught by surprise. His expression cracked for just a moment, long enough for Admiral Villem to focus his scrutinizing gaze on him directly.

"Admiral... my duties with Moirae are at a critical stage, and I cannot jeopardize... "

"Moirae is a pale shadow of what it once was Lieutenant. Its' time has passed. The Empire does not need more Sith agendas. It needs loyal officers. It needs discipline. It needs leadership."

"Your leadership, you mean."

Admiral Villem furrowed his brow as Paskr silently chastised himself for his loss of decorum.

"I will overlook that comment as a product of your seclusion and lack of achievement. Do not make the same mistake your Mother did Lieutenant. You have no other options."

It was Paskr's turn to furrow his brow, lines forming on his normally smooth, porcelain features. He replied, his tone distinctly firm.

"Mother was not an Imperial Officer, Admiral. She was free to make her own choices."

"She chose poorly. Such an offer will not be extended a second time. Matters are advancing. The Rancorous needs disciplined officers, and I need senior staff with field experience. Those who have negotiated the treacherous morass of Sith politics and emerged unscathed. The question remains Lieutenant, whether you emerged capable from your experiences?"

Paskr bit back his immediate retort, and reflected internally on the situation, his career path, and the current state of galactic politics. Studying the Admiral's stern visage, he took a calming breath, then replied.

"Very well. I will submit the transfer request and inform... "

"I submitted the request an hour ago. Admiral Orun has already processed it. You will report to the bridge of the Rancorous immediately. As soon as she is refitted and refueled, we have a new destination."

"Yes, Father."

"Now Captain Villem, tell me everything you know about Bloasus the Hutt... "

[recoveringgeek]

Kayfoundo Lorda (Huttese for Hungry Boss)
Stolen Republic Hammerhead Cruiser

Interior: Luxury-conversion cargo bay

Recommended Music: Confronting Jabba

Bloasus the Hutt.

Crime Lord. Slaver. Black marketeer. Exile.

The hush that had fallen over the crowd was in no small part to the pair of Humans who approached the dais of Bloasus the Hutt. The echo of their polished boots on the metal floor grates heralded their presence, but the gleam of the leather was also a reminder that they were possibly the cleanest possessions on the entirety of the run-down former Republic cruiser.

The engulfing presence of a Harrower-Class Imperial Dreadnaught directly alongside the much smaller, far less armed and armored cruiser also cast a pall over the usual band of ne'er-do-wells and miscreants that huddled at Bloasus court.

It wasn't just a rare occurrence. This was only the second time an Imperial officer, in full uniform, stood before the ravenous Bloasus the Hutt.

Admiral Villem regarded the odorous Hutt directly, while his uniformed security escort kept a wary eye on the desperate looking crowd from behind the polarized lenses of his blast helmet.

"Bloasus the Hutt. You were not difficult to track down, despite your feeble attempts at staying beyond the reach of your enemies. If the Hutt Cartel wants you destroyed, rather than disavowed, it will happen."

The metallic whir of cybernetic legs echoed on the dais, and a heavily-muscled Twi'lek stepped into view, flanked by a female Twi'lek sporting a pair of hip-holstered blaster pistols, and a slave collar and mask around her mouth. An albino womb rat slithered into view, sniffing the air tentatively.

The Twi'lek grinned, revealing razor-sharp teeth, and pointed casually at the Admiral.

"You got a big mouth for someone with such a small head. Must not be many brains inside that old, dying skull. You should show respect for your host... unless you'd rather stay for dinner, old man."

Admiral Villem's helmeted security made note of the Twi'lek woman on the dais, and the armed brute to his side. While the crowd assuredly had numerous blasters and smaller melee weapons, it was those willing to make direct eye contact he had to watch.

The Admiral glanced from the grotesque slug of a Hutt, to the brash Twi'lek enforcer.

"If I wanted to speak to a slave, I'm certain Bloasus competitors could provide me with far more charming company. Likely far better stock, and one less damaged. Now remove yourself from my sight."

Ruskk, Bloasus chief enforcer, bodyguard, and assassin, grinned further. Slipping a hand into his stained leather longcoat, he unclipped a wicked-looking vibrosword from his belt, and tossed it in the air, catching it in his hand as he leaned forward. Servos in his cybernetic knees whirred, demonstrating the hidden strength in his artificial legs. Bloasus gagged and chortled at the display of bravado and threats.

"I'm going to hang your uniform on the wall Imp, and use it to wipe my face after every meal!"

The Admiral's guard let his hand stray to his blaster pistol, but he did not draw it, there was no need. Admiral Villem himself stepped forward, extending a hand that he slowly clenched into a fist. Ruskk's laughing breath quickly changed to a raspy gasp, and then a desperate choke, as his throat closed.

"I grow tired of listening to your voice, so I have silenced it. Shall I silence the beating of your heart next? Consider that your life was spared as my gift to the Engorged One. I promise no such gifts next time, slave."

Admiral Villem released his Force Choke, and Ruskk collapsed to the dais, quickly dragged away by Bloasus minions. The Twi'lek woman kept her own hands on his pistols, but a single shake of his head side to side in the negative from the Admiral's escort convinced her that discretion was the better call this day.

An Arcona translator stepped forward, offering a stiff bow towards Admiral Villem.

"The insatiable one, Bloasus the Hutt welcomes you on board Admiral, and acknowledges your well-intentioned warnings. How can the mighty hunger of Bloasus sate your own needs?"

The Admiral listened to the Arcona, but kept his gaze focused on Bloasus, even as he replied.

"It is not my needs that are of concern here. Bloasus the Hutt has many needs. A need for credits. A need for slaves. A need for weapons, and lackeys to carry them. Bloasus the Hutt needs to recoup his losses, and regain his standing with the Kajidics."

Bloasus exhaled through his nose, a wet sound, before bellowing out in Huttese, his tone evident that his mood had soured slightly after the brief display of sport. The Arcona clasped his hands nervously behind his back before speaking again.

"The appetite of Bloasus the Hutt is unequaled, but he wishes to remind the Admiral that he does not go hungry. He feasts daily on the fear of his enemies."

Admiral Villem, allowed a momentary smile to crease his normally terse lips, before it was gone.

"They do not fear Bloasus the Hutt. They laugh at him. They know the once mighty Bloasus eats the scraps the rest of the galaxy leaves for him. They know he hides in the empty reaches of space, unable to rebuild even his own palace. The galaxy laughs at Bloasus, because the galaxy has forgotten Bloasus. The only reminder he exists is the rumble of his empty belly."

Bloasus roared at that, smashing his flabby fist down on the dais, causing the crowd to retreat in immediate fear that they would end up on the Hutt's table instead of at it. Bloasus sputtered a string of curses, threats, and excuses in Huttese, which Admiral Villem patiently endured, his position near the dais and his expression, unchanged.

The Arcona stammered out his translation, clearly terrified to be so close to the animated, angry Hutt.

"There is no palace in the galaxy that can provide a feast large enough to sate the Engorged One, Bloasus the Hutt. Bloasus will eat at the table of Hutt Cartel once again, and he will sit at the head of it! Bloasus the Hutt demands to know why you delay his next meal with your false rumours."

The Admiral changed his tone, but his presence was no less formidable.

"I have come to offer the assistance of the Empire in ensuring Bloasus never goes hungry again. In return for special considerations, we will provide Bloasus with information on key trade routes the Hutt Cartel has not capitalized on. Bloasus can bring in new trade, fresh goods, and much needed credits back to the Cartel. Credits he can use to buy a seat at any table he so wishes."

Bloasus licked the spittle from his lips, and shifted his immense bulk, demonstrating a renewed interest in the conversation. Admiral Villem stepped closer, regarding the Hutt crime lord directly.

"You will conduct trade where and when I say, Bloasus. You will also stifle trade where I demand. There will be no negotiation in this offer. Bloasus will feed, but first he will act."

Bloasus flexed his sweaty palm, scanning the crowd inside the smoky cargo bay, and then the supremely confidant Imperial in his midst. His reply in Huttese was measured this time. The Arcona translator was less nervous when he spoke.

"Bloasus the Hutt lost many meals when he last did business with the Empire. Bloasus must not go hungry again."

"I will ensure sufficient resources are provided to keep Bloasus plate full, until he is once again sitting at the table of the Cartel. There will be no interference this time. No one will dare risk the rancor of the Empire."

Bloasus leaned back, his body mass causing his support chair to creak under his weight. His reply was short.

"Bloasus the Hutt is sated, and agrees to your terms, Admiral."

Admiral Villem cast a momentary glance over his shoulder as his security escort, and the man immediately pulled a comlink from his belt, communicating directly with the Rancorous. The Admiral looked back to the Hutt one final time.

"Your belly will soon grow larger Bloasus, a symbol of your new strength that the Cartel cannot ignore. Make no mistake however, until then, Bloasus the Hutt works for me."

With his final words hanging in the air of the cargo bay, the Admiral turned neatly and departed, the crowd instantly parting to allow him clear and unimpeded passage. Bloasus turned his thick neck as far as he could to regard the semi-conscious Ruskk, who angrily pushed away the Hutt's servants who watched over him. The Twi'lek shot Bloasus an angry glare, but did not speak, though his raw throat prevented any verbal challenge. Ruskk knew who kept his plate full.

Now too, so did Bloasus the Hutt.
___________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Alderaan

Noble Spirit and Noblis Shield
Valor-Class Cruisers

Interior: Noble Spirit bridge

Recommend Music: The Rebels Escape Again

"Captain, Noblis Spirit is in position. Both halves of the patrol grid are covered. Comm signal strength is positive one."

"Very good Lieutenant. I want Blitz Wing providing regular reports at the end of their grid patrol. Have Talon Wing fueled and on standby."

"Acknowledged Captain. Engineering reports a zero-point-five fluctuation in their output capacity, diagnostic crews are alrea..."

"Captain! CONTACT! Grid Alpha-seven-nine. Imperial Dreadnaught has just dropped out of hyperspace. Harrower-Class."

"Battle stations. Helmsman, bring us about, on her bearing. Keep the Noblis Shield behind us, let's not give them two targets. I want Blitz Wing in deflection formation now. All pilots to Talon Wing hangar."

"Captain, she's launching fighters. Mark-six interceptors sir."

"Shields up. Comm, inform Noblis Shield to prepare for Unsheath Maneuver. We'll draw the Dreadnaught's fire to our bow so they can slide out behind us and broadside her. Now, someone tell me who the hell that is... "

Rancorous
Harrower-Class Dreadnaught

Interior: Rancorous Bridge

"Admiral Villem, we've exited lightspeed at your designated coordinates. Interceptors have been launched. Sensors have detected two Valor-Class Crusiers in the adjacent grid. They've launched fighters and are moving to intercept."

"Very good Captain Villem. Have they crossed the grid threshold?"

"Negative Admiral."

"Inform our pilots to approach the grid boundary and hold. I want their flight path to trace that boundary precisely. No deviations from their formation will be tolerated."

"Right away Admiral."

"Comm. Open a channel to the lead Republic vessel."

"Comm open Admiral."

"Republic vessel. This is Admiral Villem of the HCD Rancorous. Your posture is very aggressive. Divert to coordinates seven-seven-five and hold."

"Admiral Villem. This is Captain Wrightmane of the Republic Cruiser Noble Spirit. You have entered a restricted system. This approach vector to Alderaan is quarantined and off-limits to all ships not cleared by T.H.O.R.N., per the Emergency Measures Act enacted by the Joint Alderaanian House Committee. You WILL withdraw your vessel or be fired upon for breach of closed orbital space."

"Captain Wrightmane. Please, let us save the hyperbole for the diplomats. You are correct, this approach vector is closed to all non-authorized vessels. Including yours. Prepare to receive incoming data transmission."

Admiral Villem neatly slashed his hand to signal the comms officer to close the channel.

"Comm. Transmit our T.H.O.R.N. clearance codes. Sensors, monitor those Republic fighters. If they move one light year over that grid line, I want our pilots to intercept. Inform flight leader no one is to fire without my explicit command."

"Yes Admiral."

"Comm, open a channel to the Noble Spirit."

"Channel open Admiral."

"Captain Wrightmane. I trust you received our transmission?"

"Transmission has been received Admiral, but frankly I question the validity of this... "

"Your interpretation of the matter is irrelevant Captain. The Rancorous now has quarantine control of Grid Alpha-seven-nine. Your grid of responsibility is adjacent to our own. Now, command your fighters to stand down and resume their patrol. Interference with the execution of our duty to uphold the T.H.O.R.N. quarantine is considered a breach of the quarantine, and will be met with equal measures. I assure you Captain Wrightmane, there is no hyperbole in my statement."

"..."

"..."

"Rancorous. Confirmation received. Grid Alpha-seven-nine is yours. Good hunting."

"Admiral, they closed the comm channel."

"Sensors. If either of those Republic vessels so much as vent their garbage chutes over the grid boundary, I am to be informed immediately."

"Yes Admiral."

Admiral Villem approached the younger Captain Villem and scrutinized his second-in-command. The Captain clasped his hands behind his back, watching the viewport as the Republic Crusiers ponderously turned and banked away from the grid boundary.

"Captain, has Ambassador Quarasha given you the list of cleared evacuees?"

"Transmission was received right before we made the jump to hyperspace Admiral. The flight deck crews have nearly finished their conversions of the assault shuttles. Pilots and spec force troopers have been briefed and are on standby."

"Good. I trust you understand our purpose here Captain?"

"Yes Admiral, clearly."

"Do you? Your willingness to demonstrate flattery, respect, and even deference to representatives of House Necare have not gone unnoticed by me."

"No deference intended, Admiral. My previous duties with Moirae required regular collaboration with House Necare in order to facilitate... "

"Do not recite your diplomatic platitudes to me Captain. We are here to demonstrate the might of the Empire, not rescue Alderaanian orphans. Should the order to bombard the surface be given, the Rancorous will be in a position to not only land the first blow, but also intercept ships attempting to flee the system. Nobility. Diplomatic couriers carrying classified data files. Prototype weapons developed for use against the plague sites. Does this remind you of our position, Captain? Are you focused now?"

Captain Paskr Villem turned to meet his commanding officer's gaze directly.

"Pinpoint. Admiral."

"Admiral! Contact! Incoming vessel. Approach vector five-four-two. She's moving fast, sir."

"Instruct your fighters to intercept. Helm, move us within tractor beam range."

"Sensors, what transponder are you reading?"

"Captain, no transponder sir, I cannot get a clear signal."

"Your ineptitude is of little value to me sensors. Identify that ship."

"Yes Captain!"

"Admiral, she's slipped over the grid boundary. Republic vessels are moving to intercept."

"Helm, bring us right alongside the grid boundary. I'll not lose that ship to a trigger-happy Republic gunner."

"Yes Admiral."

"Sensors, I want that transponder."

"Negative Captain, I think she's jamming the signal. It's a Gozanti Cruiser sir."

"Gozanti... "

"Admiral, she's slipped back over the near side of the grid boundary. The Republic ships have broken off pursuit."

"Helm, full power to engines. Comm. Flight Leader has permission to fire if that ship continues... "

"Admiral, we're picking up a priority Alderaanian diplomatic signal from that ship. It matches the list of cleared codes we were given by T.H.O.R.N.."

"Comm. Inform Flight Leader to break off. Helm, ease off the engines, but maintain this position until the Republic ships disengage."

"Yes Admiral."

Admiral Villem rubbed a faded scar on his chin, before glancing momentarily over his shoulder at Captain Villem.

"A Gozanti Crusier that jinked the grid boundary between two Capital ships, while jamming their own transponder and then conveniently broadcasting Alderaanian diplomatic clearance codes. Do you know of any stock Gozanti vessels capable of that high speed acceleration and maneuverability, Captain?"

"No stock Gozanti Cruiser could make that run, Admiral."

"I want to know who was on that ship, I want to know what was on that ship and I want to know where that ship landed. Alderaanian nobility don't travel on antiquated freighters, no matter how many modifications have been made to them."

Eldarus Villem turned to regard his son one final time before walking away briskly.

"I want to know everything."

"Yes, Father."
___________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

The Jaded Dream

Interior: The Jaded Dream

Recommend Sound Effect: Falconspeak

 

*  *  *

"Listen Dyven, fair warning. Saura is keeping tabs on both of us. Don't visit your usual haunts. Chances are good she'll have you followed, or bugged, or both. I've got visual confirmation Aura is being held, but no location. I found out something. Aura's bird, Valkyrie One was ship-jacked from the rescue site."

"I'll bet Bloasus' dinner that Rayfer has an emergency homing beacon transmitting the moment Aura didn't enter her pilot's code into the ship's computer. Think you can find it? Keep following up on your end, I'll be in touch."

*  *  *

"Qardaak. Let's Deal the Cards. The Wife has given the Alecake to the Kids in the Basement. I know you like Beer and Pie, but if your Aunt thinks this is too Expensive, then maybe you should stay close the Fair Lady. I'm going to contact some Spicy Jokers who have a Uniform. They'll need to bring Jack and Jill too. Jaded Dream, out."

*  *  *

"Look, this is Jaade. Captain of the Jaded Dream. I'm looking for some hired guns. I know I ain't gotten along with Clan Besu'liik so well in the past, but I also know your people like credits, and you stick to a job until it's done. I don't need a squad of Mandalorians. I need one, maybe two people, who are just as good outside the armor as in it. I need people who can get in real quiet-like, and get out in a damn hurry when it matters. Two people. Two quiet people. Give me your price. I got credits for you if you got time for me. Jaded Dream, out."

*  *  *

"Livia, if I know you, you're monitoring Red's channels. This is Jaade. Your man has jumped to who the hell knows where, which means his run is off. I got one of my own, and I'm willing to trade my share of his payment for my crew in exchange for some help. I know you're real good at waiting and watching. I expect you know people inside the Empire too. He didn't just hire you for your long, blue legs."

"I need to know everything I can about something called Task Force Zerek, Republic special operations group. They might have taken a shine to independant tramp freighter Captains. They also took Auranel. I need help darlin', and I'm asking, real personal-like for this one favor. Jaded Dream, out."

*  *  *

"Look, Shaantil, by the time you get this, hopefully I'll have already made the jump. Just, it's complicated, and I don't want you stuck in the middle of something. I know what you stand for, and I also know who you believe in. Just... just tell his shininess I had to make a few runs and will be out of comm range from Erini for a while. As for the rest of it, if you end up in the same system as the Jaded Dream, well, I forgive you darlin'. We all do what we have to do. Jaade, out."

*  *  *

"Chocolate. If you're out there, if you're hearing this. I don't need you to come back. Right now, I probably don't want you to neith... hell, that's a lie. Look, I just need your help finding her, if you can. If you can't, then maybe you can throw Colton off my trail. Give her some ghost transponder signals to follow until I can make the jump... I know why you went away. I just, I can't have both you and Aura gone. It's, it's too hard worrying about both of you at the same time."

"I sent you some video footage of Aura along with this transmission. I think it's spice withdrawal. I'm not sure. You probably know the signs when you see it. Stay safe. Jaade, out."

*  *  *

"Look Jace, Seiyd. I know you want to help. Hell, you do owe me, that's for damn sure. This is different. You got a kid now, but yours is safe, and needs to stay that way. I ain't jinking 'cause I don't think you can handle it. It's more complicated than that. It's Saura."

"She's on me like a mynock, and she ain't being gentle about it. She's warned me off, even as she's given me confirmation that Aura's alive. The Republic ain't being gentle with her neither. She's also made it clear that if she catches me anywhere near where Aura is held, she'll arrest me, and anyone flying with me. That means you."

"I don't want neither of you caught up in my problem. I also don't want you with me in case... hell Colton, she's your sister, but it's my daughter. Saura gets in my way and I will blast her. Jaade, out."

Recommend music: Balmorra, The Forge
___________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Fall of a Jedi

Out of character warning: Direct video link. Do not click if recreational video usage not permitted by your company policy.
_________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - Missing in Action on Nar Shaddaa
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Nar Shaddaa

Bisk Tuttle strolled past the disinterested security of the Works yard, and into the labourers camp. Giving a tired wave to the Devronian family in the tent next to his, the weary Human gave Uula, the young female Twi'lek mechanic who he was  assigned with a curious look. She sat huddled in the fore tent with Xeebo, the young male Rodian who was always a bit too interested in what was happening around the Works, and not in his own work. The pair paused in their hushed conversation almost immediately, watching Bisk as he walked into the aft tent, his eyes still watching them.

"You two can give me that look all you want, you know it's leftover Bantha stew again... "

Bisk's voice trailed off as he entered the tent, and the clatter of his lunch container hit the dirty permacrete floor.

Bisk stumbled out of the tent, closing the flap and glancing around nervously, before hissing at the pair sitting on the torn, tattered carpet that doubled as their eating area.

"Who in the hell is that, and why he is on my workbench?"

Uula looked at Xeebo who dipped his snout, unwilling to talk. Uula sighed and looked up at Bisk.

"A speeder crashed right onto the concourse when we made our parts run. The pilot survived, barely, and stumbled out of the thing before collapsing in the crowd. Everyone was so concerned with him, they didn't notice the old fella lying in the back."

Bisk rubbed his hand on his face.

"So you brought him back here? Why would you even get involved? Let the concourse security... "

"Let them do what Bisk? Take his credstick and leave him to burn in the speeder?"

Uula also glanced around, and then lowered her voice.

"Xeebo helped me pull him out. He didn't enter via the passenger hatch. His one foot was sticking out of the hole in the roof. A hole we're pretty sure he made when he fell... "

Bisk glanced inside the tent as if to ensure his eyes weren't deceiving him, then back to the Twi'lek.

"Some old timer loses his fortune at the casino and jumps and you bring him here!"

"No Bisk... he... "

Uula glanced nervously at Xeebo, then back to the Human.

"We threw away what remained of his clothes. His robes, actually."

Uula reached into her belt and tossed Bisk a damaged, blackened comlink. Bisk caught it, and looked at it confused. Uula pointed with her finger.

"It's done, but look at the recharge port, the inscription on the ring."

Bisk turned the comlink over and squinted at the damaged communicator.

"Republic Series 1001-JC."

Bisk frowned and shrugged as he looked back at her.

"It's Republic, Bisk. Old series. They haven't made the 1001 for over a decade. Know what the JC refers to? The company that made those had an exclusive contract back in the day. I know, my Father taught me how to wire circuit boards using recycled 1001's. It's Jedi Corps Bisk."

Bisk's eyes got wide, and he hissed again.

"So you brought him here? A dead Jedi!? You must be sniffing lubricant! If the Works security finds him the best we can hope for is a month's pay docked. If they think we were helping him... do you know what the Hutts do to spies?"

Uula sighed, and looked to the carpet, picking at a frayed thread.

"We couldn't let him burn, and we thought he was alive. He seemed to be... well, now we're not sure. We threw him on the flatbed speeder and covered him with a tarp."

The Twi'lek looked up at Bisk, he expression strained.

"I can't tell if he's alive or not. If he's breathing... "

Bisk held up a hand and exhaled, looking back at the closed tent flap, then down the row of haphazardly aligned tents, towards the gated entrance to the labourers camp, where the same Hutt guards played Pazaak.

"We'll wait until they do the guard switch. They always leave the gate unoccupied for a few minutes. We'll load him up and take him off site. Maybe we can dump him... "

"Bisk! We can't dump his body! If he's Jedi, someone needs to know. If he's missing, they might be looking for him. If he jumped... well, someone should tell them."

Bisk shook his head.

"You're assuming he didn't steal the robe and the comlink. You said yourself your Father worked on recycled boards. The old man could have bought this in a hundred salvage shops on this level... "

"Except he's not from this level Bisk. Or the one above us. Or the one above that... "

"We are not keeping him here. If the Hutt finds out we have a wounded man in the camp who isn't a worker... "

Xeebo spoke up, his snout flexing as he quietly voice his opinion. Uula glanced curiously at the Rodian, before looking to Bisk who was already shaking his head.

"The Alien Outreach Centre is too far Xeebo. If you don't make it back before curfew... "

"No, he can make it Bisk. He can use the dormant water reclamation system. Those pipes lead almost right outside the Outreach Centre. He can at least get a message to the Republic... "

"It's too dangerous Uula. You remember what happened to that Sullustan welder who decided to sneak a bottle out of the guard's tents and they caught him on the walk back? They carried him away because they beat him so bad. We still haven't seen him since."

Xeebo stood up, adjusting his utility belt, and speaking to Uula.

"He's going Bisk. For the exact reason you just mentioned. To hell with the Hutts. If the guards find this man, they'll kill him, if he isn't dead already."

Xeebo gave Uula a hug, and then nodded once to Bisk, before glancing at the guards, and then heading deeper into the labourers camp, towards the hole in the fence most of them knew was there. Uula watched him leave, and then slipped inside the aft tent where the body lay.

Bisk leaned against the tent wall, as the artificial lighting dimmed,signaling the upcoming shift change in the Works. A glowlamp became his only immediate source of illumination as the sounds and smells of portable autochefs became prominent.

"I don't know kid. I have a bad feeling about this."
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - Missing in Action on Nar Shaddaa
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

[Incoming Message]
[Ident] Villem, Paskr - Rank: Captain
[Security] 001 Cleared
[Priority] Mid
[Message] Admiral, I received a copy of this transmission from one of my prior Deep Cover contacts on Nar Shaadaa. I tasked them with monitoring low-level transmissions from Republic agents and agencies operating on the moon. I've kept an account at one of the financial institutions on the Promenade to automatically transfer a finder's fee every few standard weeks. It seems one of those contacts is still feeding at the trough I left for him.

You had mentioned during our security briefing last month, that you wanted any information pertaining to Jedi Knight activity on Nar Shaddaa. I know there are several Jedi operating in various modes of secrecy, but this fell outside your initial parameters. Please advise if you require further action on this information.

- Captain Paskr Villem
HCD Rancorous

[Audio/Video] File NS 6799.003

  *  *  *

[Incoming Message]
[Ident] Villem, Eldarus - Rank: Admiral
[Security] 001 Cleared
[Priority] High
[Message] Captain, I order you to immediately activate this sleeper agent task them with locating the body of this - jumper - and report back to you personally. Further, you would do well to not attempt to decipher what constitutes my parameters, and ensure all intelligence and information is delivered to me immediately. I will decide what is relevant and deserving of our resources.

You are also ordered to contact the Kayfoundo Lorda. I want the Hutt's best mercenaries dispatched to Nar Shaddaa at once. It's time for that obese alien to earn his next meal.

- Admiral Eldarus Villem
HCD Rancorous
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - Missing in Action on Nar Shaddaa
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

[Incoming Message]
[Ident] Villem, Paskr - Rank: Captain
[Security] Encoded. Decoding... decoding complete.
[Priority] High
[Message]

"Agent Livia.

While you suggested I call you by your given name informally, the formality of this invitation demands full titles. Admiral Villem wishes to cordially invite Darth Taelios to dinner on board the Rancorous. You are of course welcome to join him. The Rancorous will return to low orbit over Dromund Kaas in three standard days. Darth Taelios should dress as his mood dictates, though spiked gauntlets might interfere with the dinner service.

Contact the Rancorous once you are in the system, and landing codes will be transmitted to your vessel. If Darth Taelios has any allergies, dietary restrictions or organic intolerance, please forward them to me immediately. Alcoholic beverages that risk sparking a loss of decorum are also requested. Hum juice will not be served.

Captain Paskr Villem, HCD Rancorous."
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - Missing in Action on Nar Shaddaa
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Rancorous
Harrower-Class Dreadnaught

Recommend Music: Emperor's Throne Room
Interior: Rancorous

"Has Darth Taelios ship departed the landing bay Captain?"

"He just made the jump to lightspeed, Admiral."

"You heard his report. What do you make of it?"

"While he was not successful in retrieving the Jedi Master, that outcome seemed an unlikely resolution. If Darth Taelios did not embellish his encounter, then he faced off against several of the Jedi Custodum's finest warriors, and survived to speak of it."

"Or they survived to speak of their encounter with him."

"Yes, Admiral."

"What else?"

"He has given the Jedi a clear target, albeit an elusive one. Whether Darth Taelios self-proclaimed loyalty to the Empire is genuine, he is now the face of the enemy for the Jedi. The very nature of his shifting loyalties in the past gives the Empire a useful tool to deploy or distance ourselves from as needed."

Admiral Eldarus Villem absently rubbed a scar on his chin.

"What of the bodyguard? Can she be trusted?"

"Her loyalty to Darth Taelios is evident. It is obvious he has corrupted her, or perhaps she was to begin with. However, I feel she believes she is still serving the Empire in her own way, and muting the potential damage he can cause."

"Your feelings on the matter are irrelevant Captain. I want to know if she would warn our enemies should I send him out to face the Jedi again. Would she intervene and save his life, even at the expense of an Imperial victory?"

"Yes Admiral, she would."

"What of the other matter he mentioned. A Force Nexus?"

Captain Paskr Villem reviewed his datapad as he spoke.

"Detailed files are lacking Admiral. There are reports of unusual phenomenon encountered by Imperial scouts and Sith alike. Each report refers to the incident by a different name or descriptor. There are a few commonalities linking them. One is the presence - or death - of a powerful Force sensitive individual. Other reports discuss Jedi / Sith conflicts that resulted in significant casualties."

"Is it dangerous?"

"There is not enough data to confirm. I will use my contacts on Nar Shaddaa to investigate further."

"Very well."

"Father... Admiral. Did you, feel anything?"

"What do you mean?"

"One of the reports stated that the phenomenon could be felt by Force sensitive individuals, in some cases over great distances."

"I don't focus on my feelings, Captain. I focus on facts. Facts you are lacking."

"Yes, Admiral."

Captain Villem turned and departed the Admiral's ready room. As he reached the door, Admiral Villem addressed him one final time.

"Captain."

"Yes, Admiral?"

"Be careful, my son."

Paskr regarded his Father who had his back turned, and was staring out the viewport. Without reply, he nodded once, and passed the double blast doors as they opened, then retracted.

Recommend Sound Effect: Chamber door
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - In a Force-induced coma on Tython
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Tython

The Jedi Temple

Interior: Medical Suite

The monitoring equipment hummed and beeped softly, signaling a faint, but unmistakable steady rhythm of life. The medical droid made its' rounds methodically, stopping at each bedside, before pausing at the prone form of Jedi Master Dai Yarwin.

The droid checked the readings three times, as programmed to. As re-programmed to. A cursory check by a stock medical droid would have triggered an alarm as the automaton would have assumed the comatose patient was dying, or dead. The triple check allowed the droid to confirm the patient was in fact still alive, and so continued the rounds.

A robed figure passed by the droid, navigating the rows of patient beds and medical equipment. Reaching the bedside of the patient, they observed them from beneath the cowl of their hood silently. The patient lay motionless, eyes closed, even their chest seemed not to visibly rise or fall with each breath. After a few moments, the hooded figure sat down next to a bubbling kolto tank that for the rare moment, sat empty.

After another long silent moment had passed, Padawan Learner Auranel Jaade spoke;

"Alright Master Yarwin. You called, so I came. I'm here."

"I'm listening... "

Recommended Music: A Growing Feeling
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum - In a Force-induced coma on Tython
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt

[recoveringgeek]

Port Nowhere

Interior: Port Nowhere Landing Bay

Recommend Sound Effect: Gonk

"Now I want you to watch for any hydraulic leaks when I test this stabilizer fin... yes damnit, I know you can't stand up when you slip and fall over, so just stay out of the way... "

 

*  *  *  *  *  *

"I need you to go to the terminal and order the engine blast blocks so I can test these directional thrusters... what? Because I don't want to melt the floor plates when I fire up the... look, don't argue with me, just tell spaceport control I need them delivered."

"You want to what? Hell no, you cannot fire up the engines. I am paying for this bay by the day you overpowered space heater. I can't afford to pay for any damages because you like to hear the roar of the... ah forget it."

 

*  *  *  *  *  *

"Yes, I know if Graal was here she could slice the cockpit open. Don't you think I already thought of that? You want me to send a holo to who? T7? Who the in the blue hell is T7? Shaantil!? Did you fall down a maintenance shaft and dislodge your processor? She's a Jedi Knight! I'm wanted by the Republic... we're wanted by the Republic, do you know what that means? No, damnit, it does not mean they're going to throw us a party... "

 

*  *  *  *  *  *

"So much like your Mother it scares me. This was right where Mags loved to be too. Throwing the throttle open and flying half-blind with stardust blowing through her hair. I guess they can't let young girls just be fighter pilots when they can hear through durasteel walls and levitate droids with merely a thought..."

 

*  *  *  *  *  *

"She can't, because she's got somewhere else to be right now."

"We can't. We're not allowed back in the system... I'm not allowed back in the system. We have to keep it safe, here."

"We did it because one day she'll need to fly again, and when she does, her bird will be ready for her."

"Yeah, I know little buddy. I miss her too."
________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt
Prototype-one, Taelios Genetech Industries war droid

[recoveringgeek]

Tython

Recommend sound effect: Waterfall

"Fayhan... "

________________________________________________________________________
Republic Characters
Dai Yarwin, Jedi Master and Council member of the Jedi Custodum
Jaade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Weequay, A weequay bounty hunter

Empire Characters
Eldarus Villem, Admiral of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
Paskr Villem, Captain of the Harrower-Class Dreadnaught; Rancorous
J'aade, Captain of the Gozanti Cruiser; Jaded Dream - Wanted by the Republic
Ruskk, Twi'lek enforcer for Bloasus the Hutt
Prototype-one, Taelios Genetech Industries war droid