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Chapter Text

Star Wars: Jedi Odyssey IV: Alliances and Tribulations

0-0-0; Protocol/Interrogator Droid, One Sith Deserter

11-4D; Medical/Assassin Droid, One Sith Agent

Abeloth; Bedlam Spirit Offspring, Bringer of Chaos (Female Entity)

Adari Thayn Palpatine; Planetary Ambassador, Jedi Ally (Keshiri Female)

Akku Sei II; Mandalorian Company Commander (Anzati Male)
Allana Djo Solo; Jedi Knight and Chume'da Princess (Human Female)

Armand Vorn; Imperial Army Captain (Human Male)

Atai Molec; Outer Rim Alliance Ambassador (Zygerrian Male)

Bardan Jusik Skirata; Mandalorian Advisor and Jedi General (Human Male)

Belot; One Sith Warrior (Keshiri Female)

Ben Skywalker; Jedi Master (Human Male)
Boba Fett; Mand’alor (Cloned Human Male)

BT-1; Astromech/Assassin Droid, One Sith Deserter
C-3PO; Protocol droid

CT-1409, “Echo”; Former GAR ARC Trooper (Cloned Human Male)
CT-6116, "Kix"; Former GAR Medic (Cloned Human Male)

CT-9901, “Hunter”; Former GAR Commando Sergeant (Cloned Human Male)

CT-9902, “Wrecker”, Former GAR Commando (Cloned Human Male)

CT-9903, “Tech”, Former GAR Commando (Cloned Human Male)

CT-9904, “Crosshair”, Former GAR Commando (Cloned Human Male)

Cain Arla; Olpakan Resolute Commander (Garwian Female)

Carasynthia "Cara" Dune Djarin; Mandalorian (Human Female)

Chelli Lona Aphra; Historian, Jedi Ally (Human Female)

Cylo-V; Scientist/Industrialist, High Councilor of the Knights of Olpaka (Self-Altered Human Male)

Danni Quee; Magister of Zonama Sekot, Former Jedi (Human Female)

Darman Skirata; Olpakan Hegemony Special Forces Commander (Cloned Human Male)

Darth Imperious (Formerly Takaris Yur); One Sith Instructor (Human Male)

Darth Invidious; One Sith Intelligence Director, Last Alliance Liaison (Arkanian Male)

Darth Irola (Formerly Elscol Lora); One Sith Fleet Commander, Last Alliance Liaison (Human Female)

Darth Krayt (Formerly A’Sharad Hett); One Sith Leader, Last Alliance Triumvir (Human Male)
Darth Malleus (Formerly Telloti Cillmam'n); One Sith Marauder Leader (Human Male)

Darth Nasthah (Formerly Aurra Sing); True Sith Agent (Humanoid Hybrid)

Darth Phobar; True Sith Lord (Columi Male)

Darth Snoke (Formerly Finn Galfridian); One Sith Lord, Last Alliance Liaison (Human Male)
Darth Wyyrlok (Formerly Mas Amedda); One Sith Regent and Voice (Chagrian Male)

Darth Vua; One Sith Slayer (Yuuzhan Vong-Human Male)

Denjax Teppler; Confederation Prime Minister (Human Male)

Din Djarin; Mandalorian Clan Leader (Human Male)

Drikl Lecersen; ex-Imperial Moff, One Sith Fleet Commander, Triple Agent (Human Male)
Edaan Palpatine; Jedi Knight, Sith captive (Human Male)

Ephin Sarreti; Imperial Grand Moff (Human Male)

Ferren Barr; Former Sith, Jedi Agent (Iktotchi Male)

Grace Tirall; Aquilian Paladin Lieutenant (Human Female)
Han Solo; Space Captain, Jedi Ally, Military Advisor (Human Male)

Harrar; High Priest (Yuuzhan Vong Male)

Ingo Wavlud; One Sith Collaborator, Last Alliance Agent (Human Male)

Iskat Akaris; Jedi Knight, Olpakan Resolute Agent (Pkorian Female)

Jaden Korr; Jedi Knight (Human Male)

Jagged Fel; Imperial Head of State (Human Male)
Jaina Solo Fel; Jedi Council Member (Human Female)

Jaing Skirata; Mandalorian Supercommando (Cloned Human Male)

Jan Ors; Alpha Blue Intelligence Director, Galactic Alliance General (Human Female)

Jarael Chantique; Last Alliance Medic (Iskalloni Female)

Jayce Solo Fel; Jedi Apprentice, Imperial Citizen/Ambassador (Human Male)

Julius Gaia; Aquilian Republic High Admiral (Human Male)
K’Kruhk; Jedi Master (Whiphid Jedi Master)
Kajin Bar Yimmon; Galactic Alliance Chief of State (Cerean Male)

Kal Skirata; Mandalorian Scoundrel, Olpakan Resolute Colonel (Human Male)

Khedryn Faal; Smuggler Kingpin, Jedi Ally (Human Male)

Kivu'raw'nuruodo “Vurawn”; Empire of the Hand Supreme Commander, Last Alliance Triumvir (Chiss Male)

Kopri Wren; Mandalorian Protectors Colonel and Clan Leader (Human Female)

Korin Aphra, Historian, Former One Sith Collaborator (Human Male)

Kral Nevil; Galactic Alliance Vice Admiral (Quarren Male)

Krets’shawnkyr’nuruodo “Shawnkyr”; Chiss Ascendancy, Expansionary Defense Fleet Supreme Admiral (Chiss Female)
Kyle Katarn: Jedi Grand Master, Last Alliance Triumvir (Human Male)
Leia Organa Solo; Jedi Master (Human Female)
Luke Skywalker; Jedi Master (Human Male)

Maarek Stele; Retired Imperial Ace, Rogue’s Gallery Instructor and Flight Leader (Human Male)
Mirax Terrik Horn; Information Broker (Human Female)
Mirta Gev; Mandalorian Protectors Commander (Human/Kiffar Hybrid Female)

Nas Choka; Warrior (Yuuzhan Vong Male)

Natasi Daala; Fugitive; High Councilor of the Knights of Olpaka (Human Female)

Ochi of Bestoon; One Sith Agent/Assassin (Vahla Male)
Phasma; ex-Sith, Alliance of Light and Jedi Advisor (Human Female)
R2-D2; Astromech droid
Robonino; Professional Slicer/Bounty Hunter (Patrolian Slicer)

Sly Moore; One Sith Administrator/Assassin (Umbaran Female)
Soldier Tirall; Aquilian Paladin Captain (Cloned Human Male)

Sorzus; Sith Lady (Chagrian Female)

Stybla'ba'kar “Ba’kar”; Chiss Ascendancy, Expansionary Defense Fleet Supreme General (Chiss Male)

Tau Palpatine; Sith-bred Iteration and Jedi Agent (Cloned Human Male)

Tor Valum; True Sith Sorcerer (Grysk Male)

Turr Phennir; Confederation Supreme Commander (Human Male)
Vestara Khai; Former Sith Lady, Jedi Agent (Human Female)

Vlad Karmazov; Olpakan Hegemony Supreme Knight, Olpakan Resolute Agent (Human Male)

Voort “Piggy” saBinring; Wraith Squadron leader (Gamorrean Male)
Vua Gorsat; refugee/gladiator, Extolled (Yuuzhan Vong Male)

Wedge Antilles; Retired General, Rogues’ Gallery Supreme Commander (Human Male)

Yiv; Nikardun Remnant Supreme Commander, True Sith Proxy (Nikardun Male)

In the years after the defeat of the Lost Tribe of the Sith and Abeloth, the galaxy was more divided than it had been in generations. With criminals, corrupt politicians, rogue warlords, and Sith from both the Lost Tribe and the younger and more secretive One Sith order wreaking havoc across all the galaxy, the Jedi Order and its diminishing allies were running out of options to restore and maintain freedom and liberty across all of creation. And after Grand Master Luke Skywalker’s abdication for semi-retirement to entrust the future to the next generation of Jedi and leaders a year after the Order’s banishment from the Galactic Alliance, many were feeling lost and disillusioned over the galaxy rapidly slipping into darkness.

But through this turbulent period, many young Jedi were training to meet this challenge, with one preparing for the far more daunting path he laid before himself. Edaan Palpatine, the last descendant of Emperor Palpatine/Darth Sidious, gaining much fame and honor for his exemplary deeds in knitting a broken galaxy back together while rebuilding the galaxy’s fractured ties of cooperation and fellowship.

Apprenticing himself under Jedi Grand Master Kyle Katarn to push himself past his limits in the single-minded goal of redeeming Sith Lady Vestara Khai, Edaan had built up an incredible network of allies, contacts, and favors across the galaxy in readying for his eventual pursuit of his target and her followers. Through his endeavors and the hundreds of missions he undertook, the Jedi had regained many of their former friends and rebuilt their ties with much of the Galactic Alliance. And along the way, he found several of the galaxy’s deadliest figures to serve as his teammates, all while recruiting many of the Jedi Order’s greatest and noblest Knights and Masters to help him in his quest of salvation.

Fourteen years later, the Jedi had located their long-sought after target of the Lost Tribe home planet of Kesh, launching an invasion to liberate the world, capture Vestara, and uncover her ties to the One Sith. After nearly a year of fighting, the world was freed of its Sith dominion, but not without Edaan’s target escaping and taking a sizeable faction of her followers and civilians into exile. Even more surprising was how he found love through the campaign in Sith-turned rebel Adari Thayn, leading her and her followers into a full-fledged alliance with the Jedi in expunging the Lost Tribe’s influence from her homeworld.

A mere few weeks after Kesh was freed, Edaan, sensing that his time had at last come, launched his mission to save Vestara, assembling his crew and calling in his favors to track Sith activity. Starting with the corrupt Sith-funded monarchy of Falleen that was undergoing a civil war, the galaxy quickly rallied around Edaan to fight the Sith. From the distant world of Batuu that held many Rakatan secrets, to the Mandalore Sector and its own infighting between Boba Fett’s loyalists and the Sith-led Neo Hidden Chain, and the Unknown Regions where the Sith under Darth Krayt were laying the foundations of a new Sith empire. Allied with notorious races and civilizations like the Vagaari, Ssi-Ruuk, and Ebruchi, the One Sith were preparing for war unlike any the galaxy had seen in millennia.

Even when Edaan was spiritually wounded by the One Sith’s leader, his mission was a success in saving Vestara from her darkness and reuniting her with her one true love, Ben Skywalker. In addition, the Sith’s schemes were coming undone by the several defections in their ranks and their cloning program creating one of their greatest enemies in the Edaan-Iteration. He named himself Tau Palpatine and dedicated himself to the Jedi way. Even worse, many of their allies and servants were now deserting them.

But in addition to the One Sith’s traditional enemies in the Jedi and their growing list of allies, including the major galactic powers and many independent sectors and Force schools that made up the nascent Alliance of Light, darker powers stirred in the Unknown Regions and now threatened all the free galaxy held dear.

The first ancient danger was of the Olpakan Hegemony, a long-standing anti-Force civilization that had come to view the Force as a blight on all life and civilization, now allied with notorious warlord Natasi Daala and other dangerous individuals to wage war on the galaxy.

But the Olpakans were insignificant compared to the next greater threat that was ready to return and unleash unspeakable evils upon the galaxy, even managing to revive and ensnare Abeloth, the long-feared Bringer of Chaos, for their growing legions.

Hidden within a dozen nebulae and long sequestered from the rest of the galaxy, the Nihil Retreat, where within the True Sith Empire plotted to unleash eldritch horrors unlike anyone of living memory had ever faced, was readying itself to release their long-imprisoned Immortal Gods of the Sith. Using the countless wars waged throughout the millennia, the Sorcerers of Rhand and their vile Lich Kings had been working to resurrect the greatest evils to ever walk the galaxy, the first Celestials who defied the will of the Supreme Maker and created the dark side of the Force. It was they who pulled the strings behind the Unknown Regions’ raiders, who infiltrated the One Sith and turned many of their soldiers and disciples against Krayt’s cause, just as they had manipulated countless Sith Lords and other evils throughout the millennia to release the founders of Bogan. And they were close to achieving their wicked dreams, closer than they had ever been since the end of the Empyrean Wars and their false gods’ imprisonment.

But there were some who still resisted. The Jedi and One Sith, both seeing the imminent danger Abeloth and her long-concealed puppeteers represented, brokered a truce between their forces and formed the Last Alliance to combat the three evils now before them. Preparing to take the fight to the Olpakan Hegemony, the Bringer of Chaos, and the Rhandite Sith, they would soon be ready to strike back after forging a united front against their shared enemies.

The Last Alliance would retaliate against the Olpakan Hegemony from many fronts, with agents and infiltration teams working with the defiant Olpakan Resolute to undermine their mainstream kin. And they were tracking down and reaching out to Zonama Sekot, a world long vanished from galactic affairs after it was attacked by the True Sith. But freeing the Nihil Retreat would require a more intricate and desperate plan, after they forged themselves into a united force against many of their thralls, ranging from the Rakata, Nikardun, Ssi-Ruuk, and the last remnants of the fallen Zeffo race, now known as the Grysk. And more would soon join their ever-expanding ranks.

Tau and Krayt, an unlikely duo, were ready to eradicate Abeloth for good with the one weapon capable of permanently killing her: the fabled Dagger of Mortis once hidden away by the Celestials of old.

Only time would tell if this desperate coalition could succeed and protect all life from enslavement and annihilation.

Chapter Text

Helona 23^rd, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Near the Twilight Void

On the Planet Zonama Sekot

Within the Town of La’okio

It was a peaceful night for the planet, a rare moment of calm before the fires of war once again scarred the world. Beautiful blue skies with many stars dotting the heavens, the ever-growing settlement of Yuuzhan Vong and Ferroans, even with many of its inhabitants fast asleep, was a bustling metropolis of activity.

Ever since Sekot, the planet’s living consciousness and protector of all those that called Zonama home, had revealed itself to the Magister, everyone had come alive with a renewed sense of purpose and drive. After the Nihil Retreat raided the world nearly two decades earlier and it exiled itself to protect its remaining children, a shadow of fear and despair had come over most.

Only the most resolute of them had remained faithful to their world’s choices, and they had found their faith rewarded when the world’s mind had, ten days earlier, returned to Danni Quee, and warned her of the dangerous new era they found themselves in.

They spoke for many hours on the dark tidings of the galaxy, how the Jedi had been ostracized from the galaxy for past failings, especially Jacen Solo’s fall to the dark side. Danni learnt of how the Sith had returned in legions, not only in the Last Tribe of Kesh, which had been demolished by a Jedi-led coalition not one year earlier, but a more secretive and cunning order in the One Sith.

But even the legions of Kesh and Korriban-based dark siders paled in comparison to the True Sith Empire, the most malignant and powerful order of dark siders in eons to threaten the galaxy, which had revealed itself to Skyriver and was hellbent on dominating or destroying all who opposed them. It was they who had attacked Zoanama to ensnare and enslave the Yuuzhan Vong and Sekot for their entropic cause, and forced Sekot to hide in the shadow of its borders to protect those it cherished most dearly. And they were summoning all manner of evil to them, drawing in species and cultures that had long worshipped the founders of evil and would do anything to release the Immortal Gods of the Sith from their ancient prisons.

And the news was not all dire, for there were champions rising to challenge these evils. It was the two champions of a dark bloodline, the last living descendants of Darth Sidious but who had committed themselves to the Jedi arts, who had first contacted Sekot. It was one of these two heirs that had rallied the galaxy alongside the Jedi to fight the One Sith. Their Alliance of Light, it was ready to liberate dozens of worlds under the service of evil, already delivering key blows against Darth Krayt’s Sith order while redeeming the woman who inspired Edaan Palpatine to become a Jedi fifteen years ago.

But the other Palpatine, a Sith-created clone with all the original scion’s memories and talents, young Tau had a greater destiny in store. Sekot was being tightlipped about the Iteration’s purpose and plans, but it insisted that its destiny was one of great sorrow and joy for all that walked beside him and would be key to stopping the evils that endangered all life. And with the desperate alliance between the Alliance of Light and One Sith underway to stop not only the True Sith but their many pawns, the galaxy was never closer towards a more dangerous precipice.

The planet’s Magister, the governing figure and voice piece for Sekot, she was more terrified than she had ever felt in her life, for Danni, long a servant of knowledge and the Force and friend of the Jedi, knew all would be grievously tested by this Last Alliance. And the planet she long called home, she feared for its well-being and that of all its denizens that had acclimated to a life of peace and coexistence.

Across La’okio, one of the first sites of cohabitation between the Yuuzhan Vong’s abolished castes and Zonama Sekot’s earlier denizens, everyone still awake was preparing for rejoining Skyriver’s peoples to fight for their very survival. Between its farmers stockpiling crops and medicinal herbs for the countless wounded that would eventually recover here, its shapers retuning their talents towards creating weapons of war, and the extragalactic warriors preparing to fight alongside the Last Alliance, all would aid in this war. And it would be here where Danni would soon meet with the gathered assembly of leaders to prepare them for welcoming their guests and bringing them up to speed on all major events that occurred during their exile.

“Do not fear, my friend.” A wizened and sage man’s voice interrupted Danni’s reflections. Turning to see a Yuuzhan Vong, a man garbed in the elaborate robes of a High Priest and missing two digits, she eased slightly at the appearance of Harrar. A longtime friend amidst their shared exile on Zonama Sekot, he understood the Magister better than most and was a good confidant when all other avenues were shut. Placing a shaky hand on her shoulder, he reassured her, “Trust in the Maker that we will emerge from this war with our souls intact.”

Taking a deep breath to calm her racing heart, Danni acknowledged, “I know. But it’s not that easy. Facing a monstrous terror no one in recent memory aside, do you not fear for our friends and the repercussions of the galaxy fighting alongside the Yuuzhan Vong?”

“I do.” Harrar agreed. “But I have faith that with the Jeedai leading the fight and keeping their… darker allies in check, there will not be any problems we cannot overcome.”

“Even with this ‘Last Alliance’ composed of the One Sith and that coalition likely riddled with True Sith spies?” Danni wearily sighed. “Forgive me. I shouldn’t be this cynical. But with everything that we’ve learnt, how can you be so calm, especially with the uncovering of your people’s origins and fall from grace?”

His eyes drooping a little more at the reminder of the Yuuzhan Vong’s ancestors once being humans before their deformation after killing an entire galaxy and the living world that they lived in symbiosis with, Harrar acknowledged, “I have come to terms with mine and me people’s sins long ago, Danni. This knowledge, it only confirms my belief that we are now on the path to redemption, and that through reflection and atonement, the Yuuzhan Vong will one day find absolution for our sins. But for now, we must keep our minds focused on the present and not be consumed by the past or the future’s limitless possibilities. Is that not something that Master Skywalker would say?”

Letting out a genuine laugh, Danni breathlessly agreed, “Yes, Luke would say something like that.” Changing topics, she asked Harrar, “Have all regions sent emissaries for our war council?”

“They have.” Harrar answered. “The last should be arriving any minute now.”

Hearing a trio of dirigibles approach from the east, seeing the final few representatives from Zonama Sekot’s northern hemisphere, Danni steeled herself before resolving, “Then let us go and ensure we are all prepared for the difficult and darker path we now find ourselves on.”

“Yes. As equals and friends.” Harrar kindly reminded Danni before he followed the Magister down the hill.

Helona 28^th, 59 ABY

Near the Olpakan Hegemony

Aboard the Reek-class Assault Pinnace Rude Awakening

Hiding amidst the empty void of space for their escort to cooperate with the Olpakan Resolute, Edaan Palpatine wondered if it was custom for the rebels to keep all their allies waiting five days before being given a rendezvous point. But then, when dealing with a militarized and hyper-paranoid region in the Unknown Regions that was determined to eradicate all traces of the Force and its acolytes, it would be more than wise to take plenty of precautions.

And while the Last Alliance and all its infiltration teams waited for their escort to ferry them towards their first outpost, they would make the most of this educational opportunity. Reviewing the data the Last Alliance had been given on the anti-Force society of the Olpakan Hegemony, Edaan and his detachment realized the dark territory was full of contradictions, far more than any outsider would first assume.

Composed of more than forty inhabitable worlds across enough space to fill an Outer Rim sector, the Olpakans had a more balanced approach to warfare than Skyriver’s regions did. While sixteen of them were industrial foundries and shipyards, the Hegemony never overused their planets’ resources and polluted their environment. Another five worlds had been home to dozens of communication hubs and intelligence academies to control their civilization and ensure no dissenters arose. Ten more worlds were agricultural centers and had hundreds of research and development facilities to feed and innovate their populace and armies. The remainder of their territory had training academies and military bases and outposts scattered about, representing their fierce martial pride and determination to protect their homes and families from any threat, real or imagined.

Family… Edaan mused, missing the surrogate family he had made in his old crew. With his wife and many of his friends and teammates scattered across the Unknown Regions, he couldn’t help but pray for their survival and protection against the evil forces arrayed against everyone. With Atai busy helping the Outer Rim Alliance’s integration into the Last Alliance, Jarael teaching her medical talents to many generations of doctors, Akku and his company of Mandalorians aiding Tau in attacking Lehon, K’Kruhk joining the Last Alliance relief force set for the Rakatan Archipelago, and Adari, the love of his life and future mother of their first two children, helping the Zonama Sekot delegation, the Rude Awakening’s remaining crew shared their leader’s worry for the others and the new crewmembers assigned to this ship. 

Running a final series of diagnostic checks on the long-served military vessel, Edaan decided to take the time to check on everyone aboard his ship. The Olpakan Resolute welcome committee was set to arrive in just under an hour, so it would help to make sure everyone’s spirits were high.

He saw Kix, a veteran of the Clone War and brilliant combat medic, going through the Rude Awakening’s medical stores and maintaining the surgical equipment aboard its med bay. Robonino, a Patrolian mercenary and slicer of unparalleled ability, worked alongside R2-D2 in reinforcing the system’s firewalls from any viral or hacking attempts.

And these few men were not alone in ensuring the assault pinnace was operating at peak efficiency, with several new additions to the crew made to supplement the Rude Awakening’s diminished crew. Allana Djo Solo, a Jedi Knight of a family of equal renown and controversy as Edaan, she was helping maintain the ship’s weapons’ systems alongside Armand Vorn. The Imperial Army captain and son of galactic warlord Natasi Daala, it did him good to focus on an arduous task and avoid reading the dossiers on his mother’s latest batch of allies for the umpteenth time. That task of studying the Olpakan Hegemony’s power structures and key figures was currently assigned to a studious mind in the repentant Sith Ferren Barr and his lover, Verla Kaer.

Ferren and Verla, both former Jedi before framed and expelled by One Sith spies, turned to the dark side before learning of Darth Krayt’s deceit and now sought absolution with their accusers, they had spent the last three days learning all they could of the Olpakans, both Hegemony and Resolute. No detail was too insignificant for the couple to overlook, often double and triple-checking their readings to cross-reference them alongside their teammates. Whether many trusted their loyalties, no one could doubt their devotion to seeking the truth, no matter where it led them. And it helped how Jaing Skirata, a Mandalorian Supercommando, Null ARC deserter, and impeccable judge of character, was helping their efforts, aiding their research and ensuring no stone was left unturned in this study.

Allana, wrapping up maintenance on the Rude Awakening, handed Armand a drink before plopping herself down on a chair in the main lounge and eating a small sandwich. Sometimes, Edaan wondered how his longtime friend could balance her Jedi and regal training with such a free spirit as she had. Seeing her smile with genuine warmth and mirth as helping Armand make himself a homecooked meal, with more variety and taste than most active soldiers ate in any army, it reminded him how most people were complex beings, and few were as simple as many assumed.

Ferren, observing the spirited discussion between Allana and Armand over varied foods and cooking techniques, saw Edaan watching from a distance, and courteously offered, “Why don’t you come sit down, Edaan? We could use another set of eyes with our studies.”

“You sure?” Edaan joked. “From the looks of your notes, you’ve already found enough to fill at least a three-volume encyclopedia.” Seeing the wary amusement in Verla’s eyes, he politely declined, “It’s tempting, but our escort should be arriving any minute now I’d rather not keep them waiting any longer than necessary, since we’re so far from Nirauan or any other friendly world.”

“But after we get on our way to the safe house, I’d be more than happy to go through your research.” Edaan amended. “Never hurts to be overprepared for entering such a hostile territory.” Drinking a swig of water from his canteen, he was prepared to check on Robonino, Kix, and Artoo before the diminutive astromech droid wheeled in, warbling in droidspeak with an urgent tone.

“They’re here.” Edaan summed up Artoo’s warnings, following his longtime friend out of the lounge and into the command center, with Jaing, Ferren, and Allana right behind him. For whatever reason, the Olpakan Resolute ambassador wanted to greet them alongside the Palpatine heir when he arrived and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Gathering beside the holotable, Edaan typed in the comm frequency given to him to encrypt the transmission and waited for the first official meeting between the Last Alliance and Olpakan Resolute. It didn’t take long for the hologram to come into focus, revealing two individuals, one aged Human male wearing sandy-gold Beskar armor, and a Pkorian woman with two lightsabers and gold combat armor resembling the long-extinct Knights of Zakuul.

Hearing a clatter behind him, Edaan turned to see Jaing’s helmet fall out of his hands, and a stupefied expression crossed his face, staring at the younger man’s hologram. Never seeing the stoic Mandalorian at a loss, everyone wondered who this individual was who had their friend in such a daze.

Seeing two more holograms materialize, the group recognized the multi-colored armor that covered Venku Skirata, an ultra-nationalist Mandalorian leader, son of a Jedi Knight and Clone Commando, and Last Alliance representative. But the other, a fair skinned and blonde-haired Human in her mid-forties and sporting a Chiss Ascendancy’s Mid Admiral’s uniform, she was one that no one recalled.

The Human woman, taking the moment to facilitate introductions, started with Jaing and Venku. “Well, I see you both recognize the man who raised and inducted you into Mandalorian culture and society.”

The man who… No. No, it couldn’t be. Edaan shook a little at realizing who she was referring to. Seeing most of the group start to put the pieces together, the Mid Admiral cordially greeted the rest of them, “It’s a pleasure to meet you all. I am Wynssa Fel, Mid Admiral of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Force, and liaison to both the Last Alliance and Olpakan Resolute. Our other guests are Iskat Akaris, Jedi Knight and Paladin of the Resolute, and –”

“Ba’buir.” Venku numbly stated. Uncontrollably at seeing his adoptive grandfather, he turned to Jaing, “Are you seeing what I’m seeing?”

“I think we all are, Master Skirata.” Ferren guardedly stated, ignoring the irritated stare Venku gave him over the title of deference. Speaking to Kal, he stated, “You should be dead, Kal Skirata. You, most of your clan, and your Jedi friends were reported as killed by the Empire in the Unknown Regions over seven decades ago. No one heard from you since.”

“And we would have been killed then and there, were it not due to a miracle.” Kal calmly clarified. His stoicism fading, he warmly told Venku and Jaing, “Stang, it’s great to see you two again.”

“How… how is this possible?” Jaing breathlessly asked. “I was there. The hyperdrive explosion… Bardan couldn’t sense any survivors.”

“It wasn’t a conventional explosion.” Iskat began. “The Imperials’ final attack did affect our hyperdrive, but it didn’t destroy us. It sent us through a wormhole at a speed just below the speed of light.”

“And it sent you forward in time by six or seven decades.” Allana surmised. Seeing the astonished glances aimed at her, she simply answered, “Jaden Korr dealt with another similar instance like this before.”

“Very good, Allana.” Kal gruffly acknowledged, a hint of approval laced in his voice and eyes. “Now, as much as I’d love to catch up with my family and answer ‘Twenty Questions’ by you all, we have a schedule to keep, and shared enemies to evade. Let’s talk more when we get to your first safe house.”

“We’re sending you the coordinates to meet us outside the first target. From there, we’ll load your ships in our cargo holds and make sure you get to the Resolute’s forward base of operations.” Wynssa added. “No disrespect intended, but your vessels are far too recognizable out here and need to be kept hidden until we’re ready for the final attack on the Hegemony.”

“No offense taken.” Edaan acknowledged. “But just to clarify, how long will it take us to get to our final destination? A lot of us are getting a little stir-crazy in the ship, and there will be a lot of questions ready for you and your new friends.”

“No more than four days, but don’t think you’ll be given the VIP treatment most of you are used to.” Kal warned. “You want trust and respect, Palpatine, you’ll have to earn it, especially with the big dreams you’ve got running around in your head.”

“And we all intend to prove ourselves and do what we must to stop this insane war of conquest and hatred.” Edaan resolutely agreed. Recalling his training on Dathomir to expunge all former notions of taking on the galaxy’s burdens alone, he wasn’t going to relapse now, not with the fate of all creation at stake.

Helona 30^th, 59 ABY

Wild Space, Gradilis Sector

On the Planet Nirauan

Within the Hand of Thrawn Military Headquarters

Aboard Ship

High within the world’s mountains, where the Empire of the Hand’s central base of operations long stood, the military confederation of the Last Alliance was coordinating all its war operations and preparations. Surrounded by hundreds of defensive emplacements and protected by dozens of fleets and tens of thousands of soldiers, the entrenched facility was a nigh-impregnable fortress and a perfect waypoint for the coalition’s many expeditions into hostile territory. Its many leaders and factions, each working in conjunction with the other to teach their subordinates to cooperate with rivals and former enemies, were hard at work to prepare their people for the demonic forces they would soon face.

The Ailon Repentant Guard, a reformist faction of their mainstream brethren in the Ailon Nova Guard, were instructing the more conventional soldiers in the Galactic Alliance, Empire, and Confederation to utilize more weapons than they were used to. And the Mandalorians were exchanging technology and tactics with the Lasat and Dorneans, two formerly isolationist and martial societies before extenuating circumstances forced them both to reevaluate their neutral stances. And this was just the tip of the iceberg for the cultural exchange between the Last Alliance’s members.

Any who had accumulated exotic or rare knowledge was encouraged to come forward and share their information with everyone in the Last Alliance. No matter what skills or talents any group or individual held, no one could keep secrets if they hoped to foster trust and unity against the most unholy Sith Empire in all time and a society of Force-hating fanatics, even the smallest detail could mean the difference between victory and death for the galaxy.

Even the One Sith were pulling their weight in this united front, no matter what suspicions most held of their honor and true loyalties. The example its leader, Darth Krayt, and his most trusted disciples helped show his order the necessity of this grand army and prevented many minor incidents from erupting into full-blown hostilities. The self-proclaimed Dragon of the One Sith was devoting his full energies into making the Last Alliance succeed, even if he would soon be leaving Nirauan and delegating his authority to three of his best lieutenants. 

But before Krayt departed for Lehon to try and destroy Abeloth, there was a crucial matter he needed to address. Safely hidden away in the Sith meditation sphere that simply called itself Ship, the Dread Lord used its ties to the dark side to connect his mind to his three chosen liaisons. Touching the consciousnesses of Darths Invidious, Irola, and Snoke, he bade them, Quiet your minds, and listen, my disciples. I have chosen you all for a vital task for the One Sith.

While I am hunting Abeloth alongside our wayward Iteration, I will need followers I fully trust to lead our efforts and ensure we are not pushed aside from our detractors, nor will we be led astray from the proud and foolish in our ranks. And I believe you three to be the best to work alongside Lord Wyyrlok in protecting our interests.

Sensing the disbelief reverberate across them all, Krayt allowed an amused smile to cross his lips at their apprehension before urging them, I would not give you all this responsibility if I didn’t believe you couldn’t measure up to my expectations. As you all represent a vital component in the One Sith’s strategy and command structure, your appointments will strengthen our position before the Jedi and their compatriots and will allow you all to counsel Wyyrlok better as a group than individually.

But there is another responsibility I have for you all. Krayt interceded. I have sensed rumblings in our ranks that hint at the highest level of betrayal. I believe there are disciples of mine that have allied with the Nihil Retreat, and they will seek to undo the Last Alliance. They are far more dangerous as those that doubt the merit of this pact with the rest of the galaxy. I need you to work with 11-4D in uncovering undeniable proof of these traitors, and work with the Jedi and their friends in destroying them.

If we hope to salvage our plans and save the galaxy from itself after these current wars, we must be vigilant and ready to do what is necessary. Krayt paused to warn his three ambassadors, Do not let me faith in you all be misplaced.

Ending the telepathic call, Krayt allowed his mind to wander back towards Wyyrlok and his own secret conspiracy. Learning from 11-4D how the former Old Republic vice chancellor and a select group of Sith Lords doubted their leader’s commitment to their shared dream, the man who once called himself A’Sharad Hett enacted his own plan to save his order. It seemed the One Sith were more fractured than most assumed, and such divisions were perilous in these dark times.

Recruiting the long-serving Sith medical droid and Darth Invidious to infiltrate and minimize the conspiracy’s impact on the One Sith and Last Alliance, Krayt knew he had to put his trust in them to protect his order. With his role as a member of the coalition’s leading triumvirate and likely about to be serving on the front lines for the war’s duration, he needed to trust those he taught and let them pick up the reins to lead the future of the Sith.

In the unlikely event anything happened to Krayt, there had to be a contingency plan to protect the One Sith’s future and destiny. He may have survived the Clone War, the Great Jedi Purge, torture by the Yuuzhan Vong, and helped Luke Skyalker kill Abeloth, but even this war was a fight he might not be able to finish. Better to leave nothing to chance when faced with so many enemies and situations that defied all reasonable expectations, especially with the inevitable darkness that could infect all corners of the galaxy.

Helona 33^rd, 59 ABY

Rakatan Archipelago

Makatak, Southern Hemisphere

Skal’nas City

Within the Temple of Balance

On the verdant world of the Rakatan Archipelago, the last free refuge of repentant Rakata across their remnant territory, a heated discussion was underway within their most sacred meeting place. In a holy temple built to help keep the peace between the dozens of races and groups that made up the Makatak Tribe, suspicion and fear was threatening to erupt into full-scale hostility and disunity, a prospect none wanted but feared was inevitable.

In the Temple of Balance, the Makatak Rakata, had heard how the Killiks had joined the Last Alliance and would work to help fight their fallen brethren across the Archipelago and their True Sith masterminds. Long knowing of the insectoid race’s uncontrollable ability to subsume the minds of their Joiners in their collective consciousness, they had kept clear of the exiled Firstborn society, living in obscurity rather than risk hostility and war. This troubling news, coupled with the bitter understanding that the Stygian based One Sith would be accompanying them into their final refuge, it worried most and convinced some that they should rescind their offer of cooperation with their new allies.

Between the Killiks’ ancient loyalty to the Celestials and previous battles with the Rakata, and the One Sith surely plotting to use this war to advance their plans for galactic domination, many Makatak denizens feared the destruction of all they loved. And through the tumultuous arguing between the civilians, priests, and warriors, a few members of each faction were futilely urging for calm.

Eventually, after three hours of pointless quarreling and unproductive discussion, Ad’jast, the Predor-Governor of the Makatak Tribe, bellowed, “ENOUGH!” Seeing everyone cease their arguing at his uncharacteristic display, the Black-skinned Rakata slowly ground out, “Have we forgotten our ancestors’ hard-won lessons in unity and fellowship so completely that we cannot have productive discourse at this pivotal moment? Are we destined to repeat the Infinite Empire’s false sense of superiority in thinking we can face the galaxy on our own? Or can we not look past our fears and suspicions to see the possibilities we now have before us?”

Ca’Soid, a female Selkath and leader of the Makatak Priests, took the opportunity to build upon her old friend’s well-timed intervention. “The One Sith and the Killiks are not the only civilizations that are coming to our aid, do not forget. The Jedi and many of their compatriots will be leading the effort to rescue us and the slaves in Tulpaa’s grip. They will keep the worst of their allies off us, so long as we uphold our word and show them how we have redeemed our society. And do not let your short-sightedness allow you to forget how the Bringer of Chaos and the Nihil Retreat are far greater dangers to us than Darth Krayt’s followers can ever hope to be.”

“Does that mean we will lower our guard against the Sith and all others that seek our enslavement or annihilation?” Ad’jast rhetorically asked. “No. We will remain vigilant against the dangers we face, but we must be wise as the Serpent Lords and compassionate as the Angels of Iego. And only together, can we hope to survive the tribulations our civilization now faces.”

Seeing the assembled leaders murmur their quiet agreement, Erol, a Sith general and trusted member of Makatak’s Council of Elders, concluded, “Remember, we must be united in stepping back into the greater galaxy, and cannot show division against anyone. Whatever differences and doubts we may have, we cannot let them disrupt our efforts to prevent the Tulpaa Tribe from regaining its full power and finishing rearming their Star Forge.”

Everyone grew silent at the reminder of the Tulpaa Star Forge, for no one needed a reminder of Abeloth’s ancient construct that had long been stationed above Makatak’s rival sibling world. An unmatched facility that could modify a being’s entire genetic structure into whatever the user required, the space station held the power to build a living army of unstoppable marauders, just as the long-destroyed Mother Machine of Belsavis once could.

And for the last thirty-five years, the True Sith and Tulpaa Tribe had endeavored to finish reviving the semi-sentient creation to prepare for their final war against the free galaxy. Were it not for the Makatak Rakata, the Silentium, and the few allies they held in the Unknown Regions, the Star Forge would have long been fully rearmed and created millions of unstoppable marauders. But now, the balance of power had shifted towards the darkness, and Skyriver needed to take drastic action to protect all its people cherished. Hence, why the Killiks and One Sith were allowed to help, no matter what misgivings its members held.

When the Last Alliance came, they would see how the Rakata, at least, this single bastion of light amidst a sea of darkness and savagery, had grown beyond its terrible roots and could stand alongside the galaxy as equals. But until that eventuality came to pass, the Makatak could only do its part to hold the line against the True Sith Empire and its growing armies. And if the end came, they would meet it in battle with the same ferocity as their ancestors, only turned towards a righteous purpose this time around.

Helona 34^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Deep Space, Within the Olpakan Hegemony

Aboard the Resurgent-class Star Destroyer Sir Trilag

Watching her fleet finish undergoing a routine series of naval exercises, Natasi Daala took pride in the discipline and ferocity of her personal fleet and pitied any fool mad enough to try and face the Olpakan Hegemony. This, on the bridge of the most lethal Star Destroyer ever constructed, was where she belonged, not behind a politician’s desk or in an estate where she’d fade away into obscurity like her enemies vainly hoped.

And soon, the Hegemony’s High Councilor of War would lead her new home in war against the galaxy, liberating Skyrvier from the domineering Force and all those that utilized that infernal energy field. Regardless of whoever interfered, be it her own family or non-combatants, Daala wouldn’t show mercy to anyone who tried to stop her. She couldn’t, for she had tried restraint before, and it always backfired on her. This time, her last chance to restore order to a galaxy beaten down too many times to count, she would be the merciless monster the so-called leaders and Jedi made her out to be.

“High Councilor Daala?” An officer interrupted her reflections, making her turn to observe a lieutenant, a Chiss woman, a rarity in the Hegemony, no older than thirty, standing at attention before her and reporting, “High Councilors Holdfast and Cylo and Commander Skirata are waiting for you on your personal frequency.” Lowering her voice, she softly added, “I took the liberty of rerouting the call to your office.”

“Excellent.” Daala acknowledged with a quick salute, and after relaying orders to the Resurgent destroyer’s captain to complete their maneuvers on-schedule, brusquely walked to her office in the auxiliary bridge. Securing the room to ensure no overly curious souls or possible traitors eavesdropped on her classified communication, she opened the comm frequency to her peers and coconspirators. Seeing Jet Holdfast, a Nosaurian woman and the Hegemony’s High Councilor of Intelligence, the first to appear, the Human woman respectfully nodded, “It’s good to see you again, Jet.”

“Likewise, Natasi. I have uncovered intelligence that may put us on the trail of the traitors we suspect are within our ranks.” Jet cordially greeted. “And I’ve identified two high-profile targets for our deep-cover assets to eliminate in the next few weeks.”

“Excellent.” Daala replied before the remaining two guests entered the call. Seeing the self-altered man known as Cylo-V, a rogue Imperial industrialist and the Olpakan Hegemony’s High Councilor of Innovation, always sent a small shiver up the ordinary warlord’s spine. Whether it was his Rodian eye or dispassionate gaze, there was something she always found something unsettling in the self-cloned Human that most others couldn’t trigger in her. But none could question his loyalty to the cause and his loathing disdain for the Force, which was why he was a key member of the Olpakan Purist conspiracy.

And the final member of the four-way call, a highly experienced and loyal Commander of the Olpakan Special Forces, former Imperial Clone Commando and Mandalorian before betraying his family for a higher cause, Darman Skirata, was his usual attentive and intense self. Wearing his much-upgraded Katarn-class Armor and bearing his Mandalorian weaponry, one of the few mementos he kept to his past ties, the well-respected military leader bluntly got to the point of this meeting, “I take it you have information relevant for our mission, Daala?”

Amused at the commander’s bluntness sharper than her own, Daala steadily coolly, “Yes, Commander. High Councilor Holdfast has discovered clues to our traitors and found a few individuals to remove in easing our campaigns. But that is not why I have called you here.”

Glancing at Cylo-V, Daala asked, “Can you spare Aiolin and Morit to carry out the hits we discussed yesterday?”

“The twins have been eager for a challenge for quite some time, so I see no reason why they will oppose the assassinations you’ve proposed, provided Raze and some of his consortium gives them logistical support.” Cylo-V agreed before he briefly lamented, “A shame we must eliminate the Empire and Confederation’s heads of state. Corellia’s prime minister is especially a leader I can respect in most regards. But removing key pro-Jedi figures and installing people more amenable to our way of thinking will be essential to our strategy.”

Swiftly regaining his composure, Cylo-V warned Daala, “But our surgical strikes may not remain secret for long. My spies and listening posts have detected unusual movement near the Roshar System, and several True Sith ships have been sighted near our eastern border. Our enemies are probing us for weaknesses.”

“That is why I have brought Commander Skirata into our circle of trust.” Daala assured her friend. “He will be in charge of a detachment of my commandos to scour the Hegemony for any signs of sedition or rogue Force users.” Seeing Darman resolutely nod, she urged him, “But don’t make my mistake and underestimate the Jedi and their friends, or let your lingering sentiments cloud your sense of duty.”

“Give me some credit, Ma’am.” Darman defensively stated. “I’ve killed many of my brothers and hunted down my remaining family and their Jedi cohorts for years. I won’t lose sight of my oaths now, not with our enemies approaching our home.”

“I understand that.” Daala agreed. “But some of your men may not share your fierce honor and sense of commitment. Be on the lookout for any doubts or disloyalty from any of your subordinates. And be especially careful when dealing with the Last Alliance and their elite operatives. I have it on good authority that they’re sending several of their best Jedi and Mandalorians, among others, to undermine our mission.”

“I’ll deal with them when that time comes.” Darman stoically vowed, betraying no hint of doubt. Daala found his fluctuating mood a little troubling at times, but she couldn’t argue with his results and devotion to eradicating the Force. Loving a Jedi, losing her to Order Sixty-Six, and their son able to command the Force did nothing to see him from seeing all Force users as a plague on the galaxy. She only hoped that when he faced his son and new friends, he wouldn’t hesitate.

“What about our illicit investigation?” Cylo-V interrupted, asking Jet, “Have your agents uncovered proof or leads to our suspicions regarding our Supreme Knight?”

“A few clues. Nothing absolutely incriminating, but I believe they’re still leads worth investigating nonetheless.” Jet answered. “Several key administrators and garrison officers across seven worlds were reported as missing or killed in accidents, but the timing and circumstances are too odd not to look into. And many large bank accounts across corporations have been unusually active or suddenly closed without fair warning, ones tied to otherwise incorruptible generals and governors within our ranks.”

“Send me the files.” Cylo-V offered. “I can follow up on the leads stealthily and thoroughly enough.” Seeing the offended look on the Intelligence director’s face, he amended, “Your agents are excellent, but they didn’t overhaul most of the Hegemony’s financial and computer network as I did.”

“I’ll see it done right after our meeting concludes.” Jet promised. “And I’ll prepare to activate our deep-cover assets to help the Astartes and Raze deal with Teppler and Fel.”

“Good. We must be sure we leave no stone unturned in our final preparations.” Daala urged everyone. “If we fail here, then the galaxy will never be cured of the plague that’s the Force. And I will not let it dictate our fates one second longer.”

Melona 2^nd, 59 ABY

Within the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

Within the Planet’s Catacombs

Deep beneath the surface of the ancestral homeworld of the barbaric Rakata race, the long-fallen capital world of the Infinite Empire, many infernal forces were preparing a proper welcome reception for the Last Alliance and their pathetic army. Through utilizing hundreds of thousands of slaves to rebuild the ancient forges, overseen by many True Sith sorcerers and their military subordinates, the Bringer of Chaos would be ready to destroy any who interfered in her handlers’ dark dreams. And commanding over two million soldiers of a hundred races across this world, whether Grysk, Nikardun, Rakata, Ebruchi, Vagaari, Agbui, Sith, or dozens of other species, the Nihil Retreat held more power here than in many of their central worlds.

Whether through reactivating long-defunct war droids and industrial facilities, or countless artifacts of the dark side, the greatest and most terrible empire of darkness would be ready to wage war and destroy any in their way. And Abeloth, strong and dementedly brilliant as she was, could do nothing to defy them and enact her own plans for galactic conquest, not with the binding rituals the Nihil Retreat’s disciples and vassals wove into her host body’s very being.

Thanks to the infernal Sorcerers of Rhand in Tor Valum and Kung'urama'nuruodo, the True Sith had a firm grip over the final offspring of the monstrosity that was once Tilotny, a Bedlam Spirit and Architect of misery across Skyrvier. Bound by dark and esoteric rituals to serve the Way of the Dark, even if her mind and soul were untainted by their nihilistic creed, she was forced to use her vast power to rebuild the foundries of war that would be used on the Last Alliance. And being controlled by any power, the self-proclaimed Beloved Queen of the Stars would soon go mad if she did not have her freedom soon.

Even as she was cordial with the Servants of Chaos, the half-mad rabble of disciples that worshipped her and the destructive force she represented, they were not the followers she truly yearned for. No, she hungered to be worshipped by all the galaxy’s denizens, just as she nearly was fifteen years ago before the Jedi and One Sith stopped her rightful ascent to godhood. And no one would stop her plans this time, no matter how long they took or how much her enemies tried to slow her down.

But first, Abeloth had to find a way to break free from the monstrous hold the True Sith currently held over her. And now, after seeking what was likely the only way to shatter her chains and destroy all her enemies, she believed she had the opportunity to seek the truth without interruption. With Tor Valum, that infernal Grysk sage and his retinue of fallen Zeffo in Lehon’s orbit for a few days to prepare the True Sith’s trap for the Last Alliance, she had a brief chance to peer into the future and discern her liberation.

After trying to glance into the vast number of possibilities forthcoming scenarios might hold, Abeloth had found a brief chance to risk tapping into her full power to predict the future. While everyone was consumed by war preparations, she found snuck her way into an officer’s cabin to meditate. Since using Darksight would draw Tor Valum and his followers towards her and ensure she was punished, she would have to use a different type of approach for figuring out her next move.

Although the hated the Jedi for their affronts against her, she couldn’t deny their fortunes at glimpsing possible events. Opening herself to the Force, using it so subtly to mask her flicker of light amidst a sea of darkness, she peered forward to face the endless outcomes the future held.

Looking deep into the future, Abeloth saw dozens of battles about to be waged, many influenced or hinging on the fates and choices of several key individuals. Whether it was the heirs to the Skywalker and Palpatine names, brilliant military minds and prodigious Jedi or Sith, many faces were presented before her.

She saw the Last Alliance closing in towards Zonama Sekot and the Olpakan Hegemony, each force determined to bring light towards planets and regions long scarred by the Dark. On the Yuuzhan Vong’s adopted homeworld, she witnessed many friends of the Jedi and Sith find a peace and fulfillment there they couldn’t find anywhere else, and many would make a home there if they survived this terrible war.

And in the Olpakans’ ancestral home, tainted by militant hatred and a paranoia more potent than most cabals, there would be great upheaval and redemption for many, provided the Celestials’ faithful could triumph against their small-minded brethren. Coupled by Natasi Daala’s all-consuming madness and self-destructive warmongering and the Last Alliance’s pact with the Resolute, the civil war between each faction would endanger all life unless nipped in the bud.

But it was not merely distant battlegrounds that Abeloth saw. She witnessed the Last Alliance send a mighty force to attack the Rakatan Archipelago, to protect their new friends and try to liberate the six darkened worlds from the Tulpaa Tribe’s cruel dominion. The region’s Star Forge, one of her most brilliant creations, would soon be fully reactivated and brought into service of the True Sith. And the Rhandite-based Sith, blessing their disciples with more power and darkness than their wildest dreams, they would use the facility to its fullest and ensure the ultimate empowerment of all those that fell under their banner.

Another great Last Alliance fleet, one commanded by Darth Krayt and Tau Palpatine, they would try and eliminate her and destroy the True Sith’s presence on Lehon. And the power those two wielded, it was too familiar to her to ignore or dismiss as coincidence. Eipha and Niphal, the two Celestials she cherished as her own children, surpassed in love only by Elegast, they had chosen heirs to do what they could never do and try to kill her. They would be on this world in a mere seven days, at most, and carried enough firepower to incinerate the planet’s surface if they so choose to do so, even if she knew they wouldn’t, not with her and the Sorcerers able to escape such a bombardment and leave so many slaves to be burnt alive. 

Wait… There was another gleaning. A flash of something, but the emotions behind it, it was a jubilation and liberation she had not felt in millennia. It could only be described as freedom but unlike any she had felt in eons. She tried to learn more of this vision, but all she saw was the face of the Jedi she hated more than any other: Luke Skywalker.

Having hounded her across space, freed her wayward children from her influence, and stopped her plans for bringing order to a self-wounded galaxy, it would be good for her to soon eliminate the meddlesome Jedi Master. She knew he would soon try to wound her, even with the grievous injuries and scars she gave him in their final battle, and it would do her great pleasure to finally kill him. Oh, the fear and hate such an act would create would nourish her and surely help free her from the True Sith’s influence.

Before Abeloth could further contemplate the countless ways she would kill him, she saw something else. A brief but powerful flash of light entering her being, one stronger than any other she absorbed into herself. And with that great force assimilated into herself, it brought her illumination and liberation like none she’d ever felt before. But it was all focused around Luke Skywalker, and the wretched naïve goodness and hope he held for others.

Exiting her meditation, nearly thrown back from the force of the revelations, Abeloth felt her forehead damp with sweat, and lightly dabbed a rag over it while she contemplated all she saw. What, exactly, did Luke have that others didn’t that would lead to her emancipation? How could she find freedom if she abandoned all her dreams and ambitions and let death claim her as her mother did?

Sensing an attendant close by, Abeloth buried these revelations and doubts for now. Right now, she had a role to play as a reluctant servant of the True Sith Empire, and it would behoove her to warn them of the Last Alliance closing in on Zonama Sekot, Makatak, and Lehon. Better to let both forces wear each other down before she swooped in and claimed ultimate victory.

Soon, she would become the Beloved Queen of the Stars and rebuild this broken galaxy, and all who opposed her would fall before her brilliance and might. It was only a matter of time before she fulfilled all her aspirations.

Chapter Text

Melona 3^rd, 59 ABY

Hyperspace, On Route to Lehon/Rakata Prime

Aboard the Guardian-class Super Star Destroyer Cal Omas

He didn’t know what he was doing here, in the heart of the Dac-created star dreadnought amidst this military conference. Few people here trusted him, and he needed to prepare for his vital task of removing the Bringer of Chaos as a threat to the free galaxy.

Oh, sure, he was Grand Master Katarn’s personal liaison to the Last Alliance and had the essence of a Celestial woven into his very being, but Tau Palpatine wasn’t a field commander or even a proper Jedi. A perfect Sith-bred clone of Edaan, designed to infiltrate and subvert the Jedi Order by impersonating his progenitor, he was only given free will by Chelli and Lona Aphra, two defecting Sith servants and their droids before deserting alongside them. And being chosen to house Niphal’s power and wisdom, just as Darth Krayt held Eipha’s, it was a worrisome burden greater than most mortals ever dreamed of holding.

Tau didn’t even fully understand why he was so nervous. He’d escaped Korriban and trained under Elegast and Wutzek, two Celestials of such fierce power and wisdom that all but the most powerful dark souls would flee from, that going after the True Sith and Abeloth was a step up. Perhaps it was his connection to the Daughter and her love for the Bringer of Chaos that kept him apprehensive. Or maybe was it his lingering misgivings of working alongside Krayt and many of his Sith to try and stop many greater evils.

Even as his mind raced through the possibilities, he compartmentalized his dreads and kept most of his attention to the meeting. With the overall naval commander of the Last Alliance operation, Galactic Alliance Chief of Navy Nek Bwua’tu, detailing the multi-pronged approach to scouring the Tempered Wastes of True Sith installations and operatives, Tau had to admit it was a sound plan. At the minimum, the concept was reasonable and flexible enough to be prepared for dozens of possibilities.

With the Last Alliance set to emerge from hyperspace a parsec outside the Tempered Wastes, ready to scout the region before thrusting a dagger-strike into the Lehon System and the surrounding worlds, the enemy fleets and bases would be hard-pressed to effectively defend themselves. Considering the Jedi-Sith coalition had a large enough armada to conquer five planets and have enough ships left to attack a major shipyard, it was difficult to imagine the Nihil Retreat’s forces able to properly retaliate.

But Tau knew the True Sith had many weapons and agents that could easily spell doom for this invasion fleet. And Krayt, his hologram sharing a glance with the Jedi agent, shared his troubles and misgivings just as strongly. With the Sorcerers of Rhand and Abeloth leading the defense, any attack was sure to be turned into a fight for survival for the Last Alliance. In possession of countless exotic and esoteric Force techniques and knowledge most of the galaxy had forgotten, they would almost assuredly find and exploit fand and all possible laws in the coalition’s plan.

Nek, seeing the contemplative focus in Tau, asked everyone, “All right. You all have your assignments, and we have plenty of preparations and briefings to carry out before we reach the target. Unless there’s anything else, dismissed.”

The Jedi agent, summoning the courage to speak, politely interrupted, “Actually, Admiral, I have a few reservations on some of the finer points of the attack strategy.”

“Well, who is free of reservations on any plan, especially with so much of the foe’s capabilities unknown to us?” Nek patiently pointed out. “But if you have insights we might have missed, please, go ahead.”

“It’s about whether or not we truly understand the Enemy, and how they’ll likely predict any probable plan we can devise.” Tau cautiously elaborated. “Especially with Abeloth working for them.”

Understanding crossing most officers’ faces, a purple-skinned Dornean, garbed with the uniform of a Galactic Alliance general, nodded, “You believe she can foresee the future and adjust the True Sith’s strategy accordingly.”

“It’s not just the Bringer of Chaos we must consider, General L'toth.” Krayt gruffly, but professionally, told Kiles. Stepping forward amidst mild apprehension, the Dread Lord continued, “The Sorcerers of Rhand, they have an understanding and grasp of the Force that we don’t fully understand. Even my best scholars and agents could barely scratch the surface of their capabilities when we were being used by them. But one of their rarest and most dangerous abilities was the power of Darksight.”

“And, what exactly does that mean?” Turr Phennir, Supreme Commander of the Confederation’s military, cautiously asked from aboard his own flagship. “I assume it’s some form of clairvoyance, but how does it differ from seeing glimpses of the future as most Force Users can get?”

“It’s more than seeing the future but manipulating it towards a desired end.” Jaden Korr, a long serving and well-traveled Jedi Knight, added. Seeing the skeptical stares most were giving him, he acknowledged, “It sounds unbelievable, but Major Hextrophon wrote about it in Supernatural Encounters, and we have confirmed reports that one of the Sorcerers of Rhand used this ability when he waged a war of terror on the nascent New Republic. I’m sure no one needs an in-depth reminder of Lord Shadowspawn and all he was capable of.”

Everyone grew apprehensive at the mention of a post-Endor Imperial warlord, but perhaps the most dangerous of them all. Shadowspawn, his true name being Cronal, had journeyed across every hidden corner of the galaxy to serve the Way of the Dark. The aged and decrepit Human had infiltrated the Prophets of the Dark Side, risen to fearful prominence in the Galactic Empire as Interim Director of Imperial Intelligence after Armand Isard’s execution, and scoured countless Sith worlds before striking out to create an army for the Nihil Retreat.

Barely stopped by the New Republic and Mandalorians, led by Luke Skywalker in the bloodbath of Mindor, his only military campaign as a general, Cronal had gone underground, causing trouble for the free galaxy for ten more years before meeting his final end by the Heroes of Yavin on Andoweel. But now, after learning he wasn’t an aberration but one of the Sorcerers of Rhand’s lesser members, the Last Alliance knew they couldn’t underestimate the True Sith Empire.

Clearing his throat, Nek agreed, “You’re raising a valid point, Jedi Tau. If the enemy can likely anticipate what we’re planning, we’ll have to find a more inventive way to surprise them.” Glancing at the maverick Clone Commando attending the briefing, he gestured, “Which is why we’ll have Commander Hunter and the Bad Batch as the tip of the spear in this attack force.”

“A good choice.” Krayt acknowledged. Seeing the glare from the genetically modified Clone Trooper, the Sith Lord continued, “Those five were among the most unconventional and successful troops in the Grand Army of the Republic, and they’ll be of the most use to us on the front lines.”

“They will be, especially since you, Tau, and Knight Korr will be working alongside them when you land on Lehon.” Nek spoke, his tone and face not betraying any amusement or sarcasm. But the remark was none anyone expected, not from the surprise everyone gave off in their expressions. Even Krayt was caught off guard, with his eyes twitching ever so slightly before he recomposed his demeanor.

Kiles took over, telling Tau and Krayt, “If you’re going after Abeloth and the Rhandites’ foundries, you’re going to need the best troops and specialists we have so you can stand a chance against their armies. Mystical dagger aside, you’ll be facing far worse odds on Lehon than we will in space.”

“I suggest you all use the remaining few days to study the planet and start learning how to operate as a unit.” Nek advised the new team. “Dagger Squad will need to live up to all your individual reputations if you hope to succeed and survive the enemy’s domain.”

“All right. Everyone has their assignments, and we’ll meet again in forty-eight hours. Dismissed.” Nek ordered his respective commanders and agents. Everyone filing out, he saw Tau awkwardly shuffling away. Glancing at Jaden and Hunter, the Bothan motioned for them to accompany him out.

After the last officer left, Nek gathered up his notes and datapads and departed the briefing room. As he made his way back to the bridge to refine the Lehon invasion strategy, he knew the younger Palpatine was more awkward and unsure of himself than Edaan ever was. Tau, for all his skills and intelligence, he had so little sense of identity and individuality. And where the Fourth Cosmic War would hopefully conclude, with the Nihil Retreat being liberated from its tyrannical rule and the True Sith Empire shattered, everyone would need to be at their best in every aspect.

That was why Nek allocated Commander Seii, Jaden and Clone Force 99 to work alongside Tau for as long as it was possible. The kid had great potential and skill, but very little confidence in himself without a purpose. It was his hope that, with the best guidance and right opportunities, he would prove himself and grow to trust himself. Allowing himself a small as he entered the turbolift to the bridge, he wondered if the Palpatine-clone would find his true love in this fight, just as Edaan did when the Jedi Coalition freed Kesh from the Lost Tribe.

Well, there was no point in fantasizing over a Jedi’s love life now, or ever. Nek had dozens of preparations to oversee, and an invasion force to prepare for the inevitable carnage and ensure the Last Alliance’s many factions cooperated well with each other. Of course, the massive organization now including the Dorenans after their most respected general, Etahn A’baht, rescued from Daala’s secret prisons, had joined the war effort.

Alongside the many smaller military companies, Force orders, and privateers that had supplemented the Jedi and One Sith’s ranks, the Dorneans were a welcome addition to the Last Alliance. With their vast military experience and top-ranking officer’s strong ties to the free galaxy and Jedi, their navy would be valuable in the coming campaigns over the many months or years. Maker willing, the vast numbers and skillsets they’d accumulated could help turn the tide in this war, even if Nek was prepared to be wrong yet again, in his long and turbulent service to the Galactic Alliance.

Within the Inner Rim

Shedu Maad

Within the Jedi Temple

Just put one foot in front of the other. He painfully thought, repeating the same motions until he reached the end of the last daily exercise. With agonizing slowness, Luke Skywalker, Jedi Master and hero of legendary renown, finished walking towards the wheelchair that awaited him after three hours of physical therapy. The moment he plopped himself into it, he released several deep breaths he didn’t realize he was holding and let his exhaustion envelop him. True, his stamina and resiliency had come a long way from when he first began, but there was still a long way to go before he could return to the field.

Six weeks of performing the same exercises to rebuild his strength while his loved ones and friends prepared to wage war, it was more difficult than he thought to let others carry on the fight. And it was especially more painful than the wounds he suffered from the One Sith’s infiltrators nearly three months ago in this very temple. Just remembering how close he came to death when his injuries were combined with the old wounds he suffered from Abeloth and the Chiloon Rift over a decade ago, it terrified him at a level he hadn’t felt in many years.

But now, the One Sith had united with the Jedi and their Alliance of Light to stave off not only the Olpakan Hegemony, but a Sith Empire infinitely older, more dangerous, and far more malicious than any other dark power in millennia. This giant territory, kept mostly safe from prying eyes by sorcery and ancient technology, was prepared to enslave the galaxy under the domination of eternal evil, using countless servants and vassals to destroy their only remaining opposition.

Provided the reports Luke was being given were accurate, then the Nihil Retreat was almost ready to launch an invasion greater than even that of the Yuuzhan Vong. His son and future daughter-in-law, deployed to the Rakatan Archipelago in Wild Space to protect the one world resisting the True Sith, they would soon contact him to relay word of their progress. And he had to be sure to contact the rest of his family to learn of their situations, if only to ensure his peace of mind.

Allana was helping the Olpakan Resolute defeat their wayward kin, Han and Leia were journeying to Zonama Sekot to gain the world’s help, and Jaina was being called to do Force-knows-what by the Chiss, everyone was doing their part to win this war. But Luke was stuck in rehabilitation for at least another three months. Even if he knew he was no good to anyone without his full strength, he still yearned to do more to help the Last Alliance. Reviewing old archival records and serving as a consultant to the Triumvirate was vital, but it wasn’t his best forte.

Shaking his head, banishing his self-loathing from his mind as he wheeled himself back to his medical cabin, Luke reprimanded himself for such thinking. He’d long been helping the Jedi and galaxy on the sidelines, building intelligence networks and relief movements for the free powers during his retirement, so this shouldn’t be too different. Entering his room and limping to his bed, he took a moment to examine the setup, more like a miniature library and office than a hospital room.

With a small desk and a miniature HoloNet comm unit in the middle, with several books stacked near the edge, Luke had all he needed to oversee his friends’ efforts across the galaxy. And working to help the galactic powers’ depleted armies and the remaining Jedi across known space uproot Olpakan and True Sith agents was an effort he could best be suited for in his recuperation, even if he still had a burning drive to be closer to the action.

Opening the blinds to his window enough to illuminate the dimly lit room, Luke took a moment to drink some of his required nutrient-rich beverage, savoring its rich and sweet flavor before he heard his holocomm start beeping. Slowly making his way to sit in his soft chair, he activated it to show Ben and Vestara, the feed showing them sitting in the cockpit of his son’s personal vessel, the Jade’s Legacy, as it traveled through hyperspace.

Genuinely smiling at the engaged couple, Luke cleared his throat and asked, “Has anyone had any trouble?”

“Nothing yet.” Vestara shook her head. “But we all know this is just the calm before the storm. Everyone’s moving into position for their missions, and Kyle will forward you the relevant information soon.”

“All right.” Luke sighed, his attention slowly drifting away before he heard Ben’s voice, drawing him back to the call. “Have our Rakatan allies given you any new information on their enemies?”

“We’ve had plenty to go over these past five days.” Ben answered. “They’ve been very forthcoming with us on theirs and enemies’ capabilities, and we expect to make it to the target in no more than four days.” Anticipating Luke’s next set of remarks, he assured his father, “We’ll all be careful until we can verify their allegiance. But enough about our mission. How are you doing, Dad?”

Sighing, he admitted, “I’m making progress, but it’s slow going.”

“And you’re worried you won’t be able to contribute enough to help us win this war.” Vestara knowingly stated. Seeing the annoyed look Luke gave her, she satisfyingly asked, “How do you think I felt when you stormed Kesh and demolished the Lost Tribe, and all my efforts to stop you failed?”

Smirking despite himself, Luke had to acknowledge Vestara’s point with a joke, “I see you’ve got enough wit about you to keep up with Ben’s own sense of humor.” His smile quickly falling, he saw his life flash before his eyes and his mind felt like it was continuously being ripped apart and put back together. He heard Ben and Vestara cry out to him, but his mouth wouldn’t let him say anything coherent.

Seeing all his life allowed him to deliver to a broken galaxy, from his youth to troubled adulthood as a Rebel and fledgling Jedi Knight, his joys and sorrows as husband and father, triumphs and failures as a Jedi Master and leader of the reborn Jedi Order, to his time as a semi-hermit, Luke wondered who was attacking him this time. He still remembered how, a few weeks ago, he tried to probe the Unknown Regions to determine the True Sith and Olpakan Hegemony’s plans, only to be stopped and driven back into his body by Abeloth.

Help me… Someone’s raspy voice cried out to Luke, a multitude of inflections and tones reverberating in the call. It was a mix of women and men’s voices, but he recognized the one at the center of the large assortment, and prepared himself for Abeloth to once again attack him.

His guard up and ready for anything, Luke found himself hurled across time and space until he was inside a pitch-black mist, with a single pinprick of light illuminating the way. And that spark was chained up and bound by dozens of small chains, each weighing it down with a multitude of whispers, each filled with doubt and derision towards a woman they referred to as “Belot.”

Recognizing the name as Abeloth’s original one before her transformation into the Bringer of Chaos, Luke felt a myriad of questions and possibilities fly through his mind. Was this another mental attack by her, or could it be something of deeper significance? Realizing he wouldn’t get any answers by standing around, he slowly walked towards the single flicker of light.

And the closer Luke got to the chained spark, the more the dark force tried to stop him, blanketing him with waves of black mist to halt him. It was more than a mental attack on him, each blast drained him of a piece of his strength. His already exhausted spirit felt like it could give out any minute, leaving him with little option but to withdraw. But he found himself shielded by another power, one stern and compassionate but firm in the light.

Stand fast, Luke Skywalker. The choices and acts of sacrifice you will soon make shall either save or condemn all creation. The spirit’s voice echoed in Luke’s mind, who recognized it as an elder man’s and carried more wisdom and strength than he suspected. Confused at the unseen individual’s help, he nonetheless continued towards the flash of light, protected by the malevolent attacks until he reached the ensnared spirit.

Help me… Help me… Help me… Abeloth repeatedly pleaded to Luke, her voice all but suffocated by the darkness strangling her core. Daring to probe her mind, he was astonished to see how the True Sith had bound her to their will, forcing her to serve their every whim and use her power to advance their apocalyptic creed. But he learned far more than her present plight.

He saw how Tilotny, by then the monstrous Soulworm, otherwise known as El’shuddem, used the last of her strength to imbue her will and memories into an infant, before her suicide. Hidden away for many eons until Elegast found her and brought her into his family. Spending decades as a Servant, then Mother, keeping the balance between the Son and Daughter, she felt nothing but love, peace, and joy for her life.

But as Belot’s natural life waned, she slowly succumbed to the imprints her mother left her and committed the forbidden. Drinking from the Font of Power and bathing in the Pool of Knowledge in a vain attempt to keep her family, her actions only led to her loved ones imprisoning her in the newly created Maw Cluster to protect the galaxy from her chaos.

Driven mad by her isolation and determined to heed her mother’s commands and legacy, Belot became Abeloth, the Bringer of Chaos, sowing discord and death wherever she went. Her madness was so great, she even rejected the Celestial Wutzek’s offer of healing and redemption, despite the pain of her doing so. And it was this horrific cycle of destruction and delusions that led her to enslavement by the True Sith.

Even as Luke still hated all Abeloth had done, he felt a renewed sense of pity for her, for her life had been manipulated and ruined by her mother, and nothing she did could fill the void her adopted family left in her. If only there was something he could do to help her see there was a better path.

Suddenly, Luke felt the spark of light that represented Abeloth’s goodness reach out to him, pleading for guidance. And in an unconscious effort, he extended his hand towards her and felt his very being become subsumed in a near-bottomless wellspring of power. But right after this instance, he felt the energy grow calmer and its anger and madness soothed.

It was then that the vision ended, and Luke snapped his head up and found himself back in the Jedi Temple. His eyes darting around, he recognized the sterile and blank environment as an intensive care unit, with a diminutive Chandra-Fan woman sitting on a tall chair next to him. Recognizing her as Tekli, he hoarsely asked, “How long was I out?”

“Approximately three hours, Master Skywalker.” Tekli professionally answered. Her lips quirking in a smile, she added, “Master Skywalker and Miss Khai will be glad to know you are awake and well. They’ve been worried sick about you.”

“Good. I’m sorry to have scared everyone so terribly.” Luke apologized. The details of his vision reverberating through his mind, he told Tekli, “I need you to give me an encrypted signal to the Jade’s Legacy, and to transcript my call. The revelations I had in my stupor… Grand Master Katarn needs to be made aware of what might happen right away. What I’ve seen, it will alter the course of the war – no! These insights will alter all of history if my visions come to pass.”

Melona 7^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Near the Twilight Void

Aboard the Subpro Corporation WTK-85A Interstellar Transport Bestoon Legacy

He knew the Last Alliance fleet was close to their destination. The Force, it was a chaotic mix of life and death, not simply because everyone was near the Nihil Retreat and its heinous inhabitants. And the ship’s captain admired Zonama Sekot’s craftiness in hiding in the outskirts of the True Sith Empire’s shadow. Observing the chaotic nebula clouds, awaiting the living world’s return at the predetermined rendezvous point, Ochi of Bestoon let his mind drift to the revelations he’d learnt about his people and the truth behind their fall from grace.

As an assassin for the One Sith, Ochi had hunted many individuals and groups to advance Darth Krayt’s plans, just as his family had done so for the Order of Sith Lords for many past centuries. And a few months ago, he would have thought working with the Jedi and their coalition in recruiting the Yuuzhan Vong and their adopted home planet to a shared cause was something out of an absurd holofilm.

Ochi’s people, the near-Human Vahla that once called the world of Ambria home, had long served the dark side and helped the Sith in destroying their enemies, falsely believing that the Jedi had ruined it at the height of the Second Great Jedi Schism. Playing into the hidden puppet master behind the Hundred-Year Darkness, Darth Dreadwar, better known as the enigmatic Ku’ar Danar, they built a terrifying Obelisk to destroy their enemies, but everyone on the planet was destroyed when the weapon went awry when sabotaged by rivals.

Ochi’s ancestors had been away from Ambira when the tragedy occurred, but they, like the rest of their people’s remnant, believed the Jedi were responsible. And they had nursed that resentment and killed as many Jedi they could reach while awaiting the return of their false goddess Vahl, now known to the galaxy as Tilotny and Abeloth when each used the moniker to be worshipped by the masses.

This revelation shattered Ochi’s entire belief system, and made him question everything he once thought of as absolute. If his people’s vendetta against the Jedi was wrong, and the Sith were the cause of their destitution, what was he doing here, why was he out here, serving Darth Krayt when the Vahla needed to know the truth? When they learnt that Abeloth, their supposed goddess had been revived and was recruiting among the galaxy’s darkest minds and fighters, they would come flocking to hers and the True Sith’s banner.

And then there was Darth Invidious, a Sith Lord of the One Sith, who gave Ochi several classified missions while working with the Last Alliance. Aside from ensuring the work to bring Sekot and the Yuuzhan Vong into the fold, he was ordered to protect several key individuals from the True Sith’s influence, a task he felt he was woefully unprepared for. He was a killer and subversive agent, not a babysitter and negotiator. Why his handler believed him suited for this task, he didn’t know, and it confounded him beyond any past surprise.

Watching over the Aphra family, Darth Vua, and Adari Thayn Palpatine to protect them, it was something Ochi knew was important, but he was sure he couldn’t do that task alone. He would have to decide whether to bring others into this observation effort. Bardan Jusik Skirata and the Solos seemed like the most logical choice, but he wasn’t confident in earning their trust.

Hearing one of his only friends approach him, D-O, Ochi listened as the small droid rolled around on his one wheel, sputtering in Droidspeak before the Bestoon Legacy’s sensors went wild. Quickly pulling up the data, he recognized a massive signature about to arrive out of hyperspace, one larger than any vessel his computer held information on. But through his connection to the Force, he sensed an incredible outpour of life drawing closer, one full of peace and power he never thought possible in anyone.

Zonama Sekot… Ochi marveled before he heard a familiar woman’s voice call from his ship’s comm unit. Chelli Lona Aphra, a defector from the One Sith, irritably alerted the assassin, “You’d better rev up your engines. We’ll need to land on Zonama Sekot quickly before the enemy can attack us. And as Much as it disgusts me to say this, you’ve been chosen to come with us onto the planet’s surface alongside the Solos, Adari, both Vuas, my family, and General Skirata.”

Well, that makes my job a little bit easier. Ochi thought while he verbally promised, “I’ll be ready.”

Sensing the bottomless wellspring of power fast approaching, Ochi willed his turbulent mind to calm itself before he instinctively shielded his eyes from a light as strong as a solar flare that instantaneously appeared. While his ship’s windows automatically tinted themselves to filter the rays, he felt a peaceful voice whisper into his mind, gently urging him to follow him towards his destination.

Suddenly, he felt his ship lurch forward, being guided towards the locus of Force energy, just as he felt his own body grow heavier with each passing second. Barely able to hear D-O shut down, he wondered if this was how Sekot greeted all its visitors before he lost consciousness.

Within the Csilla System

Aboard the Victory III-class Star Destroyer Guardian

“We appreciate you for allowing us aboard your flagship, Master Solo Fel.” Stybla'ba'kar, the Supreme General of the Chiss Ascendancy’s Defense Fleet, cordially thanking Jaina as the Jedi Council member sat with him and his peer, towards where the rest of their group would meet them after they exited their miniature craft.

Attempting to make light conversation while their speeder shuttle took them towards the Guardian’s auxiliary hangar, the second-highest ranking Chiss officer continued, “I understand your husband is preparing to enact emergency democratic elections for the Empire in the next few weeks. Do you believe that is the wisest decision, given the current climate?”

“The Empire promised its citizens that it would uphold their oaths and the Imperial Constitution, and it would only undermine our foundations if we reneged on our word now. Something I am confident you and Parliament understand after learning of Aristocra Saganu’s coerced betrayal.” Jaina pointed out. “Besides, we have the perfect candidate in mind to succeed Head of State Fel, and Grand Moff Sarreti is more than qualified to run the Empire in these dire times.”

Krets’shawnkyr’nuruodo, the Ascendancy’s Supreme Admiral and former comrade to Jaina, lightly chided her, “There’s no need to stand on ceremony here, Jaina. We’re all aware of everyone’s precarious situation and are in consensus in our approach to maintaining order and the Last Alliance’s morale.”

“I see you’ve loosened up a little since the Yuuzhan Vong War, Shawnkyr.” Jaina teased her old friend, using her core name in a rare display of familiarity. Her smile dropping a fraction, she solemnly asked the Chiss’s most powerful officer, “Then in the spirit of our friendship, may I ask what brought you and Ba’kar here at this moment? You said the task you had in mind for me and a select team was of utmost importance to the Last Alliance and could determine the fate of the Ascendancy and all its allies.”

Nodding, Shawnkyr acquiesced, “We’re still working to cleanse the Ascendancy of the True Sith’s spies, and we can’t be sure our communications aren’t being tapped by the Olpakans. Meeting you face-to-face aboard your flagship, under the pretense of inspecting our outsider allies and ensuring your people respect our borders was the most expedient method.”

The shuttle slowly stopped and ceased hovering, and Jaina led the two Chiss off the craft and into the ship’s reserve hangar. Seeing a Raider II-class corvette, the only vessel in the area, guarded by two squads of Imperial Stormtroopers, Ba’kar noted the ship’s markings, recognizing them as belonging to a renowned and lethal squad of Imperial Special Forces commandos. Noticing his peer registering the same insignia, he surmised, “So, we get to meet the famous Inferno Squad.”

“Oh, it’s not just Commander Versio and her team I’ve included in this briefing.” Jaina corrected as everyone was allowed past the guards and waited for the Orinda’s Bloom’s boarding ramp to open. “I’ve also brought a few old friends into our little meeting, since we’ll be investigating a resource-rich frontier world and refugee center that’s near the borders to Olpakan and True Sith space.”

“Did you hack our records?” Ba’kar suspiciously guessed.

“No.” Jaina calmly answered. “I asked Vurawn and Nirauan for information, and he gave me the basics on Sunrise and its tragic history.” Seeing Shawnkyr and Ba’kar calm down, she promised, “We’re not going to do anything to undermine our coalition. But we need to know something about what we’re getting ourselves into before we commit to this mission.” The boarding ramp open, she led them inside while assuring them, “I kept the circle of trust small, but they’re still skeptical of your intentions. Give it to them straight, and you’ll have their support.”

“Thank you for the last bit of advice.” Shawnkyr noted. Glancing around to see the ship’s crew diligently carrying out their tasks, only one or two sparing the Chiss guests a glance, she admired the Imperials’ professionalism and sense of duty. She also noted the advanced features aboard this corvette, ranging from military-grade sensors and shields to a hangar bay, holding at least two MandalMotors Bes’uliiks and a Jedi StealthX fighter.

Getting a better idea of what kind of team Jaina had assembled, the Supreme Admiral held her tongue until everyone arrived at the command center. And she was not too surprised to see Mirta Gev, Ghes Orade, and their son and daughter, Bralo and Parja Gev Orade, awaiting them.

Having once been friends during the Second Galactic Civil War before their falling out, afterwards fighting each other on many occasions for the Mandalorian woman working for Vestara and the One Sith before they both defected to the Alliance of Light, it made sense that Jaina would try to rebuild bridges. And letting Ghes be involved, Mirta’s husband and longtime Boba Fett-loyalist, especially when she was a part of the secessionist and warmongering Neo Hidden Chain movement, it was a symbolic gesture of trust and atonement for the mistakes all parties made against each other.

Hearing several other sets of footsteps, at least six, approaching her from behind, Shawnkyr recognized all of them as the commanding officer of Inferno Squad, a well-respected and long-serving soldier in Iden Versio. And beside her was a Gamorrean, a thin one with a vocal implant in his throat, which made her realize she was Voort saBinring, the leader of Wraith Squadron, an unofficial squad of misfits and commandos for the Galactic Alliance.

Suddenly, the Chiss woman began to see the kind of team Jaina put together for this mission. And that wasn’t even the entire set of resourceful individuals in this group.

Seeing a middle-aged Human male that wore the golden armor of the Aquilian Paladins, a Paladin-Captain, from Shawnkyr’s recollection, with several scars crossing his face and an intensity in his eyes that could surpass most Ascendancy officers, she recognized him as Soldier Tirall. A clone of Jedi Knight Jaden Korr and agent of the Aquilian Republic, he had spent many years relishing his freedom and protecting his foster daughter, Grace, while helping other disaffected and disadvantaged souls find their way in a dangerous galaxy.

The next individual was clad in silver Beskar armor but held her helmet in her arms and had several tattoos across her weathered face. Ba’kar recognized her as Carasynthia Dune Djarin, former New Republic commando and Mandalorian sympathizer before marrying into Clan Djarin and becoming a rare pro-Jedi leader among the Mandalorian Protectors.

Beside Carasynthia was another aged woman, garbed in tight civilian clothing but carrying herself as a long-served intelligence operative, and held several types of weapons meant to incapacitate anything from an Ewok to a Gundark. This person, Shawnkyr knew, was Jan Ors, wife to the Jedi Order’s Grand Master Kyle Katarn and Intelligence director for the Galactic Alliance’s Alpha Blue division. Uncovering those few facts about her cost the Chiss vast resources and years of effort, but she knew any bit of information would be useful if the need to fully ally with the GA or Jedi ever arose.

The final individual, a man with a lazy eye, cropped gray hair, and scruffy clothing just as a smuggler kingpin would, he was the one most out of place in this classified meeting. But he appeared at ease with Soldier, and bluntly broke the proverbial ice, “So, when do we get started with learning and solving whatever mess the Chiss have found themselves in?”

“Crudely put, but accurate, Captain Faal.” Shawnkyr wearily chuckled. Khedryn Faal, a smuggler and salvage kingpin in Wild Space, as well as a friend and regional ally of the Jedi, was a rogue many liked and even had legitimate salvaging contracts with the Ascendancy and other free powers in the Chaos.

Plugging in a data rod into the Orinda’s Bloom’s computer, Shawnkyr pulled up a hologram of a planet, followed by several zoomed in images of cities and mines across the northern hemisphere. “As I’m sure most of you know, this is Sunrise. It’s a planet rich in resources that civilizations use out here to build warships, and was the victim of the Grysk Hegemony’s agents stirring up a genocidal civil war to seize the minerals and help destroy the Ascendancy at the time the Clone War wound down. But their plans were stopped by a man you and most of the galaxy knew as Grand Admiral Thrawn.”

“Ever since then, it’s been a refugee center and light mining center for several worlds and territories outside the Chiss Ascendancy’s sphere of influence. But twenty-five years ago, we legally acquired the world and began a more aggressive mining campaign to expand our navy and use Sunrise as a bulwark against our enemies.” Ba’kar elaborated. “But something’s gone wrong. Thanks to Saganu and his agents, we now know that several questionable military and political officers have been rerouted to serve there, and there’s been rumors of black-market deals and other forms of corruption underway.”

“Have you tried investigating these claims yourself?” Ghes warily asked.

“We have, several times.” Shawnkyr nodded. “But every time we send inspectors, they clean up their act and we can’t find anything worth incriminating. It was only because we have full access to House Miurani’s records that we now have an idea of what’s going on.” Taking a moment to steady herself, she admitted, “We believe the world is being used as a slave labor camp, with the refugees being used to send resources to the True Sith’s proxies and possible Force sensitives directly to the Nihil Retreat. And we need your help to verify this information.”

“If you know all this, why not send a fleet to apprehend the criminals?” Bralo angrily asked, disgusted at the barbarity the Chiss were capable of.

“Because if we go in now, they’ll likely flee, take what resources and slaves they can, and destroy the rest.” Ba’kar regretfully answered. “But if you can keep their attention away from us long enough to assemble the force necessary to blockade the world, then we might have a chance to catch the traitors and all their handlers in one fell swoop.”

“And for that, you’ll need us and a small corps of spies and commandos.” Jan comprehended.

Jaina, seeing the understanding and resolve on each participant’s face, asked Shawnkyr, “How long will it take to prepare the right cover for us so we can set out?”

“No more than three weeks.” Shawnkyr answered. “Assuming you’ve all agreed to take on this mission.”

“None of us here can stand slavery, and if it’ll help us win the war, then we’ll see this task done.” Mirta resolved. A playful smile crossed her face, she added, “Of course, it’ll help if you pay us Mandos a fair price for infiltrating and subverting enemy holdings.”

Genuine laughs coming from everyone, Jaina promised, “I’ll pay you myself whatever you wish. Best we keep the risk of leaks as low as possible for this kind of operation.”

“Not necessarily.” Shawnkyr countered. Glaring at Mirta, she proposed, “We’ll offer half a million credits to each of you upon completion of this operation, with twenty percent as a down payment.”

Showing a new respect for the Supreme Admiral, Mirta glanced at everyone before she spoke on their behalf, “Deal.”

Within the Outer Rim

On Bastion

Within the Jedi Enclave

“How are Father’s efforts progressing?” Jayce Solo Fel, the youngest child of his parents, Jedi Master Jaina Solo Fel the Imperial Head of State, asked his brother and sister while each enjoyed a delicious meal in the facility’s mess hall.

“Better than anyone could hope.” Chak Solo Fel, Jayce’s elder brother and younger sibling of his sister, Wynn Solo Fel. “Looks like all the Galactic Alliance’s advisors and generals Mom rescued from Daala’s prison are going above and beyond to help out the election.”

“I still can’t believe she managed to put that over on us all.” Wynn scathingly spat. “It’ll be good to see her brought down for good soon enough.”

Remembering the reports and newsreels of Armand Vorn, Daala’s own son, divulging how she’d kept many of Darth Caedus’s political prisoners encased in carbonite for nearly twenty years, it was a double miracle the Alliance of Light was able to rescue and ensure their speedy recovery. And all the members of the revived Gray Cadre: Commodore Turk Brand, Admirals Kir Vantai and Firmus Nantz, the marines loyal to them, and Senators Ponc Gavirsom, Releqy A'Kla, and Ta’laam Ranth, they were all eager to get back into the fight for life and liberty.

And with Etahn A’baht leading his people’s efforts in the Unknown Regions alongside his old friend in Kiles L'toth, everyone else in this veterans’ association was hard at work to help shore up the galaxy’s defenses and protect the institutions that stood for freedom. Admiral Nantz and Senator A’Kla had been working with the Imperials to apprehend any Olpakan Hegemony agents and preserve their diplomatic ties with their allies. Meanwhile, Ponc and Ta’laam rejoined the Galactic Senate to help rebuild the body’s membership, just as Turk and Kir aided the Galactic Alliance Navy by assuming their old posts. Finally, the one hundred faithful marines that tried to help them with deposing Caedus took up bodyguard roles with their government, along with the Empire, and Confederation, to protect their leaders from any kind of assassination attempt.

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” Jayce cautioned his siblings. “First, we need to make sure the election goes off without any problems, and then we can join Mother and the everyone else in stopping the Olpakans and True Sith from enslaving the galaxy.”

Wynn, seeing the worry creased into her youngest brother’s face, advised him, “Don’t get too caught up in everyone else’s worries to not take care of yourself.” Smiling in amusement at Jayce raising an eyebrow, she generously reminded him, “The Empire and our family doesn’t depend on you meditating yourself into a coma, just as it doesn’t need you to fear for the worst for our parents’ failsafe.”

Everyone quickly grew solemn at the Fel family’s contingency plan to protect and rebuild the Imperial territory if the election failed, no one wanted that outcome to come to pass. If Jagged and Jaina were forced to change the Imperial government into a constitutional monarchy and instill themselves as the rulers, then the Empire could be faced with another civil war at the worst possible time. After Daala’s latest coup attempt and the extreme damage she inflicted on it, an insurrection or civil strife would almost certainly bring the galactic power down for good.

“We all know, Wynn.” Chak acknowledged in-between chewing a piece of Nerf steak. “But we’ve all sensed the darkness creeping up on us, and we need to be more vigilant than ever before. If anyone tries to make a move against us, then we need to do our part to protect our home and the innocent.”

“No arguments from me.” Jayce nodded before finishing his cup of tea. Letting out a sigh of relief, he was prepared to rise from his seat to return his plate and utensils before he saw a flash of fire come into his vision. Eyes widening and heartbeat quickening, he turned around to warn his siblings, only to find no one else in the burning mess hall.

All around him, Jayce found the Jedi’s home on Bastion crumbling around him, and he sensed a sickening aura of death permeating the surrounding area. He may not know how or why this travesty was occurring, but one thing was clear: the Empire’s capital world would come under attack. All he could discern right now was the overwhelming darkness and hate that filled the air.

He was prepared to find his way out of the Enclave to gather more information, but the vision faded just as quickly as it came. Finding himself back at his table with his brother and sister, both oblivious to the revelations he just witnessed, Jayce took several deep breaths to steady his uneven breathing. Chak was the first to notice something out of the ordinary, and asked his brother, “What’s wrong?”

“I…” Jayce hesitated a moment, wondering if he should worry anyone with what he didn’t understand. If he was incorrect in his vision or got everyone worried before he found out more, then there would be more unrest at precisely the wrong time. But those doubts quickly faded away when he remembered who he was talking to, and admitted, “I think I saw Bastion under attack.” The military training in both his siblings taking over, he elaborated, “I don’t know who will strike us or when, but I saw the enclave under attack and felt countless lives across the planet die.”

“Lack of specifics aside, we’ll need to tell Father and the others.” Wynn worriedly warned. “I just hope all his friends will take us seriously.”

“We’ll convince them, Sis.” Jayce promised. Personal fears aside, he fiercely loved his family, and he’d do almost anything to protect them.

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

Near the Temple of the Ancients

Just outside a Rakatan facility, rebuilt by slaves and True Sith acolytes long after its destruction by Darth Bane, one of the final two thousand survivors of the Grysk race glanced at the lush and verdant landscape surrounding the temple. Tor Valum marveled at how likely it would be that all this life would soon be destroyed when the True Sith Empire decimated the Last Alliance. Oh, just imagining the burning carcasses of ships descending like falling meteors, each filled with thousands of corpses, impacting the planet, it would be a great sight.

The highest-ranking member of the long-dead Grysk Hegemony, a deformed and decaying man who once prided himself as the scion of many ancient bloodlines stemming back to the Zeffonian’s peak of power, Tor relished the chance to honor Bogan’s teachings and destroy its enemies. With Abeloth and her Servants of Chaos under the Nihil Retreat’s command, combined with near-endless legions of marauders and zealots to enact the Ancient Ones’ dreams, victory was all but inevitable for the True Sith Empire. Only a few flashes of defiant light remained to oppose them, and those foolish weaklings would either join the Dark or die like the countless others that once stood in their way.

And now, while ensuring the traps built to massacre the Jedi and One Sith’s coalition were ready for usage in just a few days, he took the rare moment of calm to let his mind wander back to the terrifying visions he experienced not a month ago. He recalled with perfect clarity how Abeloth, Tau Palpatine, and Darth Krayt fought on the planet-sized temple of Korman Lao, and how, somehow, the Bringer of Chaos broke free from the bindings the Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Kings embedded into her very soul. Remembering how she had turned against her overlords to ally with the Last Alliance, it terrified him more than the heinous lashings and scars now etched on his flesh.

If Abeloth, the last delusional offspring of Tilotny, was preparing to join the Last Alliance, or at least use them to serve her own designs, then it would be prudent to eliminate her now, before she could break free. But that wasn’t how the Lich Kings saw it. No, according to the most ancient and powerful of the True Sith, the Bringer of Chaos was far too useful to dispose of now.

Just recalling how, when he dared to question their dark wisdom ten days ago, they ripped through his mind and soul, filling him with the most terrifying hallucinations and driving him to the edge of insanity and death repeatedly, it nearly made his black heart stop from an unstoppable fear.

You would be wise to banish your doubts, old friend. The enemy will sense and pounce on them and see you dead. A waxing and raspy voice spoke from behind Tor, startling him before the Grysk glanced at the shadowy spectral form of a man, if he could be identified as that, with his constantly melting face, flakes of skin, and black holes where his eyes ought to be.

Recognizing the epitome of corruption as the Lorekeeper of the Sorcerers of Rhand, Tor loyally greeted him, “I assure you, Blessed Toxmalb, that my misgivings will not impact this battle. Nor with they be detected by any of our foes, or the Bringer of Chaos.” Allowing a bit of steel to enter his voice, he reminded him, “And after our lords already disciplined me for my lack of foresight, I won’t fail them again.”

Staring at Tor, Toxmalb reprimanded him, “It was not merely your misguided secrets that led to your scarring. Your doubts in the Father of Shadows’ plan and our control over this war was what led to the lashings over your mind and body.”

Using the Force to pull Tor’s robes off his body, Toxmalb gestured to the dozens of still-fresh whippings and burn scars etched across the Grysk’s upper body, “Do you think you are the only agent our Lich Kings have that is executing their will across Skyriver? Have you forgotten how we have billions of followers across the galaxy, each fulfilling a unique role in the mosaic of the Way of the Dark’s plan?”

“Every one of them is laying the groundwork for the return of our Immortal Gods, and you, as capable, cunning, and powerful as you are, cannot hope to win this war for us on your own.” Toxmalb reminded Tor. Sensing the hateful glare from the younger Sorcerer, he internally smirked before he was interrupted,

“Did the Lich Kings tell you of my other task? Of how I was ordered to discern the meaning of my visions and ensure the Bringer of Chaos stays under our masters’ control?” Tor let his lip curdle in barely repressed anger, “Oh, yes. Our bindings are working perfectly right now, but Abeloth is nothing if not patient and cunning. And if the enemy realizes what we have done, if they dare try to free and recruit her and – impossible as it seems – she joins their cause… Even I would shudder at the implications and possibilities. And I have been commanded to keep watch over her and ensure she doesn’t betray us until her usefulness has expired.”

“And you find this task beneath you, Tor Valum?” Toxmalb amusingly challenged. “Do you believe a prominent and well-rising star in the Sorcerers is above such a vital mission?”

“No, but how, in the name of the Dark, I ask you, am I alone supposed to ensure Abeloth cannot outmaneuver us and enact her own plans?” Tor nearly shouted. “As good as I am, I cannot hope to match the Bringer of Chaos on my own, and we cannot afford to leave anything to chance.” Sensing the air around him go cold, the Grysk promised, “I will do what is demanded of me, my friend. But I urge you to convince the Lich Kings to remain vigilant. With the Last Alliance and its unpredictable champions, we cannot leave anything to chance.”

Silent for a moment, Toxmalb promised, “What you say is sensible. I will convey your response to our masters right away. What they will do with your warnings is beyond my control. But in the meantime, you must do what you can to discern the meanings behind your revelations and finish readying Abeloth and our followers to destroy the Last Alliance’s armies and fleets. And be sure to remove Eipha and Niphal’s champions as obstacles to Bogan’s return, and to especially capture their precious dagger.”

“I will see it done.” Tor guaranteed before Toxmalb’s shrouded form vanished as suddenly as it appeared. Grateful that none disturbed him, everyone knowing how interrupting such a meeting would result in death for anyone, the Grysk donned his robes across his upper body, wincing ever so slightly from the phantom pain before he returned from his light walk.

Worries aside, Toxmalb was correct. He had a mission to carry out for the Nihil Retreat, and as competent he was, even he was still expendable when faced with the numberless legions the True Sith held. The only way he would keep on living is if he continued to succeed in all the Lich Kings commanded him to do. And if it meant keeping watch over the self-dubbed Beloved Queen of the Stars and ensuring she didn’t betray her betters, then he’d do all he could to see it achieved.

Chapter Text

Melona 7^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Inside the Croke Reach

Aboard the Galactic-class Battle Carrier Dodonna

If there was one thing Kyp Durron hated more than anything, it was the cold calm and monotonous boredom that followed the intervals in any fierce war’s critical battles. And searching hostile territory for rumored sightings of the Enemy wasn’t how the veteran Jedi Master wanted to use his talents in helping the Last Alliance.

Oh, to be fair, Kyp had deeply matured from his hot-tempered and traumatic youth and mostly calmed his raging hunger for justice and action that impeded his judgement in the war with the Yuuzhan Vong. Being appointed as the leader for the Jedi Order’s Starfighter Corps and an esteemed member of the High Council instilled in him a greater sense of responsibility and deeper appreciation for the full picture in facing any enemy. But the remnants of his impetuousness were hard to snuff out, and it sometimes showed when he wasn’t in his element for too long.

Ordered by the Last Alliance Triumvirate to search the long-shrouded home of the enigmatic and isolationist Croke species for rumored fleets of True Sith servants looking to recruit them, Kyp and the people trusted to him had spent the last three weeks looking for any signs of evidence. And the men were starting to get restless with so much inaction, with several squad leaders and ship captains reporting how some of their subordinates were vocally complaining on the mission’s level of urgency.

The admirals working alongside Kyp, Galactic Alliance Vice Admiral Kara and High Admiral Julius Gaia of the Aquilian Republic, were ready to discipline the agitators and remind the rest of the unorthodox nature of this war. But the Jedi Ace had crafted a more creative means of keeping the soldiers in line, and he was almost late to the latest session.

Long a maverick and sympathetic to those more action-oriented, Kyp decided that a good way to keep everyone on task while creating a more unified coalition was to give everyone a chance to learn more about what they were fighting for. Flight simulations and studying briefings on the Olpakan Hegemony and Nihil Retreat were important, but work couldn’t be all one did in their down time. And what better method to foster unity and fellowship than to learn about everyone’s homes, personal lives, and cultures?

This had been the third mini festival between the three forces in eight days, with their ships and squadrons mixed to teach them to better cooperate and collaborate with each other, and it was slowly restoring morale and developing a sense of community between everyone. And Kyp, atypical as it was for him, he’d been enjoying learning from the Aquilian Paladins about the two-dozen worlds in the Unknown Regions they called home, especially their capital world of Zakuul.

Hearing how the once-mighty capital of the Eternal Empire before its decay and renaissance, thanks in great part to defiant Chiss who saw rebuilding Zakuul as an ally, it was a lesson of reconciliation with one’s bloody past and cooperation that most in the known galaxy could stand to relearn. And in the heart of the Dodonna, the first of its class of battle carriers to be deployed just before the Second Galactic Civil War, the cultural exchange would begin in no more than twenty minutes. Kyp had a feeling it would be the last chance for everyone to unwind and get to know each other, and he didn’t want anyone to waste this good opportunity.

Kyp’s holocomm started vibrating in three intervals every ten seconds, and he recognized the frequency and uttered a soft curse. That signal could only come from either Kara and Julius, and if they were calling him now, then the Enemy had been located.

So much for one last round of festivities. Kyp bitterly lamented before activating the holocomm. Seeing the hologram of the Aporthad, with her lower abdomen a series of cybernetic limbs and enhanced cranial cavity, he reminded himself that he wasn’t speaking to the vile cartel leader and Olpakan collaborator Raze, and that she’d turned herself around, just as he once did. And the second individual to appear, an older Human man with several medals on his gold-brown military uniform and carrying himself with decades worth of hard-won experience and loss, was Julius.

The Jedi Master, getting right to the point, decidedly asked both admirals, “What are we looking at?”

“A fleet of sixteen Grysk warships, with twenty escort craft in Ssi-Ruuk and Ebruchi frigates, and six cargo ships.” Kara answered. “They just debarked from hyperspace and are moving close to Picket Group Three.”

“I’ve got all crews moving to combat readiness, but only to engage if they’re attacked first.” Julius added. “My analysts think they’re just stopping to reposition themselves for their next hyperspace jump.”

“Do we have a visual of the enemy fleet?” Kyp requested. A moment later, the holocomm shifted into a tactical hologram of the True Sith force. Seeing the Grysk warships, each filled to the brim with weapons and at least two hundred meters taller and longer than the Dodonna, he desperately hoped the enemy didn’t attack now. He wouldn’t shy away from a fight, but with most of the task force’s ships operating with a significantly reduced crew, the casualties would be unsustainably high.

While hurrying to the hangar amidst the tumult of getting the ship ready for combat, Kyp went through a torrent of scenarios on how this fight might turn out, or what other reason the enemy would be out here. Reaching out with the Force was too dangerous with the Sorcerers of Rhand likely having some members in this effort, so he’d have to wait it out with everyone else.

Julius better be right about this. Kyp anxiously fretted. His heart racing and mind abuzz with every tactic and bit of intel he knew on the Grysk ships’ weaknesses, he nearly made it to his fighter before the ship’s intercom spoke to everyone, “All units, return to your stations. The enemy fleet is preparing to jump to hyperspace in twenty minutes.”

Letting out a deep breath, Kyp was grateful for the reprieve from fighting, even as he got to his fighter to get ready for lift off and trail the True Sith with his scout squadrons. If the enemy was leading them into a trap, or they rendezvoused with any sizable force while gathering allies, then Julius and Kara needed to know and be prepared to withdraw. Better to lose a few dozen ships over two whole fleets.

His StealthX almost ready to fly, Kyp heard Julius speak to him through the fighter’s comlink, “I’m guessing you’re preparing to follow the enemy, Master Durron, even if it’s on your own. But you’re not going into the dragon’s den outnumbered and without an escape vector when things go wrong.”

Heartened by the support, Kyp still cautioned, “Then you’d better be ready for a lot of carnage. There’s no telling what we’ll find on the other side.”

“Then it’s a good thing we’ve all well-versed in facing the unexpected.” Kara confidently stated. “We’ll be right behind you and ready to bail your flight out when everyone closes in on you.”

Letting out a boisterous laugh, Kyp warned, “Or maybe my fighters will be ready to save your warships when you’re in peril.”

“All right, cut the chatter, you two.” Julius ordered before specifically instructing Kyp, “Be ready to transmit all findings you all uncover while you’re out there. Every bit of intelligence you give us will help everyone in the long run. And don’t take any needless risks.” 

“We’ll get it done, Sir.” Kyp promised as he waited for the flight crews to finish readying the starfighters for takeoff. Much as he felt good to soon be in his element again, a somber part of him knew that this mission would be a one-way trip for many under his command, and not from reckless actions on his part.

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

Makatak System Outskirts

Aboard the Jade’s Legacy

“You sense what’s happening down there too, don’t you, Ves?” Ben warily asked his fiancée as he slowly took his ship in towards the Rakatan world. Scouting the Makatak System before their fleet made its grand entrance, the Skywalker heir and the love of his life quickly grew nauseous from the dark side’s oppressive presence. It was a wild and roaring inferno that screamed at the Jedi from the otherwise lush planet’s surface and made it hard for everyone to even think. But more than that, it made the duo doubt the sincerity of the world’s inhabitants turning away from their wicked roots.

These Rakata have not returned to the dark side as you fear, Ben Skywalker. A familiar and mechanical voice entered Ben’s mind. Recognizing it as Ship, a Sith meditation sphere that could think independently and had a personal connection to Vestara, who had spent years commanding it as a Sith, the Jedi Master sent a pulse of acknowledgment to it before the vessel continued, The darkness you both feel, it is from the True Sith forces stalking the planet’s forests. They are hunting for artifacts and prisoners the Makatak Tribe has long kept hidden from all for millennia.

“Can you pinpoint the enemy’s exact position?” Vestara asked, her bond with Ship still strong despite her reconversion to the Jedi. Using her will and training to push the darkness away, she noticed a set of coordinates being uploaded into the Jade’s Legacy’s computer. Reviewing the data, she warned Ben, “It’s looking bad down there. They’ve got tens of thousands of enemies down there, pillaging or razing everything they can reach.”

There is more. Ship warned the couple, a new undercurrent of fear in its voice. The True Sith, they are reactivating the Star Forge in the Tulpaa System. They will have it fully operational in a matter of weeks, and they intend to make good use of its terrifying capabilities.

Seeing several tiny sparks briefly light up across Makatak’s northern hemisphere, followed by fires breaking out, Ben recognized them as signs of battle, and began to see just how dire the situation was. Activating his ship’s holorelay, he began typing out a burst signal to send to the Last Alliance fleet a parsec away.

Moments later, the message sent, Ben told Vestara, “Let’s see if we can get closer and get some reconnaissance runs on the enemy positions.” Seeing her nod in agreement, he prepared to lead the Jade’s Legacy and Ship towards Makatak before he saw seven gigantic silver spheres approach their position. He recognized them as members of the Silentium, a droid race dedicated to peace and knowledge in the Unknown Regions and briefly wondered what they were doing out here. But he recalled how they, along with the Chiss and Aquilians, had provided aid to the peaceful Rakata over the years, and it only made sense if some of their members would be here at this pivotal moment.

The Jade’s Legacy’s comm unit coming alive without Ben or Vestara’s usage, a deep male voice came through, “We welcome you, Jedi Ben Skywalker and Lady Vestara Khai, amidst this dark hour. Or can I presume that you two have already married after the earlier proposal?”

“Whoever you are, this is no time for jokes.” Ben rebuked the caller, irritated by their booming chuckle before the laughter died down.

“Forgive me. I was only trying to lighten your spirits a little.” The voice apologized. “But you’re right, best we get straight to business. My name is Vuffi Raa, and I presume you might have heard of me from a mutual friend of ours.”

“Lando Calrissian, yes.” Ben agreed, remembering how the old entrepreneur and Jedi ally had been contacted by his old friend in the Silentium to solicit their help in creating the Last Alliance. Calming down from his earlier outburst, he asked, “How can we best help the people of Makatak?”

“You can start by calling in the rest of your fleet and friends.” Vuffi answered in complete seriousness. “Against the enemy troops the Nihil Retreat’s using to storm Makatak, and the Tulpaa Forge about to be moved into the Nihil Retreat, we’ll have to move fast if we want to stop their plans.”

Transmitting a set of coordinates into the Jade’s Legacy’s navicomputer, Vuffi added, “You’ll need to deploy your armies just above the equator and send a team of delegates ready to travel to the rendezvous point, about fifty kilometers from the planet’s capital of Skal’nas City. The proper escort will be there by the time your fleet arrives, ready for you all.”

Why doesn’t that fill me with confidence? Vestara griped before Ben gripped her hand in his own and squeezed it. Reassured with the small gesture of support by her husband-to-be, she gave a small smile back and carried out procedures for the ship’s imminent landing. If this was a trap as she dreaded, at least the Last Alliance would be ready for the unexpected.

Melona 8^th, 59 ABY

Near the Twilight Void

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Town of La’okio

Chelli had spent her first three hours out of the Ark Angel exploring the area, and she loved every second of it. Weeks of being cooped up in a stolen One Sith cargo hauler left her eager for fresh air and new sights. After awakening from the Sekot-induced sleep, the ship’s crew found themselves within a town the locals called La’okio, and she, Lona, Bardan, and 0-0-0 and BT-1, the two droids who the younger Aphra woman had befriended, were amazed at the peace and vibrancy of this settlement. There was such a diverse array of creatures and plants about, animals performing menial duties often performed by droids, and the town’s inhabitants were more welcoming than she expected. She wished that her parents could be with her to take in the sights, but her mother insisted that she do this on her own.

Despite wanting to be there for her father, Chelli knew she needed to be there for the Last Alliance and her friends when they met Zonama Sekot’s leadership. She also knew how Korin Aphra’s recovery from his mental enslavement by the One Sith would take time, a primary reason why her family had been sent here. It was Tau Palpatine’s hope that he would find a way to forgive himself for his dark collaboration and start to heal alongside his family in this brief respite from war.

Just thinking of the One Sith and how they ruined or destroyed so many lives, how Chelli and her new friends had to work with them as equals to stop two greater evils, it infuriated her far more than her decades of imprisonment on Korriban. Even if she had to cooperate with some of their members in Ochi and Darth Vua, it didn’t mean she had to enjoy the experience. She’d spend as much time as far away from her as she could until everyone was called to meet with their hosts.

“Brooding won’t help your predicament, Chelli.” One of her newfound friends counseled her. A young Yuuzhan Vong, one with more experience with the wider galaxy and its technologically savvy inhabitants than most of his people, Vua Gorsat had been a longtime friend of the Jedi, especially Edaan Palpatine after helping avenge his wife’s murder on Coruscant nine years ago. Placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, he kindly offered, “If you want to talk about… well, anything, you have people you can trust.”

Wanly smiling at Vua’s awkward attempts at friendship, Chelli warned, “Trust isn’t something I’m used to giving.” Taking his hand into her own, she acknowledged, “But I’m still grateful for the gesture.”

Walking along with the taller individual, Chelli nonchalantly asked, “How’s the rest of our team doing?”

“Well, Bardan and Triple Zero are with Adari to check on her and the twins, and the other Vua is catching up with his old love.” Vua recalled. “I think Beetee is talking with Threepio on his masters’ exploits, and the Solos have been looking for some of their old friends nearby.”

“And you?” Chelli probed. “How are you holding up, being home amongst so many of your people

Wistfully sighing, Vua acknowledged, “It’s… not what I expected, that’s for certain.” Hesitating, he admitted, “I haven’t talked to many of the townsfolk, but they sure want to talk with me. They want to hear what it’s like for ‘one of our people’ to be living in a galaxy that resents us. But you know, I don’t think I’ve considered myself one of them for a long time.”

“And there is nothing wrong with seeking a different path in life, young Vua.” An older woman’s voice spoke to the two outsiders before she walked out from a nearby hut. Seeing a Yuuzhan Vong woman, garbed with the traditional headdress and bearing the scars, tattoos and eight-fingered hand of the Shaper caste, both Chelli and Vua tensed a little at her bizarre appearance.

Serenely smiling at them, the Shaper patiently addressed them, “You have no need to worry. No one here bears you any ill will. My name is Taleth Qua.” Noticing Chelli’s eyes light up with recognition at the name, Taleth’s smile brightened, “But I see you already know of me. You must be one of my betrothed’s compatriots.”

“Not exactly, Miss.” Chelli guardedly answered. “I know Darth Vua, but we’re not friends.” Extending a hand, she introduced herself, “My name is Chelli Aphra, and my friend here is Vua Gorsat.”

Accepting the handshake with her natural hand, Taleth warmly acknowledged, “It’s a pleasure to meet you both. I would offer you both a tour of the town, but we have a bit of a journey ahead of us set to start in just over an hour.”

“Where are we going?” Vua curiously asked before he understood, “Are we to take part in the summit?”

“Precisely.” Taleth confirmed. “Sekot wishes to meet you all and assess your character before giving your ‘Last Alliance’ its decision in cooperating with you in this war.” Her expression hardening, she elaborated, “We’ve been through many hardships in our exile over the last twenty years, and our leaders desire to verify your intentions and help prepare you for the tribulations ahead.”

Her gaze turning to Chelli, Taleth offered, “My betrothed and I would be more than welcome to travel with both of you and your parents, Miss Aphra, to the Holy Grove. It will give me a chance to hear a few exciting stories of Skyriver. And,” Glancing at Vua, she added, “I would also like to learn how our people are faring across the many worlds they now live on.”

“Well, I may not be the best person to ask about… our people’s state in the rest of the galaxy, but I will do my best.” Vua cautiously promised.

“What about your betrothed?” Chelli anxiously asked, utterly terrified of the idea of travelling with a Sith/Yuuzhan Vong Slayer of Darth Vua’s savage reputation for any duration.

Her smile dropping a little from noticing the fear in Chelli’s voice, Taleth promised, “He will be with us, but I will ensure he does no harm to you or anyone else we may travel with or meet.” Letting out an exhausted sigh, she continued, “You may only know him as an enemy combatant, but I remember a different and gentler side to him, one he rarely showed anyone else. And it is my hope that I can help him rediscover that part of himself and guide him into living a life of peace here, with me and the rest of our civilization.”

“An admirable goal.” Vua respectfully noted. “An old friend of mine succeeded in the same type of endeavor not too long ago, and it would be remiss of me not to try and offer the same to a similarly lost soul.” Noticing Chelli’s fidgeting, he investigated, “How will we journey to his ‘Holy Grove’?”

“We’ll take three Kybo Airships to the forest. It should take us no more than fifteen hours to journey there.” Taleth answered before she playfully smirked, “I believe you’ll all enjoy the view and scenery we’ll see along the way.”

Within the Tempered Wastes

In the Lehon System

Aboard the Omnicron-class Attack Shuttle Havoc Marauder

Tau remembered the hundreds of old warfare holoreels that Edaan studied, and he knew they only provided a glimpse of the sheer numbers and carnage the erupted from any battle. But seeing just below two hundred warships, the opposing forces prepared to obliterate each other, with the Cal Omas leading the Last Alliance fleets against the True Sith’s and their dozens of military and esoteric installations across the system, it chilled him to the bone at realizing the lack of exaggeration. He prayed that the soldiers and pilots about to fight, well, those who would survive this fight, were able to gain experience and wisdom to better combat and defeat their shared enemies.

And as the Last Alliance’s elite strike force journeyed to Lehon, the long-abandoned capital world of the Rakatan Infinite Empire and starship graveyard, they had the most dangerous assignment of all. Aboard the old Clone War-era shuttle that belonged to the Bad Batch, nine of the coalition’s best fighters were prepared to try and destroy Abeloth and undermine whatever operations the True Sith were conducting out here.

All the Havoc Marauder’s crew, Darth Krayt, Jaden Korr, the five members of Clone Force 99, Tau, and 11-4D, were ready to get their hands bloody and deal a crippling blow to the True Sith. As the forward unit of this operation, they were leading the way for twenty troop transports, each filled to the brim with soldiers and battle droids ready to unleash carnage on the enemy. But finding a path through the mayhem and pandemonium of the assault was proving to be a more daunting task than everyone’s worst estimates.

Echo, scanning the sector for any weak points in the True Sith’s defense net over Lehon while Hunter piloted the Marauder, frustratingly slammed his cybernetic hand over a console, “It’s useless! Everywhere I look, the enemy’s keeping their defenses too tight together.”

“There’s no weak points in their net at all?” Hunter dismayingly asked. Two hours of waiting for their opening, and no openings presented themselves. If something didn’t change soon, then the strike team would have to take a chance and go ahead, regardless of the overwhelming numbers set against them.

Tech, calling to Hunter and Echo from his station, alerted them, “Sensors have detected a new fleet emerging from hyperspace just beside us. Looks like one of our divisions, and they’re hailing us.”

“It’s a fleet of Killiks and five of their Joiner Jedi.” Krayt warned, the distaste evident in his voice at the mention of the insectoids. “I’m confident they’re about to give us our opening to slip through.”

Ignoring Krayt’s insult, Echo reactivated the ship’s comms, and the monotone voice of a Joiner came through, “Havoc Marauder, be ready to fly towards Lehon in ten minutes. We will be attacking the enemy in their northern hemisphere in five minutes and drawing their numbers away. You and your friends won’t have long before we are driven back and they reform their lines.”

Seeing the dozens of Killik dart ships and their ten hive-shaped nest cruisers arrive out of hyperspace and charge straight for the Rhandite fleet as promised, Hunter warned everyone, “All hands, buckle up. We’re about to get our opening!”

Tau, lurching back from the force of acceleration, felt his fear return with a vengeance. But he found himself sitting right beside Crosshair, and the gaunt Clone Commando scolded him, “Don’t psych yourself out before the battle begins, kid. Where we’re going, we’ll need everyone at their best.”

Checking his sniper rifle one last time, Crosshair confidently added, “Relax. I’ve seen you fight and improvise, Tau. You’re one of the toughest and smartest fighters I’ve met. You’ll do all right down below. Just treat the hunt like another mission in war, and our enemies as an obstacle to victory.”

Taking heart at the usually cold trooper’s act of empathy, Tau gratefully nodded, “Thanks. I needed that.”

“Pay me back by killing a bunch of enemies and keeping us all alive when we face off against Abeloth.” Crosshair playfully warned, a snarky smirk across his face that Tau returned, even if his nervousness didn’t fully dissipate. Feeling the ship shake from multiple bits of flak nearly hitting it, he knew this was going to be a bumpy flight and hoped that every transport and soldier aboard would make it down to Lehon. But from there, he knew the easy part of the mission would be over.

Once the Havoc Marauder’s team regrouped with Akku’s company, the mission would only get more dangerous as they fought their way towards their true target. Tau only prayed that when the true battle began, his heart and nerve wouldn’t fail him when everyone found and worked to slay the Bringer of Chaos.

On the Borders of the Olpakan Hegemony

Aboard the Imperial II-class Star Destroyer Errant Venture

Seeing the world virtually ripped asunder by the Olpakan Hegemony’s carnage, this one showcasing many island-sized craters that dotted the surface and the seas boiling lava from weapons few souls could imagine, it only fueled everyone’s desire to end this civil war before anyone else died. Knowing how this once-vibrant world of Grecia, an agricultural and commerce hub that prided itself on ensuring the health and economic prosperity of all its clients and friends, horrified Mirax how the planet’s neighbors would do such heinous acts to each other. This devastation, it surpassed all but the vilest acts of genocide she’d seen from the Empire, Yuuzhan Vong, Sith, and Abeloth.

If Daala and her loyalists were behind this barbarity, as virtually everyone assumed, then the Olpakan Hegemony was either more desperate to end this civil war than anyone assumed, or they didn’t care if half the galaxy was razed to rule over the remains. And Mirax Terrik Horn, a woman with fame and respect rivalling that of Han Solo, she was determined to stop the carnage and bring the perpetrators to justice, especially if it meant getting the personal satisfaction of destroying the government that housed her daughter’s killers.

Throughout her long, storied, and sometimes feared career as a smuggler and daredevil, Mirax Terrik Horn had seen the best and worst the galaxy’s many worlds held, helping those who valued freedom and creative thinking against countless evils that threatened the lives of the innocent, all while occasionally making a decent fortune along the way for her legitimate commercial enterprises. But far more important to her was the family she had created alongside her husband, Jedi Master Corran Horn, and their two children.

With the two Corellians helping save the galaxy, starting from the Empire’s decline to the present day, many could say they had done their part in giving people hope and protecting all they held dear. But this fight was about more than the noble concepts of justice and freedom. No, this family was after the woman that experimented on their daughter and left her for dead, all for the imagined crime of being blessed with the potential to use the Force. Jysella Horn, a vibrant and compassionate Jedi Knight who sacrificed much for the Order and those she pledged to protect, had suffered a horrific fate at Daala’s deranged hands in the warlord’s mad crusade against the Force that led to her heartbreaking death five years ago.

Since learning of this unforgivable atrocity, the Horns had long awaited the day they could lead the hunt in taking down the demented woman and avenge all the suffering she had inflicted on the galaxy. And when the Last Alliance made the Olpakan Hegemony one of its targets for its repeated strikes against the galaxy and campaign of destruction across multiple worlds, its leaders had put the Horns in a high place of authority among the task force meant to finally bring Natasi Daala and her most recent patrons to justice.

But now, after seeing two worlds completely devastated by the Olpakans’ strife, and the Last Alliance’s scouts reporting another three worlds on the verge of falling to their murderous legions, Mirax doubted if any of the Hegemony’s forces could be convinced to surrender. Given how they had spent the last millennia persecuting their portion of space’s Force users and any of their sympathizers, they’d surely become exceptionally proficient at eliminating all vocal opposition.

Still, even if Mirax doubted the odds of the Olpakan Resolute’s planned near-bloodless coup, that didn’t mean there was nothing to gain from learning how the Hegemony ruined five nonaligned worlds. Across the Hegemony’s borders, Last Alliance agents and scout ships were reconnoitering the rogue power’s fleet movements and eavesdropping on what communications they could intercept.

Just because the Celestial-loyal faction was providing their allies with vast troves of information on their shared enemies didn’t mean their intelligence was absolute. And Mirax’s less-experienced analysts and spies could use the practice for when they went up against the True Sith Empire’s thralls. If the reports she received on the Nihil Retreat’s recruitment efforts were valid, then this on-the-field training could save many lives when they went up against warlords and marauders equally as vicious and cunning as the Olpakan Hegemony.

An officer’s aide reporting to Mirax, the younger woman quickly informed her, “You have an emergency call from Jedi Horn. Your son’s found just over three thousand survivors on Grecia’s southernmost continent and is requesting immediate evac transports for their extraction.”

Barely three thousand… Mirax paled. According to the Resolute’s reports, Grecia once held a population of six million civilians, each contributing in some way to the planet’s production output or economic capabilities while maintaining a small planetary militia. And all that now remained were a few thousand stragglers of this act of evil.

Another ensign approached Mirax, calmly reporting, “Master Horn, your husband, that is, has reported in from his rescue efforts. Twenty-seven thousand civilians were successfully recovered from the Aster System, and they recovered a complete set of footage of the Hegemony’s attack over there.” Gulping, he handed his superior a data chip, “He asked me to give you a copy of the data.”

Numbly nodding, Mirax took the offering before ordering both ensigns, “Make sure my son and husband return to the fleet with all their recovered refugees. We’re not going to lose anyone else out here if I can help it.” Seeing the officers salute her before carrying out her commands, she wetted her dry lips. Stang, she was really in the mood for a stiff cup of caf right about now.

But more than drinking a good and hot beverage, Mirax wanted her family back, all of them. Her husband, son, especially her deceased father and daughter. It had been five years since Booster Terrik’s passing, shortly after Jysella’s murder, and their absence still hurt even more keenly. Even if all the Horns wanted Daala dead for killing Jysella, she knew her death wouldn’t bring her daughter back. Still, if it avenged her murder and all the lives she unjustly took, then she’d take comfort in that. But before that fateful and hopefully imminent day came, she needed to help lay the groundwork and save everyone she still could. And there was still a long way to go until the Olpakan Hegemony fell.

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

On Makatak

Northern Hemisphere

Near the Equator, Lehon Jungles

Having established a foothold right on the outskirts of the continent-wide jungles, the ten Last Alliance battalions that entered the ancient forests six hours earlier were understandably on edge. With their initial scans and Force senses clouded by the dense foliage and wary of their supposed allies’ directions on navigating the treacherous landscape, it was only through the iron resolve of their leaders that many didn’t flee back to their ships in cowardice.

Reports from Makatak’s leaders came in earlier, estimating up to fifty thousand of the True Sith’s marauders waging a terror campaign in the planet’s forests, with top priority given to clearing them out and protecting the area from enemy incursion. Apparently, the Rakata leaders had built several dozen storehouses to house dangerous technology, including over one hundred mind spears designed to house the worst of the Infinite Empire’s criminals, and were the invaders’ primary targets in this campaign. The only reason they hadn’t been uncovered yet was due to their locations being a closely guarded secret by the elders and their direct subordinates, and each of the prisons’ having automated and self-repairing defenses that secured their secrecy a while longer.

With all this in mind, the Last Alliance wasn’t in the mood for dissent and cowardice now. Commanding the vanguard of this large army, Boba Fett, leader of the Mandalorians and the most infamous bounty hunter in nearly a century, kept a tight watch over his men and a vigilant eye out for any potential threats. As a veteran hunter who worked alongside both Jedi and Sith and commanded legions of soldiers from countless diverse backgrounds, he found himself right in his element, even if his command staff could easily be taken out of something from a cheesy holofilm.

With such a dangerous mission and facing a terrifying enemy, this mission demanded only the best and most elite from the Last Alliance. And supporting Boba as his unofficial lieutenants included Phasma, Grace Tirall, Din Djarin, Darth Malleus, K’Kruhk, and Tesar Sebatyne. An odd mix of Jedi, Sith or defectors, Aquilian Paladins, and Mandalorians, they held the joint experience and insight of over a century of combat from many different wars, with everyone united in the common goal and facing their shared enemies.

And after traversing the vast jungles with no enemy contact, following the instructions the Silentium provided the Last Alliance to arrive at the rallying point, everyone was anxious for some form of civilization. But Fett knew the likelihood of the enemy ambushing them was high, especially with so many of the galaxy’s most vicious and depraved races and cultures rushing to the True Sith’s side.

Talking through his helmet’s built-in comm unit, Fett ordered his direct subordinates, “Status update. Any signs of the enemy or our hosts?”

“They’re close.” Phasma softly reported from her forward position. A former clan leader on an apocalyptic world and One Sith defector, the veteran warrior continued, “We’ve found two armories that were picked clean, and it was very recent. And our probes have found about six hundred friendly Rakata and two hundred of their vassals, all about two klicks further east. They’re getting ripped apart by their enemies.”

“How many?” Fett asked, giving hand signals for his men to move out.

“No less than two thousand.” K’Kruhk gravely answered. “The enemy force’s makeup is a mix of Rakata, Ssi-Ruuk, Zanibar, Vagaari, Grysk, and Vahla. And they’ve already released at least twenty of the Makatak’s prisoners. I’m seeing a dozen Rakata, six Sith Purebloods, and two Esh-Kha, all of them wreaking havoc on our friends’ defensive lines.”

“Do we engage?” Tesar asked. “We have to start somewhere in this war, and my people are eager for a good hunt.”

“And just how do you propose we stop two thousand enemies with just over six hundred fighters under our command?” Malleus scathingly doubted. “Even if we joined up with the locals in time, we’re still facing bad odds.”

“I didn’t know you were that much of a pessimist, Malleus.” Grace insulted.

“Enough.” Fett firmly stopped the impending argument. “We’re going in, but we’ll play it smart. I’ll send word to our reserves and see if they can spare anyone, and we’ll hit the enemy from several angles at a distance before we engage them head-on.”

“Smart thinking, Manda’lor.” Din approvingly commented. “I’ll get in close and scan the battle to figure out any weaknesses in the enemy’s attack. And maybe we can take some of the pressure off the Makatak Rakata before we make our presence known to them.”

“Be smart, and good hunting to you all.” Fett ended the communication. His first battle in the Last Alliance, and he just knew it was going to be a bloodbath. For the True Sith to have already recruited the Zanibar, a barbaric race from their primitive world of Xo that had long paid heed to the Eldritch Powers, never mind what Vagaari raiders that escaped their world’s final subjugation by the Chiss, it did not bode well for their enemies. And going up against the Rakata and Grysk, two of the most fearsome races of conquerors and marauders to walk the galaxy, the outnumbered force would need more than luck to win the day.

Well, at least Fett knew his people would enjoy the challenge. Whether they would be up for it remained to be seen.

Chapter Text

Melona 8^th, 59 ABY

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

Makatak

Within the Southern Hemisphere

In the Lehon Forests
25 Kilometers from Skal’nas City

Oh, Bo. You never could shy away from a good fight. Sintas Vel lamented while the Last Alliance delegation prepared to welcome their Makatak Tribe escort, if they would ever show themselves.

It had been ninety minutes since Sintas last heard from her ex-husband and leader of the Mandalorians, or anyone else in the two battalions engaging the True Sith’s foot soldiers. Even if she knew Fett could take care of himself, she still worried that one day soon, her old love would enter a battle he wouldn’t be able to walk away from and it would cost him his life.

Waiting in the thick forests just outside her fighter alongside the rest of her friends and ambassadors, Sintas restlessly paced around, eager for something to happen to break the monotony and have her do something useful for those she loved. And judging by the impatience starting to show on everyone’s faces, they were just as anxious and determined to fight as she was. The distant sounds of battle, the orbital combat and ground carnage had to be at least seventy kilometers away, but she could only hope for the best for everyone.

If it was up to her, she’d go down there and take her battalion into the fray, consequences be kriffed. She’d lost too many friends in the One Sith-triggered Mandalorian civil war, and she wouldn’t lose her family to barbarians if she could help it. It was only by the steady hand of Goran Beviin, one of Fett’s only true friends and most trusted advisors, that she didn’t fly off an hour ago. But those late escorts, they’d better get here soon, or there would be a mass mutiny on the Last Alliance’s hands.

The Jedi and Sith swiftly ignited their lightsabers before Vestara warned everyone, “We’ve got visitors.”

“Friendlies?” Sintas inquired before Ship, that infernal Sith-made flying eyeball, began to hover up and fly northwest at an accelerated pace. “Guess that answers that question.” She hatefully muttered, glancing at the Sith who failed to keep their prize under their control.

“On the contrary, Madame Vel,” Sorzus, a Chagrian One Sith Lady, daughter of Darth Wyyrlok and trusted agent and confidant of Krayt, soothingly assured Sintas. “We’re about to meet our hosts and escorts to the capital city. They are the ones who are directing Ship towards the battlefield to rescue your husband.”

Making a shushing gesture, Ben, accompanied by a fellow Jedi Master and veteran commando Tyria Sarkin-Tainer, walked forward before their guides revealed themselves to the naked eye. Emerging from the forest’s outskirts or appearing via deactivated cloaking devices, every member of the Last Alliance team was prepared for anything at such proximity to the Rakata warriors and the elevated descendants of slaves from their fallen empire. The tension that followed was obvious for all to notice.

Everyone knew from history or legend how the brutal Rakata feasted on the flesh and bone of their enemies, even members of their own race, and how their society was a dark side theocracy that was once the dominant galactic power for ten millennia. Conquering hundreds of worlds and even posing a threat to the Sith Empire of King Adas’s era, none were ready to hear what came out of the lead warrior’s mouth. “We welcome you, honored ambassadors of the Last Alliance. We will take you to our capital city right away so you can meet with our leaders.”

“Pardon my insolence, but what about the battles raging all around us?” Sintas impatiently pointed out. “Should we not first put our focus into protecting your world from its invaders before we begin the diplomatic niceties?”

Gazing at the Mandalorian, the aged Rakata patiently admonished her, “There is much you all have yet to understand, Sintas Vel. We have many secrets to share with you, and little time left before the end comes for us, as foretold by our elders before our connection to the Force was fully severed. Get to your ships and follow us to our capital city. There, you will all have the answers you seek, and so much more.”

Vestara, seeing something troubling in the old fighter’s gaze, shared a knowing glance with Ben before he decisively proposed, “In that case, we’d best get moving while we have the opportunity. And after we arrive, you can tell us more of what you have in store for all of us while we’re in your part of space.”

“A wise assessment, Lady Khai.” The Rakata nodded, a small smile gracing his face before warning everyone, “Follow us into the forest, and don’t stray from the path we provide until we reach the foot of the mountains. There are many more dangers in these forests than to simply lose one’s way out here or the natural predators, and all of them guard our secrets and are exceptionally lethal to all but the most experienced fighters.”

“Once this battle concludes, we will allow more of your people into our cities, where we can tend to both our sets of wounded and we can discuss with you on how we can aid the galaxy in battling those who seek to repeat our greatest follies.”

And into the dreaded abyss we go. Sintas anxiously ruminated, quickly praying that this meeting wasn’t a trap as everyone feared and was prepared for. But seeing a Weequay woman approach her, she was prepared to pick up the pace before she was assured in perfect Basic, “Your comrades will be all right, Miss Vel. Our forward scouts have reported that they are performing exceptionally well against our wayward kin, and they will soon be reinforced to finish the battle with minimal losses to both their own and ours’.”

Cautiously eyeing her, Sintas coldly retorted, “I’ll believe that when everything is said and done. Until then, I don’t need any empty platitudes from anyone.” Walking at a faster pace, she made it back to her Bes’uliik before anyone else could reprimand her while she ignored the disappointed gaze Goran aimed at her.

Preparing her fighter for takeoff, Sintas knew she should’ve handled that response better. For all she knew, her escort was just trying to give her hope and keep her spirits high. But with her family being sent on missions across so much of the Unknown Regions and facing such staggering dangers, her fears were almost overwhelming. It would do her well to confide in someone, but the question was who to talk to without risking weakness at this pivotal moment.

Deep Space, Within the Tempered Wastes

Aboard the CSS-1 Corellian Star Shuttle Meson Martinet

The Delphidian privateer, behind his Kaleesh death mask, was eager to get back into his element and rejoin the fight. Sidon Ithano, a humanitarian smuggler of high repute and well-known Jedi sympathizer, had spent the last twelve hours pinpointing the True Sith’s facilities and trailing their convoys coming and going out of the region.

And the findings Sidon and his people uncovered were staggering to behold, especially when one realized how these operations had occurred under the nose of the One Sith and Chiss with each of their opposing operations in this small region. Between hundreds of asteroid foundries and bases, refineries in orbit above gas giants, and Force cloaking devices of a make few recognized to cover their ships’ tracks from all but a few methods, the Tempered Wastes was a hive of activity for the Nihil Retreat’s war.

Destroying all the True Sith’s facilities and agents would, at best estimates, take months for the Last Alliance to carry out. But that was not what they were here to do. High Command had something more productive and cost-effective in mind, if only they’d finally give the go-ahead to attack! The dozens of warships protecting their assets and convoys weren’t going to be destroyed on their own, and the longer they waited, the stronger the Enemy grew.

Everyone was on edge from all this waiting, and Sidon knew it wouldn’t be long before his flotilla had a mutiny on its hands. His people craved action, and he only hoped he could keep their aggression and suspicion of their partners in check when the battle eventually began. With the veteran commander in charge of leading teams of One Sith, Jedi, Aquilian, Lira San, and Chiss commandos against their shared enemies, he was relieved they had waited this long to fight, thanks in no small part to the prudence of each task force’s leader.

Interrupting his worries, Sidon heard his ship’s holocomm activate with Vice Admiral Nevil’s squid-like head appear, ordering the privateer, “What’s your situation, Commander?”

“Everyone’s ready to fight, Sir, and we’ve located about ninety-seven hostile bases and facilities across the Wastes.” Sidon answered, a touch of stress entering his voice while adding, “I don’t know how much longer my people can wait before they try to take matters into their own hands.”

“Then your patience is about to be rewarded in full, Sidon.” Kral confidently assured him, moments before Sidon noticed the first of many ships revert to realspace. Recognizing the eighteen new arrivals as Aquilian warships, with their compact design resembling blaster rifles, the privateer knew the time to fight had finally come.

And right after Zakuul’s fleet finished arriving, the rest of the Last Alliance forces quickly made their grand entrance. Six needle-shaped Chiss Star Destroyers arrived, followed by a wing of Jedi StealthX fighters, a fleet of twenty refurbished early Imperial-era warships led by one of the One Sith’s most trusted military commanders, and fifteen Separatist capital ships of the Lira San Expeditionary Force.

Keying in the Meson Martinet’s comm array to transmit his orders across the diverse fleet, Sidon ordered, “All ships, start your attack runs!”

Watching the One Sith and Lira San fleets ambush the closest Rhandite convoys and warships, with the Jedi beginning their bombing runs on a nearby shipyard’s defenses, and the Aquilians and Chiss fast approaching the besieged naval facility, Sidon knew he would have his work cut out for him.

As the Last Alliance Operations Commander, with his most trusted subordinates tasked to coordinate the gargantuan response against the True Sith’s military buildup across the Tempered Wastes, Sidon recognized the immense burden that had been thrusted onto him. If he failed to keep everyone’s efforts directed against their common enemies or if he underestimated the Rhnadites, well, he couldn’t afford to give in to his fears. Right now, he had a mission to carry out, and he wouldn’t let his friends and comrades down.

Seeing a fleet of four Ssi-Ruuk ships, each shaped like an ovary and spewing out dozens of droid starfighters to forestall the Jedi and One Sith’s attack runs on their masters’ shipyards, Sidon ordered his personal flotilla of twenty corvettes and frigates, “Get your ion charges ready. We’ve got our first targets.”

Lehon/Rakata Prime

25 Kilometers from the Temple of the Ancients

Aboard the Havoc Marauder

Below everyone, on this beautiful world, a patchwork of small tropical islands separated by bright blue ocean, the nine-man team tried to block out Butch’s whining. The Tuk’ata hound, a rare example of the Korriban hound whose bond was to a Jedi, he was terrified of the treachery and darkness seeped into Lehon’s very ground. And so was just about everyone else, not just because of the battle raging across the hundreds of dots of land scattered across the planet.

Tau, gently rubbing his personal hound’s ears to calm him, relied on his training to calm his racing thoughts and prepare for landing. And seeing the rest of Clone Force 99, 11-4D, and Jaden prepare themselves for their arduous trek and fateful battle amidst the thunderous roar of a dozen distant skirmishes across the nearby islands only reinforced his need to succeed. Packing enough rations to last a week amidst the planet’s jungles, everyone was prepared to stay on this world as long as it took to get the job done.

Echo used the Havoc Marauder’s sensors to locate the largest landmass, then flew down to find a place to touch down. Identifying the island from the Old Republic’s records as the one holding the Temple of the Ancients, the shuttle made it down without being sighted or assaulted by any foes. Even more unsettling was how the verdant jungles had been cleared to allow multiple landing fields before the Last Alliance leveled them.

Everyone was expecting some form of resistance from the True Sith, and they were prepared for a fierce fight for every inch closer they neared their target, if they could find Abeloth on this verdant death trap. And those that didn’t feel the Force, even they felt a shadow try to enter their souls. Tech, a man who processed virtually any situation with pure logic and statistics, he knew there was an unseen and malignant force at work on Lehon. Even the recycled air felt different: heavy with ancient history and rich with dark secrets long forgotten.

“Everyone better be ready.” Krayt gruffly warned. Carrying nothing other than his lightsabers and wearing his Yuuzhan Vong armor, he let Wrecker and Crosshair get in front of him and prepare to unlock the Marauder, “Where we’re going, we’ll need to rely on each other and ensure we fight as a team to achieve victory, far more than having more soldiers or better equipment for this battle.”

“I suppose you’d know about our perils from experience in ransacking the Rakata’s tombs and vaults.” Hunter quipped before seriously warning Jaden, Tau, and Krayt, “I can lead us to their sacred Temple, but when we make it there, it’ll be up to you three to help Tech bypass all its defenses.”

“Actually, approaching the Temple of the Ancients won’t be necessary.” Tau began to reply as the shuttle’s doors opened, and everyone quickly filed out to assess the area. Seeing the destruction and still-burning wrecks of at least twenty transports and many more corpses strewn across the area, everyone turned and readied their weapons after hearing an immense roar and many giant footsteps rapidly stomping towards them.

A few seconds later they could hear them crashing through the undergrowth. Whatever and however many were coming, they must have been drawn by the ship’s landing on the beach, a pack of giant hunters looking for fresh meat.

Tau and Krayt, recognizing the dark taint of Sith alchemy emanating from the creatures, they were prepared to subdue the attackers, just as the dozen Rancors plowed through the trees, five of them being augmented with giant and dragon wings to permit flight. Seeing the riders on top of the five Rancor-dragons, each bearing a blood-red lightsaber, the unlikely duo recognized them as the leaders of this raid. Even more noteworthy was how, in the few seconds the beasts started to hurtle towards their would-be prey, they noticed the many scars and deep gashes across them, indicating their suffering to be tamed as war mounts.

When the products of dark science had nearly closed the gap, Tau and Krayt, standing their ground as everyone else fell back, each firmly held up a hand and used the Force to connect with the minds of the attacking beasts. With their firm power reaching out to calm their tortured minds and keep their animal instincts in check, the twelve towering predators stopped dead in their tracks, even throwing three riders off their mounts and leaving them vulnerable to Crosshair’s one-shot sniper kills.

The remaining two enemies, covered in dark armor from head to toe, were prepared to strike back and avenge this humiliation before they were grabbed by their former captives. The Rancor-dragons, eagerly growling and ravenously licking their lips, they wasted no time in chomping down on their torturers’ upper torsos and ignoring their lightsabers being pulled towards their liberators.

Tau, tossing one lightsaber to Jaden while clipping the other to his belt, calmly assured his friends, “It’s all right. Krayt and I have everything under control.”

Jaden, wary of the immense power and control his teammates were demonstrating, cautiously deduced, “A product of your training with the Ones?”

“In part.” Krayt alluded, laying a rough palm on one of the feasting Rancor-dragon’s large legs, reaching deep into the young adult’s mind for the information he sought. Remembering his time in taming Banthas and working in tandem with them, he scoured through the creature’s brain to find the entrance to the planet’s underground temples. The fear he felt in the female’s mind, it washed over him and bombarded his senses as he neared the information he coveted.

Krayt found no true understanding of the monsters that tortured the young beast, the small bipedal creatures that forcibly altered the young Rancor at birth and trained her to serve as a mount and guardian of this old graveyard. But through his searching, he pieced together a few bits and pieces of information into a coherent set of memories. Countless morsels from slaves or beasts sent to test the war mount, battling with lesser Rancors or Rancor-dragons for dominance and the chance to escape the underground city, until finally, he found the entrance he was after.

Buried deep in the Rancor-dragon’s memories was the image of a large four-sided stone pyramid, rebuilt after many years in ruins and made a focal point for horrifying incantations and rituals that she always shuddered being near when she flew by. But that was only the tip of the dark iceberg in this rebuilt domain of evil. Deep underneath the Temple of the Ancients, the Daritha Cities existed, where dozens of foundries and temples had been reactivated to serve the True Sith Empire’s depraved cause.

And leading down to the terrifying structures were more than one entrance, not simply at the rebuilt Temple of the Ancients. No, scattered across the jungle were dozens of such backdoor passageways into the catacombs, and Krayt knew which one everyone needed to access.

The Rancor-dragon was an apex predator, at the top of Lehon’s food chain and unrivaled by no other beast on the world. Few things could frighten she, but the recollection of those traumatic memories made her shudder in terror. She knew what was expected of her but wouldn’t flee from her new master. Terror of punishment and the man’s great command of the Force compelled her to obey.

Clone Force 99, stupefied beyond belief at the incredible display but wise enough to remain silent, they quietly observed Tau, who was soothingly rubbing the snout of another Rancor-dragon and calming the troubled beast. They were startled when the seven normal Rancors started to tread away, heading deep into the jungles, but kept their wits about them.

Wrecker, speaking to Jaden, amazingly asked, “Have you ever seen anything like this before?”

“I’ve read about it in holobooks, but never seen it done on this scale in person.” Jaden quietly answered. “I think we’ve just found our mode of transportation to the Temple.”

“We’re not going to the Temple of the Ancients.” Tau contradicted. “That’s the main entrance to the Daritha Temples underneath, and we can do better than just walking up to the front door.”

“There’s another compound about ten kilometers west of it that we need to get to. It’s where Revan destroyed the feral Black Rakata and rescued some of the Red Rakata elders’ prisoners before he helped destroy the Abo Star Forge.” Krayt answered. “That’s where we need to go after we link up with Seii and his troops. It’ll get us past the city’s outer defenses and within striking range of Abeloth.”

“And you know this how?” Crosshair guardedly inquired. “Tech couldn’t find any such records on it, and-”

“It’s not in any of our records.” Krayt gruffly answered before leaping onto his mount. “Eipha once traveled to Lehon to undermine the Rakata’s designs for war, and he learnt much of their facilities and how they operate. And fortunately for us, these beasts were kept down there all their lives and saw much of the underground city.”

“Which you now know all about.” Tech marveled. “Incredible!”

“And you trust these beasts not to try and eat us?” Echo skeptically asked, wary of getting too close to one of the aerial monstrosities.

“They’re eager for a bit of payback against their captors, and we need a mode of transportation that they can’t easily track.” Tau pointed out as he mounted the nearest Rancor-dragon. Patting on the creature’s hide behind him, he eagerly offered, “Well, which one of you boys is riding with me?”

Makatak

Northern Hemisphere

Near the Equator

In the Sek’nos Plains

Phasma hadn’t fought in a battle this demanding or exhilarating in many years. Narrowly blocking a lightsaber thrust from a Rakata while using her pistol to shoot two Zanibar in their thin and tall craniums, she knew that at the rate this battle was progressing and the dark presences fast approaching, it wouldn’t be long before this day ended in a rout.

In all her decades of carving out a wretched existence on her ruined homeworld of Parnassos, to her time as the apprentice to Dician and honing her immense connection to the Force, Phasma hadn’t found a fight that could push her to her limits as now. But now, she was fighting for something greater than survival or power, but to protect those she cared for from unspeakable evils. In atoning for her sins, she found kindred souls and a purpose greater and nobler than any she considered possible even a year ago.

In the last four hours since relieving the Makatak Rakata and their vassals, the Last Alliance had employed every possible tactic and weapon at their disposal to thin the enemy’s numbers and divide their attention. With several teams employing long-range attacks, either through snipers or using mortars, the and the main force attacking the True Sith’s thralls from multiple angles, they had thinned the enemy’s numbers by at least four hundred before they regrouped and launched a brutal counterattack.

The Vahla and Rakata, with their deep connection to the dark side of the Force, they had employed their abilities to empower the rest of their allies. And the Grysk, Vagaari, Zanibar, and Ssi-Ruuk used their new burst of strength and more advanced weaponry to gun down or hack apart nearly one hundred of their foes in the first thirty minutes alone. Were it not for Boba Fett, K’Kruhk, and the rest of the Last Alliance’s field commanders rallying the defenders and employing a more cunning strategy in holding the enemy back, it would have been a complete massacre at the True Sith’s hands at least an hour earlier.

Din Djarin and Fett fought with the skill and lethality of Mandalorians with decades of experience, working in perfect tandem to protect each other and kill anyone who tried to destroy them. Whether through incineration, poison darts, whistling birds, or Verpine shatter rifles, they lived up to their well-feared reputations and had each killed at least fifty enemy Grysk and Vagaari commandos. But they and the rest of their people hadn’t escaped unscathed, with thirty armored corpses strewn about and the stench of rotting flesh filling the air. And age was starting to catch up with their leaders, with several blaster burns and small gashes visible across their armor.

K’Kruhk, a Jedi Master and survivor of the Old Republic and the rise of the Empire, Phasma saw how the Whiphid was more than a healer and teacher as she first assumed. With his fierce strength and cunning mind, he economically made every movement count in slaying many enemies. And later in the fight, when he found himself without anyone to fight, he used his talents in recovering and tending to the Last Alliance’s most grievously wounded. Whether it was patching their wounds or giving comfort to the dying, the ex-Sith saw his gentle heart and fierce compassion shine through, and it deeply moved her.

Tesar Sebatyne, a Barabel Jedi Master and pack hunter, employed his masterful command of his lightsaber and the Force to predict and counter any foes that tried to strike at him. Using his razor-sharp jaw and claws to rip out the guts or limbs of the thirty Zanibar and Rakata each while protecting many wounded Makatak tribesmen. No matter what came his way, he wouldn’t let anyone die for as long as he drew breath. And if this was his end, then he’d go down in such a way to honor his mother and everyone else who gave their lives in service to the Jedi Order.

Grace Tirall, an Aquilian Paladin-Lieutenant and cunning fighter, she had disarmed or killed many enemies, often through unorthodox means. Using not only her wits but many dirty tricks to outsmart her opponents, she knocked out three Vahla and killed twenty Ssi-Ruuk alongside the Last Alliance’s newest allies, giving many of them a chance to pull back and regroup before they were slaughtered.

As for Darth Malleus, he was in his element, relying on his Force-enhanced reflexes and vast experience to annihilate anyone foolish enough to try and destroy him. Wearing the armor of Sith acolyte Warb Null, which he’d long used and improved over the decades, he killed nearly forty of the True Sith’s soldiers before he found himself the target of another fifty enemies. Leading his fellow One Sith in proving their superiority against their nihilistic kin, he used the Force to rally and direct their efforts, allowing the ten warriors to act as one.

But all this didn’t account for the Makatak’s recently released prisoners, the twelve Rakata, six Sith Purebloods, and two Esh-Kha that held back for some reason. Phasma tried to determine their motive, but she couldn’t devote her full efforts to it with the giant melee still underway. Her best guess was that after over twenty millennia imprisoned, they couldn’t risk themselves in battle right now in their diminished state.

Returning her focus to the escalating battle, she felt the oppressive pall of the dark side slowly creep up on her, trying to sap her energy and render her weak and vulnerable to one of the many marauders determined to kill her. With much of the plains on fire from the Last Alliance’s mortars and True Sith’s eldritch attacks, the diverse coalition of Jedi and One Sith allies slowly fell back, enacting a fighting retreat against their numerically superior enemies.

At the rate the entropic order and its vassals continued their rushing advance, the Last Alliance and Makatak forces would be slaughtered by the day’s end. And if the familiar hum of engines belonged to the True Sith, then the potential massacre would certainly come to pass.

But Phasma recognized the dark presence approaching the battlefield and felt a benevolent force commanding the ancient Sith Meditation Sphere. Glancing to her right, she saw Ship speedily flying towards everyone with two proton torpedo launchers appearing below its center. And flying by its side was a hodgepodge of ships, some resembling more modern designs and others refurbished Rakata warships that resembled a small replica of their three Star Forges, all with their weapons primed and aimed at the Last Alliance and Makatak Tribe’s enemies.

Ship fired first, with its proton torpedoes hitting the center of the enemy’s formation, incinerating at least fifty True Sith thralls and blowing three dozen others into the air to meet their deaths from bone-shattering impact. And every Rakata warship released twenty fighters each to start strafing runs on the enemy’s flanks.

Soon enough, the True Sith’s ranks were broken, and their remaining fighters of just over seven hundred warriors and acolytes fled back to the temporary safety of the Lehon Jungles.

While Phasma would have loved to finish routing the enemy survivors, she understood how the jungles and its defenses would thin their ranks even further. And she also knew that the unlikely league would have other chances to capture and interrogate many of their foes. Right now, everyone’s focus had to be on forging their pact with the Makatak Tribe and destroying the True Sith’s schemes, and they couldn’t do it by chasing their enemy’s pawns.

You did well, Lady Phasma. Ship complimented her as the self-aware vessel landed near her. But your expertise is needed in the capital city, where everyone else is awaiting your battalions’ return.

Panting deeply from exhaustion, Phasma acknowledged, I’ll be there, after I help K’Kruhk make sure all our wounded are recovered, and our new friends here are assured of our good intentions.

Feeling Ship’s disappointment, Phasma ended the communication and got to work on tending to the survivors and talking with the planet’s noble defenders.

Lehon/Rakata Prime

Beneath the Planet’s Catacombs

Within the Darthia Temples

Tor sensed the formidable outpour of energy emanating from Lehon’s surface, and even a Sorcerer of his caliber shivered a little at the inevitable confrontation. As the planet’s underground foundries continued churning out dozens of heavy Rakatan tanks and fighters every hour, the smoke killing hundreds of wretched slaves every day, the Grysk knew this mundane army wouldn’t be enough to decide victory. No, like every great war and battle, it would be determined by the people and convictions fighting in it.

And with Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt meddling above ground, searching for one of dozens of backdoor entrances for Lehon’s underground cities, accompanied by nearly one thousand of their best fighters and Lando Calrissian’s formidable battle droids, there could be no room for error. He was especially surprised by how those two meddlers tamed the True Sith’s guardians and redirected their ravenous hunger towards their former captors.

If the Last Alliance found their way down here before everything was ready, where the Lich Lords hid their most vital regional facilities, nearly one million slaves, and countless reactivated artifacts while performing some of their accursed miracles, then no one would want to be the poor soul to deliver that news.

Already, Tor observed how deadly and well-versed in combat many in their assault team were, with Clone Force 99 and Jaden Korr living up to their renowned reputations against the many predators and their handlers with their unorthodox strategies and experienced combat styles. And those Mandalorians, led by an Anzati of all things, one who abstained from his race’s ancient custom of feeding off his victims, they were almost as much a nuisance as their betters. One of those warriors, a young Kiffar woman with a modest connection to the Force, she might make a good Pawn or Acolyte for the True Sith if she could be captured.

But returning his attention back to the battle, Tau Palpatine, his personal Tuk’ata hound bound to him by the light side, and Darth Krayt, both Humans utilizing their Celestial-enhanced abilities in near perfect tandem to cripple and obliterate their foes, the Last Alliance would soon have a clear shot to a genuine entrance to the Daritha Temples.

These fears, coupled with his complete allegiance to the Way of the Dark and resolute determination to see the entropic cause to its fulfillment, empowered Tor to ensure everyone was ready for what was now upon them. With Abeloth coordinating the True Sith’s prolonged defense against the Last Alliance’s regional campaign, her treacherous mind continually being kept in check through her bindings and supervised by the Grysk’s best acolytes, it fell to him to prepare the right welcome for their guests.

Overseeing tens of thousands of ancient battle droids be reactivated and equipped with the most lethal Force-powered weaponry, along with hundreds of Rakata and True Sith acolytes ready to ambush the enemy, Tor knew they wouldn’t be enough. Against such an elite group of fighters, it would require a more advanced group of specialists to fend them off.

Which was why Tor had been hurrying towards the largest underground temple, where not only Abeloth carried out his orders, but one hundred Sorcerers carried out their superior’s special set of commands. Walking past the guards and lesser acolytes, the ancient Grysk sage heard the distinct chanting he expected to hear by now. Hearing the unholy crescendo reach a low octave, he knew he’d arrived at the best part. Silently walking in the shadows as he approached the center of the atrium, he felt the familiar sorcery to dominate the minds of extremely strong-willed individuals and knew it wouldn’t be long before the True Sith had fifty new agents at their disposal.

Stopping just before he could be seen, Tor saw the fifty Mind Prisons, small pyramidical artifacts of dark side energy that held the Rakatan Infinite Empire’s most dangerous criminals. All of them lifted in the air and being bombarded by purple lightning and black mist, he knew he was witnessing the best part of this unholy ritual. The screeching crescendo reaching its conclusion, he closed his eyes an instant before the bright flash of light appeared, and he felt the minds of each victim be devoured by the Dark before his acolytes filled their minds with an unshakable devotion to the Immortal Gods of the Sith and their empire.

Letting a small smirk come across his cracked lips, Tor walked into the dim light, using the Force to start releasing all fifty new converts. Relishing the fear and surprise he felt from his acolytes, he observed, “A fine performance, my friends. But let us see how well your incantations for our agents hold up when faced with their jailors.”

In the unlikely event the ceremony failed and the fifty True Sith’s newest proxies rebelled, then they had to be put down at once. Tor, channeling the long-dormant energies of this temple in conjunction with the Rhandites’ dark incantations, was prepared to attack if provoked. But after the ancient penitentiaries released their captives in a near-blinding flash of light, he saw the wide array of former enemies and marveled at their viciousness and strong connections to the Force. Whether they were rogue Rakata, Ongree, Kwa, Nogri, Sith, Sephi, many unassuming Humans, or even a female Kushiban, each was ready to kill any who interfered in their masters’ doctrines.

Reverently bowing before their handler, Tor released a booming and triumphant laugh, ready to arm his newest disciples for their impending onslaught. There would soon be a bloodbath across the planet, and he would be ready to oversee and partake in it against the Nihil Retreat’s would-be opponents and their precious champions. A shame his two newest disciples couldn’t partake in this pogrom and spread more fear throughout the Last Alliance, but their training was incomplete, and the role the former One Sith mercenaries would play in the True Sith’s war would be greater than one crucial battle.

Let Tau, Krayt, and their little army of friends try and “liberate” this world and all its wretches from their rightful fates. They would soon see how all their efforts were doomed to fail, and all would be right with all of creation once the last seals were broken to unleash the Father of Shadows and all His endless creations and disciples.

Chapter Text

Meloan 9^th, 59 ABY

Near the Twilight Void

On Zonama Sekot

Near the Planet’s Equator

The last time Leia had been on Zonama Sekot, the world was still reeling from the damage the Yuuzhan Vong unleashed on the world from their first attack and the sabotage one of its agents inflicted just before the fateful Second Battle of Coruscant. The scars strewn across the planet had greatly healed, with farmland and towns visible throughout many portions of formerly barren land. Throughout the Last Alliance and its hosts’ travels towards one of the world’s chosen meeting points to meet with its living mind, she felt a peace and verdancy of life she hadn’t experienced in many years, and it nearly pulled herself away from the task at hand.

And Sekot’s Yuuzhan Vong denizens had made great strides in moving past their now-abolished caste system, according to its chosen guides that detailed everyone’s exploits and efforts while hiding from its enemies. Thanks in no small part to a newer subgroup of the race’s warriors inspired by the late Jedi Ganner Rhysode, along with the Extolled proving their worth at learning their former superiors’ skills, many veterans of their galactic invasion had laid down their old prejudices and aided their brethren.

Seeing several Yuuzhan Vong escorts make curious conversation with the Last Alliance delegation while waiting outside a series of abandoned temples, the scene encouraged Leia to know that this generation of the extragalactic exiles were shedding their forebears’ warmongering ways. She only hoped this slide towards peace wouldn’t be lost when they joined the war alongside the rest of the galaxy. With evils arrayed against them on all sides, and with some in the coalition surely looking to use them for their own nefarious goals, they would have to remain vigilant and be careful on who they trusted.

Finally, the sun was starting to rise on Zonama Sekot, with the beautiful rays of light stretching across the forests and illuminating the area. And the meeting between the Last Alliance ambassadors and their Yuuzhan Vong counterparts would soon begin. Leia took note to check on everyone and see how they were holding up after a long wait and longer flight here via airship.

She saw her husband regaling Chelli Aphra and Vua Gorsatt, with stories of his well-traveled and arduous youth, especially how he delved deep into the galactic criminal underworld after escaping the vile taskmaster, Garris Shrike, and later found his way into the Imperial Navy from a good man’s patronage. And Bardan Skirata was talking with Taleth Qua and her Sith betrothed, offering to share his knowledge of healing with both in a sort of cultural exchange. But Ochi, he was the most mysterious of them all, keeping a close watch on Adari while pretending to do anything else as she made light conversation with the elder Aphras. It was unsettling to the pregnant Keshiri Palpatine, and Leia was prepared to intervene before she felt an omnipotent and benevolent presence wash over everyone, with the light breeze halt immediately.

Even the animals grew quiet in an instant, no one making a sound as a light could be seen shining out from beyond the temple, near the forest where everyone was forbidden to enter. But out of that passageway came several Yuuzhan Vong, Ferrorans, and Humans, each garbed in unique wear to signify a different role in the planet’s administration, but three were recognizable by Leia.

She remembered Harrar, even with his long, greying black hair in a mane, missing two digits on both his hands as old ritualistic sacrifices, and wearing robes and an exotic headdress to signify his role as High Priest. It was he who helped the Jedi and Galactic Alliance bring his people to defeat and accept their honorable exile to Zonama Sekot for rehabilitation.

And to Harrar’s left was another male member of his race, this one taller and leaner, with Vonduum Crab Armor and an amphistaff wrapped protectively around his waist. This man, taller than most of his people but with a more unassuming face, was Nas Choka, the final Warmaster of the Yuuzhan Vong Empire and military representative of the race. He was the one who accepted the Sekot Accords on his people’s behalf and led the warriors into cooperating with the rest of the now-abolished castes.

To Harrar’s right was a Human, one without a piece of technology on her person, and wearing regal robes signifying her role as the Magister of Zonama Sekot, the acting voice of the planet and governing figure in Sekot’s absence. This was Danni Quee, an old friend of the Solos, former confidant and comrade of Jacen Solo, and onetime Jedi trainee before leaving to fully devote her life to serving the living world. And her stare at Leia and Han, a piercing gaze almost one of rapprochement, sent shivers down the elder Jedi’s spine.

But her knotted anxiety wouldn’t fade away, for there was another presence nearby, an unseen one watching Leia and tinged with sorrow. It couldn’t be who she thought it was, but the signature of her greatest failure was unforgettable, even after nearly twenty years of remembering the individual as tainted by darkness and madness before death claimed him.

As suddenly as the signature came to Leia’s senses, it disappeared and left her confused. But her bewilderment didn’t last long, because her breath caught in her throat as the spectral form of a nineteen-year-old man quickly appeared, one with short-cropped brown hair, a piercing and intelligent gaze, and uncommonly kind brown eyes that belonged to her late firstborn son, dressed in Jedi robes.

Even as Leia stared at an image of Jacen Solo, before he fell and became Darth Caedus, she knew it wasn’t him, merely a simulacrum Sekot used to speak amongst the living without using a host body, and the knowledge both relieved and aggrieved her. And she didn’t need the Force to see all those same emotions cross her husband’s face at this unwelcome reminder of their son’s eternal condemnation by most for his atrocities as a Sith Lord and would-be galactic emperor.

Sekot, speaking through its Jacen apparition, its voice boomed through everyone’s minds, “I welcome you all to my home. Friends, new and old, let us give thanks to this meeting and your safe arrival. We were worried the Enemy would try and take you, just as they did many of my children twenty years earlier.”

“Yes, but where are we, exactly?” Darth Vua cautiously asked, ignoring the irate stares many gave him, including Ochi. “This location, it is immeasurably strong in the Force, stronger here than anywhere on this inf… this planet.”

“A good question, Darth Vua, former Slayer of Shimrra and Omini.” Jacen-Sekot patiently acknowledged. “We are just outside the Holy Grove of Aerimus, a place where I have spent many years in meditation and quietly peering out into the rest of the galaxy while protecting my kin. In there, when the time is right, I will speak to many of you and instill to you pieces of wisdom I have discerned for several.”

“But that will not likely be for many weeks, at least.” Jacen-Sekot sternly continued. “There is much we must do to prepare both my children and your followers to survive and prevail against our enemies. And I will do my best to help the Last Alliance, if you can help me with a mission of my own. It involves those the True Sith Empire kidnapped in their strikes against me.”

“You’re talking about the raids that drove you into exile twenty years ago.” Adari recalled, having helped contact Sekot alongside Tau and Edaan before being sent here. Her face neutral, but her mind racing with fear, she surmised, “You want us to recover your lost citizens.”

“My people, yes. If they can still be saved.” Jacen-Sekot acknowledged. Sparing a glance to Leia and Han each, the phantom’s gaze lingering a bit longer on Leia before it continued, “I do not know what horrors they have been inflicted with, or if any remnants of their old selves are still in there. But the ninety-eight thousand innocents that were taken from us, I fear nothing remains of the good beings they once were. And if that is the case, then we must free their tormented souls and minds from their wretched existence.”

The discussion went on like that for a while, with everyone asking questions of Sekot, who was generous with them all and answered their questions as best it could before they all agreed to the planet’s request. But Leia, distracted by the return of the spirit in the Holy Grove, the call being stronger and more potent than before. If she was given the chance, she would go before the ghost and beg his forgiveness for what she failed to do for him, consequences be kriffed.

It was only through seeing Danni’s mind reach out to her own, her firm and scrutinizing gaze penetrating Leia’s soul and seeing through her regrets, that she held in place and returned her mind to the diplomatic meeting. She heard the tail end of the discussion, how Sekot would soon move the planet through hyperspace towards either Last Alliance or Olpakan Hegemony territory to help end that war. Perplexed by the bold move, she would have asked were it not for the Magister compelling her to remain silent. But given a promise that they would talk later, with all her questions soon to be answered.

Within the Chiss Ascendancy

Csilla System

Aboard the Chiss Star Destroyer Striker

Deep within the bowels of the personal warship of Kivu'raw'nuru, the only grandson of the legendary Chiss warlord Mitth’raw’nuruodo and Triumvir of the Last Alliance, plans were being made to defeat and rebuild the Knights of Olpaka.

Vurwan, with his exceptionally strategic mind, along with the intelligence provided by the Olpakan Resolute and the initial probes into the fractured territory’s self-destructive infighting, had worked hard since the Last Alliance’s founding to craft the war doctrine against this immediate danger to the galaxy. Uncovering how the anti-Force society had deployed weapons of mass destruction on five of their border worlds, murdering all but a city’s worth of each world’s inhabitants, it only hardened the coalition’s resolve to end this mad war before it condemned the galaxy to one of two hellish fates.

Learning from the Celestial-loyal Olpakans of the divisions in their society on how to address their perceived “Force problem”, Vurawn recognized that the best way to confront this misconception was through a hard dose of brutal truths. But how to apply this tactic, that was a conundrum that left the Last Alliance’s High Command baffled for a time. It was a blessing on the reminder of how the Jedi of the Old Republic often worked alongside the government’s Mercy Corps to aid in front-line humanitarian work. From that ancient tactic, there laid the best chance at showing the Hegemony the folly of their ancient and pointless prejudice.

For obvious reasons, the One Sith and most of their allies would be strictly confined to surgical military strikes, exceptionally precise ones under the proper oversight to avoid excessive casualties or collateral damage. But the Jedi, along with the peaceful allied Force sects allied with them, would work as ambassadors and healers for the beleaguered peoples of the Olpakan Hegemony and the victims of their escalating civil war. But knowing the core functions of the strategy would be useless without knowing its full intricacies and the danger everyone was walking into.

Against the mainstream Olpakans and its fallen legions, most equipped with battle armor the likes of which could easily rival the Mandalorian Supercommandos and wielding warships inspired by dozens of cultures throughout the dozens of millennia in recorded history, a more realistic approach was needed. Which was why dividing the Olpakan Hegemony and keeping them off-balance with a wide array of tactics and strategies would be crucial in defeating this atheistic society. No one person or group, no matter how well-experienced or capable they might be, could hope to stand against this evil alone. The leaders of each Last Alliance faction would need to set the example for the rest of their forces in cooperation and trust if the chance of triumph still existed.

Even so, that still left the immeasurably greater danger of Abeloth and those using the Nihil Retreat as their virtually impenetrable base of operations. Securely hidden within the dozen nebulae and protected by all manner of dark magics and unspeakable abominations, the True Sith Empire’s Lich Lords, their Sorcerers and expanding network of disciples and allies, they would all soon burst out upon the galaxy just like a plague on the vulnerable and wounded Skyriver.

And the Force, a power that Grand Admiral Thrawn had often underestimated and failed to grasp with his keenly analytical mind before his death, was another problem altogether for his grandson. Though Vurawn acknowledged how he had a more flexible outlook than his predecessors and was able to see the galaxy differently than his father and grandfather, he still realized how such a viewpoint paled in comparison to an actual connection to this supernatural power. Which was why he would need to involve all the Force orders’ leaders and their advisors in creating the best strategy to stop the enemies of all life.

The Jedi, One Sith, Aquilian Paladins, Zeison Sha, Disciples of Twilight, Blackguard, Jensaarai, Order of Shasa, and so many others, all would be pivotal in ending Abeloth and her esoteric masters’ treacherous plans. He remembered Arhul Hextrophon’s final and most consequential work how Tilotny’s final offspring operated, pitting the galaxy against itself while growing stronger in the shadows, Vurawn wholeheartedly acknowledged how unity would be the key in attaining victory on this front. Hopefully, this cooperation would last after the dual threats were eradicated, for the galaxy deserved a respite from war and a chance to rediscover truths that had long been buried by the passage of time and the forces of darkness.

For now, though, the plan to storm the Nihil Retreat was in only the embryonic stages of development. At present, the more immediate danger lay in their proxies and the Olpakan Hegemony, and to gain the advantage against the latter, it was time for the Last Alliance to employ more of their underused assets and followers in stopping their rampage. Perhaps it was time for the Esh-Kha that were rescued from their imprisonment on Batuu to start earning their keep and proving their worth against the smaller of Skyriver’s enemies.

Sending the Esh-Kha against the Olpakans was a dangerous gamble, Vurawn acknowledged, especially since the Olpakans captured many of their top officers and were prepared to use them against all their enemies. But desperate measures were absolutely needed here for the Last Alliance to save all that mattered. And if the writings uncovered about this remnant of the marauder race were genuine, then this army was of a more reasonable disposition than their mainstream society. Instead of the hive-mind army of warriors devoted to exterminating all other races, this group was a more militant version of Hallow Voice and his faction, who allied with the Old Republic against the Sith Empire of Darth Vitiate. If they could recover enough of their stolen quarry, then there might be a chance to rehabilitate the long reviled and feared race.

But there was only one way to accurately uncover the truth. And, quite frankly, the Last Alliance needed every strong fighter it could acquire to fight the Knights of Olpaka and True Sith Empire, which meant now wasn’t the time to be too picky with its recruits and conscripts.

Hopefully enough of the Last Alliance’s leadership would see enough sense in this strategy to implement it, but also ready to do what was right and rectify the situation if the plan backfired. Though Vurawn hoped the idea wouldn’t need such drastic measures, he recognized the need to be prepared for all conceivable contingencies. If the Esh-Kha that High Command would soon release and train were corrupt or fell prey to the True Sith or Olpakans’ false promises, then there would be a lot of blood on their hands.

Suddenly receiving a binary-encoded message from one of his analyst droids, Vurwan tiredly rubbed his eyes and commanded his personal computer to decode the transmission. Reading through the missive, he grew alert and recognized the immense opportunity being given to the Last Alliance, and the fading window of time they had to seize this small victory.

How fortunate, then, that the Last Alliance already had a sizable fleet on route to the Olpakan Hegemony and was commanded by one of the galaxy’s greatest and most wily minds in modern history. Vurawn knew who the perfect leader would be to attack one of Cylo’s research bases, free a moon’s worth of Olpakan projects and prisoners, and deliver a great blow to their morale and propagandic narrative.

Vurawn would be sure to profusely thank the Olpakan Resolute for this generous tipoff and opportunity after the job was done.

Hyperspace, On Route to the Olpakan Hegemony

Aboard the Imperial II-class Star Destroyer Lucky Striker

Working on his personal TIE Defender was a good way for the long-retired Imperial Ace and Emperor’s Hand to unwind, especially when surrounded by thousands of individuals he once opposed on ideological grounds. And for a stoic and grave man like Maarek Stele, who prided himself on personal discipline and an unshakable code of honor and loyalty to a cause, it was the best he could do when faced with such a drastically changing galaxy and the indescribable forces of chaos and tyranny that he fought for decades.

Oh, to be fair, he had made several acquaintances in his time amongst the Last Alliance, and working with the Rogues’ Gallery, an independent group of roguish and maverick military minds to quietly help stabilize a broken galaxy, helped him make friends amongst many of his former foes. Learning how to fight and work alongside old veterans like Wedge and Iella Antilles, Tycho and Winter Celchu, and many older members of the legendary Rogue and Wraith Squadrons of the Galactic Alliance, it was an invaluable and humbling learning experience for him, one he wouldn’t take back for anything.

But working with liars and chaos-instigators like the One Sith and their proxies, never mind so many untested variables in the Last Alliance’s diverse army and navy, it was enough to drive anyone mad with all the details. And now, with the Rogues’ Gallery ordered by Vurwan to journey deep into the Olpakan Hegemony’s territory to attack a base of cybernetically altered Esh-Kha and political prisoners, this would be a test Maarek believed no one was ready for. The factions of the Jedi-Sith alliance hadn’t had enough time to form a cohesive-enough fighting doctrine, and traveling so far into enemy territory, it all spelled disaster for the Olpakan Resolute and their new allies. Coupled with the True Sith bearing down upon the moon of Karbin and two Olpakan fleets rushing to its defense, this inevitable three-way battle would certainly be one for a series of holobooks, if there would be anyone left to write them after the slaughter ended.

Well, however this fight concluded, Maarek would do all possible to get his people through the next few days. But he sensed a familiar presence walking to him, one with the seriousness and unease of a general giving unfavorable orders to a respected and loyal subordinate and the Imperial Ace knew something drastic was about to unfold.

After Maarek emerged from his TIE Defender’s cockpit and wiped his face clean of grease and dirt with a rag, he saluted his commanding officer, “General Antilles.”

“At ease.” Wedge widely smiled at Maarek’s stiff formality, having long grown accustomed to the reformed dark sider’s strict adherence to protocol and the chain of command. Observing his onetime enemy’s work, he approvingly noted, “Your fighter looks cleaner and stronger than when it came out of the factory.”

Seeing the gravity of nerves in Wedge’s tight eyes, Maarek silently understood and quietly acknowledged, “What’s the change in plans?”

“Everything you need to know about your new assignment is on here.” Wedge gravely handed Maarek a datapad before instructing him, “Commit it to memory before you delete it and set out. You and your flotilla will meet up with Master Durron’s fleet before they give you the full briefing.”

His eyes lighting up with grim anticipation, Maarek now realized the full gravity of this last-minute assignment. Kyp Durron and his fleet were currently investigating the Croke Reach for signs of True Sith activity and doing all they could to undermine their efforts, but they had been silent for a long time. If the Jedi Councilor and Vice Admiral Kara had at last contacted the rest of the Last Alliance, then something very important or critical was underway, and they needed help of the highest caliber.

Loyally and energetically saluting Wedge, Maarek pledged, “I’ll have everyone ready to depart by the time we reach our next hyperspace waypoint.”

“Good, but you’ll wait to depart until we reach Karbin.” Wedge clarified. “Make your departure visible enough for the Olpakans to follow. Try not to make it too obvious, though. Where you’re all about to travel to, you’ll need the extra help to stand a chance at staying alive and winning us a few more friends, but not at your own peoples’ risk.”

Within the Olapkan Hegemony

In the Carthean System

Aboard the Orbital Asteroid Superstructure Kolovish

Deep within the heart of the Olpakan Hegemony, secure from any intrusions by its enemies on every emerging front, a wide myriad of crucial experiments was underway for its incredible military buildup. Throughout every level of this orbital station, hovering far above the system’s most populous planetary body, Cylo-V was working around the clock to provide his greatest and most dangerous weapons for Natasi Daala and the government’s war machine.

As a former high-ranking servant of Darth Sidious and now the Olpakan Hegemony’s High Councilor of Innovation, Cylo-V had experience in creating tools of war most beings would consider abominable. He had already created dozens of powerful tools for the Olpakans’ war industry, each deadlier than the last. By creating several variations of their strength-enhancing armor, along with his vast experience in cloning and genetic modifications to resurrect or create pods of pliable predators, and his vast knowledge of the Empire’s rapid militarization after the Proclamation of a New Order, he overhauled their war capabilities. Against any normal adversary, the anti-Force government and its soldiers would never shy away from a fight, especially with their cause so close to success.

But his latest projects, given to Cylo-V by Daala and her old records and sympathetic elements still embedded within every major galactic power, would irrevocably shift the balance of power towards the Hegemony, provided they could survive the inevitable fallout. Being ordered to prepare a trial batch of Alpha Red and Resonance Torpedoes, he knew that there would be no going back once these weapons were utilized.

By readying a batch of Alpha Red, the Chiss-engineered bioweapon that was once utilized to try and eradicate the Yuuzhan Vong and all their infernal biotechnology, Cylo-V knew Daala was readying herself to go after Zonama Sekot and its refugee population before the Last Alliance could ally with them. An easy decision for most Olpakans to rally behind, remembering how the extragalactic invaders killed almost 365 trillion people in their five-year war, and despoiled or destroyed hundreds of worlds in their religious zeal. And when the truth came to light, the scientist had little fear of the galaxy decrying this batch of well-deserved genocide, regardless of their distant origins or remorse for their countless atrocities.

But with the Resonance Torpedoes, an old project left over from the former admiral’s time as guardian of the Maw Installation that could cause a sun to go supernova, it was obvious Daala was going to use them to eradicate any world in opposition to the Olpakan Hegemony. And by hacking into the High Councilor of War’s databases and securing anything he could use to keep the temperamental warlord in check, Cylo-V learned of her brutal and simple approach to try and win this war. 

First, Daala planned to start with destroying the Nihil Retreat by igniting its stars and triggering a series of supernovas across the Unknown Regions. Then she would follow it up with the One Sith’s strongholds across the Outer Rim, along with the last refuges of the warmongering Rakata warlords. A tragic and wasteful loss of planets and opportunities for the Olpakans to enlighten such a dark corner of the galaxy, but the strategist and commander in Cylo-V recognized the danger of letting the Sith’s artifacts and fortress worlds remain free and able to corrupt more vulnerable souls.

But once those targets were eliminated, Cylo-V desired for these weapons to be disposed of, and the galaxy would accept a more enlightened rule than that of the Jedi or Sith. And most importantly, he yearned for the Hegemony to do away with all the religions and bureaucracies that condemned countless innocents to the ashbin of history.

Nevertheless, Cylo-V knew the situation was far more precarious than most would admit. With the divisions escalating in the Olpakan Hegemony from its superstitious brethren going into full-scale rebellion, there would be great temptation to use them to cow the fools into submission. Daala already used dozens of gravity bombs on two defiant border worlds to try and force a surrender, against the High Council’s direct orders. They all knew how such a barbaric response would backfire against and encourage enemy propaganda of them being no different from the Galactic Empire of Sidious’s time. And the last thing they needed was to have sympathy for their cause evaporate from one woman’s extremism.

No, to win this war, the Hegemony would need a more refined and intricate approach to subduing its enemies, especially since the Jedi and Sith were able to unite against a shared enemy. Even worse, the mainstream Olpakan society was in the same danger of depleting their resources as the Last Alliance.

Over the last two weeks, six convoys of his cybernetically enhanced Esh-Kha officers and elite commandos were ambushed and captured, taking all the stasis-kept warriors and the ships’ personnel into the Nihil Retreat before their tracking signals were shut down. Unfortunately, the Rhandite-based raiders’ attack pattern was too random for him to decode, nor was there a leak in his command structure, which left Cylo-V scrambling to strengthen the remaining transports’ security and shore up his bases’ defenses.

And in Cylo-V’s command center, modeled after the meditation chambers of Grand Admiral Thrawn’s Chimaera, with data feeds and monitors plastered across the entire room, he scoured the Olpakans’ files to learn all he could of their enemies’ preparations for war. And learning how the Last Alliance already took the initiative against the True Sith by sending forces into the Rakatan Archipelago and pursuing its agents in the Croke Reach, all while readying for battle against the Hegemony, it worried him more than he would admit, even to himself.

If the Last Alliance was moving faster than his most aggressive calculations suggested, and they were deploying infiltrators to subvert the Olpakan Hegemony from within, then the Resolute had far more influence and collaborators than Intelligence believed. Or even worse, the traitors had their agents placed higher than anyone suspected, letting Cylo-V again wonder if Daala’s suspicions on the Supreme Knight were correct.

Interrupting his data immersion, Cylo-V felt a spark of a communication strike his cerebral cortex, one coming from the Olpakan Hegemony’s highest levels of power. It was the Supreme Knight, calling him with new orders of the highest urgency.

Disconnecting himself from his neural uplink, Cylo-V rose from his chair and saluted the seven-meter-tall hologram of Vlad the moment it appeared. The Olpakan Hegemony leader crisply saluted back before he warned him, “Our agents have intercepted word of a Last Alliance fleet entering our borders.” The room’s tactical hologram focused to show the Hegemony’s territory as a grid, revealing many unknown ships, marked red, approaching a green-colored fleet stationed near the region’s southern worlds.

“My analysts have tracked their trajectory, and we believe they’re heading for your research facility on the Moon of Karbin. I’ve already sent Commander Skirata and a battalion to reinforce them. But there’s another complication.” Vlad continued before his stern face grew even graver and he elaborated, “Several of our listening posts at the borders have detected another fleet, this one far more numerous and deadly than the Last Alliance’s, and they’re bypassing virtually all our defenses. The only clues we’ve had to their existence are a few images and recordings our scout ships managed to get.”

“Let me see those recordings.” Cylo-V acknowledged before his request was granted. He saw the twenty-eight half-blurred warships, the resolution unable to be improved, but the old scientist could still discern several distinctive features across many vessels. Seven ships resembled Ebruchi and Vagaari pirate flagships, with another eleven were Ssi-Ruuk warships of multiple configurations. But the remaining ten each resembled a giant and hellish version of a church, all modeled slightly differently, and he recognized the basic design as that of the Pius Dea Cathedral ships.

His lips curling in anger, Cylo-V admitted to Vlad, “Well, I see why you brought this to my attention. I’ll prepare my fleet for immediate departure.”

“Good. But I have another set of orders for you before you depart.” Vlad interrupted, a sense of urgency and worry in his voice that Cylo-V never heard from the Supreme Knight before. “I need you to keep an eye on High Councilor Daala and do what you can to constructively channel her impulses and hatred against our foes.”

“Are you asking me to spy on her?” Cylo-V questioned, covertly recording the conversation to share with Daala and their conspirators if Vlad revealed any treasonous inclinations.

“I’m asking you to keep her from going off the deep end and keep the bloodshed down.” Vlad corrected, his face betraying an exhaustion Cylo-V never saw in him before. “I know Daala has a traumatic past, lost many friends and loved ones, and been humiliated by the Jedi and Sith in all her endeavors. If I was in her position, I’d feel the same way and want to see them all burn with the same intensity.”

“But I cannot condone her behavior and indiscriminate slaughter of anyone who tries to adhere to their own beliefs and defies us.” Vlad sternly continued. Glaring at Cylo-V, he reprimanded, “And I know that you supplied her with the weapons to devastate five of our border worlds, so I have half a right mind to arrest you both and try you as war criminals for the tens millions of lives your genocide eradicated.”

“But I can’t afford to do that now.” Vlad bitterly admitted. “Much as it pains me to admit it, the Hegemony needs you and your followers’ brilliance for the war’s duration, and I need you to try to keep Daala somewhat stable. If you agree to help me with these tasks, then I’ll make sure the charges get dropped.”

Cylo-V was sure there was another ulterior motive behind Vlad’s proposal, he just couldn’t identify it. From every scan of the Supreme Knight’s micro expressions and inflection, he was genuine in all aspects. Still, that didn’t mean that with this mission couldn’t come new opportunities to uncover the truth on the traitors’ scope of infiltration. And the Olpakan Hegemony couldn’t afford any further divisions at this time, so there was only one choice for the high councilor to make.

“You have a deal.” Cylo-V resolutely agreed. “I will prepare my fleet to travel to Karbin and coordinate my defenses with Darman and the moon’s garrison.”

“Good, but I’d suggest you move as fast as you can.” Vlad urged him. “There likely isn’t much time left before both sets of our enemies arrive.”

Chapter Text

Melona 9^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Inside the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

10 Kilometers Southwest of the Temple of The Ancients

This was the kind of battle Darth Krayt had yearned for in his decades of isolation and scheming while he had been trapped underneath Korriban’s catacombs. Enemy carcasses were strewn about, their fortifications crumbled against the Last Alliance strike force’s joint ground and aerial assault, and the True Sith were fighting with all their strength to deny their foes access to the planet’s depths. And slaughtering anyone and everyone who dared oppose him in the repurposed Black Rakata fortress, it was the war the old marauder hungered for.

Not even working alongside Tau and his unlikely cohorts could dampen Krayt’s excitement, nor seeing Butch secretly and silently search the facility for the entrance to Lehon’s catacombs. While he and his followers worked with the Jedi, their cohorts, and the five Rancor-dragons loyal to their new mounts, wreaked havoc on the True Sith’s ranks, the heretical Tuk’ata hound used its unlikely friends in Jaden Korr and Teach to track the outpour of darkness and enemies emerging from below.

But the Rhandite Sith were determined to do whatever it took to prevent their enemies from penetrating their true domain. At the rate their thralls and Rakatan marauders were arriving from the surrounding regions, with the oppressive waves of darkness assaulting the world’s invaders, and the frequency that the enemy’s bombers were increasing their runs, the Last Alliance advance force would soon be overrun and slaughtered.

Be ready to move. An ethereal voice echoed in Krayt’s mind, who recognized the warning as Tau’s. Sparing a glance to the Jedi Iteration, who was fending off several hulking brutes of Flesh Raiders, he noticed a squad of Jedi StealthXs escorting a wing of Galactic Alliance K-Wings flying from northward.

Unable to keep the gaze as the True Sith renewed their assault, Krayt felt their mental attacks be redirected against the new incursion, just as he heard several new rockets and sniper blasts tear through the heart of the enemy’s formation. With the True Sith’s ranks being torn apart by the surprise attack, the inheritor of Eipha’s will used the reprieve to track their Force-based attack back to its source.

Underneath the planet’s surface, Krayt saw a network of temples and factories abuzz with activity, a loci of dark side energy rivalling that of the ancient Sith Lords of Korriban and Dromund Kaas. And at the center of the power, in the largest temple underground, he saw the Last Alliance’s main target, waiting for those that would try and end her madness for good.

Abeloth was down there, and she was waiting for her would-be killers to find their way to her while she thinned their numbers with her efforts to chip away at their resolve. It was she who was unleashing the waves of darkness against the Last Alliance, and if Tau and Krayt could incapacitate her for even a little while, it could turn the tide of this battle.

Connecting his energies with Tau, Jedi and Sith let their minds track the outpour of darkness underneath the catacombs. They ignored the lesser chanting and rituals that were underway, for they wanted the Bringer of Chaos to notice them. And notice them she did, for Abeloth quickly changed her assault from the Last Alliance’s aerial force to the Ones’ successors. The sheer malevolence and raw power she wielded nearly made them both retch from the malignance and insanity she exuded.

But Tau and Krayt would not relent in their charge, for they knew her tactics and mindset better than anyone else, and they could resist her attacks better than anyone else that now lived. Shielding themselves from her relentless barrage, they combined their power to thrust into Abeloth’s mind, prepared for the loneliness and self-loathing that she had carried for eons.

Pushing past the constant screams, the desperation she held and longing for the family that left her alone on Vitae, the hate she held for the Celestials and their wretched followers that denied Abeloth her birthright, they eventually reached the core of her being. The fear she felt at being so humiliated, so vulnerable to their attacks, but it was nothing compared to what came next.

Tau led the attack and used his energies to envelop Abeloth, surrounding her in a wall of light to neutralize her connection to the Force, to leave her briefly deafened to the boundless power she wielded.

And while she was vulnerable, Krayt assaulted the Bringer of Chaos in a different way. He mocked her, called her a slave to her fears and her mother’s mad aspirations, and warned that her final death was upon her. The anguish he felt from her was almost enough to make him scream from her despair, but he felt something else in her, something he never thought possible. He felt her regrets and fears, and a relentless and maddening desperation to end her suffering for good.

But as quickly as Abeloth was rendered weak, the barriers protecting her were restored by another power, one almost as dark and strong as she was, and the mental attack was repelled.

Both Tau and Krayt, winded from the mental battle, stumbled their way deeper into the Black Rakata fortress and avoided the Last Alliance bombing runs that struck the area, accompanied by several Mandalorians and 11-4D, the latter who administered several stimulants and pain relievers for their fatigue. Further replenishing their strength as they progressed deeper into the former fortress of a Rakatan warlord, they found the Bad Batch, Akku, Jaden, Butch, and Kiffar sisters Lona and Shara Vos, waiting for them as the last of their battalion entered the catacombs through the long-dead warrior’s weapons depot.

Seeing the open entrance, a door made of stone aside from a giant crystal that could only be manipulated by the Force and was dimly lit, Krayt felt Tau’s anxiety at entering the Rakata’s heart of darkness. But the fear was quickly squashed before the youngest clone present resolutely told everyone, “Well, what are you all doing lounging around? We’ve got a mission to carry out.”

Wrecker, the most eager to begin, gregariously slapped Tau on his back before he complimented him, “Let’s show them all what the best soldiers in all the galaxy can do!”

The first to charge down the stairwell, everyone else quickly followed Wrecker before he charged too far ahead, with Krayt being the last to enter just before the door closed shut behind him. And the old armory was soon destroyed entirely, with the entrance buried underneath many tons of rubble, and the five Rancor-dragons reluctantly flew away from the Last Alliance bombardment.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

Near the Moon of Karbin

Aboard the Lucky Striker

Wedge had seen all manner of naval combat in his decades of service. He’d worked as a smuggler, fighter pilot, squadron leader, and prominent general for many causes against each war’s great evil. But the depravities the True Sith were inflicting on the Olpakan Hegemony, they surpassed all but the worst acts he’d seen from Darths Sidious and Caedus’s reigns of terror and the Yuuzhan Vong’s genocide and made his stomach churn. And even they hadn’t used the Force in such a deranged and destructive manner as those of the Nihil Retreat.

The True Sith’s force wasn’t simply of their thralls and servants, as impressive as their fleets of Ebruchi and Ssi-Ruuk warships was. They were led by five ships of a like Wedge had never seen before, all resembling cathedral ships of the occult. And according to Vurawn and his contacts in the Olpakan Resolute, they held acolytes of the Sorcerers of Rhand that were directing the multi-pronged attack on the Hegemony installation. It was those disciples of the Lich Lords and their retinue that represented the greatest danger to everyone, and it would be up to the old Corellian and his peers to defeat them all and recover Karbin’s many prisoners, provided they arrived in time to save the Last Alliance’s targets.

The Olpakan Resolute provided Wedge with a detailed list of the True Sith’s dark rituals, how their power outstripped that of all of Darth Krayt’s people and could warp a planet’s very core towards destruction if they wanted. And it was through this ability that Karbin was under siege, with the Sorcerers’ command over the Force generating intense storms and squalls that were assaulting the entire moon.

But the worst of the attack was focused underneath Karbin’s seas, where the Olpakan Hegemony’s clandestine prison was supposed to be based. And with the seas boiling and repeatedly struck by lightning, Wedge realized how desperate the situation was. Coupled with the strafing runs on surface installations and orbital bombardments across the oceans, he knew they couldn’t hold out for long.

Knowing that every second wasted waiting gave the True Sith time to complete their unholy operation, Wedge asked his XO, “What’s the ETA of our reinforcements?”

“No more than two hours away.” The officer answered, leaving Wedge to frown at the delay. If the Olpakan Resolute and Chiss Ascendancy fleets didn’t arrive in time, then the Rogues’ Gallery would have to go in alone. And against the enemy’s numbers, they could only slow the True Sith’s attack, not break them before the Hegemony could send reinforcements. 

The XO quietly broke into Wedge’s thoughts, informing him, “Commander Stele and his scout detachment report full readiness to fly. They await your word to move out.”

“Give him the approval to go after our fleet moves in.” Wedge ordered, before he saw two of the True Sith’s flagships turn away, along with fifteen of their fifty escorts, fly towards the Rogues’ Gallery’s force. He knew they were prepared to do whatever it took to stop their attack, and amended his previous command, “Scratch that. Have them launch at once.”

“General, we have multiple bogeys exiting hyperspace. Bearing has them arriving about fifty thousand klicks north of our position.” A sensor’s officer warned Wedge. “Looks like three of those Resurgent ships, at least eight older Imperial Destroyers, and a surplus of frigates and corvettes.”

That’ll be Darman and his detachment. Wedge grimly realized. He only hoped Vurawn and the Resolute’s instructions in soliciting his help worked, or there would be a three-way slaughter about to get underway.

Addressing the destroyer’s comm officer, Wedge ordered, “Open a channel with the lead Olpakan Hegemony warship. Give the commander my name and direct the response to the command center.”

Not needing to wait long, Wedge saw the hologram of a Human man wearing Katarn-class Armor with gold markings and bearing the familiar tanned face of a Old Republic and Imperial Clone Commando-turned-Olpakan Special Forces Commander come into focus.

Wedge knew all about Darman Skirata’s tragic life and descent into madness, how he lost his Jedi wife in the chaos of Order Sixty-Six and developed a pathological and indiscriminate hatred of all Force users. This instability and animosity towards them led him to betray his adopted family and sell out Mandalore to the Empire, leading them all and an Imperial fleet towards the Unknown Regions before extreme circumstances forced them into a hyperspace wormhole that hurtled them decades through time.

Before Wedge could say anything, Darman brusquely warned him, “I’m giving you one chance, General Antilles. Leave now, or your wife and daughters will be mourning your death before I kill them as well.”

“And are you prepared to risk your fleet and the moon’s population for your vendetta?” Wedge icily challenged. “Like it or not, neither of us can stop the True Sith on our own. Together, we have a chance to destroy their fleet and save millions of lives.”

“Ah, you mean so you can accomplish whatever mission you and my people’s turncoats have underway out here?” Darman knowingly challenged. “If you’re out here, so deep in the Hegemony’s territory, you must surely know what we have sequestered down below. I’m not letting you steal all we have on Karbin.”

“I’m here to save lives, Commander Skirata.” Wedge coldly answered. “If you want to deny your people the help they need, then it’s on your head. Otherwise, I’d suggest we stop arguing and share what we know of the enemy’s capabilities and progress.”

Glaring at Wedge with enough heat to make anyone sweat, Darman venomously warned, “This’d better not be some kind of trick. If I catch even a hint of any antics or schemes from you and your inbound friends, then all bets are off.”

After Darman closed his transmission, Wedge breathed a sigh of relief before he calmly and quietly ordered his XO, “Give Commander Arla and Admiral Parck the full rundown we’re facing. Have them move forward with their operations with all possible speed and caution.”

Deep Space, Near the Olpakan Hegemony/Nihil Retreat’s Borders
Aboard the Sir Trilag

“He actually told you to spy on me?” Daala satirically chuckled after Cylo-V concluded his warnings. “As if he expected you to follow through with that absurd notion.”

“He didn’t say it in those exact words, Natasi.” Cylo-V carefully corrected. “He only wants me to keep you from becoming or being overzealous in advancing our cause. And given your track record and our foes’ many plans, his warnings do hold somemerit, much as we might wish to believe otherwise.”

Her face carefully neutral aside from a few angry cracks in her calm demeanor, Daala promised her longtime friend, “I swear to you, I will not let my usual tendencies rear their ugly selves again. After all my failures, I like to believe I’ve learned my lesson.”

But that won’t stop me from looking for the truth about our esteemed leader’s loyalties. Daala inwardly promised. Having recently completed a meeting with all her fellow Olpakan conspirators, she learnt how precarious the Hegemony’s state of readiness for war truly was, and how their enemies were undermining so many of its plans, she recognized the necessity in verifying everyone’s place in the coming new order.

Cylo-V, recognizing the contemplative glean in Daala’s eyes, elaborated, “Even if I agree with the Supreme Knight on somematters, I will not relent in verifying or disproving our suspicions. The stakes are too high for us to leave anything to chance. And with the many thefts and kidnappings the Nihil Retreat carried out against us, never mind the Last Alliance allying with our wayward worlds, we need to have all our contingencies in place.”

Silently nodding, Daala recalled the dark tidings the Olpakans’ High Councilor of Intelligence, Jet Holdfast, gave everyone in their growing cabal, and they made her blood run cold by how far the True Sith Empire’s plans were along.

According to the Nosaurian’s dire information, the Nihil Retreat had their agents embedded in the Hegemony’s command structure, using them to terrible effect in seizing the schematics and many key components for many of their weapons of mass destruction. Their gravity bombs, resonance torpedoes, and many other conceptual designs and projects underway, it seemed nothing was safe from the entropic Sith’s reach.

Equally as terrifying was how the True Sith were raiding Cylo-V’s convoys of Esh-Kha and other liberated warriors, acquiring them for their doctrine and ever-expanding armies, just as they did with ninety-eight thousand Yuuzhan Vong on Zonama Sekot before the rest vanished from all prying eyes. No matter how classified and well protected the Hegemony kept their transports, the greater enemy’s proxies always had the edge and could seize them before anyone could mount a response.

Honestly, the helplessness Daala felt at these continual humiliations was almost enough to drive her towards an aneurysm. And all this didn’t account for the Last Alliance and their meddlesome interference. Against the Jedi and One Sith’s diverse coalition, the Hegemony was faring much better in gathering intelligence against them. They already knew how the Last Alliance had sent agents to meet with their new friends to ferry them onto Olpakan Resolute-sympathetic worlds and were prepared to enact their own campaign of subterfuge and sabotage to undermine the anti-Force society’s weathered foundations.

And Daala and her cohorts were ready to deal with them when they made their move. Across every world, the Hegemony was briefing its commanders and departments to be vigilant for any signs of sedition and disloyalty, especially since the Jedi and Sith were sending so many of their best so-called heroes into their domain.

If – no, when - they managed to capture Edaan Palpatine, Allana Djo Solo, Venku Skirata, and all the other subversives that were foolish enough to try and upend this militant society, would get a bitter rude awakening soon enough. They would learn, just as Wedge Antilles and his fleet would soon learn when Cylo-V and Darman protected their own from all their enemies.

Intruding on her private communication, Cylo-V’s hologram was sidelined, with Vlad’s larger form coming into focus. The Supreme Knight, garbed in his traditional ceremonial armor, acknowledged, “Judging by your especially stern demeanor today, High Admiral, I’ll assume you know all about my worries regarding you. That saves me some time and diplomatic niceties.”

“What can I do for you, Sir?” Daala respectfully saluted her superior while she ignored his barbs. “If this is about the attack on Karbin, I can have my fleet repositioned to help at a moment’s notice.”

“If you can spare a dozen ships for Cylo and Darman, that would be appreciated.” Vlad agreed. “But I have another assignment for you and the bulk of your fleet, one just as vital to us. It involves an expedition into the Croke Reach to find out what our enemies are up to out there.”

If the amused smile crossing Vlad’s face was any clear indication, then Daala’s surprise was more evident than she thought. Composing herself quickly, she asked, “What do we know thus far?”

“Several Last Alliance fleets have been sighted travelling into the region over the last few days, and none have returned since.” Vlad bluntly answered. “And during their Karbin attack, a wing of scout fighters and frigates broke off to journey in that general direction. I doubt it’s a coincidence.”

“Do you have any definitive data to support this theory?” Cylo-V inquired.

“Yes. Among the Last Alliance’s original force, Jedi Master and Council member Kyp Durron, Vice Admiral Kara of the Galactic Alliance, and the Aquilian Republic’s High Admiral Julius Gaia, their task force’s leaders, have not reported in as scheduled for the last twenty-four hours.” Vlad answered. “Our agents have been observing the situation closely, and they believe there is more going on there than we know.”

“How would you wish me to proceed, Sir?” Daala coldly asked, eager for the chance to humiliate the Jedi who gave her so much grief in his youth and was a thorn in any orderly society. “I doubt we can capture a Jedi of Master Durron’s caliber, and I don’t think my people would be fond of the idea of rescuing our enemies.”

“Then I’ll be blunt.” Vlad returned with equal intensity. “I need you to capture as many of the Last Alliance forces as you can and destroy whatever True Sith activities are underway out there. We need to know what they’re both up to, and we need to divert their focus away from us for a while.”

Surprised at the simple but logical and effective orders, Daala warned, “If the battle underway is as brutal as we suspect, it will not be easy to capture sufficient prisoners for our interrogators as you might desire.”

“Perhaps.” Vlad tipped his head in acknowledgement. “But you will not be going into the Croke Reach alone. I will be diverting the fleets of Admiral Tonith and Vice Admiral Rampart to aid you in this mission.”

“Nevertheless, whatever happens, I would prefer if the Last Alliance remained skeptical of our full capabilities for now. If you find the area overwhelmed by True Sith forces, then feel free to make sure the inevitable massacre cannot be traced back to us.”

“On the other hand…” Vlad patiently added. “If the Last Alliance fleet, or at least elements of their force, are sympathetic to our goals and will be open to working with us, then a good deed could very well be rewarded for us later down the line.” Sternly staring at Daala, he warned, “I’m going to trust you on this operation, against my better judgement. Do not let your vendettas blind you to the long game here.”

Ignoring the well-placed barb, Daala earnestly insisted, “On my honor, from one soldier to another, I will see the job done exactly as you have ordered me.”

Seemingly satisfied by the promise, Vlad’s scrutinizing glare relented enough for Daala to see the changes, and the Supreme Knight warned, “I will hold you to that.” Now talking to both High Councilors, he ordered, “Move quickly. Our opportunities will not be open for much longer, and the war will only get harder from here.”

Keeping her gaze professional until Vlad ended the transmission, Daala urged Cylo-V, “I think we’d better hightail it with our investigation.”

“Agreed.” Cylo-V worriedly concurred. “The Supreme Knight’s plan, it’s sensible, but his behavior is very strange.”

Deep Space, Inside the Croke Reach

Near the Explume Minor System

Aboard the Dodonna

Kara reviewed the data streaming in from Kyp’s scouting force, and the findings chilled the vice admiral to her core. According to the most recent reports from the Chiss and their allies, the Croke race was undergoing a civil war, with one faction using the Kaminoan-created subspecies of the Lugubraa mercenaries against the other to try and break them.

But the genetically modified soldiers were more destructive than even their creators’ best estimates, forcing the evacuation from many of their sacred worlds, including Explume Minor. This Leech Legion, coupled with the massive overpopulation of the Lugubraa against the Croke, was supposed to have driven the long-lived race of True Sith allies to the brink of extinction and left the region nearly abandoned.

Only, that was nowhere near the case, and not just because the Nihil Retreat’s allies were using the area as a staging ground for their forces. Learning from the Jedi’s covert runs, the True Sith were recruiting more than just the remnants of the Croke for their armies. Across the Crakull System, the capital world of the Croke Reach, all manner of lethal and wicked space predators were answering the Way of the Dark’s call, making Kara wish the Last Alliance never stepped foot here.

Aside from the original fleet of forty-two fleet warships, frigates, and cargo ships that travelled so far from their domain, there were giant, multi-tentacled and one-eyed monstrosities recognized only as summa-verminoths, able to crush a dozen ships with its appendages in minutes.

And those six abominations were not the only monsters among the True Sith’s rallied forces, nor the most numerous or deadliest. Among those many enemies of freedom were dozens of Exogorths, free-traveling and giant space slugs that were the spawn of the monstrosity that was once Tilotny before her final fall and suicide.

Accompanying them were at least twenty giant mechanical creatures, each of a different configuration and sporting a unique assortment of weaponry. These were the Abominor, the ancient race of machines that precipitated the fall of the Yuuzhan Vong and their longstanding hatred for all machinery.

And there were dozens of bloated creatures near the Silentium’s ancient enemies, each sporting many colors and having specks of gold covering across their form. These ancient predators, the Kindred of Ooradryl, once believed to be simple hunters called Space Grazers, were helping guard the cargo ships travelling towards the central world of the Crakull System.

Kara’s cerebral communicator activating, she recognized the signal as belonging to Kyp, and mentally responded, ‘Have you been spotted?’

‘Not yet.’ Kyp soon answered back. With his force so close to the enemy’s, the Jedi Master could only send a few burst signals across a subspace channel at a time, which meant the scout wing was still in danger. ‘But we’re trapped and can’t find a way out.’

Great. Kara lamented. If Kyp and his force were unable to escape before they ran out of fuel, then they’d be trapped and subjected to horrors no sane and decent soul would wish on anyone. And with her fleet and the Aquilians’ current numbers, they wouldn’t stand much of a chance against the True Sith’s growing numbers. But neither her nor High Admiral Gaia could let the Jedi and his fellow scouts be killed.

No, if the Last Alliance wanted to rescue their own and send word of the True Sith’s recruitment in time, they’d have to take a risk and ask for help. Kara only hoped that if anyone received word and could send assistance before time ran out.

Another communication interrupting her dire reflections, Kara read through the message, a warning from General Wedge Antilles of the Rogues’ Gallery that filled her with a small measure of hope. It seemed he received a message she and Julius sent to High Command, and was deploying a small force, led by the Imperial Ace and former Emperor’s Hand Maarek Stele, to reinforce and help them however they could.

But in a maddening move, the old maverick was leaving a trail for the Olpakan Hegemony to follow. And according to the Olpakan Resolute’s spies, the apostate faction of Olpakans were sending a fleet of their own to investigate, led by no other than their newest High Councilor in Natasi Daala. If that old hag was about to arrive and blunder into this investigation, then everyone might as well consider themselves dead.

Before Kara could warn Kyp, a final transmission struck through her mind, one giving her instructions on how to interact with Daala and solicit her help. According to the informant, the mad warlord was being sent here to capture the Last Alliance fleet and learn what the True Sith was doing out here, with direct orders to prevent excessive casualties amongst the Jedi-One Sith force. And with her personal fleet, along with the forces Vice Admiral Edmond Rampart and Admiral Reep Tonith II both commanded, she could very well succeed in destroying and capturing most of her enemies, only to stumble into a second battle where she could lose everything.

If this information was true, then there might be a way for the onetime cartel lieutenant-turned-Galactic Alliance officer to convince Daala to help Kara rescue her friends while they struck a blow against their shared foes. But she’d need to contact Maarek and warn him about the unexpected guests they were leading here so everyone could prepare. And she’d need to make sure her cover story was perfect, as there was no sense in giving away a trusted source against the Hegemony and its most notorious commander.

Kara only hoped the Aquilians could cooperate and play along with her deception and be ready to strike against all their enemies when the right opportunity came. Given their intense and fervor sense of honor and loyalty to the Jedi, never mind their own Force traditions, she knew the likelihood was low but would be necessary to fool Daala and maneuver her into a losing battle. She’d say whatever she needed to say, do what was necessary to get the job done.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

Above the Planet Azure

Aboard the Imperious-class Corvette Pax

Edaan knew he should be focused on the ongoing infiltration of one of the Olpakan Hegemony’s most prized worlds. If the enemy saw through the Pax’s falsified clearance codes or decided to do a random inspection, then everyone in the Olpakan Resolute convoy would be compromised, never mind their plans for cooperation with the Last Alliance. And as the corvette approached the purple-colored agricultural hub and neared the final checkpoint for all incoming traffic, everyone had to be operating at peak efficiency.

But Edaan not only felt the darkness seeping out from the, but the far more insidious reverberations of the battles underway across the Unknown Regions. And he knew every other Force user in the task force could sense the reverberations, especially those of the True Sith and their servants battling his friends and compatriots. Even if he knew there was nothing he could do to help, he still hoped and prayed that his wife, brother, and all the rest of his loved ones and friends could survive the tribulations everyone now faced.

Feeling the ship slowly move again, Kal’s voice could be heard throughout the ship as he informed everyone, “We’re through. We’ll be landing in Azure’s capital city in two hours.” After letting out a breath of relief he didn’t know he was holding, Edaan noticed the beads of sweat trailing down his cheeks and used the sleeves of his disguise to bead it all off. No sense in letting the hard work at making his disguise work if it dripped off his face.

“Don’t worry, the ink for your fake tattoos and tanned skin is harder to get off than thruster lubricant. It’ll take more than a little perspiration to make it vanish.” Iskat’s warm voice courteously broke through Edaan’s worries. Seeing him in his outfit, resembling that of a smuggler with an air of experience with his blaster pistol, hunter’s knife, and Bo staff on him, the Pkorian Jedi approvingly noted, “You look good. Perfect for a privateer of this crew’s repute.”

“The outfit’s fine,” Edaan noted, before he disgruntledly added, “But I’m not a fan of the Kiffar markings. I don’t know enough of their culture to properly pose as one, even a fugitive like that of my cover.”

“You don’t have to be perfect, Edaan.” Iskat patiently reminded him. “You don’t even have to talk much. Just play the part of a bodyguard and do whatever the good Colonel instructs of you.”

“I can do that.” Edaan reassured Iskat, his tone betraying his deeper worry for everyone else. But before she would reproach him, he nervously admitted, “I’m just scared for my family and team. It’s a problem I’ve been working through my whole life. And I know it’s only going to get worse the longer this war drags on.” Letting out a weary sigh, he acknowledged, “But I know they can handle themselves, and that my worries aren’t going to help them survive. I just need to trust in them and do my part the best I can.”

“Very good.” Iskat approvingly noted before placing a hand on Edaan’s armored shoulder, and she noted, “Be sure to turn all that stress into energy and motivation to take down Daala and all her followers, and we’ll be one step closer to ending all this strife.”

“Well, hopefully the plans we came up with to help the Resolute will be of good use to them.” Edaan reminded. He was still exhausted from the many late-night study sessions with all the Rude Awakening’s crew, everyone learning everything they could of Azure and the Olpakan Hegemony’s strata of power and infrastructure to prepare to help the populace turn against its tyrannical leadership. Lingering misgivings about letting Verla and Ferren join this mission aside, he could easily acknowledge how the pair of lovers were both excellent researchers and great instructors.

Interrupting his reflections, Edaan felt a malevolent force press against the Pax’s hull, a pall of rage and entropy enveloping the ship’s crew. He felt like his mind was being split in two, with the darkness choking the light out of him and trying to make his head explode. And had no doubt everyone else aboard was suffering at least as much.

Unable to fight off this mysterious new enemy, Edaan heard Iskat murmur a chant in a dialect he couldn’t discern. But whatever she was muttering, it was lessening the attack’s intensity on them. Barely a minute later, the terrifying force, the attacker, slowly retreating with a hateful hiss, suddenly abated altogether, allowing everyone to breathe easy again.

Wiping the blood that was dripping down his nose, Edaan asked Iskat, “What just happened?!” He saw the mournful gaze in her eyes, and cautiously asked, “Do you know who or what attacked us?”

“I do.” Iskat sadly confirmed. “My old lover and fellow Inquisitor of Darth Sidious’s Empire before I found my way back to the light side. But where I found forgiveness and redemption, he gave himself over to the Way of the Dark and the True Sith Empire.” Gazing at Edaan with an intense state, she warned him, “You and your friends aren’t the only ones on this ship carrying old wounds and facing incredible darkness, Knight Palpatine.”

Numbly nodding, Edaan excused himself to check on all his friends and help enact repairs to the Pax. If Iskat had shameful secrets and a dark past she was trying to put behind her, then he would do what he could to be there for his new friend if she wanted the help. It was the least he could do, and he’d be sure the rest of his compatriots would be there for her if she needed someone to help work through her trauma.

But if the ship’s creaking was a more immediate indication, the attacker’s Force-based assault damaged a few key systems and crippled the main reactor. And if that was the case, the crew would be forced to face the Olpakan Hegemony’s inspectors far sooner than everyone feared. Edaan only hoped the Resolute’s credentials and everyone’s disguises held out to prevent that worst case scenario.

Chapter Text

Melona 10^th, 59 ABY

In the Unknown Regions

Near the Twilight Void

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Holy Grove of Aerimus

Leia marveled at the verdant landscape and tranquil creatures that dotted this lush forest. The peace she felt here, it alleviated the many worries that weighed her down and rejuvenated her weary spirit. And she could tell how Han, ever the cautious cynic, felt the same calmness she did. Even from recognizing the spirit of one she thought she was condemned to perdition couldn’t diminish her renewed hope.

But what Leia couldn’t figure out was why Danni called her and Han into this sacred site without anyone else. Why would such a longtime friend and compatriot invite them to talk in private when there was so much to prepare for? What purpose could such a meeting serve at this pivotal moment?

‘You appear troubled, Leia. I wasn’t expecting you to be worried when I took Danni’s form to escort you and your husband inside this enclave.’ A voice, one deeply familiar to both Solos, intruded on their thoughts as a young man appeared before them. Seeing a Human male, one with short brown hair, an explorer’s uniform, and brown eyes belying a deep love and hunger for knowledge and understanding, the face instantly recognizable to Han and Leia as their late firstborn son.

Tears of shock and love starting to pour down both his and his wife’s faces, Han whispered, “Jacen?” Instinctively walking forward, desperate to hug his son and validate what he was seeing, he let out a choked gasp once he phased right through the apparition.

Leia, now recognizing who was before them, hoarsely clarified for Han, “Sekot.” Allowing a bit of anger to enter her voice, she challenged the living world, “Why would you call us here, only to take the form of Jacen? Is this some type of twisted test?”

“Of sorts.” The Jacen-Sekot phantom alluded before its frowned in sorrow and heartbreak. “I heard of what happened to my dear friend when I was contacted by your fellow Jedi. I needed to ask you, both of you, what happened to Jacen Solo, a man who I deeply admired.”

“Why ask us this now?!” Han irately sputtered out. “In case you don’t know everything that's going on, there are two empires of evil out there that want nothing more than to see your destruction or corruption!”

“I know. But what I’m doing here is more important, for it will determine if you and those that follow you will succumb to the same darkness that is about to threaten to engulf all creation.” Jacen-Sekot answered. “The trauma I endured after the True Sith attacked me, the meditations I have undergone, they awoke powers in me I never thought possible. And if I hope to use them to protect my children and remaining friends, I need to know how the Jedi could let one of their own, how Jacen’s own family, could let him fall so far and so easily, just as how they could let such tragedy harden their hearts and let all your grief twist so many your beliefs.”

Han, on the verge of letting his anger make him explode, was only held in check by Leia’s gentle hand on his shoulder, and she warned, “It’s a long story.”

“We have time.” Jacen-Sekot assured her, sitting down on a nearby boulder. And Leia and Han, reluctant as they were to talk about their darkest shame and failure as parents, began to tell Sekot about what transpired after the world’s self-exile thirty years ago.

The Solos told Sekot how Jacen had journeyed across the galaxy to learn all he could about the Force, spending five years on an odyssey alone, cut off from all loved ones and discovering many secrets, and horrors in many corners of the galaxy. They told the world how Jacen, after travelling into the Maw Cluster and learning from the Mind Walkers, seeing a glimpse of the future and learning of his then-unborn daughter’s fall to the dark side, how he vowed to do whatever it took to stop that tragedy.

Eventually ending his travels to help his family stop the Dark Nest Crisis and Swarm War, they all found Jacen changed and barely recognizable, willing to make terrible sacrifices and betrayals to achieve his goals. He was even willing to destroy entire species if it meant preventing a galactic apocalypse, as he nearly did with the Killiks. But he was still trusted with training his cousin, Ben Skywalker, in opening himself up to the Force and begin training as a Jedi, even as his sister cut all ties with him for his deceptions in preempting the Sith-controlled Colony.

Four years after the Killiks were pacified, that was when Jacen’s fall to the dark side was complete. Manipulated by the Dark Lady Lumiya, he took advantage of the escalating Corellian Crisis and Second Galactic Civil War to become a Sith in a mad bid to bring peace to an unstable galaxy. He tried to corrupt Ben into his Sith apprentice, led secret police raids against the Galactic Alliance’s opponents, and even grabbed power from the Chief of State before he killed Mara Jade Skywalker, completing his terrible transformation into Darth Caedus. He was eventually killed by Jaina, but not before countless lives were lost by his rampage in an ill-defined war on chaos, and his family was irrevocably scarred by his actions.

But even more tragic was how Sekot learned that those that should have tried to save Jacen, those that should have brought him back from the edge before he crossed into the dark side’s waiting grasp, did all but nothing until it was too late. And those revelations, hearing from Han and Leia all that they and their loved ones failed to do, it filled the world with grief over his friend’s terrible fate.

After the Solos were finished telling their tale, after Sekot processed everything it had learned, the planet raised its apparition’s head, and acknowledged, “Thank you for telling me. I believe I finally understand how I can best help my people and those that suffer from the Nihil Retreat, as well as the Olpakan Hegemony.”

“But before I share this with you and those Danni is hosting, I need to ask you an important question.” Jacen-Sekot warned. “When did your family forsake your principles and ideals for expediency and selfishness?”

“Hey, hold on-!” Han tried, only for Sekot to interrupt,

“Was it not your desire to play rebel one last time and put your homeworld, led by corrupt politicians and warmongers, over your son’s soul, and therefore set in motion the events that led to Abeloth’s release and Daala’s ascent to power?” Sekot challenged. “Didn’t Master Skywalker risk everything for his father after he slaughtered countless billions of lives? And Jaina, why would she put her bond with the corrupted Killiks over her own brother and let him fall while she chased love as the galaxy crumbled around her?”

The phantom’s face growing sterner and angrier, it questioned both elder Solos, “How can I trust you with protecting my children when you couldn’t, or wouldn’t, even do the same for your final son? If you made this grievous mistake once, what is to stop you from making it again?”

“How can we prove our intentions to you?” Leia suddenly asked, preventing Han from unleashing a verbal tirade on Sekot. “You’re right. The blood on Jacen’s hands, it’s on ours also, and we need to finish paying our debt to the galaxy. But what can be done to show that we want to atone for our failings as best we can?”

Appraising Leia, and seeing the heartbreak in Han’s eyes, Sekot promised, “You both will get your chance to prove your intentions and convictions soon enough. For when you enter the Nihil Retreat, you and everyone else under your authority will need to be free of doubts and regrets before you face the Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Lords, just as Korin Aphra and those that once followed the One Sith must as well. But know this: For acknowledging your failings and regrets, you have passed the first of many trials I have planned for you and your family.”

The faux-Jacen’s face melting in sympathy, Sekot humbly apologized, “I regret having to challenge you both like this, but know that I would have put you and everyone else through some form of test before we enter into your Last Alliance.”

The grove opening, a pathway leading out of the grove, Sekot, shedding Jacen’s form, bade them, “You may go now. I will speak with Danni and her guests, and escort them out back to you and your friends and compatriots when their meeting is done.”

“But I warn you, you will not be heading towards your people’s territory for quite some time.” Sekot forewarned the Solos. “By the day’s end, we will journey to the Croke Reach to rescue forces of yours stranded there. Afterwards, we will be travelling towards the Olpakan Hegemony to help end the fighting there and redeem the fallen region as best we can.”

Stunned by the planet’s set of priorities and bold measures, Han ruefully marveled, “Well, you sure don’t waste any time.”

“I think it’s safe to say you daredevils have rubbed off on me in many ways, General Solo.” Sekot’s ethereal voice amusingly chuckled.

Within Wild Space

In the Rakatan Archipelago

On Makatak

In Skal’nas City

Within the Temple of Balance

In all her travels across hundreds of worlds, whether it was as an Apprentice of the Lost Tribe or Lady of the One Sith, Vestara had never come across a world as ancient and full of contradictions as Makatak. Nor had she experienced such a stark redemption as among the world’s population in the Rakata and their former slaves.

Seeing a planet’s worth of descendants from the warmongering race’s last survivors now live in humility and service to others, it was a more surreal experience than Vestara ever expected. She witnessed the Rakata, despite their larger numbers among the dozens of species inhabiting Makatak, including Zabrak, Twi’lek, Humans, Selkath, and the original Sith species, share power with them just as the many democracies and republics she encountered did.

And this temple was proof of the Makatak Rakata’s long atonement from their wicked roots. Although the Temple of Balance was formerly a place of heinous rituals and desperate attempts to regain their connection to the Force, it now served as a place of penitence, rehabilitation, and religious observations for the millions of people and their allegiance to the Celestials and the Supreme Maker. Whatever abominable and wicked idols they once worshipped or paid heed to, the statues and places of tribute were destroyed, with symbols of light carved into the area’s foundations and representing the planet’s reformation.

Although Vestara sensed the faint echoes of the dark side in the building’s foundations, they were kept in check by the Acolytes of the Beyond and their daily observance. Such a performance, seeing the priests and their adjutants walking past the Last Alliance delegation to enter the temple’s deeper chambers, it gave her hope that Kesh would one day be free of its five-thousand-year occupation by the Lost Tribe of the Sith, just as she would fully redeem herself for all her sins.

“Quite a sight, isn’t it, Ves?” Ben’s warm voice came up from Vestara’s side. Seeing her beloved return after a guided tour of the temple’s exterior and lower levels, she unconsciously smiled and took his hand in her own. Gazing around, he marveled, “This place… I hate to admit it, but the Jedi could learn a bit about building temples from these guys.”

Letting out an amused chuckle, Vestara teased her fiancé, “Really? We’re about to enter negotiations with the planet’s leaders and go to war against their rivals, and you’re concerned with architecture?”

“Hey, I’m just thinking of rebuilding the temple on Coruscant after we cleanse it of the Sith’s taint.” Ben defended. “We’ll start out small with an enclave before we consider rebuilding the old facility. After the war, we’ll need to rebuild ties with the planet’s populace and show them we’re going to help rebuild their lives.”

“Thereby showing you aren’t going to stay sequestered in your temple and give your detractors ammunition to use against you.” Vestara realized, acknowledging it with an approving nod. “Smart thinking.”

“Glad you approve, luv.” Ben joked before he kissed her cheek, moments before he got serious, “Have you heard anything from our hosts?”

“They say they’re almost done setting up.” Vestara quietly answered, not wishing to give anyone the wrong idea. “I’ve spoken with the others, and they all report that the war is starting to heat up across the Unknown Regions.”

“How bad?” Ben worriedly asked before a bell tolled three times, each time ringing with enough force to make everyone clutch their ears from the pain. After the last bell tolled, he annoyingly groaned, “Guess we’re finally getting started.”

The giant stone doors to the inner chambers opening, every member of the Last Alliance delegation was prepared to be escorted inside by their hosts. And they did not have to wait much longer, with an elderly Rakata, garbed in a mix of ancient military and regal uniform, walking out from the temple’s center to invite, "On behalf of the people of Makatak and our allies, I welcome you all, on this historic day, within our most sacred site. I am Ad’jast, Predor-Governor of this world, and it is our honor to usher you inside.”

Alongside Ben and Vestara were many of the Last Alliance’s high-ranking officers, which included Fett, Phasma, Grace, Sorzus, Darth Imperious, and K’Kruhk. The remainder of their commanders were working with their ground forces in securing the planet from any True Sith incursions, tending to the wounded, or mopping up any stragglers, with all of them being quite effective in their jobs. They all slowly followed the black-skinned Rakata and their Council of Elders inside the temple, ready for any hint of treachery or manipulation.

Quietly taking note of the structure’s design and noticing several concealed defenses along with many arachnoid droids scampering about, Vestara gave Ben an intent look, which he acknowledged with a crisp nod. This temple had all the makings of a former vessel, likely a gutted warship or belonging to a Rakata of high authority before it was repurposed into a place of worship. And sparing brief glances around her, she noticed most of her teammates coming to the same conclusion.

Quickly entering the temple’s center, she was astonished to not only see dozens of Makatak citizens sitting before the visitors in a setup resembling a legislation chamber for diplomatic dignitaries, but the holograms of many well-known individuals across the Unknown Regions. And they belonged to the three strongest legitimate powers that were allied with the Last Alliance, those territories being the Chiss Ascendancy, Aquilian Republic, and Silentium, with Vestara recognizing all but one of them.

The Chiss leaders in attendance were their people’s Supreme Admiral Shawnkyr, Supreme General Ba’kar, and their eldest Aristocra in Sev’eere’nuruodo. This trio, representing the political and military leadership amongst the Ascendancy, had long played a dangerous game in funneling supplies and military personnel towards thwarting the Olpkaan Hegemony and True Sith-loyal Rakata. And the risk of Nihil Retreat spies infiltrating and compromising their people would only increase as the war intensified, but it was a danger they would eventually have to face.

Among the Aquilian Republic’s people assembled were its entire cabinet of leadership. Their two Grand Councilors, one a Senator and the other a Paladin-General that led the Republic, along with their cabinet, made up of two members from the Royal Senate, each Speaker of the Upper and Lower Houses, and three members of the Republic Military’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, each exuded military authority and discipline. Despite their differing viewpoints on protecting Zakuul and the rest of their worlds, they always came together as one to defend their homes and protect their people, an admirable practice that most of the greater galaxy often forgot in times of great disaster.

Finally, the Silentium’s sole representative, Vestara couldn’t identify, given her unfamiliarity with the droid civilization and its agents and ambassadors. But right below the projection of the agent’s spherical form, she read the name “Vuffi Raa.” Now that was a name she recognized all too well as an old friend and former companion of Lando Calrissian, and a key figure in brokering the ceasefire between the Jedi and One Sith.

Ad’jast, after everyone arrived to stand before the assembly, turned to caution them, “I warn you all now, what you’re about to hear details the origins of our refuge, how our sister tribes fell under the thrall of the Nihil Retreat through their dark promises, and the terrible power Tulpaa still holds, especially with their Star Forge being brought back online.”

“You may know the basics about the Rakatan Archipelago, how a small remnant of the Rakata and their slaves escaped Lehon and the Infinite Empire as it collapsed, finding refuge in what you call ‘Wild Space’ and settling across seven planets. These worlds, separate from each other for millennia, were eventually considered the Rakatan Archipelago, but there was another reason these worlds were chosen to rebuild.”

“There were two abandoned facilities in our system and above Tulpaa, the first being the Mother Station, also called Ashaa. You might know it as the station Jaden Korr helped destroy when pursuing rogue clones Grand Admiral Thrawn’s scientists created and nearly unleashed her in the process. Our people, having long ago shed our ancestors’ terrible roots and adopting a life of peaceful vigilance, forbade everyone from entering Ashaa, and we kept their prohibition in place in case any remnants of her spirit remained intact within the wreckage. Since Abeloth’s essence was used to create the station, just as she did for the three Star Forges, the precautions they established were undoubtedly wise ones.”

“But the second facility in the region, this one in the Tulpaa System, is far deadlier and lethal than the Mother Station. And since that world’s people never forsook their barbaric loyalty to the so-called Immortal Gods of the Sith, they would have used the Star Forge to help rebuild our old empire if they could still use the Force. For this ancient station, unlike its fallen sister in the Lehon System, could manipulate stellar matter into biomolecules to create virtually anything.”

“It was this facility that created the Mother Station and Mother Machine, the latter stationed on Belsavis and able to transmogrify slaves into stronger genetic templates and create armies capable of surpassing any natural-born force. From there, the Esh-Kha, Twi’leks, Zabrak, Flesh Raiders, and many other races were created through Ishaa’s splicing of genetic material from other species to build our armies and bolster our slaves.”

“But we still remembered the danger of the Tulpaa Force, and for the last thirty-five years, with the help of our new friends, have kept the Tulpaa tribe contained through a cold war. A few assassinations here, several surgical raids and rescue operations there, and we kept them off balance, even with the accursed True Sith sorcerer they released from his ancient prison.”

“Raspir.” Vestara whispered, recognizing the name from Arhul Hextrophon’s final work. According to the testimony and manuscript, Supernatural Encounters, Raspir was a long-imprisoned True Sith agent that had been released shortly before the Yuuzhan Vong invaded the known galaxy, and his return heralded a dark turn in our cold war.”

“Now, after decades of our harrying actions, the True Sith have committed themselves to destroying us altogether and giving back our fallen brethren their connection to the dark side of the Force. And through Raspir’s guidance, they have succeeded in fully reactivating Tulpaa’s Star Forge and are augmenting their armies with more power than we can hold back.”

“Then, our path should be obvious, yes?” Imperious presumed. “If this Star Forge is empowering the Rakata and expanding their armies, it would only behoove us to destroy it before they can increase their numbers any further.”

Vestara glanced at the man who once called himself Takaris Yur, High Lord of the Lost Tribe and teacher to countless Sith, and knew he was right, but also recognized how the task was more difficult than Darth Imperious professed.

“And we will, with all your help.” Ad’jast promised. “But you must fully understand how circumstances and fate have brought us all together, and we must introduce you to our final host.”

“Final host?” Phasma repeated, narrowing her eyes in suspicion. “Who else has been watching us?”

“Someone we never thought we’d never have to awaken from his ancient slumber after he prophesied our doom and redemption.” Ad’jast elusively answered, before a procession of guards and large and ancient two-legged droids resembling that of Xim’s War-robots came forward, escorting a large stasis chamber that appeared to double as a royal tomb.

Soon after, the hologram of an elder male Rakata blazed to life from the center of the tomb, wearing religious garb and a solemn gaze staring before the assembly, before the priest adopted a more formal look of contemplation and gratitude.

Gazing at the visitors, the man’s hologram politely greeted them all, “It is an honor to have you all here, servants of the Ashla. I am Ralthar, founder of the Rakata Tribe of Makatak and former Priest of Lehon as the Infinite Empire collapsed.”

Vestara noticed how Phasma nearly jumped at the marvel of ancient technology but was wise enough to remain silent as Ralthar continued, “I come before you in these dark hours to offer counsel and tools you will need to withstand the tribulations of these coming months and years.”

“In the Infinite Empire’s death throes, as virtually all Rakata lost their connection to the Force, a few of us foresaw our inevitable downfall and took steps to redeem a fraction of our society, taking what bits of our technology and knowledge this region’s seven systems to rebuild and start over. Building upon the lessons of the Je’daii Order of old that our ancestors fought against, we remade ourselves into an egalitarian culture, where our former slaves were emancipated, and they helped us,as equals, rebuild while preparing for the day we would eventually return to the known galaxy. In preparation for this day, I entombed my spirit inside our old technology and helped guide Makatak into its golden age.”

“And now, after over twenty-five thousand years of waiting and rebuilding, our time to return to the galaxy has come to save it from the darkness that we once served in our barbarity. But there are many dangers that await you and the Last Alliance, and everyone needs to be made aware of them before this war proceeds any further.” Ruthic warned, before her hologram changed to the projection of the Rakatan Archipelago’s seven inhabited star systems.

“Out of the seven refuges that my people created in this safe sanctum, only ours and the Tulpaa Tribe have retained their full capabilities of our people, with the rest sinking into barbarity and leaving them susceptible to the false promises of the True Sith and those they serve. Should they and all their pawns finish recruiting amongst the hundreds of millions of Rakata trapped on these worlds, they will have all they need to wash over the galaxy like a plague.”

“But even our so-called civilized tribes have suffered dearly from our blood-drenched past.” Ralthar lamented. “For those of Tulpaa still cling to the depravations that doomed our people once before. And now, they seek to use this war to regain their connection to the Force and dominate the galaxy alongside Abeloth and her masters. That is why we have been engaged in a cold war to stop them from enacting this mad plan and trying to bring them towards the light.”

“But even more important, we have been working to rebuild our ties to the Force, not to conquer, but to protect and atone for our ancestors’ atrocities. That is why I have asked you here, to help us start over and do what is right for the many instead of the few.” Ralthar finished.

Seeing Sorzus glower at what she perceived to be inane foolishness coming from the ancient priest, Imperious dared take the initiative and slowly approach Ralthar’s holographic form. Bowing his head in respect for him, he carefully answered, “And none of us here have any intention of betraying your people, honored spiritual guide and founder of this illustrious tribe.”

Knowing he was treading precariously close to heresy here, he chose his next words delicately, “But to stop the destruction of your home and the enslavement of galaxy, we need to fully understand the scope of this war we have inserted ourselves into, and how to save all we love from the evils that now encroach upon us. And that means we need to know what Abeloth, the Lich Lords, and all their followers are after amongst your own, so we can help protect and secure whatever dangers you have safeguarded here for all these millennia.”

Staring at Imperious, Ralthar commandingly noted, “I sense the truth in your words, Takaris Yur, formerly of the Lost Tribe of the Sith and now of the One Sith.” Flashing an amused smile at the human’s smirk, she elaborated, “We have been observing the galaxy and its denizens for nearly all the centuries we have spent here, and I know of your endeavors for both the Lost Tribe and Darth Krayt.”

“I will tell you and your confederates all I know, and you and those you trust will be allowed to help guard our treasures and work with our scientists, just as the Jedi will be granted the same measure of good faith.” Ruthic answered. “But we must work quickly, for we are almost out of time.”

“Before what?” Grace anxiously asked. “What is it that you know?”

“Before the end comes for the Rakatan Archipelago as we know it.” Ralthar sadly answered, terrifying all with the gravity of her voice just as much as her words.

In the Unknown Regions

Near the Twilight Void

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Holy Grove of Aerimus

Bardan Jusik Skirata had journeyed across thousands of worlds and met countless types of people across his near century of existence. Whether it was in his passionate youth as a Jedi crusader, or Mandalorian mercenary since the height of the Clone War, he experienced sensations and faced all kind of individuals. Helping persecuted Jedi and other Force users evade the Empire’s Inquisitors, hunting criminals and ridding the galaxy of what evil he could, and protecting his family and loved ones when Mandalore came under attack or was besieged, his life could be a best-seller holobook series if he wanted. And guiding Jaina through the moral quandary of killing her Sith Lord of a brother was a task he didn’t envy, but he’d gladly do if it meant protecting his small corner of the galaxy and all he cherished.

No matter what Bardan endured, what kind of losses he suffered, he didn’t let them define or consume him, and he did his best to instill that lesson in all his family and clansmen. And now, out in the galaxy’s forbidden zones, so close to the Nihil Retreat and its vile Sith society, he fervently hoped they would remember them amidst this time of strife. But it was hard for him to focus on the meeting now underway, on a world that was so blissfully peaceful and full of life and light, it threatened to reignite all his long-suppressed Jedi instincts and hard forgotten lessons.

He listened as he, Adari Thayn Palpatine, Darth Vua, and Ochi walked with Danni through the sacred meeting place, and paid attention to his surroundings. He saw Vua irritably fidgeting, only to be calmed by his love’s presence. Meanwhile, Ochi kept a patient watch over Adari as he asked the occasional question of the Magister, and was currently inquiring on how Zonama Sekot and its people were going to aid the Last Alliance.

Before Danni could answer Ochi’s question, Bardan sensed a new presence arrive, and this one held a power and mind that he never felt before. It was like the entire planet was circling over this area and would soon beam down in a sudden and dramatic fashion.

‘I may be the distant offspring of a Celestial, Bardan Skirata, but I am not really one for the kind of theatrics you’re thinking of.’ A new voice intruded on Bardan’s thoughts, making the Mandalorian Jedi turn towards Danni, who now glowed vibrantly with a white aura. He saw Vua frightfully tense up and recognized what it meant, Sekot had arrived and was using the Magister’s body as a host to speak with her guests.

Adari, marveling at the amazing phenomenon, bowed her head before Sekot, humbly said, “It’s an honor to meet you, Sekot.”

“The honor is mine, Madame Thayn Palpatine.” Sekot friendly greeted Adari. Turning its host’s gaze towards Vua, the planet sadly acknowledged, “But I realize this meeting is not one everyone welcomes.”

“It has been a long time Darth Vua, formerly of Shimrra Jamaane and Onimi’s Empire and now of the One Sith.” Sekot, using Danni’s body, penitently stated. “I am sorry for the suffering you endured at Darth Krayt’s hands and your superstation from your people and loved one.” A smile crossing Danni’s glowing face, the living world added, “But your betrothed never stopped believing you would find your way back to her, and it warms my heart to know she was right.”

“Let us dispense with the pleasantries, Sekot.” Vua disparagingly warned. Ignoring the angry glares everyone aimed at him, he continued, “Why have you brought the four of us into this garden when we have many enemies that are moving against us?”

Appraising the Sith warrior, Sekot admitted, “I havce brought you, all of you, here so you can understand how I hope to be of service to you in this war and rescue my children from the Rhandites’ cruelty.”

Sekot’s light emanating off Danni’s body and enveloping everyone, they were briefly blinded before the light receded and they found themselves in the endless void of space. But the peace was abruptly ended when the area was filled by the translucent sight of many True Sith warships, dozens of vicious predators, and fleets of Last Alliance and Olpakan Hegemony ships fighting their mutual foes above a nebulous star system.

Danni, with Sekot leaving her body and letting her regain control of her motor functions, told everyone, “All right. Sekot has entrusted me to inform you all about its plan to begin helping the Last Alliance and sending a message to our enemies. We’re about to begin journeying to the Croke Reach to rescue Master Kyp Durron and his fleet from the Nihil Retreat’s hunters. And Natasi Daala and her forces will be there to try and capture or eradicate them all. Which means we need to get there and prevent all the True Sith or Olpakan Hegemony from committing genocide or slaughtering our friends.”

“Rescuing our allies and striking a blow to those that deceived my people, that I can understand completely.” Ochi commented. “But I don’t understand how Sekot plans to send a message to our enemies without killing them all, or by at least eliminating the Rhand-based Sith.”

“Because we’re not going to destroy them.” Danni answered. “Sekot will help disable the enemy fleets and fight their predators and Abominor, but we will not stoop to the same level as our hunters. And there is another reason for travelling into the Croke Reach, which is how we hope will start to set the Olpakan Hegemony back towards a righteous path.”

“Sekot thinks we can convince a warmongering megalomaniac like Daala to relinquish her pride and hate?” Ochi disbelievingly shook his head. “I knew the planet was of a peaceful sort, but not that it was that much of a mad dreamer.”

“If nothing else, it will help us evade the True Sith hunters that are on their way here to capture or kill us all.” Danni calmly countered Ochi’s doubts. “And as for the Yuuzhan Vong, this will be the first step in showing the galaxy the fruits of their rehabilitation when they enter this new war.”

“And, for the record, Ochi, this isn’t about trying to reach just Daala but convincing her followers that we aren’t the enemy.” Danni lightly scolded the Vahla, just as the illusion faded, and the grove began enclosing on them all, a new building being created right on top of everyone.

“It seems Sekot has almost finished preparing for our first hyperspace jump towards the Croke Reach.” Danni noted. She then advised everyone, “You’d all best make yourselves comfortable, we’ll be stuck in here a while until we finish journeying towards the battlefield.”

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

In the Makatak System

Aboard the Turbulent-class Star Destroyer Mandator

In his long and twisted life, Drikl Lecersen never found himself an expert on the supernatural, even in his subordinate roles under both Darths Caedus and Krayt. But now, with the Jedi and One Sith united under one banner, with many races and civilizations flocking to their banner, he was forced to reevaluate all he once aspired to and the few options his life still offered him amidst this rare moment of calm.

Lecersen was only lucky that in his private cabin, sipping a vintage Imperial wine, no one could see the disgraced Moff in his broken state. Normally, he wouldn’t indulge in such behavior in-between active duty, but he needed to dull the edge of his stressed mind and process all he learnt of the Rakata and the civil war he’d found himself thrusted into.

As a former rising star in the Imperial Navy before joining the Moff Council, he had been involved in many plots and conspiracies to advance the Empire’s influence and power, all of them failing and leaving him closer to facing a firing squad for his war crimes and schemes.

Lecersen had done nothing when Gilad Pellaeon, the founder and arguably best leader of the so-called Imperial Remnant, was assassinated by then-Sith agent Tahiri Veila. That was the start of his fall from grace and many power plays, each driving him further down a path of condemnation by all.

After Pellaeon’s murder, Lecersen and the Empire used a nano virus against the Verpine race to take control of their manufacturing plants in the Roche System, against Mandalore to deprive Fett and his family of their home, and even to target the Hapan Queen Mother and her family. But all of them failed, just as Darth Caedus’s crazed rule as the Galactic Alliance’s short-lived Chief of State came to an end during the failed attempt Tenel Ka and Allana Djo Solo’s lives. And as insult to injury, after the Second Galactic Civil War ended, he was forced to contribute to the foundation and establishment of the Imperial Mission for its humanitarian aims at Han Solo’s “suggestion.”

But the machinations didn’t end there, not with Natasi Daala and Jagged Fel ruling over the Galactic Alliance and Empire, and with the Confederation still alive to rule over large swaths of scattered territory. No, Lecersen still had a few cards to play to satisfy his ambitions. Working alongside many kindred spirits and power-hungry leaders in Daala’s new government and army, he co founded the Alliance-Imperial Conspiracy to unite both under into a new Galactic Empire, one free of its multiracial and diplomatic leanings.

And this plan came closer to success than any other, with everything nearly in place before the Jedi launched their coup to depose Daala. This delayed Lecersen and his allies enough for the removed-Chief of State, the newly established Club Bwua’tu, and Lost Tribe of the Sith, to dismantle the entire network and force the survivors to go into hiding, until the Wraiths and Jedi uncovered proof of the last few and forced the ex-Moff into retirement.

Unfortunately for him, his hunger for power refused to die, for he allied with Daala in maneuvering for a coup against the democratic government of Vitor Reige, leading to his current alliance with the One Sith. Together, they launched a coup against them, destroying the Imperial Head of State and throwing the Empire into a new civil war.

But with help from the rest of the galaxy, that final Imperial power play was dismantled, and Jagged returned to power, while Daala fled to the Olpakan Hegemony and left Lecersen with no other choice than to throw all his lot in with Darth Krayt’s Sith. And for a while, the One Sith’s strategy worked, regardless of several defections and setbacks delivered to them by the Jedi. Deep down, he was certain that the only thing left for him was the sweet release of death, no matter how this final power grab played out.

The final clincher came when Krayt and the rest of his Sith were warned of the dual threats manipulating the galaxy from the Unknown Regions, a so-called “True Sith Empire” and a Force-hating society named the Olpakan Hegemony. Forced to confront the harsh truth that they couldn’t survive without help, the Dragon of the One Sith agreed to form the Last Alliance with the Jedi and their Alliance of Light.

Between every organization, galactic power, and Force order composing this gigantic coalition’s efforts to fight their enemies, the disgraced Imperial began to see how woefully petty his desperate power grabs were in comparison. And with the Rakata, Killiks, and other ancient races and orders joining their massive army against evils he thought of as little more than myths and cautionary tales, it was a wakeup call he needed to see how this was his last chance to outrun his sins’ consequences.

Every time Lecersen tried to take more than he had, it only compromised the Empire he loved and left him with less than he had before. And now, even if he survived the war, he’d be lucky if his people threw him into a comfortable cell, if not forced him into hard labor or he was put before a firing squad. But now, with the Olpakan Resolute and its leaders offering him a way out if he did their dirty work, he both relished the opportunity and saw the honorable exile for what it was.

Oh, Lecersen would gladly work with the religious Olpakans if it meant taking down Daala for good and escaping execution by either the One Sith, Jedi, or their secular allied governments. But was he willing to leave all his worldly gains behind for a life he never wanted, a life of peace and charity over pursuit of material power? That was the question that was tearing his mind, body, and soul apart.

Hearing his personal datapad activate, buzzing in a rapid frequency to alert him that the Makatak ground teams were transmitting information to him and the rest of the Last Alliance commanders, it brought him back to reality and made him grateful that he only drank half a glass of wine. Dumping the rest of the alcohol down his cabin’s sink drain, he read the message’s contents and felt a new migraine coming on.

Lecersen learned how the Rakatan Archipelago came to be, how six of the seven worlds joined the Nihil Retreat to regain their connection to the Force, how Tulpaa’s Star Forge would soon come fully online, and how the Makatak Tribe was the only ally of the Chiss, Aquilians, and Silentium in rebuilding and serving as the region’s bulwark. All this information terrified and made him wonder how the Last Alliance could stop all these enemies and still have the strength required to liberate the Nihil Retreat.

The old ex-Moff might not be the most well-versed in the supernatural and esoteric, but military strategy and logistics was a field he still excelled in. Lecersen would relay word of these developments to Nirauan and the Olpakan Resolute, where both would prepare a counter response and hopefully heed his counsel in avoiding using their full strength in these brushfire conflicts. He recognized how these battles were not only meant to test the Last Alliance’s strength but to deplete and leave them at risk to their foes’ onslaught.

To stop the bleeding and defeat the True Sith and Olpakan Hegemony, they’d have to get much more creative. And getting creative with scheming was something Lecersen especially excelled at.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

On the Planet Azure

Within the Capital City of Katarr

Aboard the Pax

Edaan saw Armand staring through a viewport, towards the planet’s center of government, a mushroom-shaped building mockingly built to resemble Coruscant’s Senate Building, and he could guess what the Imperial captain was thinking. He believed anyone aboard this ship could determine his motives and plans for this Olpakan Hegemony stronghold, even as they finished repairing the damage the Sorcerers of Rhand wrought on the Pax and were cleared to proceed by the planet’s authorities after a thorough inspection.

Given Armand’s troubled past and long-lasting hatred for his mother and her countless war crimes, it only made sense that he’d want to play a pivotal role in destroying Daala and redeeming his father’s name. Kriff, if Edaan was in his position, he’d surely be clamoring for a chance to do the same to Darth Sidious for the stains he made on his family’s name.

But the army captain had to see that his anger was at risk of consuming him, and it would lead him to make fatal decisions for everyone around him. If Armand wanted a chance to depose and bring his mother to justice, then he needed to exercise patience and prudence now, more than ever. And judging by the knowing glances Allana gave Edaan while the two Jedi came back from enacting the final batch of maintenance patches on the Olpakan Resolute corvette’s reactor, their friend needed a reminder before he went off the deep end.

Fortunately for the two longtime friends, Artoo was one step ahead of them, rolling through from the engine room to speak to Armand in his binary language. Seeing their teammate calm his fierce gaze at Artoo’s kind warnings and emphatic promises, Allana slowly turned around and took a different turn towards the main hall, with Edaan doing the same.

Once they were safely away from Armand and Artoo, heading for the kitchen to wash the grease and grime off their grody arms, Allana assured Edaan, “He’ll be fine. Armand will listen to Artoo. He seems to hold him in high regard and enjoys all his stories when he tells them.”

“With all the talking Artoo’s been doing, you’d think he and Threepio swapped each of their personality matrices.” Edaan snarked, earning a warm laugh from Allana. After both Jedi calmed down, while running warm water over their arms, he asked her, “It’s been a long time since we’ve had a chance to talk like this. How are you, Allana?”

“I should be asking that of you, Mr. Big Shot Hero.” Allana playfully returned, before she seriously summed up. “Redeeming Vestara, helping protect Dathomir from the Nihil Retreat while negotiating our pact with Krayt, you’ve been busier than Grand Master Katarn. And don’t even get me started on you getting married and about to become a father.”

“Oh, don’t even get me started on that.” Edaan groaned while he applied a healthy dose of soap on his left arm and scrubbed it in hard. “I’m scared out of my mind for raising the twins.”

“I don’t see why you should be frightened.” Allana assured him. “You and Adari are great together, and I have faith you’ll do well in raising your kids.” She then sternly warned him, “But if you’re worried about something stupid like your kids being half-Human and half-Keshiri, I swear, I will beat you until you think your bum is where your head is.”

Mortified of a gentle soul like Allana making such a dire threat, Edaan earnestly promised, “I promise, that is the least of my worries with my kids. I’m more worried about raising them and seeing them grow up.”

Seeing the fear plastered across Edaan’s eyes, Allana realized, “You’re afraid they’ll take the same path as Sidious.”

“It’s so much more than that.” Edaan clarified. Intently glancing away from Allana, he admitted, “I’m scared of seeing them grow up because I don’t know if I can instill in them the same set of virtues and beliefs I was raised under. It was because of those principles that I kept my soul and mind intact when I was so driven with saving Vestara.”

“Yeah, you were really obsessed.” Allana dragged out, smirking at the offended glare Edaan gave her while they both finished washing their arms and each grabbed a rag to dry themselves off. “It’s one of the things that first drew me to you all those years ago.”

A look of horror crossing his face, Edaan resisted the urge to run away, and instead groaned, “Please don’t tell me you have another one of your crushes on me.”

Wistfully shaking her head while amusingly giggling, Allana freely admitted, “No. I moved past that fantasy years ago after you shot me down.” Resuming her lecture, she reminded Edaan, “You’re going to do great as a father. You won’t have to handle raising the twins alone, you’ll have plenty of friends to help you along the way. And if they can wield the Force, then you’ll have the Jedi Order to help them learn how to control their abilities.”

“That’s if they want to be Jedi.” Edaan sternly pointed out. “I don’t want to force them down a path they might not want to follow. And you don’t have to a Jedi to be virtuous or use the Force for the defense of life. Your mother is proof of that belief.”

“Yes, that she is.” Allana nostalgically said. Seeing the worried gleam in her eyes, she admitted, “I’m worried that she’s going to have me take on more responsibilities in leading the Consortium soon. She can’t keep the nobles and Duchas off me forever.”

“But that’s not what you want.” Edaan knowingly stated, earning a silent shake of the head from Allana.

Edaan didn’t have to venture a guess about her worries, Allana told him all about this many times when they were growing up on Shedu Maad, how her mother wanted her to find her own way in the galaxy but recognized the bitter necessity of politics and duty to one’s people over personal wants. In between her studies and missions for the Jedi, she had been mentored by the best tutors and instructors in Hapan society and ambassadorship and was soon expected to take on an official position in the Hapes Consortium as a diplomat of some high role. That public relations nightmare for the Jedi, her people, and the galaxy was not something the Chume’da was looking forward to navigating.

Realizing how blessed he was, but how a dear friend needed help, Edaan offered, “Well, if you ever need a helping hand or a friend to give you a way out every now and then, you know where to find me.”

Feeling many tears threaten to break out, Allana wiped her eyes before she gratefully hugged Edaan, and profusely thanked him, “I’m so glad I found a great brother in you.”

Before Edaan could offer a similar gesture, the ship’s intercom went off, and Iskat’s voice spoke, “All hands, prepare for departure in thirty minutes. We’ll be heading to the rendezvous point where you’ll meet your clients and partners for the duration of your stay here.”

Quickly letting go, Allana let out an anxious breath, “We’d better get ready for the move. I’ll see you later, Edaan.” Briskly walking to her station, Edaan could’ve sworn he saw a blush on her face but chalked it up to embarrassment. He certainly didn’t want to think she still had feelings for him, because he didn’t want to break her heart all over again as they ingratiated themselves with the Olpakan Resolute and whoever would command them throughout this long and brutal war.

Chapter Text

Melona 10^th, 59 ABY

Within the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

Underneath the Planet’s Surface

In the Daritha Cities

What I wouldn’t give to have a pack of Rancor-dragons and an arsenal of heavy artillery to help tear this place down! Tau repulsively thought while he silently choked the life of a Rakata guard that strayed too close to his hiding place. That made it the tenth he killed in the team’s covert infiltration underneath Lehon’s surface, and he was quickly losing his patience at this stealthy approach.

Twelve hours of evading True Sith patrols and navigating the planet’s underground refuge, and Tau wanted nothing more than to annihilate this enclave to so many evils and everyone that dared call it home. If it was possible, he’d bring it down himself, personal risks notwithstanding to himself and his comrades.

The terrible energies and evil echoes of atrocities, new and old, reverberated through the Force, and it took all of Tau’s concentration and Niphal’s shielding to keep his sanity. And there was something else underway here, a call in the Force, one far more insidious, powerful, ancient, and ravenous than any he ever felt before. Somehow, he knew that the True Sith were calling forth an old evil to their cause, and it curdled his blood more than anything he had ever felt before.

But a new surge of energy was emerging, a new sense of valor, hope, and courage that he didn’t previously sense in the area, even as darkness and death still filled all his senses. Somewhere underneath Lehon, someone was rallying the Last Alliance and taking the momentum away from the True Sith and Abeloth, and that made Tau see that the mission now had a chance to succeed.

Before Tau was lost in his tormented mind, Butch, ever the loyal Tuk’ata companion, whined and stared at him with his abnormal blue eyes. And Jaden, who just returned from his latest scouting run alongside Shara and Lona, warned him, “Looks like our armies pulled it off. We’ve got our opening towards the central temple and Abeloth.”

“What about Krayt, Akku, and the Bad Batch?” Tau inquired. Since it was too dangerous for such a large group to travel together, it was decided that the Mandalorians, Clone Force 99, and Darth Krayt would traverse the catacombs through two different routes. “Did your contact know their position?”

“Krayt and Akku’s top men will meet us there.” Jaden began, before motioning for Tau and Butch to follow. After the trio climbed a nearby ladder to the rooftops before quickly moving across rooftops, the veteran Jedi Knight elaborated, “But Hunter and his squad, they hit a bit of a snag and will need the rest of the Mandalorians to help them.”

“What kind of snag did they find?” Tau warily demanded before a series of explosions, their range no more than five miles to the east, could easily be heard.

“The kind where they were diverted to liberate about nine hundred thousand slaves and turning their energies against their former captors.” Jaden simply answered before he leapt down an alley, with Tau and Butch following his lead.

“Why in the Maker’s name would they do that now?!” Tau incredulously whispered. Not that he had a problem with his teammates and commandos freeing all those slaves and diverting the True Sith away from the primary target, but the timing of it all was what had him so flabbergasted.

“Because the Enemy was using them as sacrificial fuel for a ritual to call forth monstrosities to annihilate us all.” Lona grimly answered, holding Tau back while a unit of Rakatan heavy fighters flew by. Once she was certain they were clear, she continued, “Krayt received information from his Celestial spirit guide, and he told him that they were preparing to activate an Infernal Gate.”

His blood running cold and freezing in his tracks, Tau remembered the Infernal Gates all too well from his studies and Niphal’s knowledge. Portals to Dark Illathurion, the realm where the Father of Shadows and his fellow fallen were trapped, they had, throughout history, released countless horrors of limitless malevolence across thousands of worlds. While most had been destroyed, a few had inevitably escaped their end and remained dormant for millennia.

But most recently, the True Sith had tried to activate an old gate buried on Coruscant, underneath the Jedi Temple that stood for five thousand years in the Shrine of the Depths that remained hidden from all. It was only through the quick thinking and decisive action of the Galactic Alliance and its allied Force orders that this disaster didn’t result in an apocalypse for the world. But if the Rakata and their masters had one at their disposal and could fully activate it, then the Last Alliance wouldn’t stand a chance.

Tau, now understanding the danger before everyone, asked Shara, “Can we get a message to our forces in orbit? They need to know and do everything they can to stop this ritual, even if it costs us all our lives.”

“Tech already took care of that.” Shara answered clutching her head once again from the dark side’s agonizing shockwaves pulsing throughout the area. A Mandalorian warrior that had a tenuous connection to the Force, she was especially vulnerable to the dark side and its insidious pulses coursing throughout the underground refuge. It was only through her friends’ shielding her from the worst of its influence. But before either Jedi or Tuk’ata hound could say or do anything else, everyone heard an unholy roar echo from the north.

From that position, it had to be from the centermost temple, a terrifying and refurbished ziggurat that was guarded by hundreds of soldiers and an untold number of Sorcerers of Rhand and their allied Force orders. And, judging by the dozens of shrieks and thunderous roars that were coming from the heart of the Daritha Cities, the Infernal Gate was already starting to open.

Recognizing the time to act had come, and that subtlety was no longer prudent, Tau grimly advised his teammates, “We need to get moving, try to meet up with Krayt and Akku before we attack the main temple. And let’s see if we can get some others to come with us when we make our mad run against Abeloth and her masters.”

Moving in the open now, cutting down any enemy that tried to stop them, everyone began to carve a path straight through the True Sith’s followers towards their center of power. But as they came within sight of the tallest temple, Tau felt the malevolence and pestilential force of another power appear again. And this time, it was far stronger and virulent than before, and it made his very spirit quiver, for he recognized it for who it was from Niphal’s memories and frightened spirit.

The True Sith were calling forth the Cancer God, the one Bedlam Spirit that not even Tilotny could control and banished him into the deepest recesses of the Unknown Regions just after his birth, where he was contained except for the rare instance of summoning small bits of his being to devour all in his path. The reasons for their summoning, Tau couldn’t fathom, but they had to be stopped before it was complete, or all would be lost for everyone on this fallen world, never mind the rest of the galaxy if hecould once again spread.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Karbin System

Aboard the Lucky Striker

Wedge could hardly believe the sight unfolding, even as he had been involved in wars that currently surpassed this one in terms of brutality. Even as the remaining True Sith forces continued to try to break through the weary Olpakan Hegemony’s lines, now bolstered by many of the Last Alliance’s more eccentric and Force-blind members, their lines would not break. And from the Star Destroyer’s command center, with many officers coordinating the moon’s defense and covert search for their primary target, he had plenty to oversee and ensure everyone remained in tight coordination.

Replenished by the navies of the galaxy’s more independent powers over the last two days, the besieged Olpakan loyalists would soon drive most of the enemy away from Karbin, just in time for the Olpakan Resolute to arrive with their Force users to calm the raging seas. And with the Empire of the Hand also coming to reinforce the Last Alliance and capture or eliminate Darman Skirata and his elite commandos, this battle would soon conclude for a crucial victory for the Free Peoples of Skyriver and the Olpakan Hegemony.

Utilizing starfighters vastly resembling the Vulture Droids and Tri-Fighters that hallmarked the Confederacy of Independent Systems’ droid armies, alongside stronger craft approximating that of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Olpakans’ incredible weapons could finish turning this battle’s tide. Bearing weapons far superior and stronger to their original designs, and far more agile than the True Sith’s ships, they were slowly driven back until the final twenty warships were all but ready to withdraw, aside from their flagship and another ten capital vessels that wouldn’t retreat or surrender.

Wedge only hoped they could catch the Olpakan commander and his soldiers unaware, because Darman and his Clone Commandos had proved especially vicious against their shared adversaries with their legendary lethality in battle. And now, near the end of this bitter brawl, the carnage already littering the system with the wreckage of hundreds of ships of varied sizes and configurations, the Hegemony unleashed the remainder of their starfighters against the Nihil Retreat’s Sorcerers and their followers.

Having long prepared for war against the Force and Skyriver’s free powers, practicing on neighboring worlds and smaller nations to perfect their war doctrine, the Olpakan Hegemony had developed quite an active and innovative set of minds to supplement their conventional soldiers. By learning from their enemies and refining the droid armies the known worlds had utilized over the many millennia with superior technology left over from the long-lost mechanical planet of Iokath, they built a mechanical army with numbers and diversity that had not been seen since the Clone War.

And seeing the savagery and proficiency the mainstream Olpakans inflicted carnage on their enemies, Wedge wondered whether they weren’t prepared for his deception and had countermeasures in place. Just as strongly, he contemplated if the Resolute could or would uphold their agreement if they regained power.

In return for ending its bigoted practices and experiments on Force Users, its plans for galactic domination, and turning over its war criminals to a joint tribunal after the current wars ended, the Olpakans, once the Hegemony fell, would join the Last Alliance’s efforts against the Nihil Retreat. And after the war ended and the Celestial abomination and True Sith Empire were destroyed, the Olpakan Republic would be integrated into the galaxy as one of its member states, just as the Rakatan Archipelago would, with enough oversight to ensure the terms of both their agreements were upheld.

Of course, all this hinged on being able to defeat the mainstream Olpakan society and force its leadership to capitulate and surrender its most brilliant, dangerous, and depraved minds. And to accomplish this, they needed to finish their rescue mission while they still had the chance. But all this hinged on the Resolute’s spies locating and rendering the mobile prisons holding the Esh-Kha vulnerable to liberation, and they had yet to deliver.

“General.” The Lucky Striker’s XO informed Wedge. “Director Antilles ordered me to deliver this eyes-only message to you, marked with the highest priority.” Quickly handing him a piece of coded flimsi, the officer crisply saluted him before she returned to her duties.

Reading his wife’s confidential message, Wedge felt the knot in his gut severely tighten at these dual revelations. If the Olpakan Resolute’s intelligence was accurate and Iella deciphered it correctly, then they had spies in Karbin’s garrisons and located the Esh-Kha and the Hegemony’s key political prisoners.

According to the report, the prisoners were evacuated to the same prison where the carbonite slabs of Cylo-V’s experiments were being held, and the agents were in place to shut down its defenses and force it to the surface for exposure. If the Chiss and Resolute arrived on schedule and moved quickly enough, then they could send their commandos and capture the facility before Darman was any wiser. But that was only the good news.

The bad news that Iella reported was that Cylo-V and his fleet were on their way here and were expected to arrive by the day’s end. At best estimates, that gave Wedge and his fleet just fourteen hours to rescue the prisoners and escape before the Hegemony turned its wrath against the Last Alliance if they went through with the original plan. And they still had to finish driving back or destroying the True Sith forces that remained to continue endangering the Karbin System.

Wedge weighed the options in his mind, estimating the risks and losses the Last Alliance would suffer if they fought both the Olpakan Hegemony and True Sith. Many of his ships were damaged and were running low on ammunition or energy, necessitating their imminent retreat to avoid destruction. And without reinforcements, he wouldn’t be able to hold off Darman’s fleet for more than a few hours before Cylo-V arrived to complete the massacre. Even with the Resolute and Chiss bolstering their weary numbers, they would still be at risk of total annihilation.

He was prepared to cut his losses, though it galled him to leave those poor souls in Olpakan custody, before the Lucky Striker’s comm officer reported, “We’re receiving a transmission from a ship identifying itself as the Faithful, and the commanding officer is requesting to speak with you at once.”

The Faithful, that was Commander Cain Arla of the Olpakan Resolute, and she was part of the cavalry inbound for here. For what she was calling Wedge for, he couldn’t guess, but he only hoped she was about to arrive here to help turn the tide of battle before he retreated.

“Open a one-line transmission with the Faithful using my personal channel.” Wedge ordered before the hologram of a Garwian woman appeared, one in full military uniform and wearing a grim expression. “For all our sakes, you’d better have good news for us, Commander.”

“Indeed, I do, General.” Cain jovially acknowledged. “I was able to convince a flotilla’s worth of reinforcements from my fellow Resolute to help us. An old friend and superior of mine who finished his own mission early, and he will give us an edge against Darman’s battalion. And Admiral Parck will arrive not ten minutes after me, by his estimates.”

Renewed hope surging through him, Wedge swiftly pressed, “How long until your people can begin your attack on the True Sith and Hegemony?”

“We’ll be exiting hyperspace in less than fifteen minutes.” Cain eagerly answered. “I expect our enemies to be aware of our approach any second now, so we’ll have to move fast in capturing the moon’s prisons before Cylo arrives.”

Nodding, his doubts and previous decision vanishing like a puff of smoke, Wedge resolutely agreed, “Contact your agents on Karbin and have them ready to move out the second you arrive. I’ll have my fleet in position to turn on Darman’s when we finish driving the True Sith out of here.”

Deep Space, Within the Tempered Wastes

Aboard the Hapan Battle Dragon Amelia

ThuruhtThul, the Joiner that was once Raynar Thul, felt the miasma of death and carnage permeate the vast void of space that surrounded Lehon. But how he felt it was not simply through the Force, but through his bond to his fellow Jedi, Killiks, and the latter’s hive mind and the tens of thousands of the insectoids that now fought as part of the Last Alliance.

Throughout the twenty ships the Killiks now commanded, loaned to them by the many jedi-sympathetic factions, they also wielded hundreds of small, needle-like Dart Fighters that they used to raid dozens of enemy facilities and warships in the sector. And this fourth raid, on the verge of a complete success, with two of the True Sith Empire’s orbital shipyards demolished, three relay stations obliterated, and ten supply convoys and their escorts destroyed.

All that remained of the Rhandites’ forces were a dozen of their warships, most no larger than a Star Destroyer, but one twice the size and with triple the firepower. It was these ships, the smaller ones resembling a twisted and demonic version of a chapel but the last shaped like a red diamond gem, that were protecting the last few of their foundries. But they couldn’t hold out much longer, not with the vast array of enemies arrayed against them.

The Last Alliance, with its more maneuverable and numerous ships, were inflicting increasing damage on the True Sith ships. After two hours of attrition and surgical strikes, they were close to eradicating three of the cathedral vessels, and another two were disabled. And then, ThuruhtThul would direct the Killiks alongside his friends, old and new, towards their next target until the time came to attack Lehon head on.

Hearing a Killik Seer approach ThuruhtThul, she communicated with the Joiner Counselor of the Killiks, urgency in her voice as she quickly spoke to her leader. And the ominous tidings she gave, they sent jolts of terror across every corner of his being.

Rubbing the drone’s head in appreciation of the warnings, ThuruhtThul used his connection to the Killiks to open a fleet-wide communication with the rest of the Last Alliance forces in the sector. And the Human Joiner quickly observed as the One Sith, Jedi, Aquilian, Lira San, Chiss, and independent-minded strike force leaders joined this impromptu meeting.

ThuruhtThul, not wasting any time on preamble, warned them, “Matters are escalating on Lehon at a rate we did not foresee. We must break off our raids and launch a preemptive strike against Abeloth and the True Sith that protect her.”

“What do you mean, Thul?” Garazeb Orellios, leader of the Lira San Expeditionary Naval Force and veteran of the First Galactic Civil War, skeptically questioned. “I thought our main force-”

“They are unprepared for what our enemies are summoning forth to destroy Tau and Darth Krayt.” ThuruhtThul interjected. “The Grysk Rhandite who commands the Bringer of Chaos, he is calling forth horrors that they cannot fight off on their own. Monstrosities that Bogan and his kin spawned forth and will be empowered by the deaths of millions across Lehon. And even worse evils will be summoned if we do not stop them.”

A Killik drone, relaying a warning to ThuruhtThul, opened another communications link with Kral Nevil. And the second the Quarren’s signal came through, the vice admiral warned the assembled leadership, “Things have taken a turn for the worse beneath Lehon. We need everyone here to stop the insanity and evil ongoing across the world.”

“How bad is it?” Sidon gravely asked, sparing ThuruhtThul an acknowledging glance. 

“As bad as Coruscant when Abeloth and the Lost Tribe ruled over it, maybe worse.” Kral began before the holoprojector shifted to an underground city, one of architecture none recognized. “Our advance team reports that Lehon’s catacombs are filled to the brim with foundries and temples the True Sith are using to build their armies and are home to nearly one million slaves. Slaves that they’re sacrificing them by the thousands to call forth creatures we’ve never seen before but are more lethal than anything we’ve ever seen before.”

The holoimages of dozens of esoteric predators filtering through, many an even darker version of Korriban’s predators like the Tuk’ata hounds, avian Shyrack predators, land-bound Hssiss dragons, giant worm-like K’lor’slugs, and even hulking and multi-spiked Terentateks, each scared the Last Alliance commanders on some level. But ThuruhtThul, with his connection to the Killiks and their deep memory of the Three Cosmic Wars, the monstrosities absolutely horrified and terrified him, for he knew how lethal and evil they were better than any living memory could.

ThuruhtThul quickly interjected, speaking with terrible urgency, “We must go to Lehon immediately and stop this atrocity. The evils they are summoning forth, they cannot be allowed to prosper and proliferate, and we must give Tau and Krayt the opportunity to destroy Abeloth.”

“They’re way ahead of you on that one, Master Jedi.” Kral answered. “Clone Force 99 has already orchestrated a slave uprising along with most of the advance teams. They’re keeping the True Sith busy while Jaden helps our dynamic duo find and eliminate their target. I’ve already sent word to High Command and given them my input, but we need to get there immediately before this gets any worse.”

No one protested the new orders, which gave ThuruhtThul a quiet sense of relief that they recognized the significance of this danger, even if they didn’t fully comprehend the implications of this summoning. The murder of nearly one million slaves, it would summon far worse than more lethal versions of the Stygian Sith’s war beasts.

If ThuruhtThul was right, if the Killiks’ memory wasn’t faulty and they remembered the threat the Cancer God represented to the galaxy, then the True Sith had to be stopped before they could call forth Mnggal-Mnggal. And whether that meant freeing the slaves and destroying all their enemies, or obliterating Lehon with a long and dreadful orbital bombardment, those options might be the only the Last Alliance had to play.

As Abeloth’s last surviving sibling, a parasitical and relentless mass of malevolence, Mnggal-Mnggal was a monster no one could effectively combat without mass destruction. And no one would chance a return of the monstrosity that devoured many worlds and spawned many diseases across his millennia of existence.

ThuruhtThul informed Kral, “Then we will start to break off from our current battle and make our way towards Lehon at once.” Allowing himself a wry grin, he promised, “I’m confident these next few days will not be ones of victory for the True Sith or their false gods.”

“I wish I shared your confidence, Jedi Thul.” Kral fretted while the Amelia’s current occupants worked to prepare the ship for an emergency hyperspace jump.

Within the Croke Reach

Near the Explume Minor System

Aboard the Dodonna

“Multiple warships reverting about five thousand klicks to starboard, Ma’am. Looks like three fleets of Olpakan bogeys inbound.” A sensor officer warned Kara, who acknowledged the man’s warning with a crisp nod.

The vice admiral, mentally going through her strategy one final time, uttered a silent prayer to the Supreme Maker that the plan succeeded. Having warned High Admiral Gaia on Daala’s imminent arrival, Julius agreed to Kara’s plan in going ahead to the Crakull System to divert the True Sith’s attention. A terrible risk, but he recognized the cover story it would provide when she told the Olpakans how they were prepared to attack from two fronts.

Upon seeing the Sir Trilag, its two sister ships which Rampart and Tonith likely commanded under Daala’s authority, and their respective forces debarking hyperspace to set up for an attack, Kara ordered her comm officers, “Patch me through to the lead Resurgent destroyer. Order all ships not to attack unless we’re fired upon first.”

Not having to wait more than thirty seconds before the smug face of Natasi Daala appeared in the command center, followed by the Human vice admiral Edmond Rampart, and the Muun admiral Reep Tonith II, and she quickly got to the point. “Vice Admiral Kara of the Galactic Alliance. How good to finally meet you after hearing so much from your former patron in Raze. I am ordering you and your fleet to surrender immediately and transmit all intelligence you have on the Croke Reach and the True Sith’s operations underway within that region of space.”

Feigning relief, Kara stated, “I must admit, I’m relieved to see that you’re not here to slaughter everyone in your path, Admiral Daala.” Continuing before she lost her nerve, she admitted, “We’ve run into a bit of a snag in investigating the region ourselves and could use your impressive firepower and iron resolve.”

“Spare us your long winded pleas, Kara.” Rampart dismissed. “We know all about Jedi Kyp Durron’s scout flight and the True Sith’s forces massing in the Crakull System. And we will deal with them once we’ve guaranteed your forces’ surrender and that of the Aquilians.”

“If you all know the situation, then perhaps we can reach a compromise.” Kara boldly proposed. “If you waste your time fighting us, both our forces will be depleted and vulnerable to the True Sith when they locate and destroy Master Durron’s fighters.”

“But, if we can join forces to destroy the True Sith there, then I would be in your debt.” Kara saw the doubt and skepticism cross everyone’s eyes, and she continued, “If Master Durron, his flight, and the Aquilians’ force were lost in the chaos of battle, but we offset that by depriving the Nihil Retreat of the Crakull Mages and their giant reinforcements, then I might be in a better position to further help your fight across the rest of the Unknown Regions.”

“You’d betray the Last Alliance and Galactic Alliance so easily?” Reep doubted. “How do you expect us to be so gullible that we should simply take you at your word?”

“I am not betraying either, Tonith.” Kara heatedly stated. “My loyalty to my government and patrons is absolute. It was because of Admiral Bwua’tu that I was given a chance to atone for my crimes and turn my life around.” She saw Daala’s eyes softening a little at her old love’s mention and was sure she was getting through to the hateful warlord.

“I’m simply doing what I believe is right for the galaxy, and to ensure a lasting order, we need to excise ourselves off the Force orders that have dragged us into countless wars since the dawn of time.” Kara clarified. “And if that means I have to make a few painful compromises where others won’t, then so be it.”

Daala, breaking the brief proverbial ice, reminded Kara, “Let’s say, just for the sake of argument, that I choose to accept your offer, and that it’s the genuine article. How do you propose you can maintain your cover amidst the traitors in the Hegemony’s own ranks?”

“Making sure the Resolute and their collaborators don’t uncover Master Durron’s capture, that will be something I entrust to you, Admiral Daala.” Kara answered. “I will alter the records to ensure that no one suspects me in this act.”

“If you can accomplish all that, then the Olpakan Hegemony will be in deep debt to you, Vice Admiral Kara.” Daala acknowledged. “How quickly can you convince your fleet to fall in under my authority?”

“That proposal, I’m afraid, is unacceptable.” Kara ardently refused before she uttered a counterproposal, “My people are all aware of your forces’ extreme actions across your borders and your experiments against Force users in the known galaxy, and they will never fall under your command. The only way this can work is if we each lead our own forces in a unified front to destroy our shared enemies.”

Daala, appraising Kara to see if she can catch any lies or doubts in the vice admiral, slowly nods, “Agreed.” Adding as an afterthought, she suggested, “One last item to discuss. If you can provide me with a copy of your fellow commanders’ progress on Zonama Sekot and the Rakatan Archipelago when you return to Nirauan, then my people would be most grateful.”

“I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.” Kara cordially smiled before she signed off the transmission, and upon being sure she couldn’t be heard, hatefully muttered, “You arrogant and insane schutta.”

Using her cranial implants, she quickly composed her messages to her Olpakan Resolute contact and Julius, letting them both know how Daala took the bait and was prepared to cooperate with her in destroying all True Sith forces they found and devastating their allied worlds. But she wouldn’t send the message until her fleet was in hyperspace, to minimize the risk of the enemy intercepting it.

If Daala was willing to take such a dangerous chance on such a new element, then surely, she and the Olpakan Hegemony had to be more desperate or senile than everyone currently thought. Well, either that, or they had a master plan to manipulate both into destroying each other and they ruled over the masses. But Kara had to take the chance to save her comrades and deliver a strong blow against the True Sith.

She only hoped this opportunity didn’t backfire on the Last Alliance or get all those under her command killed, and that her contact came through with the reinforcements they promised.

Within Wild Space

On Nirauan

Within the Hand of Thrawn Military Headquarters

It was one excruciating report after another for the Last Alliance’s leaders. Kyle Katarn and Vurawn, learning about the dire crises escalating across Lehon and the Croke Reach, were under such stress that it would give any lesser commander a panic attack or complete mental collapse. As they received one briefing and warning after another from their aides and direct subordinates in the Hand of Thrawn’s central tower, secure in the mountain that the military base was built into, Darth Irola saw how so many could follow the Jedi and Chiss, even if she doubted the validity of their beliefs. 

To effectively handle the burden of leadership on a galactic scale, it was a gift few people were given, and it was one Darth Irola recognized all too well, even as a righteous fury threatened to overtake her, no matter what her fellow Sith said or implied through their stern gazes. And Darths Snoke and Invidious were giving her all the indications of their worry for everything that was going through their peer’s mind.

Irola, formerly Elscol Loro of the New Republic’s Rogue Squadron and later insurgency leader, heard how the True Sith, specifically Tor Valum and Abeloth, were slaughtering slaves all over Lehon, and it ignited a fire in her that she thought long died out. She never supported the institution of slavery, for it deprived people of their dignity and denied them the chance to reach their full potential, and that sentiment carried into her allegiance to the One Sith. It may not have endeared her to many of Lord Krayt’s disciples, but many of his proxies and rank and file soldiers supported her beliefs, and that was enough to keep her going in her lowest moments.

Already, the Tempered Wastes diversionary forces were regrouping and rallying alongside Vice Admiral Nevil and his fleet. And they were preparing to unleash a blistering orbital bombardment across Lehon, risking everything on the safe bet, even if it would only result in more deaths than it was worth the act. Irola could tell that the decision weighed heavily on Kyle and Vurawn, but they carried it out with utmost speed and diligence. They only worried if Tau, Krayt, and their team made it out and completed their mission before their chance was lost.

And this didn’t account for the Croke Reach and the massive force amassing against the Last Alliance. A fleet of fifty True Sith warships, cruisers, and cargo ships meant to ferry the diminutive Crakull Mages across the Nihil Retreat, with six summa-verminoths, twenty Abominor, and dozens of Exogorths and Kindred of Ooradryl, they were all hunting for Kyp Durron and his flight before unleashing their wrath on the galaxy. Kyle was prepared to lead an armada to back up Vice Admiral Kara’s fleet and rescue his friend, a sentiment Irola admired, even amongst her order’s most notorious and well-known enemies.

But that was an issue Irola didn’t concern herself with, for she had a different set of priorities on her mind. Interrupting the strategic meeting between the two Triumvirs and her fellow Sith, she boldly stated, “My fleet is fully fueled, and all my troops are armed for battle. We can go to Lehon and lead the charge to rescue the slaves being held in the world’s catacombs.”

Momentarily stunned by the proposal’s initiative, Kyle recomposed himself and found his voice to say, “A generous offer, Lady Irola. May I ask what brought this sudden shift in strategy for you?”

Crudely smiling, Irola snidely snarked, “If you Jedi aren’t going to try and rescue all those slaves, I guess the One Sith will have to pick up your slack.” Recomposing her serious glare, she admitted, “I can’t stand slavery, and if I need to risk myself to save those people, never mind give Lord Krayt and our wayward Iteration a clear shot at destroying Abeloth, then so be it. But I will be going, no matter what you say or try to do to stop me.”

Gazing at Irola with a new sense of respect, Kyle turned to Vurawn and, after seeing an approving nod from the Chiss prodigy, the Grand Master asked her, “How soon can you and your fleet set out?”

“No more than three hours.” Snoke admitted, letting a rueful smile cross his face before he elaborated, “She always keeps her soldiers and ships ready for combat on a moment’s notice. One of the eccentricities of this old war veteran.”

Before anything else could happen, Vurawn interjected, “We have a message coming through from a man calling himself ‘Legate.’ He claims to have vital information regarding Natasi Daala and her fleets’ movements.”

Silence came over the chamber before Invidious brusquely asked, “What are the exact contents of this supposed message?”

“She’s journeying into the Croke Reach and is cooperating with Vice Admiral Kara in engaging the True Sith forces there.” Vurawn steadily said, even as his voice betrayed a hint of disbelief at the words he spoke. “The transmission contains Kara’s personal signature, and the exact positions and capabilities of Daala’s fleet.”

Gazing up at his peers, Vurawn slowly and gravely stated, “This data came directly from the Olpakan Hegemony’s High Councilor of Commerce’s office. He states that he is collaborating with the Olpakan Resolute to help us dismantle or destroy Daala and her power base. And if we want to seize the chance to take her down, he said we ought to move by the day’s end.”

Irola saw the caution etched into everyone’s faces, the hesitation at trusting a man they knew nothing about. But she also saw how they recognized the opportunity now before them, and urged Kyle, “If you don’t take the chance to destroy Daala now, then the war against the Olpakan Hegemony will only drag on for Force knows how long. And we can’t afford that with the Nihil Retreat encroaching on every front.”

She saw Kyle weighing the options in his mind before he firmly decided, “It’s only a matter of time until we’ll have to deal with Daala. If this is the best chance we’re going to have, well, we need to take it while we can, along with shattering one part of the True Sith’s forces.”

“I will move with a fleet to the Croke Reach.” Kyle told everyone before specifically telling Irola, “You, Darth Irola, will go to Lehon and ensure the rescue of as many slaves and our forces as you can save. And if you find any way to help our main advance team in eliminating Abeloth and her handlers, then take full advantage of the opportunity, no matter what anyone thinks of your wilder tactics.”

Flashing a confident grin, Irola amusingly promised, “I’ll be sure to keep that at the front of my mind as I take the fight to the Enemy and rescue the innocent.”

Chapter Text

Melona 10^th, 59 ABY

In the Unknown Regions

Hyperspace; Away From the Croke Reach

Aboard the Pius Dea Cathedral Warship Eradication

He saw the massive enemy armada storm across the Croke Reach, assaulting the True Sith’s remaining forces from multiple angles and unleashing chaos on their outnumbered positions. And the Jedi, having somehow kept out of everyone’s sight for the last two days, finally emerged from hiding to strike at their enemies with their large supply of shadow bombs. Even more astonishing was how the Galactic Alliance and Olpakan Hegemony, the latter being led by Natasi Daala, and both fleets operating as one cohesive unit while the Aquilians apparently conducted their own war.

Between the four diverse forces striking at the Nihil Retreat’s predators and the True Sith ships, and Daala’s forces preparing all manner of weapons to annihilate the enemy fleet and devastate the Croke Reach, the next couple days would be filled with death for everyone. But much as the Rhandite Sith wanted to help destroy the Father of Shadows’ enemies that dared to storm His servants’ territory, he had a much more important task to tend to.

Drear, a member of the original Sith species and High Sorcerer of Rhand, closed his pale eyes, and used his connection to the Dark to reach out to every mind across his attack force. His sight long gone from his near millennium of service to the True Sith, his body more akin to a skeleton than living being, and skin a flakey and pure black, he felt everyone’s endless appetite and hunger for bloodshed and living flesh.

The ten Abominor, twenty Kindred of Ooradryl, and three summa-verminoths that followed Drear, they were eager to feast on the fallen and expand their masters’ territory, just as the fifteen warships under his command were to destroy the followers of Ashla and their dupes. And accompanied by three cruisers that were filled with hundreds of Crakull Mages, the shapeshifting Croke, they were ready to spread chaos and inflict misery and suffering on all their enemies after centuries of civil war and rebuilding their ranks.

Taking these key disciples and assets away from the Croke Reach before the True Sith Empire’s enemies struck back was only one part of this grand strategy. By the Lich Lords’ decree, Drear was given a vital mission that would demoralize the Last Alliance and Olpakans, both Hegemony and Resolute while undermining them for the coming scourge. He was tasked to strike across what the galaxy’s nonbelievers called the “Unknown Regions”, hitting dozens of targets where opposition was still clinging to life and believed they could halt the end of all things.

A great honor, to be sure, and a mission Drear would undertake with all his skill and devotion. With all his followers and war beasts under his command, the Jedi and false Sith would soon be humbled by the Way of the Dark and those that accepted the galaxy’s inevitable destruction. And if, in the unlikely event the Last Alliance or their foes managed to halt his rampage, well, it was a good thing the High Sorcerer had a way to cheat death and stay in the fight.

But thinking of his first death was likely a long way’s off, and Drear had more important things to deal with. He extended his Dark Sense to observe the battle underway in the Crakull system, and he was impressed with the carnage underway.

Even outnumbered and outgunned, the Jedi were more than proving their skill and worth as enemies by wreaking havoc across the True Sith’s forces. With their shadow bombs and superior skill in their snubfighters, they were able to destroy three of their warships and crippled another five while the Last Alliance deployed ion bombs to render one Abominor helpless by a blistering bombardment that completely obliterated it.

And the Olpakan Hegemony, working in near perfect tandem with the Last Alliance, both GA and Aquilians, unleashed gravity bombs and seismic charges against the True Sith’s living predators, either crushing their organs or making them burst open from the force of impact. They were certainly proving their worth as foes and occasional pawns with their ferocity and better understanding of the fundamental nature of war, unimpeded by any forms of morality or other crippling weaknesses.

But there was another presence fast approaching the battlefield, one that made Drear reel from the overwhelming surge of energetic life growing closer to the Croke Reach. When he tried to use Dark Sense to see just who was coming, he was blinded by the light that emanated from the individual. The power of this individual was so strong, it nearly knocked him off his frail feet and cracked his already fragile spine. All he could tell of this mysterious being was that it was more powerful than any other enemy he faced before, that they were shielding everyone that was accompanying them towards the battlefield, and how they were determined to stop the True Sith from completing their grand design.

Drear already warned the Sorcerer in charge of protecting the Croke Reach of this new and currently unknown enemy, and he was confident in his friend’s ability to counter this new arrival. Much as he wanted to be there to help destroy all those that flew to the slaughter, he had his own mission to complete, and it was equally important to the True Sith’s designs. And with nearly one hundred targets to choose from in annihilating in this month alone, he had to decide which one was the most valuable to the enemy to destroy or capture first.

All in all, it was a good time for Drear and his fellow Rhandites to be alive before the end came for all the nonbelievers that had long polluted this broken galaxy.

In the Tempered Wastes

In Orbit Above Lehon/Rakata Prime

Aboard the Cal Omas

Kral felt a mix of relief and apprehension course through him at seeing his reinforcements arrive, and the latter sensation wasn’t from them abandoning their battlefields to help secure Lehon. No, his worries came from the fear that they wouldn’t make it in time to save everyone trapped underground.

Even as the Last Alliance’s strike teams and fleets rallied and regrouped to drive back the True Sith, Kral knew the situation was far worse than most believed. From the reports streaming in from the planet, almost all the enemy’s surface installations were destroyed. Aside from a few salvage yards and troop garrisons, the remaining forges and enemy forces stationed in the planet’s catacombs. And the most important facility still standing and the coalition’s primary target was the Temple of the Ancients, one of the few buildings to avoid deliberate destruction.

The Rakatan temple, rebuilt untold decades or centuries ago after Darth Bane caused its collapse, it was not only a garrison for the True Sith and their thralls, but served as the primary entrance to Lehon’s underground cities. This sanctum was the most important site on the planet, for it was the only way the Last Alliance could still storm the Daritha Cities. And already, One Sith, Jedi, Aquilian, Lira San, Killiks, and Chiss commandos and independent volunteers landed near the Temple of the Ancients, ready to capture it and send everyone they could spare to reinforce their teams already engaging Abeloth and her masters.

Tau, Krayt, Jaden, Akku, and Clone Force 99 couldn’t possibly hope to destroy the Bringer of Chaos and those that controlled her on their own, and they especially couldn’t save the near-million slaves still alive with a fraction of that number of soldiers and battle droids under their command. But even with the fifty thousand soldiers and starfighter cover streaming towards the Temple of the Ancients, the odds were still heavily arrayed against the Last Alliance.

Interrupting his observations and relaying orders to his subordinates, the Cal Omas’s XO handed Kral a datapad, “An urgent message from ThuruhtThul and his Killiks. Looks like they’re starting to come through for us.”

Taking the data pad from the officer, Kral quickly read the message’s contents before he stopped at the map the Joiner Counselor provided of Lehon’s islands. Attached in addendum to the transmission were a dozen locations marked red on the digital map, with notes added that he couldn’t believe on his own.

If the Jedi’s insectoid allies were correct in their information, then they found enough locations to deploy at least ten thousand Last Alliance soldiers into the planet’s catacombs in under an hour, and all the hidden passageways were still standing. The Killiks and their Joiners even listed the instructions for what to do in unlocking the secret entrances, a tremendous boon that Kral needed to verify to ensure this wasn’t part of an elaborate True Sith trap.

Another transmission came through on Kral’s datapad, this one using a code he didn’t recognize, but had the image of a silver-gray skull, the signature emblem of the Bad Batch. Cautiously opening the message, he saw the hastily compiled message Tech wrote, and every word frightened the Quarren and dug a pit of terror a little bit deeper into his soul.

If Tech and his findings were accurate, then the data he pilfered from the Rakatan databanks uncovered a self-destruct mechanism and enough explosives in the Temple of the Ancients to scorch half a small island. And it was already armed and keyed to detonate when the sanctum’s catacombs were breached by anyone!

Biting back his bile and the urge to vomit from these horrific revelations, Kral, hastily putting a new plan together, sternly ordered his officers, “Get me in contact with every fleet commander and squad leader. I have a new set of orders for all our ground forces.”

Kral knew the Last Alliance forces already in the Daritha Cities were desperately fighting for their lives and barely holding back the True Sith from flooding the world. And he regretted having to put them in greater danger, but it was necessary to fool them to give ThuruhtThul and everyone else assigned to this mission a chance to circumvent the enemy.

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

In the Planet’s Catacombs

Within the Daritha Cities

As Jaden methodically and economically dealt with every enemy that tried to impede his team’s progress, he took every spare moment to note Tau and Krayt’s vastly different fighting styles. Having linked back up with the One Sith’s Dread Lord on their way to the main underground temple, the veteran Jedi Knight recognized how the inheritors of Niphal and Eipha’s power complemented each other and made sure to compensate for their weaknesses.

Krayt was a one-man legion of Sith, using his exceptional skill with two lightsaber blades and the Force to annihilate anyone that interfered, often enhancing his blows with lightning or telekinetic bursts to slaughter several enemies at once. It was clear to Jaden how the Sith Lord had vast experience in dispatching his opponents with severe lethality and dexterity. And to the well-traveled Jedi Knight, he recognized the foundations of his current ally’s technique from the Jedi Arts. Who was this man who led the One Sith and waged a shadow war against the free galaxy for years before he was forced to ally with his religion’s ancient enemies?

On the other hand, Tau Palpatine was the opposite of Krayt, even if his disgust for this underground remnant of Rakatan civilization was apparent for all to see. Using his energies to incapacitate most of the Rakata and True Sith soldiers while he quickly killed the leaders, he radiated a fluid grace in his movements, economically executing every act to his advantage.

And Butch, Tau’s Tuk’ata hound that befriended Tau under such unique circumstances, served as the Jedi clone’s rearguard to protect him from any attacks in his blind spots. And the Sith beast feasted on the flesh of many fallen to sate his hunger, all while the strike force closed in on their target and all those that shielded Abeloth from a well-deserved end. But destroying the Bringer of Chaos was no longer their only objective now.

Bolstered by twenty YVH droids, 11-4D’s diverse skill sets, Akku Seii II and his elite company of Mandalorian Supercommandos, , twenty Jedi, and fifteen Sith, the team had already destroyed many of the eldritch hounds the planet’s Infernal Gate had summoned as they cleared the entrance for the Daritha Temples. And Jaden had never seen monstrosities like these before, with dark pustules and oozing black mist from their pores that seeped darkness wherever they went. Still, he somehow recognized how these evils were only on the lowest tier of the pyramid, and the true horrors were still being kept inside. And that was where the Last Alliance had to enter and demolish before whatever demonic entity the True Sith were calling forth could materialize.

Taking a moment to catch his breath and assess their situation, Jaden wearily warned Tau and Krayt, “We’ll need more troops, Jedi, and Sith if we want to have a chance of finishing the job.”

“Unfortunately, Jedi Korr, most of our forces are preoccupied in freeing slaves and keeping the enemy off our backs. Until our ground forces can find a way to reach us, we’re effectively on our own.”

“We won’t have to wait long.” Tau answered, using this reprieve to apply a bacta salve to a deep cut on his side. “I sense ThuruhtThul and all our friends above the world, and they’re coming right for us. All we need to do now is make sure Abeloth doesn’t escape before we make the final attack.” His exhausted and relived face contradicting his worry, he asked Jaden, “Do you still have it?”

Jaden, knowing what Tau spoke about, pulled out an empty handle, seconds before a green blade materialized out of thin air where the weapon ought to be. That dagger, taken by Eipha from the Charnel Worlds and kept secure with the Ones for millennia, it was the one armament that permanently could kill any being, and it was the Last Alliance’s hope it would do the same when they faced Abeloth.

Relieved that the Dagger of Mortis remained on Jaden’s person, Tau tensed up, a palpable fear enveloping him as an overwhelming darkness quickly approached everyone. Krayt, keeping a careful vigil on the Daritha Temples, gravely warned his teammates, “They’re coming.”

Before either Jedi or One Sith droid could ask who, a dark burst of energy emerged from the temple’s formerly barred entrance, nearly blinding the three fighters and short-circuiting the droids. Once their sight fully came back, everyone nearly trembled at seeing who now stood before them.

Standing at the top of the hundred steps, with an aged Grysk male standing close by, was Abeloth in the body of an elderly male Chiss. The individual she inhabited was unrecognizable to all, but they could never forget the sheer malevolence and power she wielded, never mind the silver pinpricks of light that filled her eyes. Coming up behind them were about twenty-five more individuals, seven of them being Rakata, another eight being members of the Sith species, nine others an even mix of Sephi, Noghri, or Humans. But the final and most surprising member of the True Sith’s reinforcements was a female Kushiban. And surrounding the twenty-seven servants of chaos were many True Sith predators, all resembling either K’lor’slugs or Shyracks, that all waited to strike at their masters’ command.

Abeloth glared at the enemy with an unreadable gaze, but Tau could’ve sworn he saw hints of broken longing and bitter sorrow in her mad and angry eyes. Well, if whatever was going through the entity’s mind left her vulnerable to a fatal blow, then all the better for the Last Alliance. But the Grysk accompanying her, a fallen member of the near-extinct Zeffo race, was another matter entirely. Within his red eyes and posture were no doubts, no reluctance or weaknesses. And the twenty-five followers that guarded them were another gargantuan obstacle to overcome or die killing as many of them as possible.

This was the man who had bound Abeloth and her guardians to the True Sith’s mission, and he would be more dangerous than the Bringer of Chaos in this fight. And Krayt, daring to speak first without any fear, loudly addressed the Grysk, “You are the one that is controlling the Bringer of Chaos. Tor Valum, I presume.”

Amusingly smirking, Tor blithely remarked, “And you and your comrades are the fools who think you can stop our gods’ return. A’Sharad Hett, Tau Palpatine, Jaden Korr, Akku Seii II, Shara and Lona Vos, and 11-4D, yes?”

A’Sharad Hett! That was a name that Jaden recognized all too well from his studies of Jedi and Old Republic history, but it was one he never thought to hear of as a man who still lived! And judging by the stiff posture of both Krayt and 11-4D, Tor’s declaration was the genuine article.

A myriad of questions threatened to burst through his mind, but Jaden remembered the dire situation and retained his focus on the imminent battle. He determinedly stated, “Your mind games aren’t going to work on us. We’re all too smart for that.”

And Tau, to his credit, resolutely declared, “Tell your masters this. All your armies will soon fall, and your leaders will face justice for all your crimes against life and freedom. Whether you surrender now or keep fighting, we will ensure your plans fail.” Hearing a distant rumble come above the ceiling, he knowingly smirked, “Already, our forces are coming for you and will stop at nothing until your evil is eradicated. And before this day ends, we will ensure all your deaths and the liberation of all those you sought to sacrifice.”

Haughtily laughing, Tor corrected Tau, “Actually, that will be your forces walking into our trap. The Temple of the Ancients, the one remaining entrance that leads down here, has been consumed by fire and taken thousands of your followers into the entropic release of death.”

Jaden didn’t let any emotion show on his face, but his soul reeled at the declaration. In this city, seeped with the dark side and nearly deafened his senses, it was impossible to tell whether the Grysk was lying. But he did not have any time to contemplate this dire news. Fed up with all the talking, the True Sith’s beasts launched themselves against the Last Alliance, beginning the fateful battle between such unlikely allies and adversaries.

But while Tau and Krayt prepared to go after Abeloth, Tor targeted Jaden, eager to seize the Mortis Dagger and ensure no one could take away the True Sith’s most valuable pawn. No one, not the well-traveled Jedi and the One Sith’s most proficient medic and interrogator that sought to protect the exhausted Human maverick, would stop him from achieving victory today.

Well, if this Grysk sorcerer wanted to take the weapon from him, the Jedi Knight was going to make him pry it out of his cold, dead hands. And with Akku and several of his Mandalorians moving to defend him, he felt reassured that he wouldn’t have to fight this battle alone.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Karbin System

Aboard the Resurgent-class Destroyer Etain’s Vengeance

Darman was sure the Last Alliance had planned a double-cross after the True Sith were dealt with, and he wasn’t disappointed with their betrayal. Barely an hour after the Nihil Retreat fleet finished withdrawing from this battle, General Antilles and his reinforcements turned their firepower against the Olpakan Hegemony. And throughout the last five hours, they had kept his people from securing their territory with their evasive maneuvers and guerilla tactics, leaving his core force undermanned to strike at the enemy commanders and their escort ships.

When the Chiss and the Olpakans’ traitors arrived, he knew they were preparing to move on the system’s main garrison and try to steal the convicts the Hegemony spent years hiding from prying eyes. And he quickly sent a secure warning to both Cylo-V and the Baylor Base for good measure so they could effectively prepare for betrayal. But what most surprised Darman wasn’t the enemy’s speed in striking at his attack squadron, but how well they outplayed him with their collaborators in the underwater prison.

It took Darman and his forces three hours to learn that the Resolute, those cowardly and superstitious traitors to the Olpakans’ cause, had seeded spies and saboteurs throughout the system, and a dozen managed to infiltrate the prison’s staff. It was those conspirators that severed all communications from Baylor Base to the outside and gave the Last Alliance time to deploy their commandos to invade the facility. And with the True Sith’s storms still raging across the planet, the underwater fortress was forced to surface and berth at a nearby port, where it was overrun by their numerically superior foes.

With their greater numbers and still undoing the damage the spies inflicted, the Olpakan Hegemony’s defenders were either quickly killed or taken prisoner, while the seditionists were set free. Even worse, the Resolute and their outsider masters were taking every shuttle and ship in the area to ferry the Esh-Kha that were being held there in carbonite. Approximately eight thousand people total, five thousand actual convicts and the rest of Cylo-V's test subjects, were about to be stolen from right under Darman’s command, and he couldn’t do anything to stop them.

The fury threatened to overtake Darman, to make him lash out at anyone or anything within range, that he almost ignored the message appearing in his helmet’s Head-Up-Display. Apparently, Cylo-V and his fleet were only thirty minutes away by hyperspace, and they were analyzing the ongoing battle to finish fine tuning their own strategy for victory. All he had to do was keep the enemy preoccupied in battle long enough that they remained oblivious to their approaching doom.

But keeping his attention focused on the battle was more difficult than Darman thought, since the words Wedge told him after the True Sith were driven back constantly replayed over in his mind. If the Rogues’ Gallery leader’s warnings were true, then his son, the boy he long ago thought of as long dead or killed in battle, had survived and become the leader of Clan Skirata and a strong voice in Mandalorian society. That gesture, whether it was part of a foolish bid to convince him to defect or a misguided sense of kinship with a father and soldier, encouraged him to fight harder than ever to make the galaxy free of all Force orders and their dupes.

Venku was alive, and he had become an influential figure in the Mando’ade, without using the infernal Force as anything more than a useful tool. And Bardan and Jaing, crazy as they were for rejoining the Jedi Order to help them with their wars, they were also both still alive! The last remnants of his old life before he found a new purpose and home for himself, all arrayed against him, just as they were when he made his pledge to avenge his wife. Only now, they were working with the Jedi and Sith in perpetuating the status quo and preventing ordinary people from claiming their rightful place in the galaxy, just as his adoptive father and the rest of the newly founded Clan Skirata was with the Resolute.

If he could help it, Darman would do all he could to convince his son and clansmen to join the right side, just as he would try to with all the Mandalorian clans. If they could see the truth and come to their senses before the war truly began, then the Olpakan Hegemony would be all that stronger and better off for their galactic crusade.

Ah, but such a dream was likely the thoughts of fancy. The Mandalorians would rally behind their leader, even one in an amoral mercenary like Boba Fett, and he and his advisors were firmly on the Last Alliance’s payroll. And Kal likely indoctrinated Venku with all the lies the Resolute fed him by now, so recruiting him for the Hegemony was a fool’s gambit, at best.

Darman recognized all that, but it didn’t make the heartbreak he felt at having to eventually kill his dear boy any easier. When the time came, he would do the deed and mourn all those he murdered, everything he sacrificed, and all those he betrayed. But until the war was won, and the Olpakan Hegemony became the Olpakan Empire, he had to be a monster to do the deeds others wouldn’t.

And in less than thirty minutes, Darman would have to harden his heart once again to commit another massacre alongside Cylo-V and his fleet. But before Wedge and his fellow commanders were killed, he’d be sure to give the lead enemy general a proper farewell gesture of respect and gratitude for letting him know his son lived and had remained a free man for all these decades.

Hyperspace, On Route to the Croke Reach

On Zonama Sekot

On the Far Distance Islands

Nas Choka and Harrar, two Yuuzhan Vong from different castes and longtime friends, hadn't felt such dread for their people in many years. And while they waited with their people and friends in the ruins of the planet’s first Magister’s palace, the unofficial leader of Sekot’s militia and the high priest reflected on all the preparations they underwent for their return to war.

After learning from Arhul Hextrophon the truth behind their people’s legends and origins before their exile to escape the True Sith, their civilization had quickly slid to the edge of collapse. So, when the Last Alliance reached out to them, warning Sekot of the danger befalling all creation, the planet’s populace rallied to this new cause, even with the risks carried from allying with another branch of Sith and their supporters. And the living world pledged its wisdom and power towards liberating the Nihil Retreat and recovering its lost children.

Already, nearly one thousand seed-ships were grown for pilots to fly when everyone reached the Croke Reach. These vessels would serve to rescue downed pilots while protecting wounded capital ships while Sekot prepared itself to play a more aggressive role. Both Harrar and Nas knew how the planet was reluctant to use its might in any battle but had steeled itself to fight to protect its remaining inhabitants and free those enslaved in the Nihil Retreat. A difficult role, but both Yuuzhan Vong understood the bitter costs of war and would do everything possible to keep the planet in the light, just as it had done for their people for decades.

Hearing the wind rising across the shelter, Nas observed the faint glow from one of Danni’s friends and priests in training. A young Ferroan man named Maear, he enigmatically smiled at the former warmaster and his friend, and when he spoke, his voice echoed as if it carried multiple accents, a sign of Sekot talking to everyone in the ruins.

“Things have changed in the Croke Reach since we set out.” Maear-Sekot warned the assembly. Everyone listened intently as the possessed Ferroan explained the situation to them. Apparently, a man named Maarek Stele, part of the Last Alliance’s Rogues Gallery, warned his friends how the fight against the True Sith had taken several unexpected turns.

The Olpakan Hegemony, a militaristic society that hated the Force with a fervor that frightened the Yuuzhan Vong, reminding them of their own fanaticism and worship of their false gods, had entered the fray to destroy everyone that stood against them. And leading their fight to eradicate the True Sith and capture the Last Alliance forces was a war criminal named Natasi Daala. A woman who fought the Jedi and their friends many times over the last forty-eight years, she was now a highly placed leader of this atheistic government and determined to scorch the galaxy to destroy all her enemies, real or imagined.

For now, a vice admiral for the Galactic Alliance struck a bargain with her and gained her help in defeating their shared enemies. But when the True Sith were defeated, a new battle would break out, and the Last Alliance needed a decisive edge to stop her all while rendering the Croke unable to leave their world for at least centuries.

But the True Sith, they had likely anticipated these attacks and sent hundreds, if not thousands, of Crakull Mages to worlds where their esoteric skills and forbidden knowledge could best serve their cause. And alongside with the dark Force users, the Rhandite Sith led many of their gigantic predators and the Abominor - everyone grew still at the mention of the Yuuzhan Vong’s ancient mechanical enemies – away from the Croke Reach to parts unknown. What their plans were, no one knew at this time, but it would only spell harm for the galaxy’s innocent to let them remain free for long.

Maear-Sekot, to its credit, told everyone in the shelter, “Do not worry about the battles others will face in the distant future. Our focus needs to be on rescuing our friends and sending a message to those that threaten the sanctity of life.”

“What kind of message?” Harrar hesitantly asked. “If you seek to destroy the Olpakans, then I must -” Silencing himself at Maear-Sekot raising a hand, the elderly priest patiently waited until an answer came.

“All will be revealed when we arrive. But for now, we must prepare for battle.” Maear-Sekot cryptically stated. “When we arrive, we must do our part to save lives and deliver a warning to those that have let their hearts be led astray by hate and fear.”

Comprehension dawning across most of the crowd’s minds, Nas breathed in relief before he resolutely vowed, “We will all be ready for the battle and fight alongside the Last Alliance.” Knowing that Sekot would only direct its full wrath against the true enemy while it gave the Olpakans a chance to turn away from their wicked ways, the understanding gladdened them all.

No matter how dark the galaxy became, the living world and one of the last direct descendants of the Celestial Wutzek would serve the light and be a beacon of hope and fellowship for all civilizations and peoples. And that simple love for all beings and a stalwart devotion to the Maker’s eternal commandments would go further to win the Fourth Cosmic War for the Last Alliance and every galaxy than any decisive military campaign or espionage operation. But Nas and Harrar fervently hoped that everyone else in this grand army would come to the same realization.

Within the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

In the Planet’s Catacombs

Within the Daritha Cities

The Clone Commando heard the explosions occurring across the underground sanctuary, and was certain the rest of his team had located and engaged Abeloth and the Rhandite Force users. With his logical and analytical mind, Tech understood the odds of Tau, Krayt, and their remaining teammates were heavily arrayed against them. With thousands of enemy soldiers and True Sith acolytes still free to protect their mistress and their Infernal Gate, he couldn’t see a way for the Last Alliance to prevail, not without sustaining terrible losses.

But the genetically modified and unconventional soldier understood how data couldn’t account for everything in any battle. And as Tech threw one of his final few grenades to smoke out a group of True Sith soldiers before methodically gunning them all down, he trusted his friends and comrades to do their duty, no matter the cost. What these nihilistic enemies failed to see was the lengths a person would go to in fulfilling their goals or dreams, never mind protecting that which was most precious to each of them. And the members of Clone Force 99 were no exception to that truth.

Having convinced most of Lehon’s slaves to take charge of their own destinies and deny the True Sith their lives and souls, the Bad Batch had spent the last six hours running a guerilla war against the Rhandites. This desperate stalling action, backed up by the fifty remaining YVH droids and fifteen Jedi and Sith each, gave their fellow soldiers time to try and execute an entire evacuation of the masses.

Leading them to whatever exits they could find, stealing what vehicles in the vicinity, and protecting those that couldn’t move quickly enough, the Last Alliance forces were moving as quickly as they could in leading their charges to emancipation. The effort was only emboldened when their allies managed to forcibly open a dozen entrances to and from the Daritha Cities, allowing the evacuation to proceed at an exponential rate. And with a few large transports managing to slip through the cracks and aid the evacuation and provide more troops, the tide of battle was slowly turning.

Already, approximately one hundred and fifty thousand refugees had been sheltered and expiated away from certain doom. And if the next batch of transports finished loading on schedule, then another fifty thousand would soon be free as well. But before the convoy could withdraw, their guardians had to create a bit more havoc across the underground cities.

And Tech, finding a datapad on one of the Nikardun officers he scoured for any useful hints on the True Sith’s followers, quickly scurried to cover and decrypted the information within. Much of the intelligence within was already known to him, but there were a few useful tidbits in the files he put away in his mind for future reference. The location of key munitions and foundries, troop movements, and identifying high-ranking Sorcerers of Rhand were things he especially took note of and prepared to send to the rest of the Last Alliance soldiers.

There was one note that perplexed Tech, though. A report of the Last Alliance getting close to what it referred to as a “Ley Line” and gave utmost importance towards leading them away from it.

Another set of explosions rocked the area, these nearer to the Daritha Temples, but Tech paid the blasts little mind as he tried to understand the mysterious order. Ley lines, he once read about that concept from a thesis on how the Force operated, how they were a set of paths that guided a world’s energies and could, theoretically, be manipulated by another towards any end that person or group desired.

A jolt of understanding raced through Tech’s mind, and he recalled the many little oddities he noticed while in battle. The extra guards scattered across residential and merchant halls, dozens of weird energy readings Hunter detected across the city, and the Last Alliance’s Force users’ reports on a massive amount of power being focused where Abeloth and her masters were, it all added up to something horrifying. And he believed he just figured out what all those acts were for.

The True Sith and their forces weren’t simply using mass sacrifices to power the Infernal Gate but were also relying on the energies of Lehon itself to supercharge it! And if what ThuruhtThul and Vice Admiral Nevil warned all ground forces about this esoteric device were even half-accurate, then it couldn’t be long before the portal to Dark Illathurion and Mugg Fallow was brought fully online. Mnggal-Mnggal would soon be summoned here, and he would devour everything in his path unless Abeloth and those that held the bonds to her figured a way to bring him under their command. Already, he heard the unholy and near-bloodcurdling howls and roars echoing from the cities’ temples, and he knew what it meant.

Something needed to be done, and it had to be done quickly before all hope was lost. Just as Tech was prepared to contact his squad mates and the battalion leaders, Hunter’s strong voice came through his helmet’s comlink, “All squads, we’ve got new intel on our latest targets to hit. We’re going after twenty structures across the area, and we need to destroy as many of them as we can before we’re up to our necks in monsters and plagues.”

Well, guess Hunter figured it out sooner than I predicted. Tech reflected. But Hunter continued, changing to Clone Force 99’s personal frequency before he reluctantly warned, “There’s something else we’re going to have to take point for, an order that’s unanimously come down directly from all our field commanders. We need to prepare a cave in for all the entrances if Mnggal-Mnggal is summoned. That’ll hopefully buy some time to get our surface forces off the planet before we scorch Lehon.”

“Does everyone really think we can’t win this fight?” Wrecker heatedly asked his squad leader.

“This isn’t about simply winning a single battle, Wrecker.” Echo reprimanded the Bad Batch’s heavy hitter. “We fail in this, and the entire planet, no, the entire galaxy gets to be the personal playground of Mnggal-Mnggal and the True Sith. If it costs us all our lives, then we’ll just have to pay it to save the rest of our forces.”

“Then let’s stop arguing and get the job done.” Crosshair snappishly interrupted. “The sooner we get it done, the sooner we can rejoin the battle and take it to these madmen. Where’s the first choke point we need to shut down?”

“You guys had best go on without me.” Tech calmly stated. “I need to do what I can to slow the flow of energy across the lay lines. The less power this gate can gather, the more time I’ll give us to shut it down altogether and avoid our last-ditch contingency.”

“And just how do you plan to accomplish that all by yourself?!” Hunter incredulously asked.

“I have time to come up with several ideas.” Tech answered as if the solution was academic. “But you need to get moving and stop wasting time. This is your area of expertise, and right now, I need to work in mine.”

A moment’s hesitation before Hunter decided, “All right. I’ll trust your instincts on this one. But keep in regular contact with us and warn me if you can’t get it done or need help.”

“I can agree to that.” Tech concurred. “Good luck, brothers.” Ending the communication, he ruefully muttered to himself, “Now I just need to come up with an idea that can actually work.”

Chapter Text

Melona 11^th, 59 ABY

In the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

In the Planet’s Catacombs

Within the Daritha Temples

Underneath the vast graveyard of countless starship wrecks and the revitalized remnants of Rakata civilization, a terrible battle raged between the True Sith and their outnumbered adversaries in the Last Alliance. The underground sanctum from a long-ago civil war and nuclear devastation was being devastated, and the Way of the Dark’s followers held just about every advantage in this fight. And the dark energies racing out from their portal to the dimension where their Outer Gods were trapped, it only exacerbated the desperation and despair permeating the cities.

Tor Valum, commanding the True Sith Empire’s followers while defending their Infernal Gate, was outright decimating his enemies and was close to seizing the one weapon capable of killing anyone, even the Father of Shadows Himself. While his twenty-five enthralled and enhanced servants kept the Last Alliance’s YVH battle droids, Mandalorians, and their weaker Force users at bay and destroyed any who tried to be a hero, the Grysk dealt with Jaden, Akku, and 11-4D. And though those three warriors were resourceful enough to avoid any direct blows, he knew he was close to victory. From their injuries, exhaustion, and inferior, albeit creative, fighting styles, it wouldn’t be long before they met death’s final embrace.

And Abeloth and the Infernal Gate’s creatures were slowly overwhelming Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt. Though they were putting up a valiant resistance, destroying dozens of monsters, each of a unique shape and lethality, and even leaving a few deep scars on the Bringer of Chaos’s host body, the improbable duo couldn’t hold off their betters for much longer. The Tuk’ata hound that bonded with the Edaan-clone, it was barely clinging to life from when it was bitten and suffered several severe gashes by three eldritch hounds, all twice as large and dangerous as the Jedi’s pathetic pet.

But Tor knew Abeloth was hesitating in striking down her two foes, and her lingering attachments would have to be expunged from her before it prematurely doomed her to a final death. And judging by how she resisted dealing any lethal blows, simply settling for keeping Tau and Krayt at bay and wearing them down from a distance, she would need to be disciplined for her defiance when this day was won. He knew she still held a warped sense of love for the sparks of life that Niphal and Eipha imbued in their heirs, and that heartbreak left her vulnerable to death, and she was too valuable for the True Sith to lose her now.

All these observations occurring in mere nanoseconds, Tor brought his attention back to the fight and moved to deliver the final blows against his stubborn enemies. But his three still standing opponents were prepared to die on their feet rather than cower in fear. Gazing upon their bloodied faces and wounded bodies, he knew Jaden would be the first to die, not simply since he still held the Dagger of Mortis, but to show the Jedi’s friends and compatriots the fate of all who resisted the True Sith and their Immortal Gods.

Prepared to charge towards Jaden and kill him, Tor stopped his attack when the ground started shaking around everyone. Nearly falling from the earthquake, an event he didn’t foresee, he then saw a purple beam of energy erupt south of everyone’s position. Tracing the point of origin for the blast, he realized that was where one of the planet’s ley lines was and instantly knew someone had sabotaged it. And a few moments after the first ley line burst, two more pillars of raw energy jumped out from the east and west, each where another pathway was constructed.

Before Tor could react to these terrible setbacks, he felt an unfamiliar surge burst from the Infernal Gate, releasing several streams of corrupted energy out of the temple and washing over everyone. But this power was not controlled by the True Sith, instead running wild and affecting everyone and everything it touched. And the one that seemed to be most affected by it was Abeloth, who began wailing and shrieking in agony unlike any attack she’d felt in millennia. The shockwaves of her indiscriminate attack hit everyone, sapient and beast alike, wounding if not outright destroying them all.

As Abeloth madly and blindly screamed, Tor saw Krayt telekinetically pull the Dagger of Mortis from Jaden to himself, ready to deliver the final blow against the Bringer of Chaos. But before he could strike her down, the Bedlam abomination violently lashed out with a swipe of her tentacles, blasting the Sith Lord into the air and hitting everyone else with the shockwave, blowing everyone at least fifty feet away from her.

Tor, barely able to land on his feet, knew the situation was quickly spiraling out of control. Quickly using Darksight to see how the three ley lines broke, he saw teams of Last Alliance commandos blast deep holes into the ground and their Force users interfered with the flow of energy. And directing them was a member of that meddlesome squad of Clone Commando defects, their accursed intellectual and hacker. At the rate Tech was interfering with his efforts, the Infernal Gate would bleed energy and be drained in less than two hours.

Well, if Tor couldn’t unleash the Infernal Gate’s full power and release Mnggal-Mnggal to devour the Last Alliance, then he’d just have to improvise a bit. He reached out to the gate, sensing the hallmarks of Rakatan engineering, and noticed how already, it was becoming increasingly unstable. Nothing he could do would reverse the damage already done to it.

But rather than try to repair the broken ley lines, Tor instead locked up the energies already stored up inside the gate and reprogrammed the device to hold the power until it exploded. When it detonated, the power would spread across every inch of Lehon and consume all life in a fiery explosion, if not destroy the planet altogether. And with the protective wards and spells he placed across the Infernal Gate to ensure the Last Alliance couldn’t stop this plan; his work was complete.

With everything he could accomplish done, Tor needed to accomplish one last thing; well, he’d get it done with Abeloth’s help and utilizing a sliver of the Infernal Gate’s vast accumulated power. Using the bindings to force the Bringer of Chaos to do his bidding, he felt his corporeal form begin to grow translucent.

Teleporting the True Sith Empire’s most valuable disciples, key experiments, and resources into the Nihil Retreat would normally be all but impossible for even a monster of Abeloth’s great strength. But enhanced by Lehon’s natural darkness and the rituals that enhanced her own power, she should be able to accomplish this in mere minutes. And with the Last Alliance unable to muster a counterattack in their disoriented state, they’d soon escape this doomed world.

“NO!” A young man’s voice screamed to Abeloth, surprising Tor with its strength and resolve. Seeing Tau, wielding the Dagger while charging to destroy her, he nearly let his shock stop him from trying to stop him. Unleashing continual blasts of lightning against the Jedi, he grew increasingly frustrated as his target dodged them all, approaching the Soulworm’s daughter and ready to deliver the killing blow.

Mere seconds before the blade could pierce Abeloth’s flesh, Tau paused, and that moment of hesitation let her react and unleash her own torrent of electricity against him. Barely able to create a shield to protect himself, he was flung across the chamber and buried under a pile of rubble, knocking him out of the fight and letting the Rhandites and their servants carry out their evacuation with no further interruptions.

With no one else able to effectively stand against the True Sith, they would all soon meet a terrible end, just as everyone else across the planet, and perhaps the solar system, would as well. And then, Tor and his disciples could recover the Dagger, if it survived the explosion and subsequent supernova, and ensure no remnants of Eipha and Niphal remained to ever again oppose them.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Karbin System

Aboard the Alchemy IV

Interconnected with the Olpakan fleet’s entire computer network, his neural interface far more intricate and powerful than any known cyborg’s, Cylo-V felt a helpless fury he hadn’t experienced in decades. Not since fleeing Darth Sidious’s Galactic Empire, with only a handful of followers and a fraction of his industry’s resources at his disposal, did he feel this level of rage and fear. But seeing the Olpakan Hegemony be outmaneuvered and humiliated by the Last Alliance so cunningly, easily, and openly, it made him more afraid than ever before in his life.

In the past three hours since Cylo-V’s fleet arrived to reinforce Commander Skirata’s forces and stop the Last Alliance’s prison break, he had been unable to penetrate their ranks through every conceivable method at his disposal. Whether it was through a mix of overt or secretive means, by attacking their lines or seeding dozens of Olpakan computer viruses into the enemy’s capital ships, nothing he tried worked.

Cylo-V’s Purgill, the six cybernetically modified whales he brought with him and twenty conventional warships, found themselves attacked and wounded or killed by the Resolute and Empire of the Hand’s ion-based weaponry the moment they exited hyperspace. The rest were left vulnerable to a series of raids and surgical strikes while putting two of the scientist’s creations out of their misery.

Unable to attack the Last Alliance and their friends directly, he tried a more covert approach to salvage this disaster. But their firewalls, reinforced by programs equally as elegant and vicious in defending the warships’ databases and critical systems, were impenetrable by his current set of tracking or hacking software. In fact, these anti-virus networks were of a design he didn’t recognize anywhere in his technologically advanced memory.

To exacerbate the bad news, the Last Alliance and its allies had completed extracting all of Baylor Base’s prisoners and Esh-Kha, loading them onto whatever ships they could get their hands on and were ferrying them off world and back to their territories. And with the Olpakan Hegemony’s forces in disarray and without the numbers to counterattack, they were about to suffer a humiliating defeat from losing one of their best prisons and its eight thousand inmates.

But a far direr situation had erupted, for one of the Olpakan Hegemony’s darkest-kept secrets was about to come to light from this grievous blow. Somehow, the Jedi and One Sith’s pawns heard about or uncovered the two hundred carbonite slabs of classified prisoners kept in the underwater prison. Hidden within a vault very few, less than one hundred Olpakans knew about, the Last Alliance was able to bypass all its defenses and make off with rogue Force users that it had kept hidden from all its enemies. And among those prisoners were Jedi that the galaxy had long written off for dead. When they were thawed out and discovered, the Hegemony’s enemies would learn much more of their practices and be emboldened to fight even harder.

Whether the Last Alliance knew of this prison or happened upon it by chance, though Cylo-V found the latter all but impossible, the implications of this extraction were too great to ignore or sweep under the rug. From the enemy being prepared to deal with his arrival and prevent his interference, to their impeccable intelligence on Karbin’s defenses, and how to penetrate the moon’s most secure prison, no one could logically ignore the evidence presented before the Hegemony’s loyalists.

Someone, or perhaps a group of individuals, all highly placed in their ranks was colluding with the Resolute and their new Jedi and Sith patrons. It was the only explanation that made sense to Cylo-V, and he had a hunch he knew who the ringleader of this treasonous conspiracy was, just as High Councilor Daala similarly suspected. But the implications of Vlad Karamazov, the Supreme Knight of the Olpakan Hegemony, working with the religious fools that still clung to superstitious myths and outdated beliefs, they were too great to calculate.

If anyone were to accuse the Hegemony’s supreme leader of treason, then they would need enough evidence for the case to be incontrovertible. And Cylo-V knew he was the only one capable of gathering and verifying the information that would end the betrayer’s life while preserving the government’s cause. Even so, that task would still be problematic, especially with all the Olpakans’ enemies closing in on all fronts. But he would find a way to bring Karamazov down if he was the traitor, just as he did for countless other dissidents that lived throughout this noble territory.

First, though, Cylo-V needed to get in contact with the few people he trusted and warn them of the danger their shared cause now faced. Whether Karamazov or a network of high-ranked traitors were embedded in the Hegemony’s ranks, he and Daala had to warn their inner circle and have everyone be ready for any hint of treachery or suspicious behavior. And while the chaos of battle still consumed the system, he had to ensure this message didn’t find its way into any unwanted hands while he did all he could to mitigate the damage of this degrading defeat.

Suddenly interrupting his concentration, Cylo-V received a priority message from one of his top agents on the world of Azure. Impatiently reading through and analyzing the transmission, he nearly missed the near-perfect identification of several key Olpakan Resolute agents, including Iskat Akaris, Kal Skirata, and a key collaborator in Wynssa Fel, Mid Admiral of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Force. It was a chance catch from a voice modulator, a rare and small slip in their otherwise perfect disguises, but it was enough for the planet’s databanks to discern their true identities.

Even more significant were the individuals Iskat, Kal, and Wynssa were ferrying across the Roshar System’s stronghold of a planet. After identifying those three enemies, Cylo-V’s spies and analysts took note of their supposed mercenaries and escorts, eventually unmasking them all from behind their disguises: Edaan Palpatine, Allana Djo Solo, Ferren Barr, Verla Kaer, Venku Skirata, Armand Vorn, Robonino, Jaing Skirata, Kix, and R2-D2. These individuals had infiltrated the Olpakan Hegemony and were likely now meeting with many more of the Olpakan Resolute’s Jedi and other allied Force users.

Once Cylo-V and Darman withdrew from their failed endeavor, they would contact Daala and work together to capture and eliminate these spies and saboteurs. But first, he needed to mask this new opportunity behind a veil of ignorance and fury, so he would stay in the system and play the fool until the Last Alliance left with their prizes. No reason to risk them or their collaborators finding out about this vital operation before all was ready.

Within the Croke Reach

In the Crakull System

Aboard the Dodonna

Kara had to give credit where it was due. Daala might be a tyrannical lunatic bent on galactic domination over all worlds and sapient individuals, but she certainly knew how to conduct herself in battle. With her Olpakan Hegemony forces working alongside the Last Alliance, even temporarily while planning a deadly and lethal double cross, the casualties while facing the True Sith were far below everyone’s best estimates.

Between Kara and Julius battling the True Sith from separate attack vectors, the Galactic Alliance and Aquilian Hegemony’s fleets were able to keep the Rhandite-based warships at bay while Daala dealt with the enemy’s predators. With the usage of her bombers’ biological weapons to disintegrate dozens of Exogorths and Kindred, while the capital ships attacked the Summa-verimoths and Abominor, this engagement all but seemed wrapped up for this brief and unlikely coalition.

But there was still the matter of Kyp Durron and his scout flotilla, who was leading them on a series of surgical strikes against the Nihil Retreat’s most powerful disciples. Daala, if the ruse still held, believed Kara was going to hand them all to her and her Olpakan forces. And the Jedi Master, provided he received and trusted the warnings, he would soon use the emerging opportunity to retreat and return to Nirauan for debriefing and a brief reprieve.

With her cerebral implants and connection to every system aboard her battle carrier, Kara observed the Galactic Alliance and Olpakans start to surround the True Sith’s ten remaining warships in their field of battle. She knew Julius and his forces would deal with their foes and make their deaths as swift and merciful as possible. Though she wanted to offer the remaining enemies a chance to surrender, she knew they wouldn’t take it. Their nihilistic beliefs and fanatical loyalty to the Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Lords was too great to be broken through such simple means.

And even if the True Sith accepted Kara’s terms, Daala wouldn’t allow any of her enemies to survive an encounter with her with so many threats still rampant. Her subordinates in Admiral Tonith and Vice Admiral Rampart shared her ruthlessness, since they were dispersed across the Croke Reach to sterilize each world they came across and eradicate all enemy structures and resources.

Regardless of the high losses everyone suffered, the moment to betray Daala was close, very close, and Kara knew she wouldn’t hesitate when it came. After all the lives the Human despot ruined or killed in her carnage and tyranny, she deserved nothing more than a bitter end for all her demented ambitions.

A sudden ping was heard in Kara’s right ear, signifying a message from Daala. Remembering the time, she realized the Olpakan High Counselor was ready for her supposed collaborator to prepare for her betrayal and disable or destroy the Jedi force.

Before Kara could compose her response, the Dodonna’s long-range sensors began to pick up multiple readings, surprising the Aporthad at the new arrivals. Were they the True Sith’s reserves that fled the system before the battle began, Last Alliance reinforcements, or someone else that sought to do harm to the free powers?

Another message came through, this one from Master Durron. After Kara accepted the Jedi Council member’s call, he alerted her, “I think we’re about to get the lucky break we needed, Vice Admiral.”

“Allied reinforcements?” Kara assumed before her flagship’s sensors roared back to life, with the readings nearly overloading the system and knocking her out of her digital work. If the long-range scans were accurate, then a planet had to be coming towards the Crakull System. But there was only one living world that she knew was in the Unknown Regions, and that fact lifted several heavy burdens off her mind.

Zonama Sekot was joining the battle, and that meant the Last Alliance delegation assigned to recruit the planet and its populace succeeded in that endeavor! With that knowledge in mind, Kara knew she didn’t have to feign sympathy to Daala and her bigoted paranoia any longer but instead work to take her down as she deeply desired.

Before Daala could properly react and spout out accusations of betrayal, Kara sent out a coded command to all her fleet captains, one that they would recognize as their authorization to attack the Olpakan Hegemony at last.

Striking first with a swiftness and ferocity that the onetime cartel operative and navy woman could be proud of, the Galactic Alliance unleashed every available payload on the Olpakans’ exposed flanks. Several of Daala’s ships were devoured by green laser fire or exploded from a critical breach before her remaining vessels unleashed a reprisal attack.

And Daala, likely frothing in a frenzied fury from this duplicity, was trying to vow vengeance against Kara and her followers with an open transmission while the rest of her fleet tried to enact a counterattack. But the GA vice admiral wouldn’t give her the platform to vent her venomous hate to anyone else, only work to take her down for good. Only if she surrendered and agreed to face justice for her crimes would she consider showing restraint unlikely as that may be.

Before the three-way battle between the Last Alliance, Olpakan Hegemony, and True Sith commenced, a gigantic shockwave burst through the star system, blowing the opposing fleets away from each other and nearly disabling all the Dodonna’s systems. Without Kara’s clever rerouting of power to key systems and maneuvering her fleet’s ships to ride the wave of energy instead of fighting against it, the GA would’ve also been rendered vulnerable to any kind of attack.

Seeing Zonama Sekot appear, the verdant and giant green world that was a grandchild of the Bedlam Spirit Cold Danda Sine, Kara felt a long-buried and childlike sense of wonder return to her. In her innocent youth, she often enjoyed the peace of nature and the simplicity of her people’s way of life, before she fell in with the wrong crowds and wasted decades of her life with criminals. But though she couldn’t return to those carefree days, she knew there were still worlds out there that held similar beauty, and she would give her life to protect those havens of life and peace.

All that remained now was for the Last Alliance and Sekot to finish off their wounded adversaries and tend to their own before the True Sith could retaliate. And Kara would relish the chance to finally help put Daala down like the self-destructive fanatic and mass murderer she was.

Kyp’s voice, intruding on Kara’s calculations and strategizing how the Galactic Alliance could help bring Daala and the True Sith down, urgently informed her, “If you have plans to go after our enemies, don’t worry. Sekot will send a message to the Olpakans and make sure the Croke aren’t a threat to us for centuries. Right now, the world just wants you to protect our exit vector and ferry my people to safety.”

Perplexed at the bizarre set of orders, Kara reminded Kyp, “Don’t forget how Daala and her fleets aren’t the only Olpakans out there, Master Durron.”

“Sekot knows, and we’ll deal with them soon enough. But right now, there’s a plan in motion, and we need to carry it out and send a warning to the Olpakan Hegemony.” Kyp assured the vice admiral before he complimented her, “By the way, nice work on playing Daala like a fool. Not many people get to double-cross her and live to tell the tale.”

“Let’s hope we can expand that list a bit before she’s beaten for good.” Kara wearily said, regretting being denied the chance to bring Daala to justice.

In the Tempered Wastes

On Lehon/Rakata Prime

In the Planet’s Catacombs

Within the Daritha Temples

“There’s nothing more I can do.” Tech regretfully stated. “We’ve punctured as many holes in the Gate’s ley lines and redirected what streams of energy we could, but it’s accumulated too much power to be shut down now. We need to leave at once before it comes fully online.”

“But there’s still a hundred thousand people we haven’t evacuated yet.” Tau protested while slicing the carapace of an armored eldritch creature in half that tried to devour a group of escaping slaves. “We can’t just leave them to die down here!”

“I don’t like it either, but if we don’t leave and seal the tunnels immediately, then the rest of us won’t make it off-world before Lehon tears itself apart.” Tech bitterly lamented.

Tau couldn’t admit it, but he knew it was the only option they had left. With the Infernal Gate set to self-destruct and trigger a planetwide explosion in just under one hour, the Last Alliance needed to finish its withdrawal and collapse the passageways before they lost any more people. And with the gate having already released hundreds of malevolent creatures before it started malfunctioning, they wouldn’t be able to hold the cities long enough to complete their evacuation.

But the Jedi just wouldn’t let himself abandon the rest of the freed slaves, not when there was still time left and a chance to make a difference. And after his terrible failure to kill Abeloth and Jaden and Butch both in critical condition, he needed to accomplish something good. If only that accursed Infernal Gate could be shut down, then there’d be enough time to save everyone. Wait… Could it really be that simple?

It is, Tau Palpatine. A woman’s serene voice echoed in his mind, one he recognized as Niphal, the Celestial he bonded with and Daughter of the Ones. Just as death and darkness were used to power the Infernal Gate, it can be neutralized by their exact opposites.

“Life and Light.” Tau muttered before he felt a firm hand on his shoulder and saw ThuruhtThul trying to pull him along. But through the Joiner Counselor’s enhanced senses and strengthened connection to the Force, he knew something important had just transpired.

Before the older Human could urge the Jedi Iteration to leave, Tau firmly told ThuruhtThul, “I know how we can shut down the Infernal Gate. We need to pool all our energies into a wall of light to shut down the construct.”

“How do you know this will work?” ThuruhtThul asked Tau, not with derision or skepticism as he thought, but with genuine inquisitiveness instead. “If you’re wrong on this, there won’t be time for the rest of us to escape.”

“Because Niphal just told me it will work, and I’m sure Krayt got the same message from Eipha.” Tau quickly answered, startling ThuruhtThul with mentioning the two Celestials the Killiks knew most well. “I know what we need to do, but we need to act quickly and decisively before time runs out.”

There was no hesitation in ThuruhtThul’s face, no doubts regarding Tau’s words, only firm certainty and a fierce determination. And the Jedi buried deep within the Joiner Counselor knew there was no time for hesitation or indecision. Nodding in resolute agreement, he agreed, “Then get started at once. We will join you after we convince more Force users to assist us.”

Not wasting any time with a verbal remark, Tau let his senses travel throughout the Daritha Cities, surging past the creatures prowling and devouring anyone left behind in the chaos of the hasty withdrawal. But his fiery spirit, blazing across the city as a white light, it did not travel unnoticed, and not just by the monsters the Infernal Gate released. He felt another presence, one marked and embittered by the dark side, but just as powerful as him, and he knew who was following him.

Feeling Krayt’s spirit coming towards him from his vantage point, Tau sent a surge of gratitude to him before they flew right above the Infernal Gate in the city’s temples. And returning to the site where so many of his friends were pushed to the edge of death, it sent a jolt of fear up his soul before he let it go.

Diving downwards, Tau felt a barrier preventing both Jedi and Sith from journeying any further in. Trying to push past it, he found the wall unyielding, and realized Tor Valum left no stone unturned in securing this doomsday contingency. It surrounded the Infernal Gate, and its ley lines had finished surging the dark side energy into it, with the power prepared to explode and consume all in its path in less than one hour.

Despair threatened to envelop Tau, because he knew the Last Alliance’s Force users didn’t have the numbers or strength to break through the True Sith’s protective wards before the planet exploded. And Krayt, though he wouldn’t visibly show it, his anger and bitterness at this terrible fate gnawed at him also. There wasn’t anything anyone could do to stop the outpour of energy across Lehon. If only there was still a way to redirect the dark power without compromising the world.

Gazing one last time at the Infernal Gate, Tau at least took comfort in knowing the Last Alliance saved most of the True Sith’s slaves and prevented Mnggal-Mnggal from being freed from Mugg Fallow, at least for now. But he knew they’d try again soon, and everyone needed to be ready to keep that dark plan from coming to pass.

Don’t give up, Tau. Niphal’s voice cut through his despair, and she again urged him, You and Krayt can still stop this planet from being destroyed. Just look closely and consider all your options.

All his options? What did Niphal mean by that? Tau, for the life of him, couldn’t figure it out, but he knew that the Celestial wouldn’t lie to him about a solution to this crisis. There just had to be a way to stop this world’s death. But if the Infernal Gate couldn’t be shut down, then how else could its energies be negated or sent back where they came? At the rate the power was building, it would soon erupt like a volcano, except it would erupt downward and trigger a planetary explosion strong enough to destroy the world, and possibly even trigger a supernova and incinerate all life in the Lehon System.

But if all that energy erupted upwards… Krayt suggested, his spectral form glancing at Tau, With the wall of light the Jedi can create, forcing that power to the surface in a controlled manner, we just might be able to prevent this world’s destruction. It wouldresult in an explosion of darkness, but the Nihil Retreat might not discern the truth until we finish our evacuation.

Renewed hope coursing through Tau, he knew that this was the only option the Last Alliance had left. It was a gamble, but the alternative was to leave hundreds of thousands of innocents to perish, and he wouldn’t accept that outcome. And just after he rediscovered his resolve, he and Krayt felt a surge of power move past them, working to surround the Infernal Gate and prevent the cataclysm about to unfold.

The Jedi and the rest of their allies had begun pouring their strength around the dark gate, and Tau and Krayt knew it was time to act. Working to direct the flow of power to envelop all but the top of the Infernal Gate, they made sure to leave a large tunnel for the eldritch energies to escape up towards the planet’s surface. But they only hoped that none of their forces would be caught in the pillar of darkness that would soon erupt.

Soon, Tau felt the rumbling of energy across the entire planet and knew this was the moment of truth. The Infernal Gate tried to direct its power down towards the planet’s core, but the wall of light held, if only barely through its terrible onslaught. It then tried to escape through its ley lines, only to have that vector cut off.

All that remained was for the dark force to emerge up, through the tunnel the Last Alliance created. And the suffocating darkness that flew upwards, it was almost too much for Tau to bear. But Krayt helped him stand firm, and they helped the rest of their Force users to endure the sickening power. Whether they would survive the next few minutes, if they died from exhaustion or if something went wrong in this desperate act, it was all up to the Will of the Force now.

In the Croke Reach

Within the Crakull System

On Zonama Sekot

In the Far Distance Islands

Adari felt the death surging from the Croke’s many worlds and their masters, almost overwhelming in its entropic and malevolent strength. Even with Sekot working to shield everyone from the worst of the True Sith’s nauseating influence, their energies couldn’t be kept at bay forever. And not even the living world, now waging war against the Nihil Retreat’s warships and devastating the Croke Reach’s homeworld to render the race incapable of helping their masters, was unaffected by the evils seeping out.

Oh, the True Sith and their allies tried to attack Sekot, with even a few raiding parties and predators getting past the Last Alliance’s lines to spread their chaotic energies, but they didn’t last long at all. Lacking sufficient power to counter the planet’s far superior might and command of the Force, they were all rendered powerless and vulnerable to retaliatory strikes by its friends and temporary allies.

And everyone, seeing the battle continue raging across the Croke Reach, they shuddered at the Olpakan Hegemony’s barbarity and bloodlust in obliterating the region’s inhabitants. Daala was especially demonstrating the ruthlessness and hate countless Humans had been and still are proficient with, with no remorse felt in her soul at committing genocide against countless souls, even wicked ones like the Croke and their slaves.

Using a handful of ships across each Croke world, Daala’s Olpakan agents deployed dozens of superweapons to eradicate all life. Whether her forces used gravity bombs in destroying the planet’s atmosphere, railguns to launch dozens of meteors across continents, or seeding weather-control platforms to incinerate or freeze everyone to death, Sekot’s broadcast reminded its denizens of their atrocities against all life over their intergalactic invasion.

Even if most Yuuzhan Vong held no remorse in dealing with the True Sith supporters and servants, this brutality was something they were trying to distance themselves from. And Daala, her zealous hate and irrational need to destroy anything that interfered with her bigotry and false sense of superiority, it reminded them of the same evils that once held complete sway over their way of life. Why Sekot wanted its people to see the Human woman’s evil, it was a mystery to all.

“It’s a warning and reminder of how we need to conduct ourselves going forward.” A voice Adari loathed to hear spoke out. Everyone turned to glance at Ochi of Bestoon, the Vahla assassin suddenly grew flustered at the attention, and stammered out, “Well, I mean, it seems obvious to me. Sekot wants to show us the danger of entering war, and to urge us to not repeat the same mistakes as our ancestors.”

Pointing towards the ethereal display of the battle underway, showing how Daala and her fleets began withdrawing after finishing off the last of the Abominor and Kindred, leaving the Last Alliance to finish this fight, Ochi continued, “We were going to settle for keeping the Croke out of this war and let them repent if they made the choice. But Daala, she doesn’t give her enemies that opportunity and will only settle for the complete annihilation or enslavement of all her enemies.”

“If we’re going to stand against her and the True Sith, we have to be the antithesis of both our enemies and hold ourselves to a code of honor and faith they are without.”

“And who are you to lecture us on honor and faith, assassin?” Jakan, a former high priest of the Yuuzhan Vong, lectured Ochi. “Your people worshiped the dark side longer than we did, and you’ve committed decades of atrocities against the Jeedai and their friends. How can we trust you and your Sith masters to uphold this alliance, now or after we win this war?”

Shaking his head, Adari was certain he saw a flash of regret cross his face before Ochi answered, “I can’t speak for the One Sith as a whole, that is true. And many of them do want to betray the Alliance of Light once our pact outlives its usefulness.”

Not helping your case much. Adari mused. But Ochi continued, “However, I have my own plans now, a different set of plans that depend on this coalition succeeding and giving me the leverage and prestige I’ll need to help my broken people rebuild and break free of their dark past.” Several curious murmurs broke out before the Vahla urged everyone, “But we have a battle raging around us, and our compatriots may need us at a moment’s notice. I suggest we talk about this later, after we’re out of this infernal region.”

Seeing Ochi glance at Adari for an instant, she shivered a little before Danni, who sat beside her quietly urged, “Speak to him after this battle ends. His reasons for looking after you aren’t on the One Sith’s behalf, and he and several others working for Darth Krayt aren’t the monsters you believe them all to be.”

“How do you know?” Adari apprehensively asked in a soft tone.

“Because he spoke to me about it when I confronted him about always looking after you.” Danni faintly answered. “Let’s just say he has a new drive now, one that diverges from most of the One Sith’s post-war plans and are not nefarious or treacherous as you fear. And looking after you all will help his people and friends find redemption in the coming years.”

Before Adari could consider a response, she felt a new sense of vertigo come over her, but she knew it wasn’t from her pregnancy. Somewhere across the Unknown Regions, the dark side was surging across a planet, and it was a blaze all who could tap the Force could detect. But the miasma prevented her from knowing which world it was, or who was involved in the act. All she could do now was hope that wherever the disaster occurred, it wasn’t as terrible as she feared, and that no one she cared for in any regard was anywhere near its vicinity.

“It was Lehon.” Danni anxiously told Adari, her eyes distant and sweat pouring down her head. “Sekot is showing me images of a blast of dark side energy surging upward from beneath the planet’s surface. I can’t tell who, if anyone, was lost in the explosion right now.”

Lehon, that was supposed to be Tau’s assignment! Trying to maintain her composure, Adari anxiously told Danni, “Let me know when you can learn just what happened down there.” Seeing the Human magister nod, she clenched her hands and knelt on her knees, desperately praying that her brother-in-law and everyone else helping him would survive this tragedy.

Chapter Text

Melona 11^th, 59 ABY

In the Tempered Wastes

Within the Lehon System

Aboard the Secutor-class Star Destroyer Conquest

Having barely recovered from the intense nausea and vertigo from the shockwaves that reverberated across all the Unknown Regions, if not all of Skyriver, Darth Irola slowly took stock of the situation that had finished unfolding for the Last Alliance. She saw many new starship wrecks, at least one hundred, that spread across the Lehon System, with the few surviving True Sith vessels quickly overwhelmed by their more numerous enemies and faced with imminent destruction if they didn’t retreat. And learning how the Tempered Wastes’ regional facilities were decimated in the earlier set of raids before everyone converged here, she recognized how the battle in space was a certain victory.

No, the real trouble would be on the surface, but getting in contact with the Last Alliance ground forces was proving to be difficult. Thanks to their desperate acts in collapsing most of the tunnels leading to the Daritha Temples to try and contain Mnggal-Mnggal and the Infernal Gate’s monsters, efforts to recover the survivors and stragglers slowed to a crawl. Excavation efforts to unseal many gateways were underway, but rescuing well over one hundred thousand freed slaves and soldiers through the few passageways still open took time. And there were still the True Sith’s remaining foundries and ground forces that were harrying them. Wiping them all out would take time and energy many no longer possessed.

But most distressing to Irola was Lord Krayt’s condition, both mentally and physically. She heard from Vice Admiral Nevil how he and Tau had enacted a desperate plan to prevent Lehon’s annihilation and was astonished to learn he went along with it. Using the Force to redirect the dark side energies the Infernal Gate built up, the Last Alliance’s Force users were able to create a safe pathway for the power to shoot outward, preventing the planet’s destruction and saving everyone in the process. An ingenious gambit, if a foolhardy risk. The old Rogue that the Sith Lady once used to be was genuinely impressed with the bravery and temerity of that idea.

Unfortunately, the effort left Krayt and Tau all but drained of power and forced them both into a coma, and the Jedi’s leading Joiner, Raynar Thul, warned that it would take at least a week for them to awaken, if not a full month. A terrible turn of events, especially since Abeloth and her True Sith masters were able to escape with virtually all their vital resources and personnel. With them all safely hidden away in the Nihil Retreat, the Last Alliance would have to wait until they showed themselves again before they tried to strike back. And patiently waiting for the enemy’s next move wasn’t one of Irola’s strongest attributes.

Still, there were other avenues for the Last Alliance to retaliate and damage the True Sith’s plans. Irola knew the Rakatan Archipelago mission was still underway, and the mission to infiltrate the Olpakan Hegemony was proceeding according to plan, just as the efforts to recruit Zonama Sekot and remove the Croke Reach as a threat were.

And the rescue of nearly one million slaves before they could be sacrificed to fuel the True Sith’s evil, that was a great victory. With Irola’s people prepared to fairly distribute relief supplies and help give the new refugees a home away from the hell many of them thought of as their only home, the Last Alliance had a chance to do some good and show the rest of the galaxy their resolve to bring about a lasting order and peace. That dream, a deep aspiration the former freedom fighter long clung to, gave her hope she hadn’t felt in decades.

But her goals and aspirations, noble as they were, were a long way off. Right now, there was a war to fight and win, and the Last Alliance needed her to direct their relief and rescue efforts while cleansing Lehon of the remaining Rakata and True Sith forces. It would be a good therapeutic endeavor for Irola to undergo after arriving too late to provide help in slaying Abeloth.

Contacting the Cal Omas, Irola informed Kral, “I’ll head down to the surface now and help mop up the enemy stragglers. My followers can handle the recovery and protection of the survivors and refugees in the meantime.”

“Copy that. Good hunting, General.” Kral crisply acknowledged, a gesture Irola appreciated from the long-served military man. Having been granted the rank of general for the war’s duration for her vast experience in insurgency campaigns and training armies’ worth of military units, she was prepared to use this opportunity to advance the One Sith’s plans while saving all creation from annihilation.

And there was another matter that the Last Alliance had to resolve, one unusual in its nature that might take Irola’s unique mind to resolve. According to Clone Force 99 and 11-4D, Lord Krayt and Tau were able to tame and befriend five Rancor-Dragons that helped them breach the Daritha Cities before they were sent away. After the battle ended and both Celestial heirs fell into their comas, the five alchemically made predators tracked them down and stood watch over them, frightening most and nearly causing another battle before the commandos and droid managed to explain the situation to everyone. The only question now was what to do with them.

Irola had a few ideas on how to handle these friendly predators, but she had a sinking feeling most of those in the Last Alliance wouldn’t necessarily approve of bringing them into the fold. Still, since Tau and Krayt had bonded with these creatures, it ought to be their final decision, and she was sure they’d agree with her proposals once they recovered from their demanding efforts. After all, the chance to acquire a few lethal and loyal war beasts while learning more of the True Sith’s alchemical capabilities was a chance too good to pass up.

But there was another, far more pressing and long-term reason for Irola to give the Last Alliance a few new allies. Lord Krayt had instructed her, Snoke, and Invidious to help observe and ensure there were no more spies working for the Sorcerers of Rhand. Bringing those war beasts into the fold, those sapient beings that were more familiar with the True Sith’s practices and customs than most among the galactic coalition, it would hopefully flush out any collaborators that might have embedded themselves in their ranks.

The risk of letting any brand of traitors remain free, after the disastrous damage Phobar and his accomplices caused the One Sith was too great to ignore, and anyone who dared betray Darth Krayt and his great dream would face fatal consequences. And as for those that tried to defy him and reignite the war against the Jedi, they would be treated just as dishonorably. For the sake of the galaxy, however, Irola would hope that the number of vile conspirators would be few and far between.

Within the Croke Reach

In the Crakull System

Aboard the Sir Trilag

Daala couldn’t believe the dual disasters that had befallen the Olpakan Hegemony, even as she received word from her auxiliary forces on the near-total annihilation of the Croke species. A small sliver of good news amidst the tragic failures in its intelligence and military capabilities when Admiral Tonith and Vice Admiral Rampart reported how every populated world in the Croke Reach was devastated and rendered uninhabitable.

But before she let her mind consider the implications of the terrible events striking her final refuge, Daala had to ensure the rest of her surviving forces could withdraw this barren and lifeless sector. And with Zonama Sekot and its Last Alliance masters blockading the system as they pacified Crakull, those prospects were looking increasingly bleak. The chances of the Olpakan Hegemony forces fighting their way out of this trap grew only slimmer after the Jedi’s Grand Master arrived with a fleet of his own to reinforce his compatriots.

Well, if this was the end for Daala, then she’d be sure to take as many of her enemies down with her as she could!

“Ma’am, we have a message coming through for us. Looks like it’s on all frequencies from… It’s coming from a ship dubbed the Raven’s Claw, and the caller is identifying himself as Grand Master Kyle Katarn.” A bridge comm officer anxiously alerted Daala.

Her hateful rage reigniting at the mention of the Jedi’s leader and Triumvir of the Last Alliance, Daala nearly unleashed a torrent of curses on Kyle before the rational part of her mind urged her to halt her rampage. The old commando turned Jedi Grand Master was a rational and levelheaded man, and he wouldn’t reach out to her without good cause. If nothing else, she could buy a few minutes for her people to find a way of fleeing this doomed battle.

Composing herself, taking a few steady breaths to push away her fury, Daala ordered the comm officer, “Open a line with the Jedi.” After the command was obeyed, she waited until she could see the aged but stern face of Kyle before she brusquely guessed, “I’m assuming you want to offer terms of surrender for me and my forces.”

“Under any other circumstances, I’d be prepared to do just that, Daala.” Kyle answered, his normally composed voice strained by layers of hostility and bitterness for her actions against his kind. “But Sekot has insisted that the Last Alliance let you go for today, on account of your help in decimating the Croke and saving Master Durron and his forces.”

The shock plastered across Daala’s face, she shook her face a little to recover herself and bitterly retort, “That’s not a funny joke, Katarn.”

“It’s no joke.” Kyle scoldingly answered. “I know you wanted to capture, interrogate, and experiment on Kyp and all his subordinates, but Sekot wishes no further violence on you or your people for today, and I’m prepared to do this in a leap of faith for my friend in this matter. And if the reports I’ve been given are accurate, your forces are rather exhausted and incapable of defending themselves for now.”

The reports he’d been given. Daala mused. Was that referring to simply the Croke Reach, or the Last Alliance’s wider war against the Olpakan Hegemony?

According to Cylo-V and Darman, the Last Alliance had seized Baylor Base alongside the Chiss and Olpakan Resolute while fending off the True Sith’s marauders and betraying the Hegemony’s defenders. It seemed Commander Skirata suffered the same burst of naivety that Daala experienced, but that knowledge did nothing to soothe the fury she felt from this terrible loss. Thanks to the True Sith weakening the Karbin System’s defenders and Wedge Antilles’ unpredictable strategies, his people recovered all the prisoners they were after.

Unfortunately, if that humiliation wasn’t enough, General Antilles’s people were even able to extract the two hundred Force users the Hegemony kept in carbonite in a classified vault. Along with the typical set of rogues the confidential penitentiary held, several Jedi they captured were held inside, and their inevitable release was another headache for Daala to deal with. But this disaster underscored a deeper problem plaguing the Olpakans. Since only a handful of them knew of that secret prison, her suspicions of a traitor operating at the highest echelons of power were all but confirmed. And no matter how unbelievable it seemed, she placed the Supreme Knight at the top of her list of suspects.

And closer to home for the Olpakan Hegemony was the knowledge that the Last Alliance, with their newest allies’ help, had sent agents across the regional empire to undermine its foundations in virtually any conceivable way. Most prominent among them were Edaan Palpatine, Allana Djo Solo, and Venku Skirata. When they linked up with the Jedi already working with the Resolute, if they hadn’t already, they would put their impressive repertoire of skills and mystical abilities to use in dismantling the Hegemony, unless they were stopped right away.

Daala might not know why Sekot and Kyle were letting her go, but it would come back to be their undoing. And she was prepared to drive that fact home to them in completely clear words.

Her mouth not working, she found herself unable to speak as another voice spoke through the Sir Trilag’s communications systems, and everyone aboard her fleet heard the same words she did that the ethereal voice gently but decisively spoke.

“I greet you, soldiers of the Olpakan Hegemony. My name is Sekot, the living mind that governs Zonama and protector of my parent’s children, those you know of as the Yuuzhan Vong. I am speaking to you to ask that you deliver a message to your leaders.

“For over a millennium, your civilization has enacted a crusade of hatred, bigotry, and extermination against life itself. Your ancestors, having forgotten their pledge to the Supreme Maker and all His children, have unwittingly served the True Sith by suppressing all those that have held fast to the Light. Just as those that preceded the Yuuzhan Vong when they fell into darkness, you have murdered any who oppose your narrow views and imposed your twisted way of life on dozens of worlds.

“And now, with evil souls like Daala and Cylo that now hold sway over most of you, the perils the Olpakans face have only increased, and you now stand upon the precipice of eternal damnation. If you do not turn back from your course, then you will meet the same fate as those that rule over the Nihil Retreat.”

Oh, great. A religious sermon. Daala bitterly fumed, tuning out the rest of Sekot’s broadcast while breathing through her nose. She heard how the Olpakan Hegemony could find redemption if it restored its ancestor’s fidelity to the Celestials’ teachings and save the galaxy from the True Sith. And the planet urged Daala and her cohorts to surrender themselves, to face justice for their affronts against life itself and to lay down their old wounds and vendettas. But nothing registered in her mind, for she had her own address in mind for the sapient planet after it let her speak again.

Eventually, the world stopped speaking and released its hold on Daala. And after she took several deep gasps of air through her mouth, she hatefully vowed, “I swear to you, your so-called children, and all your friends, Sekot, that I will never relent in my cause. And when I have all that I’ll need to liberate the galaxy from you, the Force and all its dogmatic orders and disciples, then, and only then, will we have a lasting peace.

“The Jedi, One Sith, Yuuzhan Vong, everyone who stands against me will be destroyed. I will kill anyone who harms my cause, even if they are my own kin.” Daala zealously stated. “The only way I will end my fight is if you kill me and all those that serve under me. And the only chance you and your masters will have to accomplish that is right here and now.”

“You will try, Natasi Daala.” Sekot sadly said. “But I only hope that your followers break free from your madness and selfish need for control before it is too late for them as well.” Pausing for a moment, almost to consider something, the planet told Daala, “Go. Leave this region and the testament to your genocidal evil before my children and friends try to fight and destroy you.”

Sneering at the giant world, Daala vehemently swore, “Your bleeding heart will be your undoing, Sekot. Just as it will for the Jedi, One Sith, and all their friends.” She ordered her officers, “Find a safe path out of the Crakull System and take us back to the Hegemony immediately. And send word to all our outbound forces to withdraw before the Last Alliance can try to apprehend them.”

Melona 12^th, 59 ABY

Hyperspace, On Route to Nirauan

Aboard the Lucky Striker

The Rogues Gallery’s leadership had kept productively busy over the last twenty-eight hours after they completed their rescue mission from the Olpakan Hegemony, and everyone was pitching in for their latest project. Corroborating the identities of the five thousand prisoners they rescued from Baylor Base in conjunction with the three thousand Esh-Kha and two hundred classified captives was certainly a time-consuming endeavor. Ensuring none of the Olpakan Grand Council’s spies were embedded in their mob of political prisoners and dissidents required interviewing each soul and verifying it with their contacts in the Olpakan Resolute, meaning the Last Alliance couldn’t make the most of this victory for some time.

And securing the carbon-frozen prisoners was another matter entirely with Cylo-V’s defenses in place for the unauthorized thawing of any slabs. A tragedy, not simply because the Last Alliance needed the Esh-Kha officers to help train the rest of their people, but since the Force users kept within deserved better than to be treated as trophies and a mad scientist’s lab victims. But three of them, according to the Resolute’s contacts, were Jedi that Natasi Daala experimented on and handed off to her fellow High Councilor for potential future use.

Each of the three fighters had committed great deeds and served the Order and free galaxy well for many years, before they were captured and tortured by Daala and her scientists for their war against the Force. But the greater injustice was how she deceived the galaxy into thinking they were dead for so many years when their talents could have been used and taught to the next generation of their fellow Jedi. And when they were released and recovered from the aftereffects of carbon freezing, they’d be ready to get some well-deserved payback against their torturers. X2, Mander Zuma, and Ohali Soroc, they would all find the galaxy a very different place from when they were last active.

But before Wedge could help facilitate their liberation, he had to ensure there were no surprises awaiting them when they were released. Which was why he was having all his best technicians study the Olpakans’ carbonite slabs to decode its inner workings. Although the actual thawing out would take place in a secure facility on Nirauan, there weren’t any orders that stated the Rogues Gallery couldn’t show the initiative and examine the technology.

After triple-checking the set of coordinates for the second-to-last hyperspace jump towards the Last Alliance’s central command base and ensuring no pursuers, True Sith or Olpakan Hegemony, were still pursuing them, Wedge was prepared to order the next leg of their journey. The sooner they returned to the Hand of Thrawn and were briefed on their next mission, the sooner he and his wife could enjoy their third and final retirement. Being called back to active duty twice, during the Yuuzhan Vong War and Second Galactic Civil War, before he was asked by Luke Skywalker to create an independent and underground organization of veterans to aid this broken galaxy, he was looking forward to spending his final years in complete anonymity.

His comlink chiming, Wedge pulled it out to answer, “Antilles.”

“Wedge, you have a call coming through from Commander Arla. She’s requested to speak with both of us on our joint mission’s success.” Iella informed her husband. But the tone of her voice implied there was more to this dispatch than relaying Cain’s request. The suspicion laced in her well-honed investigator’s instincts was obvious for anyone to detect, and he knew when she was worried about something.

Hiding his troubled nerves from any watching eyes, Wedge quietly agreed, “I’ll meet you in our quarters.” Quickly excusing himself from the preparations after ensuring his calculations were carried out to the letter, he swiftly made his way to his and his wife’s personal cabin. If anyone was spying on him or his wife, he hoped they thought they were rendezvousing for a few hours of rest or other nocturnal activities. But his instincts told him that a more clandestine meeting was about to unfold.

Meeting Iella in their quarters, the married couple shared a passionate embrace, savoring a few moments of peace and alone time before their duties called to them again. But although they wanted to spend the rest of their journey in private, they knew this meeting had to be held.

Letting go of her beloved, Iella walked over to her desk in the enlarged cabin, furnished with a few luxuries and mission-related items, and activated the built-in holo-relay. Typing in her and her husband’s comm frequency, the couple waited for the Garwian woman to appear. But instead of just Cain entering the meeting, it included three other figures, concealed behind black shrouds to protect their identities.

Eyeing Cain with renewed wariness, Wedge politely greeted the Resolute commander, “I’m glad to see you in good health, Commander Arla. But may we please dispense with the pleasantries and get right to the heart of this unofficial call? I’m sure you and your guests have other more pressing matters to contend with in your people’s territory.”

“I understand your wariness, General Antilles, Madam Director.” Cain patiently began. “But the Resolute’s leaders wanted to speak with you personally about the repercussions of our successful raid, and they have a request of you both to bring before your Triumvirate.”

Her eyes glistening with new interest, Iella surmised, “Is it not dangerous for your leaders to meet with us like this, since the Hegemony is fervently hunting for you all?”

“It’s indeed a great risk, yes.” The furthest right hologram agreed, its voice digitized and pixelated to conceal its identity. “But the information we have cannot wait, not with Daala and Cylo planning to retaliate against us all very soon.”

“You did well to recover all the prisoners from Baylor Base. But the operation didn’t come without a cost to us, I’m afraid to say.” The leftmost voice warned. “By taking the classified inmates from under Cylo-V’s nose, you’ve confirmed for him and his conspirators that we exist, and that we are highly placed within the Hegemony. And by not eliminating Darman Skirata and all his commandos, you’ve left the defilers with lethal tools to use against us all.”

“We did the best we could with the resources and time we had.” Wedge firmly defended. “And you should know better than most how it’ll take more than one battle to dismantle your enemies, and how there might be more dissenters within the Hegemony’s ranks that you can recruit before this war ends.”

“True enough. And the losses Darman and his battalions suffered were above our worst estimates, so they’ll be hurting for a while. We can use that time to move forward with our own plans in the meantime.” The center shrouded hologram concurred before it warned, “But you need to have your agents and superiors be ready for reprisals, for the Hegemony will retaliate against you all. And they will be swift and fierce in their attempts for revenge.”

“We’ll be ready for them.” Wedge confidently promised.

“No, you won’t be. Not without our help.” Cain repudiated. “Our spies report how Daala’s already destroyed the Croke Reach with many of Cylo-V’s experimental weapons, and what he’s developing now is far more lethal than anything in the Hegemony’s current arsenal. And they already know which world your infiltration team has taken refuge in our territory.”

“We will warn your agents and take the necessary steps to ensure their survival and freedom.” The left hologram promised. “However, we will need to coordinate our efforts and ensure no misunderstandings are caused, and we maintain perfect coordination. To do this, we’ll require a small favor from you both. We need you to arrange a meeting between us and your three leaders, once Darth Krayt recovers from his injuries and fatigue caused by your Lehon campaign.”

Withholding his surprise, Wedge warned, “We’ll do our best, but it might take time.”

“Just do what you can.” The left shroud understood before it paused, and a man’s deep and booming voice came through. “But, in the interest in fostering goodwill between our faction and to build trust between our leaders, I will let you know of my true identity.”

Before anyone could protest, the dark veil vanished, and in its place was the image of a tanned man in ceremonial armor with dozens of medals attached and carrying himself as a hardened war veteran. But this man was no ordinary general or counselor as Wedge or Iella suspected. No, he was Vlad Karamazov, the Olpakan Hegemony’s Supreme Knight, its undisputed leader in all aspects.

If the Antilles elders had a mirror, they could see the shock plastered all over their faces. But Vlad only chuckled at their open mouths and wide eyes, and humorously chided them, “Try and compose yourselves. You can’t afford to let anyone see you so shaken after you leave this meeting.” Letting a mirthful smile cross his face, he suggested, “Or you can take a few hours to rest and plan your final jump to Nirauan.”

Closing his jaw, Wedge agreed, “We’ll keep your advice in mind.” Pausing, he saluted towards the Supreme Knight, “May the Force be with you, Sir.”

Returning the gesture, Vlad respectfully responded, “And may the Father of Lights be with you also. General, Madam Director.”

Deep Space, Near the Chiss Ascendancy

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Holy Grove of Aerimus

“Why do you follow me everywhere I go, assassin?” Adari hostilely asked Ochi while the two Force users waited on Sekot to appear before them, the Keshiri pacing around while the Vahla assassin patiently sat on a log. “No matter where I go, I can’t get away from you.” Angrily glaring at him, she continued, “What, did your masters want you to keep an eye on me so you all can steal my babies after they’re born?”

“That isn’t it at all, Ma’am.” Ochi defended himself, more than miffed at the hateful accusations while he shivered from the cold wind from Zonama’s hyperspace jumps. After Sekot helped rescue the Last Alliance’s stranded pilots and ensured none of their forces were left behind, the planet traveled towards Chiss space to drop off their wounded before linking up with the Olpakan Resolute. And the living world had asked for both Vahla and Keshiri Force users to meet with him in the sacred grove, and the journey had been anything but awkward for both.

But Ochi wouldn’t rise to the bait and give Adari the petty satisfaction for her insult. Instead, he said, “I meant what I said yesterday, of how I want to redeem my people, Mrs. Palpatine. The revelations of the Vahla’s origins and how we were the architects of our own undoing and exile, they all dislodged my faith in our false gods and helped me see past the folly of the One Sith.”

“And before you say anything about the consequences of my betrayal of both my people and Darth Krayt, you did the same thing when you rebelled against the Lost Tribe to free Kesh from the dark side.” Ochi pointedly reminded Adari. “The only difference between us is that I don’t have to go it alone from the start in redeeming the Vahla. I already have a few powerful backers in this endeavor.”

Curiosity warring with her suspicion, Adari was prepared to ask more, but Ochi beat her to it. “There are those among the One Sith that want a better way forward for all our worlds instead of continuing our pointless wars against the Jedi and your Alliance of Light. When the Fourth Cosmic War is over, we will make our move to prevent another war from breaking out when we’ll need to rebuild the galaxy.”

‘A wise attitude and assessment, Ochi of Bestoon.’ Sekot’s familiar voice was heard in front of its two guests. Taking the guise of the Fosh Jedi-turned-Sith Vergere, the planetary consciousness serenely smiled at them before it said, “Take a seat, Adari. There is much I will need to discuss with you and your bodyguard, and we do not have long until we begin our next part of our journey towards the Chiss Ascendancy.”

Prepared to sit on a nearby log away from Ochi, Adari felt a tug of disapproval from Sekot and reluctantly sat on the same one as him. Once the world was certain she wouldn’t murder her unwanted bodyguard, it began, “I summoned you here to bring an offer before you both, as representatives of the Jedi Order and One Sith.”

“Forgive me, but if that’s the case, why didn’t you have us bring Master Organa Solo, General Skirata, and Darth Vua here?” Ochi politely inquired. “Surely they could do well to hear of these meetings when our orders need to learn to work together.”

“Leia, Bardan and Vua will learn of this after we have our discussion.” Sekot earnestly promised. “You may tell them of this talk afterwards, if you wish, but I wanted to get to know you both better beforehand.” Its beak tipping upward in amusement, it added, “And I don’t think anyone could convince the Slayer to speak with me when he has decades to catch up on with his beloved.”

Its visage growing serious, Sekot warned, “The paths that you both are on, you have chosen to lead difficult lives and will need a haven to rest after this war concludes. And the Jedi and all others that live in the Ashla will be welcome to establish enclaves with me.”

Stunned to near silence from the bold offer, Adari slowly and cautiously asked, “Are… are you offering the Jedi and our friends land to set up a temple when we win the war?”

“Not just them, but all those that seek to atone for their dark pasts, just as young Ochi desires.” Sekot elaborated. “And I would be grateful if you and your family were willing to come settle here, for a few years, at least. I would very much like to meet your husband and learn more about his journeys.”

Unable to respond from the generous offer, Adari quietly sat while Ochi admitted, “That’s a very generous offer, Sekot. But that’s all assuming we can win this war and we’ll all still be alive to have this conversation again.”

“Have faith, Ochi.” Sekot confidently assured its guest. Sitting between him and Adari, it assured her, “I know it’s a tremendous decision to make. And you have your heart set on returning to Kesh one day soon. All I ask is that you consider my offer when you next speak with Edaan.”

Sitting peacefully for a few minutes, Sekot spontaneously asked Adari, “How are young Chelli Lona Aphra and her parents faring?”

Surprised by the sudden question, Adari slowly answered, “Chelli is doing well. She’s been exploring the planet a lot with some of her friends and learning useful skills from many people she’s met. It helps how Bardan and Vua, my teammate Vua, that is, is with her and helping out. And her mother’s been in good spirits, reacquainting herself with many of her old talents and helping the wounded wherever she can.”

“Excellent.” Sekot emphatically nodded before intently continuing, “But what about her father? Has he done anything that can better himself or the people around him?”

“I’ve barely seen him outside the Ark Angel.” Ochi recalled. “He hasn’t made much progress in coming to terms with his work for Krayt.”

“Can you blame him?” Adari reminded Ochi, not with hostility or venom, but sympathetic understanding. “He spent nearly twenty years on Korriban and subjected his family to isolation and misery. It’s a miracle Chelli and Lona didn’t leave him when they had the chance.” Turning to Sekot, she saw a determined glint in the Fosh facsimile’s eyes. She warily asked, “What are you planning?”

Feigning innocence, Sekot denied, “No one said I was thinking of or planning anything, Adari. I just believe Doctor Korin Aphra needs to talk with a few people that might be able to best understand his situation.”

The wind rustling and picking up again, Sekot warned both his guests, “But I’ve said my piece, and we still have quite a way to go before we reach the Olpakan Resolute. You had better get back to your people and let them know of the offers I have given you.” Its form fading away, the world’s consciousness warned Adari, “But let me give you one last piece of advice, Madam Palpatine. At least try to get along with Ochi. You two might be able to find some common ground and create a better future for both your peoples working together than you can apart. As one who shed her dark past to work alongside the Jedi and find love amongst them, you could serve as an example to him and others of a similar background.”

After the path out of the Holy Grove opened back up, Ochi followed Adari back towards their transport, and he told her, “Invidious.” Seeing her confused look, he elaborated, “Darth Invidious is the Sith who asked me to protect you. I don’t know why, but I believe he’s preparing to cause a schism in the One Sith to help you and the Jedi.”

Showing the Vahla gratitude for the first time since they were forced to work together, Adari cordially answered, “Thank you, Ochi. I’ll pass the word along to the right people. Quietly, mind you.”

“That would be greatly appreciated if you could do so discreetly.” Ochi gratefully nodded.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

On the Planet Azure

Within the City of Kholar

“I need to give you credit, Colonel. You and your clan are certainly running a tight-knit operation against the Hegemony.” Edaan commended Kal as he, Allana, and Venku were escorted throughout the central hub of regional Olpakan Resolute operations. Observing Clan Skirata’s members engaged in dozens of rebellious acts, with logistical support from their allies, rivalling and surpassing most covert operations he’d seen across the known galaxy, he found himself humbled by their brilliance and resourcefulness.

“Helps that my family has had years of experience in this sort of work.” Kal proudly stated. Between his clan skimming tens of millions of credits from across the Olpakan Hegemony’s military funds every month, identifying and tracking key enemy commanders for removal, and relocating and evacuating fugitive dissidents and Force users, it was little wonder they were at the top of the most-wanted list. “But it helps that we have more friends than ever to help us out.”

“It’s always good to have plenty of friends.” Allana concurred while her eyes searched the area for anything that stood out. Ever since arriving at this secret base, she’d felt a growing feeling of danger in the peripheries of her senses. Whoever or whatever was fast approaching, it was elusive and unable to be pinned down. Allana knew Edaan and Venku sensed the same threat, especially after they all learned of the near destruction of Lehon and Daala’s devastation of the Croke Reach all in the span of the last few days. The dark side was moving on all fronts, and everyone had to remain vigilant for any advances.

Hearing how most of the Sorcerers of Rhand and Abeloth escaped their well-deserved deaths and nearly killed Tau and his team in the resultant pandemonium, it terrified her more than she logically understood, far more the terror even Edaan experienced. She was just grateful that most of the Last Alliance’s soldiers survived Lehon and would soon make a full recovery.

And the Olpakan Hegemony drove the Croke race to the brink of extinction before being forced to retreat by the Last Alliance and Zonama Sekot, it was almost enough to make everyone faint from all the excitement. But learning how Daala was completely outplayed by Vice Admiral Kara and compelled by Sekot to deliver an ultimatum to her fellow Olpakans and their Supreme Knight, the knowledge filled everyone with great relief in how she was stopped, but also a terrible dread in thinking of the inevitable retaliatory strikes she’d concoct when she made her move.

Iskat, rejoining the group after having to make a brief call, informed Kal, “Apologies, Colonel, but I need to borrow Jedi Palpatine and Solo for a few minutes. They have a group of VIPs waiting for them in the hangar.”

Kal’s friendly eyes growing dark, he nodded in understanding and told the two longtime friends, “Go ahead and greet our guests. We’ll catch up with you all in a little while.”

Eyeing Allana and seeing the same wariness in her eyes, Edaan shrugged his shoulders as they both silently followed Iskat through the corridors. When they were out of Kal’s hearing range, he asked the Pkorian Jedi, “So, who’re these VIPs you’re taking us to meet? Or is this just some type of hazing ritual your superiors cooked up for us?”

Not losing her footing or breaking her stride in any way, Iskat entertainingly countered, “Does everything with you have to have a nefarious purpose or conspiracy?”

“No. But we’re too smart to walk into a trap or con like this without being prepared.” Allana firmly retorted before she rushed towards Iskat, slamming her into a wall and putting her unlit lightsaber against the red-skinned woman’s abdomen. “Now, what’s really going on here?”

“Allana…” Edaan tried, only to get a cold glare from his friend and surrogate sister and backed off, instead keeping watch for any unwelcome intrusions.

Iskat, seeing the pained look in her captor’s eyes, calmly asked, “What happened, Allana? Attacking someone so suddenly and brazenly isn’t like you at all.”

“Choose your next words carefully, because I know all about your previous affiliations and sins, Iskat. I know you were once an Inquisitor for Darth Sidious, as was your lover, Tualon Yaluna.” Allana warned, surprising Edaan with the bold declaration. Seeing the aghast shock cross Iskat’s face, she pressed on, “Oh, yes. I found out all about your sordid past, how you murdered your former mentor, fifteen other Jedi, and thousands of innocents in your two years of serving the Empire before you helped pursue Kal and his friends.”

“How did you find all that out?” Iskat numbly asked before she realized the answer to her own question. “Ferren and Verla helped you look up my records from Shedu Maad’s archives, didn’t they?”

“Exactly.” Allana confirmed. “And before we walk into a trap by an ex-Sith agent, I need to know what kind of game you’re playing here.”

“Let her go, Allana.” Edaan strongly urged her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Even if she’s got a shameful past, that doesn’t mean she’s trying to betray us.” He spared Iskat a sympathetic gaze, and asked, “This is what you meant when you told me of your old love who joined the Sorcerers of Rhand, yes?”

Her eyes conveying betrayal, Allana nearly snapped at Edaan before she controlled her fury and hissed out, “You knew about this?”

“She told me enough, just after we were attacked by the Rhandites aboard the Pax.” Edaan confirmed. “But both of us ought to understand the burdens, shame, and sins of those that can fall so far, and the desire to atone for all of one’s dark acts.”

Recognizing the merit of Edaan’s words, even if she was still incensed for the secret, Allana slowly let go of Iskat. But she kept a tight grip on her lightsaber and warned, “No tricks, Akaris. Give us the full truth.”

Taking a few breaths while rubbing her sore neck, Iskat earnestly answered, “I wasn’t leading you into a trap, but a test to assess your skills and abilities. My superiors have a lot of missions planned for your team, and we need to be sure you’re prepared for both the wars against the Hegemony and True Sith.”

“And ambushing us with a few of your commandos would be a sufficient test?” Edaan skeptically asked.

“It isn’t just commandos you need to worry about, Edaan.” Iskat reluctantly admitted. “The Resolute’s leaders sent a team of our best agents to challenge you and help add more experience to your repartee.”

“What about the rest of our group?” Allana warily asked. “Do you have something in mind to challenge them as well?”

“Yes, but nothing nearly as drastic as our plan with you two.” Iskat answered. Noticing something with her enhanced hearing, she warned them, “Looks like our delay didn’t go unnoticed.”

“You’d best call them off.” Edaan urged her, even as he activated his violet lightsaber to defend himself. “I don’t think Allana’s in the mood for one of your people’s tests right now.”

“On the contrary, I could use a good workout right now.” Allana angrily contradicted. Her senses alert and ready for battle, she felt the presence, several of them, if she was correct, waiting for them in the base’s hangar. She then warned Edaan, “Whoever’s here, they’ll likely attack us the second we get near their position.”

Worried for his longtime friend and fellow Jedi, Edaan carefully suggested, “Are you sure you want to do this, Allana? This anger, it isn’t like you at all.”

Seeing the fear in Edaan’s eyes, Allana took a moment to get control of her emotions, and answered, “You’re not the only one who’s had glimpses of the future and has people that you care about in danger from this war.”

Keeping his concerns for Allana in check, Edaan promised, “Then I’ve got your back. But let’s try and avoid turning this test into a diplomatic incident.”

“I can help you with preventing that.” Iskat offered. Seeing both sets of wary eyes on her, she continued, “I have no intention of anyone suffering serious injuries in this bout. I’ll have our people call off the test and we can get you all properly acquainted.”

Before either present-day Jedi could comment, they ducked to narrowly avoid the white lightsaber swipes from a cloaked individual before they telekinetically threw Iskat into a wall, nearly knocking her out. This assailant, nimbly dodging their counterattacks, reprimanded the Pkorian from behind their voice modulator, “I see your old sense of honesty got the better of you again, Akaris.”

Unable to recognize the lightsaber-wielding attacker from their concealed form and voice, both Jedi were prepared to defend themselves before they heard the familiar sound of a pistol clicking, and Allana turned to deflect every attack from two blasters. This individual, garbed in black and brown commando armor and covered from head to toe, carried himself with an intensity and stance Edaan recognized from somewhere, but couldn’t quite place.

But Edaan didn’t have time to try to identify the male attacker, with them both coming after their prey with a veteran hunter’s ferocity. The armored man came after him with more than blasters, moving with such speed that he evaded his defensive swipes and slugged him with two good punches. Disoriented and spitting up blood, he retaliated with several swift grappling moves, enhanced by the Force and likely breaking a few bones in the process.

Pulling himself up, the Resolute agent complimented, “Pretty good, Jetti.”

Eyes narrowing at the attacker using Mando’a, Edaan began putting the pieces together before stating, “You’re a Clone Trooper.”

“ARC Trooper, Jedi Palpatine.” The Clone War veteran corrected before he went back on the attack.

Allana, meanwhile, dueled the cloaked individual, managing to deflect every blow they aimed at her, and counterattacked with several lunges and attacks that could knock most heavy opponents off their feet. And the assailant, her cloak sporting several cuts from her opponent’s lightsaber, quickly discarded it to reveal a woman’s tight-fit combat outfit except for her arms, which showcased her white skin and several scars. She noticed her lightsabers, both with curved hilts with silver and black handles and wondered where she built them or who she received them from, for they were familiar to the Chume’da from somewhere in her studies.

Recognizing the studious look in Allana’s eyes, the unknown woman’s mask retracted upward to reveal a hairless Rattataki woman with several black tattoos on both sides of her face. And this individual’s face was one the Hapan heiress immediately recognized from the Jedi Archives’ records on the Clone War and Count Dooku’s Dark Acolytes.

“Asajj Ventress.” Allana anxiously whispered. She remembered reading about her, how the orphaned girl was trained in the Jedi Arts by a stranded Knight before falling to the dark side and joining the Separatists. She developed an unhealthy obsession in killing Obi-Wan Kenobi as the war escalated and killed at least eighteen Jedi in her notorious service to the Sith. But after the Battle of Boz Pity and faking her death, she disappeared from the galaxy altogether, and no one heard from her again since.

Unable to process this shock, Allana barely lifted her lightsaber to block Asajj’s blows, and found her face a few inches away from the Jedi Hunter’s before she scolded her, “Don’t get distracted in a fight, Solo. If you can’t handle this simple test now, how will you measure up when we face our true enemies?”

Her fighting spirit reignited, Allana was prepared to counter before a third blade entered the deadlock. Seeing Iskat get between them, the one time Inquisitor reprimanded both women, “Enough. This isn’t the time or place for assessing them.”

Seeing the hardened stare Iskat gave her, Asajj reluctantly deactivated her lightsabers and playfully pouted, “You’re no fun.” But she then warned Allana, “We’ll continue our duel later, after we prepare and make it to our new base.”

“I’ll be ready.” Allana vowed before she saw Edaan and his opponent hit each other in their jaws, both quickly falling onto their knees from the pain. Rushing over to help her friend, she saw his bloodied and bruised face and drops of blood dripping down his body. But what surprised her most was the brief chuckle he did, and he softly spoke, “I just went toe-to-toe with an ARC Trooper.” Staring at the armored clone, he marveled, “I didn’t think there’d be more of you still alive.”

“And I didn’t think old Palpatine would have any descendants, but here we are.” The soldier joked before he pulled off his helmet, revealing the distinctive face of a long-served Clone Trooper, with short-cropped hair, tanned skin that anyone could recognize as belonging to infamous bounty hunter and Sith collaborator Jango Fett, and several scars that showed his lengthy combat service for the Grand Army of the Republic. Rising from his kneeling position, he complimented Edaan, “Pretty good right hook you got there, Jedi Palpatine.”

“That’s high praise, coming from a soldier of your fame and caliber.” Edaan appreciatively nodded. Noticing a Rattataki woman coming up to him and offering a couple bacta patches to apply to his injuries, one he recognized instantly from the Jedi Order’s records on the Dark Acolytes, he wearily asked Allana, “Am I hallucinating, or is that Asajj Ventress standing right behind you?”

“She’s the real deal.” Allana confirmed. “But she needs to tell us exactly how she and Alpha here joined up with the Skiratas, Jedi, and Olpakan Resolute.”

“It’s a long story.” Alpha, the ARC Trooper, warned the Jedi princess. “But if we’re going to tell it, we’d better do it just once, so we need to make sure we have everyone in attendance, because afterwards, we’ll need to get you up to speed on our superiors’ new set of orders. We need to prepare for a siege and evacuate all essential equipment and personnel out of the city before the Hegemony attacks our position.”

“No rest for the weary, I guess.” Edaan bitterly chuckled, an action echoed by all before they returned to the main group. He only hoped that whatever now burdened Allana wouldn’t consume her and drive her into the dark side’s waiting arms, and that he could help her endure and prevail over whatever she now struggled with.

Chapter Text

Melona 12^th, 59 ABY

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

On the Planet Azure

Within the City of Kholar

Allana listened as Asajj, Kal, Iskat, and the rest of their fellow Olpakan Resolute divulged the whole truth of how this unlikely and diverse batch of Clone War-era fighters came together. And the tale she and everyone else in the Last Alliance’s delegation heard astounded all and annoyed several with the many interruptions they made at critical junctures in the story.

After the Clone War ended and Darth Sidious’s Proclamation of a New Order, the surviving Jedi and Clan Skirata went underground to avoid the Empire’s armies of lethal hunters. The remnants of the Jedi Order scattering to the four corners of the galaxy, hoping to evade the Sith’s Inquisitorious and legions of Imperial Stormtroopers, while the Kal’s clan of Mandalorians hid on their sector’s capital world of Mandalore.

A faction of the fugitive Force users that mostly survived Order Sixty-Six, led and coordinated by maverick Jedi Master Djinn Altis, worked together with many allies, including the Skiratas, to create a network of safe houses and refuges for those targeted by the Sith. And for nearly a year, it worked well, despite the Empire’s efforts to uncover and destroy it. But it all started unraveling when Darman Skirata, an Imperial Commando and ardent hater of all Force users after his wife was inadvertently killed by a frightened Jedi Padawan, guided the Empire’s soldiers and Inquisitors to Mandalore to capture or kill all Jedi and their sympathizers that hid there.

Fleeing Mandalore to divert the Empire’s hunters and give Fenn Shysa, then the newly appointed leader of the Mandalorian people, time to prepare his people for a prolonged war, Kal and his family linked up with not only the Altisian Jedi, but many anti-Imperial groups that opposed its expansion and abuses. Whether they were agents of key resistance networks of people like Bail Organa and Garm Bel Iblis, entire movements like the civilian-operated Whiplash agency, or individual Jedi and those that offered them refuge, the warrior’s clan found itself adrift across the galaxy, but not without purpose.

For two years, they helped eliminate what key military commanders they could, rescue political prisoners and help refugees escape persecution while staying one step ahead of their pursuers. And Darman refused all entreaties to desert and rejoin his family, even when his squad mate, Niner Skirata, left when he realized nothing would stop his zealous bloodlust. His hatred of the Jedi eclipsed all else, even his love for his son.

Unfortunately, all this wide array of dissidents and fugitives managed to accomplish over the years was annoy Sidious and his growing legions of supporters. When the small army of dissidents fled into the Outer Rim’s Western Reaches to try and hide from their hunters, just as Moff Wilhuff Tarkin and Darth Vader struck against the remaining Separatists and dissidents that tried to use the region as a last-ditch refuge.

Barely able to escape the final few battles, but not without taking many personal losses along the way, the resistance fighters made one last flight for freedom while Clone Force 99, Bardan and Jaing Skirata, and a few others diverted the Empire’s hunters. And during that fateful battle in the outskirts of the Unknown Regions, something happened that gave everyone a second chance at life, even if the worlds they found haven in were unlike any they ever saw before.

When Darman and the Inquisitors tried to destroy all their prey by damaging a fleeing cruiser’s hyperdrive, the resultant energy field that enveloped everyone involved in that battle not only flung them across the Unknown Regions, but decades forward in time. It was only through the timely intervention and rescuing of the Olpakan Resolute, led by Asajj, who suffered a similar fate when she faked her death to escape the Jedi and Banite Sith, that they were saved from certain death by the Olpakan Hegemony.

After the shock wore off on how drastically different not only the Unknown Regions’ worlds were from their own, and how much the galaxy changed in the six decades after they vanished, the Mandalorians, Jedi, and Iskat, after the Olpakan Resolute helped rehabilitate her, slowly found a new home and cause. Learning how all their orders and cultures were still fighting the same battles after so many terrible wars, it disheartened most of those that survived the Empire’s purges. And seeing the threats that lurked in the dark corners of this part of space, it terrified them beyond all measure and made them want to run and keep running.

But the few who remained steadfast in their resolve to fight convinced the rest to stay and hear what the Resolute had to say. And learning how they worked alongside the reborn world of Zakuul, the Chiss Ascendancy, and droid race of Silentium to fight the True Sith Empire and Olpakan Hegemony, that was a cause they could join.

Although Kal wanted to return to Mandalorian Space and rejoin the people he cherished so deeply, he understood how they had their own battles to fight and had hoped they would one day meet again. And, according to the Resolute’s Seers, their Force users that received visions of the future, there would come a day that they would join forces with the rest of Skyriver and expunge the darkness that flooded the region. He was just relieved that their prophecies were true, and he could see Venku, Bardan, and Jaing again, even if Darman and most of the Imperial survivors joined up with the Olpakan Hegemony, while the rest aligned themselves with the Nihil Retreat’s Lich Lords or died in various ways over the years. The most prominent one among them was Iskat’s former love, Tualon Yaluna.

For the past nine years, the odd mismatch of warriors, Jedi, and civilian dissidents helped the Resolute by utilizing many of their previous tactics and strategies to undermine the mainstream Olpakan society. Only now, their cold war was about to turn into a full-blown eruption of hostilities with Daala and her confederates stoking old hatreds and grudges, with the True Sith set to take advantage for their nihilistic cause. And time was running out for the exhausted defenders of light.

After the incredible tale was over, Allana found her hostilities towards Iskat cooling, if only towards a wary tolerance. Learning how many Jedi of her time ostracized her for her prodigious talents but inner turmoil, it was a struggle she understood perfectly well. That didn’t exonerate her for her willful participation in two years of service to the Empire and the dark side, but she knew many in her own Order that were often bullied out of jealousy or misguided and fearful judgments and deserved better than that. Her own experiences with such prejudice were enough to make her more than a little sympathetic towards the Pkorian’s old emotional wounds.

Still, that didn’t mean Allana wouldn’t keep her guard up around Iskat and Ventress a while longer, just to be on the safe side. Whether out of paranoia or well-placed caution, she wanted to be sure she could trust them with her life, because she was sure it would come to that soon enough.

“Jedi Solo. A word?” Asajj called to the princess, surprising the Human woman with the firm urgency in her voice. Seeing Edaan about to accompany her, the Olpakan Resolute agent clarified, “Not you, Palpatine, just Allana.”

Cautiously eyeing the one time Sith acolyte, Allana flashed a worried Edaan a reassuring smile before she followed Asajj in the hallway opposite of everyone else. Extending her awareness through this different section of the safe house, she sensed several strong presences in the Force in one of the nearby rooms and felt them touch her mind in a welcoming response. But just who they were, the Jedi Knight and Hapan Heiress couldn’t identify them.

Before they crossed whatever threshold awaited the two women, Allana skeptically asked her escort, “You’re not taking me into another kind of ambush, are you?”

“Don’t be stupid, Solo.” Asajj lightly reprimanded Allana before her gaze softened at the worried glean in her eyes. While letting the security system scan her fingerprints and eyes to allow her access, she elaborated, “I have orders to bring you to meet with the Resolute’s Seers and their Guardian. They have certain revelations to share with you on the grave decisions you and the Last Alliance will soon have to make, and a few glimpses of those that will share in your bloodline.”

“Share in my… Just who are these seers you’re taking me to visit?” Allana incredulously asked as she heard the door’s mechanism unlock.

“People that have long awaited you and the great changes you and the one you love will herald upon the galaxy, just as the Skywalkers will.” Another voice called out to Allana, this one a man no older than forty, and he impatiently told Asajj, “Are you going to keep our guest waiting too long out there? Everyone’s anxious to see the prophesied one.”

Gently pushing Allana to continue following her, Asajj led the way inside, with the doors locking behind them mere moments after they entered. The deeper into the facility the Jedi went, the more anxious she grew, not simply from being so close to such a notorious Jedi hunter. Whoever awaited her, they were exceptionally strong in the Force, but how they wielded it was unlike anyone she ever encountered before.

Coming before a final door, Asajj warned Allana, “Try not to be too freaked out by the Seers. Cephalons may look and sound weird, but their computers and interpreter will translate their musings and help you understand why they’ve called you here.”

“Cephalon? That name sounds familiar.” Allana curiously noted before the door opened to show seven individuals she’d never seen before, or anything that came close to resembling these unique beings. Seeing the gray-skinned and globe shaped beings with many tentacles, antennae, and chelae, with no sensory organs visible to her vision, she was astounded at this race of individuals she was meeting for the first time.

But the awkward task of making conversation with who Allana assumed to be the Cephalons was beyond her. Only through Asajj’s gesture to proceed did she begin to approach them, and as she walked to greet them, she remembered her studies on Supernatural Encounters and mentally berated herself for not recognizing the race’s name sooner.

The Cephalons, a race of inter-dimensional beings with a fourth-dimensional grasp of time, were few in number but impacted the galaxy in many diverse ways. Aiding the Conclave of Firstborn against Typhojem in the War of Temporal Planes after some of their number settled in Skyriver, they lived in a small colony on Coruscant, where one of their long-lived members aided Whiplash in ferrying the Empire’s political enemies and fugitive Jedi off the capital world.

The Whiplash operative in question, a Cephalon by the name of Aoloiloa, was an acquaintance of private investigator and Jedi-in-hiding Jax Pavan, who once used a Sith holocron created by Darth Ramage, a Sith who plumbed the secrets of the former’s people to try and dominate all reality. Before the latter’s death, he embedded his knowledge in the holocron, which was later used by Pavan to stage a daring and unorthodox rescue of Thi Xon Yimmon, then Whiplash’s leader, from right under Darth Vader’s nose.

Upon realizing all this, Allana humbly began to bow before the seven Cephalons before the same man’s voice that called to Asajj earlier spoke to her, and kindly told the Jedi, “There’s no need for all those formalities here, Allana. We’re all on the same side here, much as it’s hard to believe.” He said that last part in jest to Allana’s escort, earning an eye roll from her.

Seeing a Human man emerge from the shadows, a man wearing spacer’s garb with a blaster pistol and lightsaber equipped to his belt, Allana realized this individual was a Jedi survivor of Order Sixty-Six. But even with his many distinctive features, including several scars etched on his face and short brown hair, she couldn’t discern who exactly this man was.

Asajj, hoping to move things along, introduced Allana to the unnamed Jedi, “This, Allana, is Jax Pavan, our liaison with the Cephalons and instructor to many of the Resolute’s private agents and investigators. He’s brought you here because he has several revelations to share with you on what I mentioned earlier, along with glimpses of what our shared enemies have planned for the coming weeks and months.”

Struggling to maintain her composure, Allana nervously extended her hand to slowly shake Jax’s and awkwardly greeted him, “It’s an honor to meet a Jedi of your repute and character.”

“If I’m such a well-respected Jedi, then what about you and Edaan?” Jax bantered before he spoke in complete seriousness, “It’s good to meet you after learning of all you had to endure to get to this point in your life. I’m just sorry you had to suffer so much from the Sith.”

“Don’t worry about me.” Allana insisted. “I made my peace with my father’s fall long ago, and I’m determined to honor my family’s legacy of redemption and protecting the galaxy.”

“Good.” Jax sincerely complimented Allana before he gravely continued, “But I didn’t ask you here simply for idle pleasantries. I asked Asajj to bring you here to share the revelations my charges saw and what we could discern from their unique minds.

“But before we get to the prophetic stuff regarding you, you need to know that things are going to get quite hectic around here for the next few weeks. More hectic than usual, I mean.” Jax paused, looking in the distance for a moment before he regained his focus. “I’m sorry, my mind tends to wander off from time to time. A byproduct of using Darth Ramage’s holocron and helping interpret the Cephalons’ visions.”

Silently nodding, unsure how else to respond to Jax’s atypical explanation, Allana listened as Jax began, “As I’m sure you were already told, the Olpakan Hegemony and True Sith are accelerating their plans to conquer Skyriver. But you need to be aware of just how desperate the situation is for us all.”

“Just what do you know?” Allana dreaded. She knew much of the terrors the Last Alliance now faced, but if the war was about to get even more dire, then that was news to her.

“For starters, the True Sith are preparing a series of lightning raids across their enemies in this region of space.” Jax began. “They’re using a multitude of predators and their followers to launch a guerilla war on the Last Alliance. Very lethal predators and malevolent beings under their command like the Abominor, Crakull Mages, and Kindred of Ooradryl. And I’m afraid that’s only the tip of the esoteric iceberg.”

Feeling her heartbeat start to speed up, Allana anxiously listened as Jax continued, detailing how the horrors about to emerge from the Nihil Retreat were more horrifying than any monstrosity she ever before faced. Each one was more terrifying than the last, and the True Sith wouldn’t stop until the either wore the Last Alliance down through attrition, subversion, or through the final emergence of the Outer Gods and the Father of Shadows, the creator of the dark side himself, the first to rebel against the Father of Lights. And if the latter occurred now, then all hope would truly be lost for the broken galaxy.

After Jax finished detailing the horrors to Allana, she frightfully whispered, “Why are you only telling me all this?”

“When the time is right, the correct people in our coalition will know.” Jax cryptically assured Allana. “But for now, we need to play this carefully and ensure we perfectly maneuver everything into position for fracturing the Nihli Retreat. And yeou, Allana Djo Solo, are going to be a key player in ensuring Skyriver and its people survive, just as the one you harbor feelings for shall soon be.”

Blushing crimson red as a rose, Allana tried to deny it, but Jax beat her to it, “The Seers have seen hundreds of thousands of possible futures across time and space, and the only ones where we triumph are when you accept everything that makes you unique and use it all in this war. And that includes acknowledging your role in eventually taking the Throne of Balance and acting on your love for the Palpatine boy.”

The Throne of Balance. Allana silently breathed. Remembering how those accursed visions were what led her father to becoming Darth Caedus, to protect her from becoming a Sith acolyte for Darth Krayt, it nearly made her faint from extreme vertigo. And the visions didn’t stop for her family, for everyone who could touch the Force, from seeing different interpretations of her leading the galaxy in a period of healing and rejuvenation.

Was her whole life to be decided for Allana? Couldn’t she, just once, be selfish and demand to live the life she wanted?! Jedi and royal training conflicting with her yearning for independence, she felt her breathing pick up, and knew she was starting to hyperventilate.

Her fears were so great, Allana almost missed the next sentence Asajj said, but she could’ve sworn she misheard her. Remembering her breathing exercises, she forcibly calmed her erratic mind and asked the Rattataki, “What was that last part?”

“The Olpakan Hegemony is preparing to attack us here.” Asajj answered. “They’ll strike in no more than ten days, which is what we plan on them doing.”

That was it. Everything she heard and learned caught up to the mentally fatigued Allana, and she felt nausea and exhaustion overwhelm her. About to fall backwards and pass out, she felt Asajj’s firm grip in the Force gently lower her down. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the reformed Sith acolyte lightly reprimand Jax, “I told you it would all be too much for her to take in at once, Pavan.”

Melona 13^th, 59 ABY

Deep Space, Near the Chiss Ascendancy

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Town of La’okio

Korin didn’t have a clue why he was wandering around this settlement with his daughter. Amidst the Last Alliance and Sekot’s preparations for war by establishing shelters for noncombatants and hospitals to tend to the wounded, the planet’s shipyards were abuzz with producing customized fliers for Jedi and Sith. Not that he was privy to the finer points of such war plans, but with so many people skittering about, one could put the full picture together from bits and pieces they found.

But Chelli, ever a loving and rebellious daughter, wouldn’t let her father wallow in his well-deserved despair any longer. Insisting Korin accompany her on an inspection of La’okio’s state of readiness and meeting several of her new friends, he reluctantly followed and observed what went on around him. And seeing how far the Yuuzhan Vong had come in redeeming themselves, it comforted him that some of the Jedi’s good works lasted.

Still, Korin instinctively knew this period of grace wouldn’t last. After the Last Alliance finished depositing their wounded and mission data to the Chiss Ascendancy, they would get back into the fight, this time by dismantling the Olpakan Hegemony and bring its warmongering leaders to justice. And he knew it was a sound military strategy, since it would remove the lesser threat off the board and give the Jedi and One Sith’s members time to learn to cooperate and trust each other. A difficult task, but not impossible with the dangers the galaxy faced.

However, in the name of all that was good and noble, Korin couldn’t figure out why his daughter was being so helpful and loving towards him. After he was brainwashed by the One Sith into serving them, working with them to forcibly bring his family to Korriban to cooperate in undermining the free galaxy, the only fate he deserved was either a quick execution or life sentence of hard labor and prison. But seeing Chelli be so helpful and forgiving to him, it was almost too much to bear. She should’ve acted more like her mother and distanced herself from him to help those who deserved it.

Chelli, even from a distance while talking with Vua Gorsatt and several Sekotans priests, saw her father’s distress etched onto his face, and gently excused herself to hurry over to him. Grabbing his hand and pulling him into the town, she explained, “There’s someone in the town that wants to speak with you. Someone that can help you come to terms with your sins and seek a better path.”

“Why do you care?” Korin suddenly asked, his voice laced with grief. His face contorting in pain, he demanded, “I took you and your mother from comfort and safety for nearly twenty years of perdition on Korriban! I cooperated with the One Sith in kidnappings, assassinations, and, worst of all, the desecration of history for selfish gain! How can you forgive me so easily?!”

Before Chelli could try and calm her bereaved father, one of the Yuuzhan Vong officials sagely interrupted, laying a three-fingered hand on her shoulder, “Let me handle this, young Chelli. I know your father’s burden better than most.”

Korin, his eyes watering and body shaking, was on the verge of falling to his knees before Vua caught him. Gently guiding him towards a nearby and vacant hut, the small group entered and let him sit on a mat before everyone sat around him.

Both Vua and Chelli sat nearest Korin, while the eldest Yuuzhan Vong sat directly across from him and cordially started, “Perhaps it would be best if I introduced myself, Doctor Aphra. My name is Harrar.”

Harrar! That was a name Korin recognized immediately from his people’s invasion. A prominent High Priest of the Yuuzhan Vong Empire before allying with the Jedi in defeating his people, he had since been in exile with them in their quest for redemption. Suddenly, this meeting was making more sense to him, and he wouldn’t let them waste their energies on a wretched soul like him.

Trying to get back on his feet, Korin found himself bound in place and wondered if Sekot or one of its friends was involved in this counseling session. But no matter how hard he tried, his body wouldn’t listen to his commands. Even speaking was impossible for him right now, with a powerful and serene presence washing over him and soothing his turbulent mind.

Harrar then spoke, kindly addressing Korin, “I know how you feel, Doctor Aphra. Your daughter has been very concerned for you and, after Sekot urged her, organized this intervention to offer you guidance.”

Mutely staring at Chelli with an irritated but touched gaze, Korin then looked away in shame, not wanting his sins brought up again. But Harrar continued to speak with empathy and patience, “You must understand, sir, that what happened to you and your family was not your fault. The Sith, they manipulated you and preyed upon your fears to bring you under their control, just as what happened with my ancestors when we used their dark powers to rebel against Aerimus and the Silentium. And after what happened to Jacen Solo and so many others, it is only natural you felt disillusioned with the state of things.

“But right now, you’re being given a second chance, a gift too few people are given, and you’re squandering it by wallowing away in your regrets.” Harrar sternly added. “Your experience in studying Force schools and artifacts is a skillset the Last Alliance desperately needs now. And your wife and daughter care about you so much, they are trying to reach you and help you heal your scarred soul.”

“Then where is Lona?” Korin challenged, his voice returning to him. “If she still loves me, why isn’t she a part of this talk?”

“I’m already here, Korin.” Lona’s angelic voice came from behind Korin, wrapping her arms around his neck and gently kissing his cheek, the simple gesture making many tears start coming down before she whispered, “Sorry I’m late.”

Unconsciously placing a hand over his own, Korin despairingly panted, “I don’t understand. Why are you all wasting your time with me when you have more important things to tend to?”

“Because you’re not as far gone as you think, Dad.” Chelli emphatically said. “And if we can’t save a lost soul when you need help the most, then what are we even doing out here?” Her face growing firm, she warned, “What’s hurting you isn’t something a single conversation can fix. But we’re willing to put in the time and effort to help you forgive yourself, if you’ll do the same.”

Vua, taking the chance to speak, reminded Korin, “Doctor Aphra, my friend and brother, Edaan Palpatine, risked it all and sacrificed so much to save Vestara Khai from the dark side and redeem her. I think, in honor of him and my new friend in your daughter, I can try to live up to his example and help a wayward soul in need.”

Korin didn’t know why these people were taking the time to help him, but some part of his soul, the idealist who once wanted to make the galaxy a better place for the next generation, was touched by everyone’s kindness. If they were willing to try and help him heal, then the least he could do was listen and hope for the best. And maybe, just maybe, he could find redemption for himself and others like him along the way. An all but impossible flight of fantasy, he realized, but his family wanted him to believe again, and he knew a part of him, a small part, still wanted to hope.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Carthea System

Aboard the Orbital Asteroid Superstructure Kolovish

Integrated into his headquarters’ computer network, the asteroid and all its systems an extension of his brilliant mind, Cylo-V scrutinized every data file and bit of information the Olpakan Hegemony had on Vlad Karamazov. Everything the government had on its Supreme Knight appeared legitimate, all files passing the most extensive inspection he could give on such short notice, but he knew how even a few pieces of knowledge could escape even his observant eye. And with the meeting with his co-conspirators to begin in less than a few hours, he needed every piece of evidence he could find to convince others of this high treason.

With hundreds of monitors floating around in the heart of his center of power at a rate most minds couldn’t process, Cylo-V nearly lost track of time before an alarm chimed for him. Seeing how he nearly missed the meeting with Daala and the rest of their cabal through his hunt for the truth, set to begin in just under ten minutes, not four hours, he redirected a dozen monitors for the imminent call. Along with the ten founding members that made up the Olpakan Purists, there would be a new addition to their ranks from the Grand Council’s members, but she would be welcomed last after everyone was brought up to speed on the recent debacles.

One after another, the holoimages of the nine leading Purists appeared, with Cylo-V taking note of each’s micro expressions and location through his tracking software. Even if he trusted them with ferreting out traitors, no sense in taking careless risks with their communications’ security. And the first to arrive, punctual as usual, were Natasi Daala and Darman Skirata.

The next to arrive were Haydnat Treen and Borath Maddeus, the only members of the Alliance-Imperial Conspiracy to have been tried and convicted for their many illegal machinations against the Galactic Alliance. Cylo-V made a note to ask them after the meeting concluded to see if they could contact their former head of their ill-fated scheme, Drikl Lecersen, to recruit him. Even if he now served the One Sith, he might yet come around and join the winning side. And if he didn’t, then there were always ways to steal his resources and personnel to bolster the Olpakan Hegemony.

Raze followed suit, and the Aporthad cartel crime lord and information broker of galactic infamy of decades of experience and infamy appeared the most troubled of them all. Perhaps he had information Cylo-V overlooked on the Resolute’s spies or Last Alliance or True Sith’s machinations. Hopefully, it wasn’t more dire news, but he was prepared to be wrong once again.

Rede Melusar, son of Olpakan field agent Stryker Melusar and admiral of the First Expeditionary Fleet under Daala’s direct authority, came online next. Recalling how the fleet commander deployed a team of agents to rescue or silence his father, now imprisoned in Imperial Space and being interrogated by the Last Alliance, Cylo-V hoped the military man would keep his fiery passion and patriotism in check a while longer.

Jet Holdfast, the Olpakan Hegemony’s High Councilor of Intelligence, a Nosaurian woman and disenchanted Jedi and Galactic Alliance partisan, joined the call after Rede. And the woman who virulently hated the Yuuzhan Vong and all their defenders with an intensity that could make a star collapse, she was Raze’s superior and likely aware of the dire news he was prepared to share with all.

Celalon noble twins Aiolin and Morit Astarte, augmented by cybernetics to make them on par with most Jedi and Sith in combat, they came into the meeting at the same time as sleezy politician and Quarren anti-Jedi activist Pwoe did. All of them recruited by Cylo and Jet for their unique talents and potential value for the Olpakan Hegemony, they shared a burning hatred for the Jedi and all those that interfered in theirs’ or their family’s ambitions. Through their collaboration and experience, the anti-Force government seeded many agents and sympathetic beings into high positions in the known galaxy’s echelons of power and quietly eliminated those that opposed them.

Once the Human Astarte twins and Pwoe entered the meeting, and Cylo-V received notification how the new member was waiting to join the call, he addressed everyone, “Thank you all for coming. I know you all have limited time and many duties to perform, so I will keep this meeting short. It seems our Supreme Knight is almost certainly collaborating with our dissidents and the Last Alliance, and we need to uncover enough evidence to have him quickly deposed and convicted before it results in our cause disintegrating.”

“Do you believe he will try to warn them about our upcoming attack on Azure?” Rede suspected.

“We believe he already did.” Darman confirmed. “Karamazov already contacted me and Admiral Daala and tasked us with capturing or eliminating the Resolute and their allies there. He ordered us to keep the collateral damage low and to strike in no more than two weeks.”

“How does that implicate the Supreme Knight in high treason?” Aiolin, the blonde-haired and youthful Human cyborg woman, politely asked, earning several withering glares from everyone.

“Because, Captain Astarte, we were prepared to go after Colonel Skirata and the Jedi stationed on Azure on our own initiative five days from now, with our leader kept in the dark until we got the job done.” Raze exasperatingly explained. “But Karamazov somehow discovered their location and ordered us to attack, but only at his express command.”

“And we’re afraid he’ll warn them and give them the opportunity to flee.” Aiolin nodded, now understanding the severity of this situation. “Then, how are we going to respond?”

“We have a plan in place for that.” Daala promised. “After how we were humiliated in the Croke Reach and lost so many prisoners on Karbin, we can’t take any more chances or leave any clue overlooked. And as for when we expose Karamazov on his betrayal, we have recruited an old friend to help ease the political fallout.”

Activating the twelfth and final monitor, the form of an Agbui woman named Shimkif appeared, a face easily recognizable to all, not simple as the Olpakan Hegemony’s High Councilor of Diplomacy. As the leader of her people’s remnant that opposed the True Sith and all those that used the Force, she was a master diplomat and propagandist who, with her corps of ambassadors and cunning mind and tongue, could turn any society or group against itself. And she would be key to the Purists’ plans going forward.

Cylo-V, seeing the discomfort laced in Treen’s eyes, warned everyone, “I understand this sudden addition to our ranks may startle many of you. But to ensure a smooth transition of power for when we depose the Supreme Knight, we’ll need High Councilor Shimkif’s experience in diplomacy and gathering unlikely allies to keep the Hegemony intact. And right now, we need to put all our energies in protecting our borders and people while eliminating all traitors in our ranks.”

“But how do we confirm Karamazov’s treason to the rest of the Hegemony?” Pwoe pointed out. “Unless he slips up or we capture someone who can prove his treason, it’ll only be our word against his.” Stroking his facial tentacles, he stated, “It seems that our best chance to destroy him is to capture the enemies that have already infiltrated Azure’s facilities and make them confess.”

“We can take care of that.” Cylo-V confidently assured the aquatic politician. Knowing how Daala and her subordinates were already laying the groundwork for invading Azure ahead of schedule, he understood the high probability of the Purists learning the truth when the planetary lockdown began. With interdiction fields set up across the hyperspace routes leading in and out of the Roshar System, and enough warships to lay siege to two star systems being used in this operation, it would certainly be enough to capture the infiltrators.

And even then, this military exercise would serve another purpose, a perfect distraction for Cylo-V to hack into the Supreme Knight’s data vaults and uncover the undeniable proof of treason the Purists would need to condemn him and the Resolute. With only Daala and Raze knowing of this endeavor, the risk of being blunted was almost at zero percent, and that was exactly how those three wanted to keep it.

No one would stop them from bringing the truth to light and purifying the Olpakan Hegemony. Those that tried would only meet a painful death and shameful disgrace, especially those Jedi brats that dared defile such a great bastion of freedom from the Force. Edaan Palpatine, Allana Djo Solo, Ferren Barr, and Verla Kaer, they’d all meet the same end as everyone else who tried to stop this noble crusade.

And this attack was just the start of preparing the way for Olpakan dominance over every world. Soon enough, the galaxy’s governments, those so-called heads of state that were little more than Jedi puppets, would fall and be replaced with a more enlightened rule. With the Astarte twins ready to begin the first of several assassinations, the Last Alliance would see their war effort collapse faster than they could salvage it.

Melona 14^th, 59 ABY

Within the Inner Rim

Inside the Hapes Consortium

On the Planet Shedu Maad

Within the Jedi Temple

After finishing today’s round of physical therapy, Luke was especially exhausted and almost ready to get a good night’s sleep. Tekli and her medics were determined to wring every bit of strength out of him if it meant accelerating his recovery and rejoining the war effort. And with the past eight hours of training to rebuild his body’s physical reserves, this one the most draining and torturous he’d ever endured, he’d sleep soundly tonight.

But there was something Luke had to do before getting his rest, one matter of vital business he needed to handle for the Last Alliance and himself. Although the Jedi and doctors tried to shield him from the worst bits of news funneling in from the Unknown Regions, especially the near disaster of Lehon and Tau failing to destroy Abeloth, he had other ways to uncover the truth. It helped how the former Grand Master could still intimidate Tionne Solusar into giving him the full reports when she gave her updates on Coruscant's recovery.

Learning how the Last Alliance was slowly coming together, delivering several deadly blows against the Olpakan Hegemony and hurting the True Sith’s auxiliaries, it gave Luke hope that they might yet win this war. But Abeloth and those that controlled her, they couldn’t be stopped as easily as most might hope.

And no matter how much Luke tried to deny it, he was terrified for all his family and friends. Scattered across the Unknown Regions, facing terrible trials and enemies most would be driven mad from or run away in fear, they were each doing their part for the Last Alliance. But he was trapped in the Jedi Temple, still recovering from old wounds and unable to do any work on the front lines. This restless feeling was just enough to make him do something reckless to try and get back in the fight.

Thanks to the Olpakan Resolute and Aquilian Republic sharing their advanced medical technologies and cybernetics with the Last Alliance, many soldiers that would have otherwise been discharged or dead would soon get a second chance at fighting. And Luke, having agreed to undergo this procedure to restrengthen his spinal cord and replenish his energy reserves, he would soon rejoin the war effort.

Receiving a call on his holorelay, Luke shimmied over to the desk and accepted the message, with the holograms of Julius and Edaan quickly visualizing. Smiling at the welcome intrusion by the Aquilian High Admiral and the Jedi’s prodigy knight, he exhaustively greeted them, “I’m glad to see you both again and in good health.”

“Wish I could say the same as you, Master Skywalker.” Julius jokingly retorted before he seriously added, “I’ve sent out the cybernetics to Shedu Maad. It’ll be at Shedu Maad in ten days, max.”

 “That’s much quicker than how long it’ll take the Resolute to get the doctors out to the Temple.” Edaan grimly answered. “The Hegemony’s cracking down and closing ranks harder than ever after their double humiliations, so it’ll take about fifteen days before our friends to get them away from Daala and Cylo. And that doesn’t account for the extra twelve days they’ll need for travelling into the Inner Rim.”

Sighing, Luke reluctantly acknowledged, “If the Olpakan Hegemony’s clamping down, don’t have the Resolute take any unnecessary risks. If their doctors can’t make it personally, then have them send over all the data on the procedure to Tekli.”

“I’ll pass along the message.” Edaan nodded before his holosignal began flickering out. “Kriff. They’re tracking my signal. I need to sign off quickly. I’ll let you know when our friends make their decision. And give Adari my love.”

“I will. May the Force be with you, Edaan.” Luke promised before Edaan’s hologram dissipated. Turning to face Julius, he was prepared to say more but was interrupted by the short Chandra-Fan barging in, and she didn’t look happy with her patient.

Realizing the jig was up, Luke ruefully told Julius, “I’m afraid I’ll have to call you later.”

“Good luck with your people, Master Skywalker.” The Aquilian chuckled, flashed an amused grin, and signed off, leaving Luke to handle his talk with Tekli.

“Did you think I wouldn’t catch on to your scheme, Master Skywalker?” Tekli sternly scolded Luke. “You may think you can have whatever conversation you want on your personal HoloNet relay, but you should’ve known better than that.”

“Tekli-” Luke tried to explain, only for his lips to stop working properly. Realizing Tekli was preventing him from speaking before she finished reprimanding him, he stopped trying to speak.

“I tolerated your work in aiding the Last Alliance through helping our logistics and coordinating our liaison efforts because it was a good stress relief for you.” Tekli continued. “I hoped that keeping you abreast of your family’s activities and staying in touch with our top officers in our coalition would be enough for you. But I see that a sterner hand is needed in helping you recover, given your underhanded efforts in trying to rejoin the fight ahead of schedule.”

Feeling his lips open again, Luke only asked, “How did you figure it out?” Seeing Tekli glance at the Desk containing his HoloRelay, he realized, “You traced and bugged all my calls, didn’t you?”

“I had a hunch you’d foolishly try to accelerate your recovery, and I felt it best to take a few precautions.” Tekli confirmed. “But asking the Aquilians and Olpakan Resolute to perform a dangerous procedure on you so you can get back in the field, it’s a stunt of recklessness I never thought you capable of.”

“Under normal circumstances, I would never try something so dangerous.” Luke agreed. “But we both know that the enemies we face, the power they wield and how we know so little about them, they can’t be stopped like anyone else we’ve dealt with. Not even Abeloth or the Yuuzhan Vong can measure up against the True Sith Empire and their Lich Lords. And Daala needs to be dealt with for good, before her army of fanatics mess up our war.

“I asked Edaan and Julius to look into this for me so I can be the most helpful to everyone.” Luke let out a weary sigh, and dreadfully admitted, “This war, I think it will cost us more than we yet realize.”

“Have you had any visions?” Tekli worriedly asked, struggling with the implications of this if her assumptions were correct.

“I don’t know.” Luke truthfully answered. “But I sense the darkness fast approaching, and I know it’ll devour us all if we don’t hold true to the Light.” Shivering a little from terror, he admitted, “It’s just like when I faced Cronal on Mindor over fifty years ago, only dozens, hundreds, of times stronger.

“If we don’t fight with everything we have, then we might as well condemn ourselves to face oblivion or eternal enslavement to this evil. I… I know this fight will be my last, but I have to be there for my family and friends. I need to be sure I can give them a clear shot at a bright future, no matter what happens to me.

“And if…” Luke hesitated, struggling with getting these words out before he managed, “If I die in this fight, I want to do so on my own two feet or in a starfighter, helping all those I care for win one last war.” Pleadingly looking at Tekli, he urged, “Please understand, I don’t like having to go behind everyone’s backs like this, but I just need to be with my loved ones when the decisive moment is upon us.”

Tekli, silently appraising Luke for what felt like an eternity, eventually asked him, “This… procedure the Aquilians and Olpakan Resolute told you about… What precisely did they tell you it entails?”

A small glimmer of hope rising inside him, Luke began explaining the finer points of the nanotechnology and medicinal techniques used in repairing battered nerves as best he could. Seeing Tekli silently marvel at the implications of such advanced medical practices, he knew she’d eventually aid the procedure.

But what Luke didn’t tell Tekli was how his nightmares he’d been having over the last month, they’d only grown worse in detail and sheer terror. Even without informing anyone of them, he knew what they represented for the galaxy and his final fate.

The glimpses of hundreds of True Sith worlds, each different in its environment and usefulness to the Way of the Dark, they all coalesced into one black mist that would spread across Skyriver and its companion galaxies. And its leaders and strongest fighters, Abeloth among them, none of them could be destroyed through conventional means. The higher-ranking Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Lords, with their power to imbue part of their souls into temples or artifacts, they couldn’t be permanently killed unless their Phylacteries was destroyed. Finding them, if it was even possible in a territory the Last Alliance knew so little about, would require time and energy Luke wasn’t sure they had.

But Abeloth, she was a problem he could take off the board, if his premonitions were the genuine article. He only prayed, if it worked, everyone would understand why he would soon attempt the impossible. And once she was removed as a threat, then everything else would hopefully fall into place for the Last Alliance, provided the One Sith didn’t try a betrayal at the last second.

Melona 15^th, 59 ABY

In Wild Space

On the Planet Nirauan

Within the Hand of Thrawn Military Base

In the Medical Bay

The Last Alliance’s head doctor heard of the enhanced capabilities Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt received from the Celestials, but seeing the Jedi clone’s incredible accelerated recovery was a phenomenal sight to witness. And it was a great relief that at least two of the Jedi and Sith’s best fighters and leaders wouldn’t succumb to death today, not with the thousands of more critically wounded patients fading away every hour.

Jarael Chantique, former compatriot for Edaan and now leading medic and surgeon for the Last Alliance, knew the casualties and wounded from the Lehon debacle were enormous, and she was prepared for the chaos that would follow from over eight thousand injured combatants. But she didn’t expect to have to tend to almost one million freed slaves from the planet’s dungeons. And the most grievous wounds the advance team suffered took top priority for the previous lead doctor from the Rude Awakening.

In the twenty-four hours since the Havoc Marauder returned to Nirauan, even before that with 11-4D tending to everyone’s wounds and keeping the critically injured from death’s door, the Iskalloni woman had worked nonstop to ensure Jaden, Akku, Shara, Lona, and Butch would survive and recover. Jarael heard from the Sith medical droid and Clone Force 99 how they were all pushed well beyond their breaking points and should have been killed in Lehon’s underground cities.

Facing Abeloth and those that bound her to the True Sith’s will, and barely able to seal an Infernal Gate while preventing the planet’s destruction, no one should have survived such an encounter. And 11-4D warned Jarael how Tor Valum had tried to abduct Shara Vos, which troubled her almost as much as seeing her wounds. Without Butch protecting her, the Grysk Sorcerer would have surely captured her, and she would be sure to prepare a feast for the Tuk’ata hound to enjoy after his many grievous injuries fully and properly healed.

Walking through the medbay to evaluate and oversee the surgeries and bacta therapies of dozens of critically injured patients, Jarael hoped that everyone else in the Rude Awakening’s old crew fared better than Akku and his company. Knowing how Atai was serving as a diplomat for the Outer Rim Alliance in the Last Alliance’s command structure, while Adari and Vua were on Zonama Sekot, and everyone else was working with the Olpakan Resolute, she partly wished she was back on the frontlines with them. Even though she knew her work was vital in saving lives and teaching her skills to others, it didn’t extinguish her yearning for adventure and the community she found with Edaan and his friends.

Stopping to speak with the Jedi Council’s lead healer and ambassador Cilghal, the elderly Mon Calamari Jedi Master beat Jarael to the punch, “Darth Krayt has awoken from his coma just under an hour ago.”

“Already?” Jarael unbelievably whispered, remembering to keep her voice down to prevent agitating the patients and medics that were working. She then suspiciously recalled, “I thought the Sith’s healers said-”

“They were just as shocked as we were to learn of this.” Cilghal answered, “He’s still severely weak from his injuries, but he’s already asking to meet with Grand Master Katarn and the Supreme Commander. He wants to brief them on just what happened on Lehon.”

Scowling at the obvious attempt to smear the Jedi, Jarael assumed, “And they’re going to wait until Tau wakes up, right?” Seeing the regret laced on Cilghal’s red and gray-skinned face, she realized the truth.

“We need to know exactly what happened in facing Abeloth and need to corroborate what FourDee told us.” Cilghal stated. “If Tau faltered in striking down Abeloth when she was vulnerable, we need to understand just what happened and if we can trust him with a second chance in going after her.”

Scoffing, Jarael bitterly surmised, “And they’ll trust the word of the One Sith’s leader over Tau.”

“Kyle and Vurawn will wait for Tau to heal before they make any lasting judgements.” Cilghal assured her. “If Krayt is telling the truth, then he’ll recover enough to wake up and get back on his feet in no more than a week.”

Jarael’s displeasure could easily be seen by everyone from her scowling face. Even if she recognized the necessity in cooperating with and giving the One Sith the benefit of the doubt, she wouldn’t forget or forgive how they recruited her people into their plans for abducting Force-sensitive children and killing anyone who interfered in their attempts to take over the galaxy. And personal disgust for Krayt’s Sith order notwithstanding, she was certain they, or at least some of them, were planning a double-cross somewhere down the line in the Last Alliance’s existence.

Cilghal, understanding Jarael’s wariness, softly assured her, “I’ll bring your concerns to the rest of the Triumvirate and Jedi Council after my shift ends. But rest assured, you are far from the only one who has grave doubts about this desperate alliance.”

“Thank you, Master Jedi.” Jarael gratefully whispered, ending her impromptu break to return to her duties. There were still dozens of rounds to make in the next two hours before the next shift rotation came in, and she needed to be sure everyone was ready for the ten hours of exhaustive work they were about to undertake. And the last thing the reformed Iskalloni doctor needed right now was to be distracted from her duties due to her suspicions and fears on the One Sith, well-founded or otherwise.

Chapter Text

Melona 18^th, 59 ABY

Within the Outer Rim

Inside Imperial Space

Within the Sartinaynian System

In Orbit Above Bastion

Aboard the Consular-class Corvette Concussor

Observing the orderly flow of traffic coming in and out of the orange-colored Imperial fortress world, assassin and Olpakan Hegemony agent Aiolin Astarte grimaced at the thought of having to spend the next few weeks on the center of Imperial power, especially with its democratic elections about to begin. Having spent the journey reviewing reports from the already-onsite teammates of the Galactic Empire’s massive restructuring of its higher echelons of power, she knew the Jedi puppets in Jagged Fel and his supporters would be on the lookout for any scent of enemy activity.

If the plan went as flawlessly as Daala and Cylo-V believed, Aiolin and her twin brother would eliminate Jagged and his key collaborators and leave it vulnerable for appropriation by their betters. Already weak from a brief and bloody civil war instigated by Daala and the One Sith, a few well-timed assassinations and related acts of sabotage would likely topple the wounded Empire.

Unfortunately for the well-trained Jedi hunter and commando, Aiolin wasn’t the one in overall command of this mission. Were it up to her, she would have preferred a subtle approach towards pacifying the Empire and enabling its annexation, including a merciful decapitation of its leadership and an offer by the Hegemony to aid its armed forces and citizenry in exchange for their loyalty. And there were still the three key prisoners they and the Gray Cadre were interrogating and preparing to put on trial, who had to be rescued before they were forced to give up everything they knew on their civlization.

The Hegemony’s agents in Imperial Special Forces commander Gideon Hask, Navy ace and Alderaanian descendant Nash Windrider, and prominent anti-Force scientist Stryker Melusar, these three individuals were being held by the Empire and their Jedi masters, an unacceptable outcome for their patrons. Aiolin was prepared to covertly use the tumult of Fel’s assassination to extract the prisoners and bring them back home, with the help of a few well-placed agents and collaborators within the democratic government.

Instead, Morit, the more reckless and callous Astarte of the duo, was placed in charge of this operation, and he was planning a bloodier and more brazen means of achieving their ends. And no matter how ardently or logically Aiolin argued for a more elegant and precise approach towards eliminating their adversaries, he would hear none of it.

Aiolin instinctively knew Daala was behind her brother’s appointment, for she wanted to send a message to the Head of State and his supporters of her loathing of what she perceived as the perversion of the Empire she grew up serving. Having majored in psychology and been gifted a keen mind to grasp the motivations of all galactic leaders, she knew how the former GA Chief of State was a volatile and vindictive woman who would brook no offense by anyone.

And now, Daala was prepared to enact a firebomb campaign against all her enemies, regardless of the collateral damage her efforts caused, with Morit just as eager for revenge and bloodshed. Just seeing him impatiently pacing around the cruiser’s bridge while the Concussor waited for its clearance codes to be verified, it reminded Aiolin how much alike her brother and his mentor were, and that deeply scared her. She knew their exile from Celalon and their parents weighed heavily on him, but she thought he would understand the situation and learn from their elders’ mistakes and foibles.

Personal misgivings aside, orders were orders, and the twins had too much at stake here to back down now. Still, if Aiolin found a few subtle ways to dismantle the “Fel Empire”, as its detractors called it, like discrediting a few key bureaucrats, Jedi-friendly Moffs, or rising Imperial Navy or Army stars, she would find a way to implement such measures.

Better to be versatile with one’s options than always employ the same tactics. Besides, the galaxy already had enough death, strife, and misery to deal with, and she wanted to keep the bloodshed down as low as possible, especially considering the True Sith Empire still had to be dealt with.

Finally, after twenty minutes of waiting, a monotone voice, possibly an Imperial droid, responded, “Concussor, your clearance codes have been verified, and a landing berth has been assigned to you in the Dirsa District.”

Suppressing a smile, Aiolin felt a surge of vindication at her contacts coming through for their groundside agents, knowing how the Dirsa District was a well-placed area in Bastion’s capital city and a mere ten kilometers away from Imperial Headquarters. With any luck, Morit would take it as a sign to proceed with caution with the remainder of this operation, but she knew it was a fool’s hope. Once he had an idea stuck in his mind, almost nothing could dislodge it.

While Morit wanted to seize a deep space Imperial patrol vessel and use it to infiltrate Bastion, Aiolin knew far too many risks were involved with a foolhardy plan such as that. Better to save the theatrics for when their mission was truly underway, and they would need plenty of daring distractions and far more luck to cover their escape.

But somehow, Aiolin knew something was bound to go wrong when it was least expected, and she only hoped she would be able to protect Morit and clean up his mess. He might be a headstrong and arrogant fool, but he was still her brother, and the only family she had left in this mad galaxy.

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Chiss Ascendancy

On the Planet Tenupe

Officially, Kopri Wren knew she shouldn’t be in this facility. A Mandalorian clan leader and Jedi supporter had no business being on the lush jungle world where the Swarm War reached its grisly end. And the Twi’lek knew, from the intense glares the Chiss and their allied races directed at her, how her presence, even if it was authorized by the Expansionary Defense Force’s Supreme Admiral, was unwelcome.

Still, Kopri’s duty to the Last Alliance superseded simpleminded prejudice and political drama, and in Tenupe’s leading medical facility, crucial work was underway for the coalition. Far enough from the Chiss Ascendancy’s most vital worlds but still deep enough within their sphere of influence that it was well protected from enemy reprisals, thousands of Olpakan prisoners were being released from their carbonite prison. And amongst these poor souls were the three thousand Esh-Kha officers they took from Batuu and the two hundred Force users Daala and the Olpakan Hegemony captured and experimented on for their heinous anti-Force campaign.

Kopri knew the actual thawing of the Olpakans’ prisoners was supposed to have taken place on Nirauan, where the Last Alliance’s best medics were based to aid everyone’s recovery. But with the recent influx of wounded using many of the Empire of the Hand’s facilities for many war operations, the original plan had to be adjusted and undertaken at a more covert location.

Recalling from her briefings the profiles the Hegemony kept on each prisoner, skimming each and memorizing as many key facts as possible that she could memorize, Kopri knew the Last Alliance would have its hands full rehabilitating and recruiting all these individuals. The Esh-Kha would especially be hard to persuade, with their propensity towards violence and simple minds making it hard for outsiders to sway them from their deeply held loyalties. And there was no telling what long-term effects the carbonite imprisonment would have on their physical and psychological states.

But Kopri recognized that the task of pacifying the Esh-Kha would fall to their already liberated kin, the few leaders and troops the Last Alliance freed and educated on the new era they now found themselves in. What she was here for was to help facilitate the recruitment of the Olpakan Hegemony’s dissident Force Users and ensure the three Jedi swiftly recovered from their long imprisonment. With the Fourth Cosmic War escalating and the True Sith Empire on the march across the Unknown Regions, the free galaxy needed every able-bodied soul they could get their hands on.

Finally arriving at the medical room she was looking for, after enduring nearly an hour of checkpoints and relinquishing her most lethal weapons, Kopri was ushered in, just as the Last Alliance doctors began the long process of thawing out the three Jedi captured by the Olpakan Hegemony. Seeing the agonized and terrified forms on each poor soul, frozen for many years out of cold cruelty and bigotry, the Twi’lek Mandalorian felt her heart ache for them and involuntarily thought back to her only love and how he suffered at a former enemy’s hands.

Remembering how Finn Galfridian, a one time prince of Artorias and Jedi Apprentice during the first year of the Yuuzhan Vong Invasion, was captured by the One Sith and forcibly converted to the dark side, Kopri wished she could turn back time and undo her terrible mistake in leaving him for dead. But she knew that she didn’t have the means or right to change the past and realized that the man she once loved was almost certainly gone. In his place was a Sith Lord named Darth Snoke, who was a warlord for Darth Krayt and Beast Master for his order and would likely never come back to her.

All Kopri could do now to honor the kind young man she fell for was to put him out of his misery when this accursed war ended, and the Alliance of Light’s tentative allies finally showed their true colors for all to see.

Forcing her mind to refocus on the issue at hand, Kopri quickly decided which Jedi she would interview and ensure everything went according to plan. Exiting the overseers’ room to take a more hands-on approach to the problem, she selected the middle chamber and entered, silently observing as the medics ensured the victim’s vitals were stabilized and everything was needed to ensure a speedy recovery.

The first carbonite prisoner set to be released, Kopri knew the risks of letting a cloned Jedi of X2’s origins and power were tremendously high. Being created alongside his twin brother X1 by the Kaminoans before the Clone War from the unknowing donation of Jedi Knight Falon Grey, he served with distinction in the GAR until Order Sixty-Six. Reluctantly carrying out the execution of Jedi Master Ferroda, he soon deserted the Galactic Empire to protect another Jedi and the village that gave him sanctuary on Dantooine.

While helping the Dantooine villagers fight the Imperials, X2 learnt the fugitive Jedi’s identity as his genetic template and his own potential to use the Force. Before he could do anything with these revelations, X1, still loyal to the Empire, treacherously executed Falon and left his wounded brother for dead. It was only through Falon’s final act of healing his newfound friend’s wounds that he survived and spent many years as a farmer in exile.

Eventually recruited into the Rebel Alliance by Rahm Kota, a surviving Jedi Master, general of many armies, and master of the late Falon, X2 faithfully served as a capable and renowned operative throughout the First Galactic Civil War’s duration. But after the Battle of Endor, a year after facing X1, now a Sith acolyte, he devoted himself to the Jedi way while serving the fledgling New Republic and leading his squadron against the Imperial remnants.

More than ten years later, X2 and the New Republic discovered X1 had proclaimed himself as a Sith Lord and Imperial warlord, experimenting with cloning Force users and reactivating Separatist droid foundries on Mustafar to reignite the dying conflict. It was only through X2 leading the efforts to stop him and defeating him in single combat that he was killed, and the newly promoted Jedi Master continued to serve the Order and government he pledged himself to protect.

But when the Yuuzhan Vong invaded the galaxy, X2 was reported as missing in action and thought of as dead by his peers nearly two years into the conflict. Only, he was instead captured by Daala and her forces, interrogated on everything he knew on the Jedi and free galaxy, and encased in carbonite for the last thirty-three years. And now, he was about to be freed and given a second chance to protect his friends and Skyriver from incomprehensible evils.

With the dozen healers ready to help the Jedi Master if X2’s health took a severe downturn, working in conjunction with the advanced medical droids and expert doctors, Kopri knew the actual danger of a violent episode were less than minimal. And with her tranquilizer darts ready to sedate him if he tried anything dangerous, she was more than confident everything would go according to plan.

Taking a moment to spare a glance to each of the two adjacent medical chambers, kept apart by transparent but highly durable glass, Kopri saw the thawing of Mander Zuma and Ohari Soroc now underway. Returning her attention to her own station, she observed as the doctors and medical technicians maintained the patient’s stability as his long prison melted, and X2 was gently placed onto a medical gurney.

Seeing the cloned Jedi violently shiver while being unable to coherently speak, Kopri was grateful her face was concealed behind her helmet, for her grief at X2’s sad state was almost too much for even a grizzled soldier of her caliber to handle. Seeing his grizzled face, with greying hair and convulsing muscles across his entire body obvious to all, she knew every Jedi’s recovery would be a miracle, no matter the time frame.

She wanted to walk over to him and offer whatever gentle words she could but recognized she likely wouldn’t achieve anything useful. She remembered how Sintas Vel spent forty years in carbonite and suffered from blindness and severe amnesia before Bardan Skirata healed her, and suspected the three prisoners would have similar symptoms for some time, even with the advanced medical help they were about to receive.

Kopri prayed the liberated prisoners would speedily recover, not only for the Last Aliance’s war effort, but to ensure they could have a chance at living their lives again after these tribulations ended. After all they sacrificed for their causes and to protect the innocent, they deserved a chance to live their lives in peace, as impossible as it seemed. But she also hoped that, however many Force users were captive by the Olpakan Hegemony, they would all soon be liberated and given back their lives. And she and her clan would do everything they could to ensure this hope was fulfilled to help show the Mandalorians how the Jedi and their friends weren’t their enemies.

In Wild Space

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

In the Tulpaa System

Aboard the Nikardun Battle Dreadnaught Deathless

Before he and his people pledged themselves to service to the Sorcerers of Rhand, General Yiv had witnessed countless wonders and destroyed many of them in the Nikardun Dynasty’s conquests. But when the Chiss Ascendancy and their growing number of allies thwarted their dreams, they forced the government-in-exile to make a devil’s deal for revenge and glory.

And their commanding officer had faithfully served the True Sith Empire in preparing for its eventual dominion over the galaxy. No matter what shadowy task he was ordered to undertake, he had his people carry them out and honor their word. Anyone who thought otherwise would never be heard from again, a strong incentive to keep in line.

Now, after nearly ten years of working for the Nihil Retreat and helping them build up their strength, the True Sith were almost ready to begin their final war against their enemies. And the Nikardun were eager to prove their worth, enact their vengeance, and reestablish their empire. Helping to secure the Tulpaa Star Forge and many other long defunct facilities across the Chaos, many of Yiv’s best soldiers and those that could use the Force were selected to join the Sorcerers of Rhand’s ranks.

Not even the aptly named Last Alliance and their friends and so-called champions could stop the inevitable fall of all they cherished. Even though the Makatak Rakata gave them the knowledge they coveted on the region’s Star Forge, they failed to grasp the severity of the danger they were in. With its transmutation facilities capable of recreating genetic modification foundries to build enhanced armies of disposable shock troops, stronger and more durable than any among their enemies.

And the True Sith’s fleets held a virtually limitless number of warships at their disposal. Between all the servants they held and their fleets, combined with the thousands of rebuilt and salvaged relics of history, and the Nihil Retreat’s own foundries pumping out hundreds of capital ships each month, victory was all but theirs.

So why, then, was Yiv so crestfallen about getting his revenge?

In his dreadnaught’s private quarters, downing his fifth mug of ale in twenty minutes in a few gulps, Yiv wondered where he went wrong in avenging the wrongs wrought against his people. When the Nikardun Destiny were dismantled by the Chiss decades earlier, and his grandfather was exiled for a decade before he was recovered by a few stragglers of his people’s empire, it took them over forty years to rebuild their strength and return to their previous status.

Yiv thought he learned from his namesake’s mistakes, avoiding the Chiss and figuring out more unconventional methods of retribution. Seeking allies from unlikely sources, like the Ebruchi and Ssi-Ruuk, to build up their numbers and gather resources, finding enemy officials and civilians that could be manipulated to do his bidding, it was all coming together so handily. But even then, it would have taken the Nikardun decades to enact their revenge, and most of them were unable to wait that long.

All it took were a few discontented Nikardun to move too quickly in taking their rightful place in the Chaos, attacking a few key Chiss worlds and Vurawn’s keen mind to discern the truth, to have it all come crashing down in a handful of months. And once again, only a few remnants of their people were left to plot against their humiliators.

But the most humiliating bit of this tragedy was how it took a Grysk, the last surviving remnant of Zeffo that pledged themselves to the Immortal Gods of the Sith and first led the Nikardun to ruin, to offer the Dynasty the final chance at vengeance and dominance. All they had to do was swear themselves to serve the Father of Shadows and His True Sith Empire. And every one of them were eager to pledge to this cause, no matter what demeaning job they were given in the interim.

And after eight years of long waiting, the Nikardun were ready to fulfill their vows of venegance. With many of their lower-ranked soldiers volunteering to undergo genetic mutation in the Tulpaa Star Forge, now fully online after the Sorcerers of Rhand used their archaic rituals, they would soon get it. It was everything Yiv worked towards, and he would love nothing more than seeing the Chiss humbled just as he and his people were.

But Yiv, in a rare moment of contemplation, wondered if the True Sith truly planned to restore all their vassals to their former glory as they promised. He long grew up hearing cautionary tales from his parents and teachers to never deal with the Sorcerers of Rhand but never gave them any thought in his plans for reprisals. Even after first meeting with them in the months after the Dynasty’s fall and joining their plans, he was utterly consumed for his need to make the Chiss and their friends answer for his people’s second fall from grace.

Throughout the next seven years, Yiv steeled his heart to bear the hellish atrocities he saw in the Nihil Retreat, the monstrous acts he witnessed to power the True Sith’s war machine. He quelled his doubts and watched Skyriver slip closer into eternal darkness and was heartened by learning how everything the Lich Lords proclaimed was coming true. Using the One Sith and their agents to their advantage in distracting the Jedi from their own designs, it was a masterful stroke that let them spread their influence further than ever before.

Only now, with the Jedi Order and One Sith united against their common enemy, with the galaxy rallying under their banner to oppose the Nihil Retreat, learning of this “Arhul Hextrophon” and his final intellectual work, Yiv once again wondered if he made the right choice in serving the Lich Lords. Quietly and discreetly reading it, he was deeply shaken from its findings on the origins of the galaxy and the evils that plagued it, if they were the genuine article. Without any way to verify these claims, short of capturing and interrogating a Last Alliance officer and accessing their databases, he couldn’t be sure it was all true.

Finishing his sixth ale, Yiv saw the large container almost empty and lamented his situation. Doubts gnawed at him on the fate of everything he loved. The people he cherished were willingly turning themselves into abominations for a war of annihilation, and their masters were using them as disposable cogs in a war machine unlike any the galaxy had seen.

And now, after years of his infatuation of war and death, the Nikardun general wanted nothing more than to go back home to his people, all of them, even those under military occupation by the Chiss, to help them rebuild. Even if it was just a fool’s dream, he wanted to find a way out and undo all the sins he committed for the Sorcerers of Rhand.

But it was too late for Yiv now, just as it likely was for the rest of the galaxy. The True Sith had finished assembling their armadas and would soon have the armies they needed to sweep past their borders. All that he could do now was wait for the inevitable death of all things. Still, if he could make the deaths of any foes that he came across quick and painless, it would be a small mercy to carry out for them and the least he could do before the end of all he yearned for came about.

In the Unknown Regions

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

On the Planet Azure

Within the City of Kholar

Edaan had to give the chefs credit. He’d never seen a meal look so repulsive but be the best tasting food he ever ate. Every bite he took left his taste buds eager for more, and he made sure to savor each morsel before his hour long lunch break expired. But he spotted the woman he needed to talk to and brought his half-eaten meal tray with him as he went towards Allana.

Ever since he heard from the Olpakan Resolute on how their atheistic brethren had their agents scouring for this safe house, Edaan knew battle was inevitable between the Olpakan Hegemony and their liberty-minded enemies. Although the commanders kept their secrets and kept the flow of information to the bare minimum, he could tell when a major military operation was being prepared.

And Allana, ever since she had been led by Ventress into whatever meeting she’d dragged her to, hadn’t been her usual kind and optimistic self. It was like a terrifying burden had been thrust into her, and it plagued her mind and heart. Edaan knew that whatever was eating away at her was a heavy drain on her resolve, and with the Olpakan Hegemony and True Sith advancing at a frightening pace, everyone needed to be at their best for this war’s duration. But no matter how he tried to ask her, she wouldn’t give her an answer to his satisfaction.

Well, if Allana wouldn’t give Edaan the answers he wanted through polite niceties, he’d have to try a different approach. They had been as close as siblings for nearly fourteen years, and if he could help the young woman with whatever troubled her, then he would do everything he could to ease her troubles. Besides, after she helped him with his personal mission to save Vestara, he owed her a hefty debt and wished to pay it back in full before these wars ended.

Allana, noticing Edaan approach her with an intent glean in his eyes, prepared to leave before two others arrived to sit around the Jedi princess. Seeing Ferren Barr and Verla Kaer take their seats, the Palpatine scion was surprised by the intrusion and was prepared to find somewhere else to seat, before the Iktotchi knowingly glanced at him. It seemed he wasn’t the only one to notice the Chume’da’s despondent mood and decided to try and help her.

Sitting across from Allana, he expected her next question to everyone sitting around her, “Did you three plan on ambushing me like this?”

“Nope.” Verla calmly answered. “Ferren and I saw how Edaan tried to talk with you over the last couple days, only for you to brush him off every time. And I could tell there was something different about you, a way you carry yourself and how you act around your old friend.” Seeing Allana’s skin pale, she continued, “It wasn’t hard from there to figure out some of what’s troubling you these days.”

Edaan felt his stomach tighten in knots, beginning to fear the worst until Ferren blew them away by asking Allana, “You’re worried about Tau, aren’t you?”

Nearly dropping her cup, Allana let out a high-pitched squeak unlike any Edaan heard from her as she blushed a shade of crimson red deeper than any he ever saw from her. And her longtime friend felt his jaw drop wide open for a few seconds before he recomposed himself, both through his body and emotions. From that reaction, he could grasp the full implications of what Ferren and Verla implied, and he was prepared to speak before the Jedi princess threatened him,

“So help me, Edaan. If you say anything, anything, I’ll clobber you into next week and never speak to you again afterwards.” Allana slowly warned Edaan, who shut his lip to prevent any sounds from slipping out. Satisfied her point was made, she slowly asked Ferren and Verla, “How could you possibly think that?”

“It’s obvious when one recalls how you two spent a lot of time together last month.” Verla pleasantly pointed out to Allana, “Whether it was training, studying the region, or a rare bit of just enjoying a little quiet, you two were often close by. And I think it’s sweet how you’re smitten by him.”

Allana, about to depart after angrily guzzling down the last of her drink, halted when Edaan softly asked, “Wait.” Seeing the murderous glare she sent him, he earnestly promised, “I didn’t come here to ask about your feelings, platonic or otherwise, for my brother. I just wanted to talk and make a promise for you. Please, just let me say my piece before you go.”

Her angry gaze softening at the worry in Edaan’s eyes, Allana let out a weary sigh and nodded, allowing him to begin, “You’ve been my friend and sister for so long, but I feel that I’ve taken our bond for granted. After all you’ve done for me in helping my dream, I never asked if you needed my help with anything, and that’s been selfish of me.

“I imagine you have a lot going on, matters you necessarily can’t talk to me about until you’re ready. And that’s okay. All I want you to know is that when you need me, if you ever want to talk or need my help, I’ll be there for you. I’m not going to let you face this burden on your own, whatever it may be.” Edaan vowed, taking a deep breath after the awkward silence that followed.

Deciding it was best if he moved on before Allana followed through with her threat, Edaan stood up and prepared to leave, with Ferren motioning for Verla to follow suit, before their friend interrupted, “Wait. Everyone, please sit down.”

Slowly returning to their seats, the three Jedi grew concerned as Allana shed a few tears before wiping them away, and admitted to Verla, “You were right. I do care for Tau, maybe more than as a friend or brother. But romance isn’t the only problem I have, and it isn’t the most terrifying.”

“It’s the Resolute.” Edaan realized, remembering how troubled Allana was after her talk with Ventress. “They told you something in your meeting that you can’t tell anyone else.”

Not trusting her voice, Allana mutely nodded, but she then confessed, “There’s more. The last few nights, I’ve had… nightmares. Nightmares about my family and those closest to me.” Letting out a weary sigh, she continued, “And I just know they’re all glimpses of the future, and they don’t bode well for us.”

“Have you told anyone about these dreams?” Edaan asked. He knew how Allana had visions of the future before, each one signifying terror and death that she was able to prevent, but each one left its indelible mark on the young woman. If she was having multiple premonitions now, he realized terrible tribulations were coming for everyone. “Maybe we can help you interpret these visions and come up with a plan.”

Looking aside, Allana mulled over the idea and confessed, “Actually, I am getting help. That’s part of what the talk was about four days ago. But I’ll speak with them soon and see if I can get you all involved.”

Somehow grasping that that was about as much as Edaan could get from Allana, and knowing better than to push the issue, he relented. “Okay. We’ll be waiting for an answer.”

“Don’t worry.” Allana assured Edaan. “Something tells me you won’t have to wait too long for my response.” Her stomach growling, she asked everyone, “Let’s save the serious talk for the next few days. Right now, we still have twenty minutes left in our break, and I want to try some of their dessert rolls I’ve heard so much about.” No one voiced any objections to having a good pastry before getting back to work.

Within the Nihil Retreat

In the Valtaullu Rift

Within the Gunninga Gap

Aboard the Onrai-class Cathedral Ship Dominance

Abeloth attentively listened to everything the Shadow Council discussed amongst their leadership, how the True Sith’s Lich Lords and their adjutants laid out their plans for undermining their enemies. Hearing how their unwitting pawns in the Olpakan Hegemony were distracting the Last Alliance and giving their agents time to finalize their preparations to invade, she knew time was almost up for her own plans.

Silently watching aboard her flagship, the rebuilt and upgraded version of a Pius Dea Cathedral ship, Abeloth, while hearing the Shadow Council give orders to their subordinates, she observed all the True Sith’s generals and acolytes, trying to determine who she could possibly sway to her cause. But no matter how hard she tried, her mind continued to drift back to that fateful encounter in Lehon’s catacombs.

Seeing the blazing sparks of her adopted children, Niphal and Eipha, inherited by Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt when they tried to kill her, it broke Abeloth’s heart. Even after so many millennia of being apart from them, imprisoned on Vitae and sensing their deaths because of Anakin Skywalker, she yearned for their love and companionship again.

It was why Abeloth lowered her guard down when attacked by the Last Alliance. After sabotaging Lehon’s Infernal Gate and leaving herself vulnerable to the Jedi clone’s fatal attack, she was ready to die and face justice for all her sins. But when Tau was ready to deliver the killing blow, he couldn’t follow through. And though he hid his feelings well, she recognized the pity and compassion in his eyes. It seemed he inherited more than Nihpal’s wisdom and power, but a deep compassion and love for life.

Forcing herself to return her full attention to this meeting, Abeloth repressed her regrets as far as they could, just in time for Tor Valum to speak to her.

“Abeloth, I believe recruiting your imprisoned brother would be a perfect task for one of your persuasive talents.” The Grysk sage began, horrifying her with the mention of Mnggal-Mnggal.

“You want to free the Cancer God from Mugg Fallow?!” Abeloth all but shrieked. “No one can control that pestilential monstrosity! Though you hate my mother, she did one thing right when she imprisoned him. Every time he was summoned, all that was left in his wake was death and desolation.”

“All the more reason to turn his hunger against our enemies.” A Lich Lord croaked, a toothless smile seen across the spectral projection of the ancient True Sith monarch. “When the time comes, we shall dispose of our would-be competition, but not until we decimate the Last Alliance and destroy the last remnants of your former children.”

Scanning around the macabre chapel that held her handler and his overlords, trying to devise a reason to push back against this mad idea, Abeloth felt her heart tightening around her. She glanced at Tor, saw the knowing and warning glare he gave her, and knew he was using the bindings to prevent her from objecting and further.

Quieting her turbulent mind, Abeloth calmly and obediently bowed, “Very well. I will prepare to journey to Mugg Fallow. I expect it will take me no more than two weeks to prepare a corvette and convince Mnggal-Mnggal to ally with us.”

“You will need more than a single ship for this recruitment.” Tor corrected Abeloth. “I will be needing the stealth corvette for me and my acolytes to journey to Sunrise and ensure our efforts there bear fruit. With the Last Alliance sending agents to try and retake our prized staging ground, I need to make sure everything is in place for our takeover.”

Silently listening and taking note of all the discussions as the rest of the Shadow Council wrapped up their meeting, Abeloth took silent satisfaction after she could still pull one over the True Sith’s leaders. As the Lich Lords and their disciples’ translucent forms vanished from the chapel, she waited until she was certain she was alone before she pulled out the single piece of technology she held on her. Although she usually abstained from using modern equipment, she had to admit, it was a useful tool against those that used the Force above all else.

Checking the listening device to ensure it recorded everything the Shadow Council discussed, her smirk grew unnaturally wider as she heard everything playback with perfect clarity. Even if she couldn’t directly act against the True Sith Empire’s designs with their bindings in place, she could always find someone that might be willing to take decisive action in her stead. And there was at least one high ranking member within the ranks that just might be able to take the only course of action that could still stop the Nihil Retreat’s designs.

General Yiv might have started out as a warmongering thug who could be manipulated by the True Sith, but now he was starting to see just how out of his depth he now was. Abeloth saw the doubts slowly fester within the Nikardun leader, how he tried to lead his people to regain their glory only to see it slip further away, and how so many of them willingly mutate themselves for the Lich Lords’ legions.

Of course, all this hinged on Yiv willing to serve as her liaison with the Last Alliance to help reverse the True Sith’s gains and risk everything for a future he might never see. But if he knew just what the Lich Lords were planning, how they were prepared to release the Cancer God from his ancient prison and have him devour countless worlds for his bottomless hunger, that could be just the push he needed to break from this madness.

Besides, if the True Sith were distracted by these new setbacks, it would give Abeloth the perfect opportunity for her to find and absorb Luke Skywalker into her being. Having glimpsed the future to find a way to free herself from the Sorcerers of Rhand’s spiritual ensnarement, she slowly realized how the only path to liberation was to make the Jedi Master’s power and wisdom her own. She didn’t know how it was possible for him to hold the keys to her freedom and ultimate victory, but the visions she witnessed were too strong to dismiss.

How ironic, Abeloth was sounding more like a Jedi than the Beloved Queen of the Stars she was destined to be. She knew the galaxy was hers to one day rule, just as her mother long dreamed and worked towards, but she couldn’t rule it if she was a slave to her most dangerous enemies, or if they released the beings even Tilotny feared.

For now, Abeloth would have to play the long game and take a giant leap of faith. If playing the True Sith against the Last Alliance and undermining the former’s plans would help her fulfill her destiny, then she’d do whatever it took to attain the final victory over everyone. And finally assimilating Luke into her to attain freedom, it was the perfect way to whet her hunger for victory and her certain ascent to godhood.

Momentarily letting her mind be distracted, Abeloth heard a silent whisper from beyond her flagship, a fierce terror reemerging from within. With soft panting, and a strong tremor making her hands shiver, she felt the presence of the only beings in existence she truly feared, trying to use her as a vessel for their final escape from the prison of her mother’s making. The so-called Immortal Gods of the Sith, the first Celestials to rebel against the Maker’s edicts and corrupt His creations but were still sealed away within the Gunninga Gap, their influence could be felt by her from just beyond their prison.

Timidly staring out to the cluster of black holes that made up the Gunninga Gap, the infinite sea of darkness that held the ultimate embodiment of darkness, Abeloth felt her deep-seated fear of the Old Ones once again resurface. Not willing to let those demonic entities use her as a vessel for their own escape, she gave a telepathic order to her cathedral ship’s command crew to immediately journey back towards Rhand.

As insipid and insufferable as the Lich Lords were, they were a minute menace compared to the eldritch powers they worshipped. And if Abeloth had her way, she’d take whatever steps were necessary to ensure their so-called deities never escaped this prison, even, Mother forbid, cooperating with the Last Alliance.

Chapter Text

Melona 20^th, 59 ABY

Within Wild Space

On Nirauan

Within the Hand of Thrawn

“What happened out there, Tau?” Kyle intently asked the Jedi clone. “Why did you hesitate in destroying Abeloth?”

Unable to look the Grand Master or Vurawn in the eye, the shame obvious to both Triumvirs attending this secret meeting in the medical wing, Tau reluctantly asked, “What did Krayt tell you about my terrible blunder on Lehon?”

Scrutinizing Tau with a stern gaze, Vurawn began, “He gave quite a detailed account of your efforts to breach the Daritha Cities. For starters, you gained the allegiance of five Rancor-dragons that we’ve had a hard time keeping docile and well-nourished in our cargo ships. And it seems one of them has grown rather attached to you.”

Slightly smirking, he added, “But it was a sound decision. Lord Snoke has been quite useful in gleaning many bits of information from the beasts on their creators and their worlds. They will be useful as we plan our eventual liberation of the Nihil Retreat. And rescuing the slaves and shutting down the Infernal Gate was a miracle and just the morale booster our forces needed.”

His gaze growing solemn, he continued, “But even so, Krayt told us how when you were in striking distance of Abeloth, you refrained from delivering the killing blow with the Mortis Dagger. We need to know just how and why that happened, and if we can trust you with a second chance at removing her.”

“I don’t think you should take that risk.” Tau admitted, his voice full of regret. “Krayt told you nothing but the truth in this instance.”

The disappointment obvious to both through the Force, Tau shamefully confessed it all, “I had the perfect chance to strike down Abeloth, but when I needed to make the final stroke, I couldn’t follow through.”

“But why?” Kyle pressed, not willing to give up on the young clone. “Krayt believes the hesitation was because of your connection to Niphal and amplified empathy.”

“And he’s right.” Tau acknowledged. “When I was about to finish her off, I was able to see into her soul. I glimpsed into the very depths of her soul, all her heartbreak and longing, and the agony of her enslavement by the Sorcerers of Rhand.”

“And you pity her.” Kyle realized, the answer so obvious to him when considering her long and tragic history. Ignoring the bewildered glare Vurawn aimed at both Jedi, the Grand Master continued, “You know how she became the Bringer of Chaos, and want to save her from the darkness gripping her soul.”

Shaking his head, Tau admitted, “Honestly, I don’t know what I want to do to her.” His eyes watering, he elaborated, “I know Abeloth committed countless atrocities and enabled the armies of darkness since she became the Bringer of Chaos, and she deserves no mercy from us, but a part of me does want to save her.”

Shaking his head, Tau frustratingly cried, “Kriff it, I don’t know how to handle this!” Feeling a gentle hand grip his shoulder, he turned to see Kyle sympathetically gazing at him.

“Honestly, I don’t think anyone is properly equipped to handle this war, Tau, especially the Jedi Order.” Kyle answered. Taking a chair to sit beside the recuperating Jedi-aligned Iteration, he continued, “Force’s sake, we’ve entered a full-scale alliance with the One Sith and so many organizations and governments against legions of ancient threats.

“If we’re going to win this war and build a lasting peace, we’ll have to extemporize and experiment with many tools and methods to find a plan that will work for all. And there’s still the One Sith and if they betray us when we’re at our most vulnerable.”

“And we’ll be ready for that eventuality.” Vurawn assured both Jedi before he advised, “But perhaps we were too hasty in throwing you against the True Sith and Abeloth without properly assessing your abilities and preparing you for the tribulations before us all. Maybe what you need is a trial run to build your resolve up before you face her and her masters again.”

“Sir?” Tau choked up, wondering what Vurawn was suggesting before Kyle nodded and finished,

“We were considering where to next deploy you after you finish recovering, and now we believe the Olpakan Hegemony would be the perfect front for you to aid for the duration.”

To say Tau was surprised at the generosity the two triumvirs gave him would be a terrible understatement. He could hardly believe the second chance they were giving him, Celestial-embuned abilities and knowledge or otherwise. Even if he wasn’t likely to face Abeloth and the True Sith soon, helping dismantle a society of Force-hating bigots and murderers in the Olpakan Hegemony was an opportunity he wasn’t planning to waste.

He knew of the heinous crimes Natasi Daala and her compatriots enacted in their megalomania and odium, and how she had murdered or imprisoned many Jedi and Force users to try and eradicate the Force. Such an affront to life couldn’t stand, and the perpetrators had to be brought to justice. And the individual lives she snuffed out, or forced Edaan Palpatine to personally destroy as a mercy kill in Jysella Horn and Tahiri Veila’s cases, was a deep incentive for Tau to help stop her and the evil empire she served for good.

But simply attaining justice and eradicating the tumorous evils that long poisoned the Olpakan civilization couldn’t be the only reasons Tau would take this chance. No, there was a certain person he longed to see, a young woman who he had begun to care for and form a deep bond with. A suspicion sneaked up on him, making him wonder if anyone in the Last Alliance now knew of his romantic stirrings for Allana or remained ignorant of this unlikely attraction?

Vurawn, to Tau’s relief, elaborated on this proposal, “The Olpakan Resolute have asked for you by name. It seems they have Force users that function as seers in their ranks, and they believe that spending a few months there will do you a lot of good in finding your place in Skyriver.”

“How so?” Tau asked.

“The Resolute still hold to the faith in the Maker and Celestials, and they would like your help in stopping the Hegemony’s plans of conquest with as little life lost as possible.” Kyle started to explain. “Their seers learned of your great compassion and efforts on Lehon and believe they can help you find your resolve for when we truly face the True Sith’s forces.”

His grin growing mischievous, Kyle conspiratorially added, “And we heard you have your eye on a certain Jedi heiress. One that once held feelings for your brother, and that you had spent a lot of time with before she set out for her long-term mission.” Seeing Tau blush a furious crimson red, the Grand Master assured him, “Don’t worry, the seers only told the two of us, and neither of us have any intention of letting word of your bond slip beyond the three of us until you’re ready to let it be made public.”

Barely able to speak from the embarrassment he felt, Tau squeakily asked, “When do I set out?”

“You’ll set out tomorrow.” Vurawn answered, surprising Tau with the suddenness of the redeployment. “Our doctors say you’ve all but fully recovered from your injuries and fatigue, and it’ll take at least three days to make it to the Hegemony with our fleet in time.”

“In time for what?” Tau pressed before the obvious answer hit him with the force of a hovertrain. “Daala and her people found everyone, and they’re going to try and slaughter them all.”

“Exactly. Which is why we have no time to waste in helping the Resolute blunt their offensive.” Vurawn concurred. “Admiral Bwua’tu and his fleet will deploy in twenty hours, and you’ll be at a key advisory position for the mission’s duration.”

Vurawn offered Tau one more piece of advice, “I believe there was an old Human politician who, many decades ago, spoke a riveting piece that speaks on failure. This proverb stated how it was never final, and how it was the courage to continue, especially when facing overwhelming odds, is what ultimately defines success and victory.”

Handing Tau a suitcase and letting the young Human open it, the Chiss leader warned him, “You’d best get dressed and meet with Bwua’tu aboard the Megador. He’s quite eager to work alongside you and train you in the art of war, and the Bad Batch is eager to fight alongside you again. You’ve made quite the impression on them all.”

Seeing the repaired combat armor he used on Lehon, coupled with his lightsaber and several other vital survival tools, Tau acknowledged the gesture, “Thank you, Sirs. I won’t let you both down.”

“Don’t let yourself down, Tau.” Kyle countered. “That will be more important than pleasing either of us.” Looking at his timepiece, he told Tau, “You’d better get dressed and ready to move out. You’re officially discharged from the medical wing in exactly thirty minutes.”

“Then, you mind if I get a bit of privacy?” Tau asked, earning a few chuckles from the two triumvirs before they left the room.

Once Kyle and Vurawn left, Tau quickly got to work in getting out of his medical gown and donning his robes and armor. Making sure everything fit just right, inspecting the blaster pistol and tools they provided him to find them in perfect condition, he was ready to depart in just under six minutes.

But before Tau could leave, he felt two presences approach him, individuals he recognized from his time on Korriban. Certain he was about to get a well-intentioned sermon from Niphal and her last host, he closed his suitcase and cordially greeted the two women, “I didn’t expect to see you both again so soon, especially after my failure on Lehon.”

“We haven’t come to talk to you about your noble compassion, Tau.” Ahsoka Tano, a Togruta Jedi Knight and Rebel Alliance partisan, assured him. “We’re here to offer you a few words of counsel before you reenter the war, especially about your blooming feelings for Allana Djo Solo. That spark between you two, it will likely be a vital anchor for you both when you are at your lowest point.”

Letting out a bitter chuckle, Tau ruefully stated, “I see everyone’s going to play matchmaker for the two of us.”

“Tau, love between a man and a woman is nothing to be ashamed about.” Niphal gently encouraged him, placing a spectral hand on his shoulder, the act surprisingly calming him. “Your bond with Allana, no matter what anyone thinks, is a blessing from the Maker Himself. And when you realize that truth, it will make you more powerful than you ever imagined.”

Pushing aside the awkward issue of his feelings for Allana, Tau changed topics to boldly ask Niphal, “Speaking of love, do you think Abeloth can be redeemed?”

Seeing the astonished stare the Celestial gave him, Tau pressed on, “I know your mother’s fallen so far and is hellbent on dominating the galaxy, just as her mother was. And she deserves to face justice for all her evils, but I can’t help but believe there might be a way to reach her and convince her to atone. I remember how Anakin was able to turn back to the light to save his son from being executed by Sidious, and so many other fallen souls found their way back from the abyss when most believed they were lost for good.”

Her face full of regret, Niphal consoled Tau, “You shouldn’t hold onto such dangerous hopes. My mother is trapped in a prison of her own making and is determined to break the galaxy as Tilotny was.”

“But what if she can be brought around?” Tau challenged. “When I was prepared to kill her, I saw all her regrets, her longing for you, Eipha, and Elegast, and how she wishes she could take it all back. And my brother, he risked everything to save a Sith Lady everyone else thought irredeemable, so I have that example to inspire me. And after learning of her origins, how she was used as a tool for her mother’s vengeance and denied redemption when Wutzek was captured by the Five, I… I can’t help but pity her now.

“I know I might have to go it alone, but I’m prepared to do what I believe is right to save Abeloth and redeem the future.” Tau resolved. “Besides, if we can get her on our side, she can help us free the Nihil Retreat from the Lich Lords and save countless other souls in the process.”

“And if you can’t?” Ahsoka gently pointed out to Tau, the shame obvious to all, “I tried to break through to Vader when I found out the truth, but he wouldn’t listen to anyone, and it led to my death and most of my teammates and friends on Korriban.”

Faced with the inescapable truth, Tau searched the depths of his heart for the answer, and he quickly found his resolve. “Then I’ll do what must be done to put Abeloth out of her misery. But until I have no other choice, I will do what I can to reach whatever spark of light still resides in her soul.”

Seeing Tau’s unbreakable determination, Nihpal warned him, “Your empathy and loyalty do you credit, but I wish you the best in pursuing this endeavor. I fear you will have to endure this burden on your own.” Her form vanishing alongside Ahsoka’s, she urged him, “But remember, Tau, even when all seems hopeless, look towards the light, and never forsake yourself.”

Humbly bowing in gratitude for his guides’ wisdom, Tau wiped the grateful tears from his eyes before grabbing his suitcase and departing the medical wing. Having checked his timepiece, he saw that he still had fifteen minutes to leave and was grateful that Niphal and Ahsoka didn’t take up much of his time.

Quickly making his way through the military headquarters, Tau wouldn’t admit this to anyone, but he was glad to be given the chance to help the Olpakan Resolute. Aside from helping bring Daala down for good, working alongside Clone Force 99, and to truly start finding his footing in this chaotic galaxy, there was the added benefit of getting to spend more time with Allana and getting to know her better. That alone was enough to convince the young clone of the benefits in helping the beleaguered freedom fighters.

Melona 21^st, 59 ABY

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

On Makatak

Within Skal’nas City

“There’s a storm coming, Ben.” Vestara anxiously warned her beloved, not simply talking about the bad weather approaching the planet’s southern hemisphere. Taking shelter in the capital city’s domed library, a large crowd of Last Alliance members and Makatak denizens were planning to wait out the hurricane. And the couple was trapped inside, after spending almost all their time out of the last five days scouring the world’s archives for any overlooked insight into the Rakatan Archipelago and its Abeloth-created facilities.

But Vestara knew that there were more dark tidings than simply the weather becoming dangerous. With her sensitivity to the dark side and well-honed survival instincts, she recognized the Last Alliance’s reprieve from the Fourth Cosmic War was about to end, and the Enemy would strike hard and fast against this planetary bastion of light. She also intuitively knew it would be with a ferocity and force that no one would see coming, and that it would take a miracle for this coalition to beat them back. And she could tell that several other individuals came to the same conclusions as her, and those people needed to rediscover their resolve before this decisive moment came.

Seeing Darth Imperious studying by himself in a corner, a man Vestara still held a deep respect for, even after leaving the Sith religion behind and betraying so many friends among the One Sith, she knew the moment she’d been waiting for had arrived. Nudging Ben with her elbow, she quickly assembled her stack of books and scrolls alongside her fiancé before they calmly and quietly walked over to the table where the Sith instructor isolated himself. She only hoped he would be willing to listen to her words and not work to undermine her efforts of atonement and redemption.

Imperious, not even looking up from his studies, cordially acknowledged the duo, “Lady Khai. Master Skywalker. To what do I owe this unwarranted interruption amidst all our crucial studies on the Rakata?”

Letting Vestara take the lead, Ben sat across from Imperious as his fiancée began to talk, “We wanted to compare notes on our research, and I needed to ask you a few questions afterwards.”

Now eyeing one of his many students of the Lost Tribe, Imperious appraised her before he harrumphed, “Well, if you have some treacherous offer to give me, I have no interest in hearing it. My commitment is to the One Sith and the dark side, and nothing you say can change it.”

Sadly smiling, Vestara ruefully stated, “You used to be a much better liar, High Lord Yur.” Seeing him surprised by her using his old rank, she continued, “I know you’re shaken by everything you’ve learnt and seen since we were driven from Kesh. You’re starting to doubt everything you’ve done and aspired for yourself and your students, and it’s eating away at you like a tumor.

“Learning about the Sith’s origins, how Näkhäsh manipulated and ruined countless souls, species, and civilizations in spiteful rebellion against the Father of Lights, would break the faith of even the most hardened Sith Lord. And seeing the results of the Nihil Retreat and its disciples, the evils and abominations they have done and created, it makes what we did seem like simple neophytes, yes?”

“Get to the point, Vestara.” Imperious bitterly ordered, his face contorted in tightly controlled fury and his eyes full of barely perceptible agony. “None of us have the time for Jedi sermons.”

Nodding, Vestara resumed, “What I’m trying to say, High Lord Yur, is if you ever want to find a new path for yourself, if you and anyone else among the One Sith want to find their way into the Light after this war ends, give us a call.”

Staring at Vestara and her lover, Imperious quickly sneered, “You Jedi are truly a sanctimonious bunch. Do you truly believe you can ‘save’ me as Edaan Palpatine did for you? Would they really let an old man like me, who spent decades training Sith and responsible for countless deaths, just as you are, Vestara, find redemption for my crimes?”

“The only way to find out, is to ask, Imperious.” A man’s deep and baritone voice came from behind a nearby bookshelf. The tall and bulky form of the Whiphid Jedi Master K’Kruhk, survivor of Order Sixty-Six and instructor of the Jedi Order, was soon seen as he made himself known to all.

Sitting beside the Sith Lord, K’Kruhk reminded him, “No one imagined our orders would come together in facing this mutual threat, let alone last this long in our alliance. If Jedi and Sith can find common ground and work to protect the galaxy from eternal evil, then all things should be possible now.”

Silently looking downward, Imperious eventually told Vestara, “Saber Belot asked me to give you her regards. She is journeying to the Olpakan Hegemony to assist with our efforts there and will arrive before the week concludes.”

Silently thanking the elder Sith Lord for the information, hoping that her former apprentice and friend would come around and join her as a Jedi, Vestara quickly forced herself to suggest, “Perhaps we should all start comparing our studies on the Rakatan Archipelago. We’ll hopefully be attacking Tulpaa and her allied worlds by the end of next week, and it would behoove us to find a weakness in the enemy’s formation.”

Imperious, the first to concur, instructed the three Jedi on his detailed findings. Being a studious and patient mind from his youth, he was able to find patterns and oddities in records most couldn’t ever imagine. And he found several glaring vulnerabilities in the six True Sith-allied planets in this region, liabilities the Last Alliance could very well exploit if they moved quickly and ruthlessly enough.

The discussion went on like this for three hours, about the duration of the fierce storm that buffeted the city. And it was most productive, with the four individuals devising the initial blueprint for an effective plan to shatter the True Sith’s hold over this region.

Knowing the True Sith-loyal Rakata would fight to the death before surrendering, the Last Alliance would remove them from this war with a simple but effective plan. Why commit genocide on six worlds or lead costly invasions when they could simply destroy their foundries and dark artifacts before interdicting the six systems?

Imperious had to give the Jedi, Vestara, especially, credit where it’s due. They might not be willing to go as far in eliminating their enemies as he’d prefer, but they were certainly more versatile and imaginative with their solutions than most Sith he’d trained or encountered.

It would truly be a shame that when the Fourth Cosmic War concluded, the Last Alliance would dissolve when the One Sith enacted their betrayal. Imperious, for all his dislike for the Jedi and their friends for driving him from his home of Kesh, he found the Sith religion more lacking than ever after reading Major Hextrophon’s Supernatural Encounters. After reading that insightful piece, he had a new and reluctant respect for Adari and the Neshtovar for rebelling against the Lost Tribe and One Sith.

Vestara, seeing the regretful longing in Imperious’s eyes, told him, “You know, I occasionally read the briefings on Kesh’s reconstruction. It seems the people are adjusting to their rehabilitation better than we ever could’ve thought.”

Knowing she was treading on dangerous ground, Vestara generously offered, “If you like, I can get you clearance for the reports, so you can have peace of mind on our homeworld’s recovery.”

Unwilling to let any emotion cross his face, Imperious neutrally acknowledged, “A gracious offer, Lady Khai. I will consider it carefully.”

Seeing the lockdown end in the library, Ben ruefully asked the group, “Well, I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’m starving! I say we all get something to eat while the sun’s out.”

“You don’t even know that the sun’s out yet, dummy.” Vestara chortled, outright laughing at Ben’s offended glare, with even Imperious chuckling a fair bit at the amusing banter.

Within the Inner Rim

In the Hapes Consortium

On Shedu Maad

Within the Jedi Temple

Strapped to a table while lying on his stomach, unable to see much of the doctors assembling all the equipment for his experimental procedure, Luke asked Tekli, “I know I volunteered for this procedure, but are all these extensive preparations really necessary?”

Behing the screen glass window, the Chandra-Fan Jedi Master knowingly reproached him, “It is if you want the most accurate data for the Aquilian and Olpakan doctors for when they arrive. Remember, you agreed to undergo this dangerous medical administration, so you don’t get to gripe now.”

Seeing the multiple medical droids preparing at least two dozen needles to inject the preliminary regeneration serum across his nervous system, Luke wished they could speed it up or at least let him have some protection from the chamber’s blistering cold. Spending the day in a natural state while enduring the first of many treatments was an especially embarrassing moment for the long-served Jedi Master. But Tekli was right, he wanted to take the risk, so he shouldn’t be complaining or having second thoughts.

Eventually, after what had to be at least three hours of doing Jedi breathing exercises to keep his body temperature normal and reflecting on the last set of reports he heard from his Last Alliance contacts, Luke felt the sharp pin pricks of needles start to breach his skin. The discomfort quickly started to build, he withdrew into himself, focusing on all his friends and family already putting themselves in harm’s way and the promise he made to return to the warfront to help win this three-way war in the enemies’ domain. Wincing as the pain rapidly became excruciating, he prayed this effort succeeded beyond everyone’s best estimates.

As the needles continued to inject the serum into him, Luke felt his mind drifting against his will, with his eyes rolling back into his head from the intense mental pressure. Barely able to hear Tekli’s worried calls, he knew he was experiencing another set of flashes of the future and instinctively knew they would be dark tidings.

His consciousness hurtled into the Unknown Regions, Luke saw the desolate and twisted world of Rhand, the capital of the True Sith Empire and home of its Lich Lords and highest-ranking Sorcerers. From that planet, evil seeped out from beyond the Nihil Retreat, tainting every star system in its path. And the worlds that were most directly affected by this evil included the Olpakan Hegemony.

Slowly turned against their sacred purpose by True Sith agents and war-weary dissidents, the Olpakan Republic was warped into the Olpakan Hegemony and initiated a crusade to destroy the Force and all its disciples. But this cause only served to enable the Immortal Gods of the Sith and their servants, for they secretly pulled the strings behind this dark revolution to undermine their enemies and accelerate their release. And they had countless pawns at their disposal, many of them not needing to be controlled, only indirectly aimed at the Jedi and defenders of life.

Natasi Daala and her most trusted confederates, plotting in secret to expose and destroy the Celestial loyalists embedded in the Olpakan Hegemony’s highest echelons, their hatred of the Force and all those that wronged them made them the perfect tools for the True Sith’s plans. They would all be used to destroy many worlds and countless lives across the Unknown Regions, only to stop when death finally claimed them, and they unknowingly served their purpose for their puppeteers. And Luke knew nothing would stop them from completing their vendettas, so steeped in hatred that it blinded them to finding peace and forgiving their enemies, so they had to be put down before they doomed all life in creation.

But no matter how depraved the Olpakan Hegemony was, their evil paled in comparison to the True Sith Empire and their numberless disciples. Capable of rituals and schemes that would make Darth Sidious tremble with envy, they had been manipulating the galaxy for millennia towards their nihilistic dream, escalating conflicts and seeding their followers across countless worlds and cults. And their hundreds of worlds, each devoted to the Way of the Dark but varied in their corrupt commitment, whether they were giant foundries, desolate planets, lush but tainted worlds, and giant tombs, they all were preparing for a hellish war no one of living memory ever beheld.

The war the True Sith were about to begin, it would take more than fleets and armies to stop. Luke saw the noble efforts of many of his friends and family, sacrificing everything in the fleeting hope they could stop the end of all creation. But the legions that answered to the Nihil Retreat, they wouldn’t be halted by military might. With the Grysk, Nikardun, Rakata, Ebruchi, Vagaari, Agbui, Sith, and dozens of other species composing their ranks, never mind the countless slaves and converts they held, they would not let their enemies’ noble efforts hold them back.

Luke knew this war would come to the matter of one’s convictions and if the Last Alliance could hold onto hope and not give into despair or hate, like Abeloth had. But the Bringer of Chaos might yet be saved from her self-destructive path, if his dreams held the significance he believed they did. And he also knew that Tau Palpatine would be just as key to the redemption of the monstrosity she’d become, if she would allow that light to reach her. That young man’s compassion, so like his own but even purer, he knew his mercy would be the salvation of the galaxy.

But for Tau to reach Abeloth, Luke had to be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for not only the Last Alliance, but for his family. He knew from his previous visions how his fate would soon be intertwined with that or hers’, but knowing without any doubt what he had to do, it shattered and reforged his heart, filling him with the bitter resolve he needed to finish the race of life. He only hoped that all his revelations didn’t come true, for his family had lost too much already, and Ben, Jaina, Allana, and the rest of their relatives deserved better than what they would soon suffer.

From Luke’s courageous act of love, not only would the Bringer of Chaos find liberation, but it would set the stage for the galaxy’s restoration. And that gave him more comfort than any he had felt since his wife’s death. With those last few thoughts, he felt the pain fully spread up his spinal cord and to his brain, and he quickly fell unconscious, praying that his loved ones would understand why he would soon make the ultimate sacrifice for everyone.

Melona 22^nd, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Azure System, On Roshar

In the City Kholar

“You three had best appreciate the trust you’re being shown today.” Kal gruffly warned Edaan, Ferren, and Verla as he and Iskat led them through the busy streets of the city’s outer districts. Perfectly concealed behind hooded robes while disguised as refugees, their weapons hidden in case of an attack, the five fighters spent the last two hours evading enemy patrols to reach the Olpakan Resolute’s backup base of operations in this city.

Having left the safe house behind to ostensibly meet with their hosts’ commanders and be fully informed on the Resolute’s war strategy, Edaan had a strong hunch Allana would be involved in this meeting. He saw the passing glance she gave him when the unlikely trio was given their orders and recognized her anxiety as that of about to divulge a terrifying secret. And that secret, likely having to do with the wars against the Olpakan Hegemony and True Sith Empire, he was sure it was a giant revelation no one would expect.

Tempted to ask Kal or Iskat about this clandestine meeting but knowing the answers they would give for operational secrecy and the like, Edaan resigned himself to wait until they arrived at their ultimate destination. And finally, after navigating themselves through several markets and avoiding Hegemony police officers and soldiers, they made their way into a busy alley’s used bookstore.

With the Mandalorian speaking the code phrase to the store owner, Iskat quietly warned the three Last Alliance agents, “I know I shouldn’t need to remind you of this, but whatever you see or hear in here, you aren’t to repeat it to anyone without our direct authorization. Any kind of breach in trust will result in your immediate incarceration or execution.”

“Just how serious is this meeting, Akaris?” Verla frankly asked. “What kind of summit did you order us to attend?”

“You wouldn’t be here at all if it weren’t for Allana’s insistence you be placed in her circle of trust.” Kal bluntly replied as a secret passageway opened in the back of the store. “Come on. Everyone’s waiting for you downstairs. And Verla, I beg you, try to show some respect for our superiors. Several of them aren’t as easygoing as us.”

Pulling her hood back and letting her white-blue hair flow down her back, Verla vowed, “I’ll behave.”

Nodding at her promise, Kal led the way down the tunnel while Iskat brought up the rear. And Edaan could sense several familiar presences waiting for them down below, including Allana and Ventress. But there were others he didn’t know, several that felt ancient but also more multifaceted than any he ever sensed before.

Ferren, deciding to take some initiative before the secret assembly began, asked Iskat, “Any last-minute tips for who we’re meeting?”

“Try to keep an open mind and let everyone say their piece before you start bombarding them with questions.” Iskat simply answered before Kal unsealed the final door leading to the Resolute base. Leading everyone inside, they were stupefied from what they observed.

Underneath the bookstore wasn’t a type of rebel base anyone expected. Here was a digital archive and enlarged communications hub, rather like the information brokerage network Luke Skywalker developed for the Jedi Order in his years of semi-retirement. Tau only realized this from Edaan’s implanted memories, and he marveled to his escorts, “Impressive data vault and communications relay center you have here. Reminds me of one Edaan was allowed to see when he was on Tatooine.”

Observing Tau with a new bit of respect, Kal led the group into a large chamber, with a few flesh-and-blood observers and several more holographic spectators. And aside from Allana and Ventress waiting for them, as everyone anticipated, there were a few individuals no one foresaw being involved.

Along with the Chiss Ascendancy’s Mid-Admiral Wynssa Fel, there were three survivors of the Great Jedi Purge that Tau, with his perfect and encyclopedic memory, instantly recognized alongside the holograms of the gray-skinned and amorphous Cephalons behind the four flesh-and-blood attendees:

Jax Pavan, Jedi Knight, Whiplash operative and private investigator in the Empire’s early years, and one of the few people able to fight Darth Vader and survive to tell the tale.

Next, an elderly Human man with bright white hair and dressed in civilian garb, but with a lightsaber attached to his belt. Tau knew this man as maverick Jedi Master and sect leader Djinn Altis. A long opponent of the old Jedi Order’s dogmatic approach to the Force and the Jedi Code, he founded his own subgroup of Jedi and likeminded misfits, aiding the galaxy’s ignored and downtrodden factions even after the Empire rose. It seemed the old rebel had survived and was still causing trouble for many tyrants.

The final individual, a Chalactan woman with a deep scar across her forehead where a bead, her Greater Mark of Illumination, once resided. A former member of the Jedi Council and most notable student of Mace Windu, she served the Order and Old Republic with distinction and compassion until the Clone War, where she lost her sanity early on and fell into a coma, with no one able to reawaken her. And Depa Billaba was someone Tau never expected to see alive and well, let alone helping the Olpakan Resolute fight their fallen brethren.

Ferren, also recognizing the three Old Republic-era Jedi, humbly bowed before them all, “It’s an honor to make everyone’s acquaintance, Master Jedi. I confess, none of us anticipated meeting individuals as renowned as you all.”

“There’s no need to stand on such ceremony here, Ferren Barr. We’re all friends here, and none of us have the time for needless formalities.” Djinn politely stated before he graciously smiled, “But it’s a pleasure to meet you and your friends as well, Agent Barr.”

“All right. Let’s get started before we get too bogged down in pleasantries and forget our reasons for being here. We’ll have time for all that, if we manage to survive past the next few days.” Kal urged everyone before noticing how one key member of this group was missing from this meeting. “Where’s our agent?”

Hearing the loud sound of military armored boots approaching from in front, Edaan felt his jaw drop at the final attendee arriving, a stern and imposing figure he recognized from the Resolute’s briefings and the enemy’s propaganda messages. The man standing before everyone was none other than Vlad Karamazov, Supreme Knight of the Olpakan Hegemony and leader of the Olpakan Grand Council.

“What in the actual kriff?” Allana whispered, too stunned at this revelation to utter or do anything else.

“An accurate, if rather crude, assessment, Jedi Solo.” Vlad amusingly smiled at the Chume’da’s informality before his expression hardened, “My true allegiance is quite a bombshell you four are being trusted with. It’s been the Resolute’s boldest strategy and a secret that will trigger a general uprising if it’s leaked before the Hegemony is defeated and we’re ready to dissolve it.”

“I’m sure you’re wondering how I came to be in this position of power and duplicity, correct?” Vlad knowingly asked the four newcomers. “Well, suffice it to say that, thanks to the Resolute identifying me as a candidate suitable for infiltrating the Hegemony’s military, and with their sympathizers and agents clearing a few roadblocks along the way, I was able to climb to the highest position of power among its ranks. And now, we’re closer than ever towards achieving our people’s redemption.

“Though, there are others that will eventually eclipse this secret, truths that will determine the Fourth Cosmic War’s outcome and the fate of all creation.” Vlad gravely changed topics, his face growing more weathered and his shoulders sagging with an unseen burden. “Our seers and their interpreters, they have dire discoveries to share with you about the True Sith Empire’s plans.

“But first, we need to inform you of our more immediate problems.” Depa picked up the conversation. “In just under twenty-four hours, Daala will be attacking the planet with her fleets to try and destroy us all.”

Before the trio could verbally or physically confront anyone, Wynssa answered, “We’ve already sent out a call for help to our forces and the Last Alliance, and they’ll have their fleets and armies here by tomorrow’s end. Daala won’t have victory today, and if all goes as planned, she’ll meet her end above Azure. But that’s only the start of our problems.”

“Are you at risk of being compromised, Sir?” Edaan asked Vlad, inwardly wincing at the interruption, but externally holding his ground at Kal’s withering glare.

Exhaustively sighing, Vlad tiredly answered, “Yes. Cylo-V, Daala, and their growing cabal are scouring our networks for evidence to expose me as a traitor. I expect them to find enough proof to corroborate their claims in a matter of days, if not even two weeks. Which means we’ll need to move fast and decisively if we hope to be ready to blunt the True Sith’s endeavors and take out as many of their pawns that we possibly can before this war truly begins.”

“Sir…” Ventress tried, surprising Edaan with her deference towards the deep-cover agent. The only person she once held such respect for was Darth Tyrannus before he left her for dead, and he never expected her to ever again put such trust in anyone else.

“No. They deserve to know the truth. Allana trusts them with this knowledge, and she is integral to our victory, so I will defer to her in this matter.” The Supreme Knight countered.

“Allana?” Edaan worriedly asked his longtime friend and confidante. “What is he talking about?”

“They’re talking about how the fate of the galaxy and all creation from the True Sith and their false gods rest on mine and Tau’s shoulders, and how this kriffing war will take a turn for the worse over the next few days.” Allana bitterly answered, the truth and guilt poured out of her like a roaring waterfall.

Rendered numb from the confession, Edaan slowly advised the Resolute spy, “I think you and your subordinates had best tell us everything, preferably before one or all of us completely loses our composure and is a security risk for this base.”

Wearily smiling at Edaan’s careful diplomacy, Vlad agreed, “You’re lucky Allana loves you like a brother. But these revelations aren’t for the faint of heart.”

“Then you’re lucky none of us aren’t faint-hearted.” Verla irritably stated, her mood quickly changing to one of petrified terror at hearing the unvarnished truth from Allana and the Olpakan Resolute.

Learning of the heinous atrocities and terrible sacrifices that would define the Fourth Cosmic War, how so many friends and legends would die throughout the years, and the maddening twists and turns no one could anticipate, the three Last Alliance agents fell to their knees from these maddening revelations.

And Edaan, looking at Allana with a mixed sense of sorrow, anger, joy, and hope, he slowly rose to his feet and walked over to his longtime friend and did something no one expected of him. He hugged her tightly and tearfully whispered, “I’m so sorry, Allana.”

“It’s all right.” Allana promised, hugging Edaan back. “It’ll be alright.” Feeling two other hands on her shoulder, she saw Verla and Ferren stand behind her, their faces contorted in heartache and sympathy. Flashing a strained smile, she acknowledged their compassion, “Thank you.”

Everyone letting go of the Hapan heiress, Edaan knelt before Allana, earnestly vowing, “I promise you; I will help you bear this burden as best I can, in any way possible, until this war is over.”

“And I’ll need your help, Edaan. Yours, and many others to aid me.” Allana tearfully answered. “But where I’m eventually going, you cannot follow.”

“You’d all best get back to the main safe house soon.” Vlad urged the group. “You only have about twenty hours before the attack begins, and you’ll need plenty of rest and a final few good meals before all hell breaks loose.

“May the Supreme Maker smile on you all.” Vlad sagely stated before his form vanished, replaced by that of a droid with its built-in holoprojector.

The revelation startled Ferren, who humorously asked the rest of the attendees, “Anyone else have a surprise or two to share?” Earning a few boisterous laughs, the trio donned new disguises before being escorted back to the ground floor and to the shuttle waiting for them.

Melona 23^rd, 59 ABY

Within Wild Space

In the Rakatan Archipelago

In Makatak’s Stratosphere

Aboard Ship

Calm yourself, Ship. Phasma patiently counseled the trembling vessel. Although, if she was being honest, she understood his fear very well, given his attunement with the dark side and everything he sensed throughout the region’s six adjacent star systems. And since she was placed in command of him for the daily probe of the Rakatan Archipelago’s True Sith-aligned planets, she knew just why he was terrified.

The True Sith Empire was eerily quiet across the region since the Last Alliance arrived in force, not attacking any major objectives on Makatak and leaving their enemies alone, aside from the few thousand ground troops still hiding in the planet’s forests. Instead, they had focused on guarding their six allied worlds and bolstering their numbers and capabilities with all manner of means, meaning Ship could detect and warn those that he held a bond with. And Ship was able to glean much from the True Sith’s territory, all of it full of dark implications for their foes.

Barely five days ago, the True Sith Empire had succeeded finally restarting the Rakatan Archipelago’s Star Forge and were already putting its capabilities to terrifying use. Having ferried the materials to create dozens of genetic alteration foundries acrosstheir vassals’ worlds, they would use its facilities to enhance their armies with even greater power and unwavering allegiance to the Dark. Already, thousands of volunteers signed up as templates for the vanguard for their onslaught and were enduring the process.

But using the Star Forge wasn’t the only way to bolster the True Sith’s strength. With the Sorcerers of Rhand releasing hundreds of victims from the Rakatan’s prisons and twisting their minds to serve them, they already had another legion to use. Each of these convicts, former enemies of the Rakatan Infinite Empire deemed too valuable to be executed, held great potential for the Force and a barbarism matching their captors, making them a new set of useful tools for the Nihil Retreat. Coupled with the twenty escapees from Makatak’s own sealed prisons, these individuals leading this army, and they would undoubtedly be unleashed on their former captors soon.

There is far more for us to fear than the Rakata and their tools, Lady Phasma. Ship anxiously told his user, taking a small bit of amusement from Phasma’s annoyance at the deference before he answered, Someone among the Nihil Retreat’s proxies has broken ranks. They have provided us with crucial intelligence on their plans, and we have very little time to take advantage of it.

Before Phasma could question Ship, a series of images flooded her mind, each filled with vivid detail and terrifying her more than anything else she experienced.

She saw fleets of True Sith raiders and disciples, one of them being her brother, attacking dozens of targets across the Unknown Regions. Supplemented by blasphemous creations of organic or mechanical origins, they attacked countless worlds with no predictable pattern, their sole purpose to create chaos and misery for the Last Alliance and its friends before they swept over Skyriver’s more civilized worlds.

Equally frightening was how the Nihil Retreat supposedly had many agents and unwitting enablers embedded in both the Last Alliance and Olpakan Hegemony. Phasma had no doubt the claim was true, but the fact that they were all unknown to the unnamed source left her more frustrated than worried. Without names and evidence to arrest the traitors, the Triumvirate would likely fumble the hunt and let many of them slip back to their true masters.

But the most horrifying piece of information Ship relayed to Phasma was what the True Sith had tasked Abeloth with accomplishing. As the Last Alliance tried to build up its strength and outmaneuver the True Sith, they were dispatching the Bringer of Chaos to journey to Mugg Fallow and gain the help of a monstrosity she used to think of as a myth. But ever since being rescued from Parnassos to join the One Sith, she learned that Mnggal-Mnggal was no mere legend.

A malignant force created by the Bedlam Spirits but banished and sealed away in the Unknown Regions, Mnggal-Mnggal was occasionally released by the prideful and wicked over the millennia with apocalyptic results. The rituals unleashing him by Darths Drear and Scaborous, Darth Vader’s heinous Blackwing Project, and the desolation of many worlds throughout history, one of them eventually being renamed Rhand, the Cancer God would settle for nothing less than the death of all life to quench his endless hunger. And the True Sith were determined to recruit him and direct its bottomless appetite against Skyriver’s legions of defenders.

Petrified from the information the turncoat provided, Phasma silently listened as Ship told her, The spy will continue to feed me what information he can until he is compromised. But when that moment comes, he wishes for us to extract him and help him return to his people to help them rebuild.

“Who is the spy?” Phasma whispered, barely able to speak from the terrifying revelations she was given, even as she began typing a message to send to Nirauan with the greatest possible encryption.

I will encode it in your message, but with an encryption that only members of the Last Alliance Triumvirate can decode. Ship gravely answered. And after I send each transmission to them, I will ask you to delete each one from my memory banks. We cannot risk the Enemy learning of this turncoat’s intelligence, nor of the leak’s origins. And that means no one else can know of our efforts, not even Ben and Vestara.

Shocked at Ship’s bold declaration, even as she understood the many implications and merits of such an audacious choice, Phasma earnestly promised, I’ll make the memory wipe as painless as possible.

Thank you, Phasma. Ship gratefully acknowledged her simple but kind gesture before the One Sith turncoat finished readying the message for Nirauan, and the vessel sent the transmission to their superiors, all in just a few quick moments. Now, all they could do was prepare for the carnage sure to follow.

Chapter Text

Melona 23^rd, 59 ABY

In the Unknown Regions

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

Aboard the Sir Trilag

Seeing the dozens of warships she commanded, well over one hundred and all of them in position across the system’s outskirts and ready to devastate their enemies on this agricultural hub, it filled Daala with pride at the martial discipline and brutality the Olpakan Purists held. And they would need both to decimate the Resolute and their Last Alliance agents that contaminated this great planet, just as every world would do across the Olpakan Hegemony when the truth came to light of their Supreme Knight’s treason.

Daala knew Cylo-V and Raze would find the evidence needed to condemn Vlad Karamazov, just as she knew the Jedi and their friends would not leave Azure except in body bags or maximum-security cells. Between the overwhelming force she brought to bear on the enemy and the many contingencies she prepared for any interference or complications, nothing would stop her this time around. And the rest of the galaxy would soon face that bitter truth as well, with the Galactic Empire the first power to fall to her own empire’s cunning and might.

Ensuring all fleet elements were ready, Daala quickly ordered her commanders, “All ships, begin Operation: Vindication at once.”

Entering hyperspace for a microjump towards Azure, Daala contacted the leader of her ground assault forces, warning him one final time, “Don’t try to go off on your own and deviate from the plan, Commander Skirata. If we’re going to pull this off without destroying the planet we’re trying to save, then your vendetta or misguided sentiments will have no place in this operation.”

“So long as you follow your own advice regarding your son, Ma’am.” Darman simply but knowingly retorted. “Both of us aren’t the only ones with divided families because of the Force, but we’ll set an example to show them absolute loyalty to the cause.”

Not phased or angered by the rebuttal, Daala instead ordered him, “Launch all units the minute we enter Azure’s orbit, then have all installations across the planet implement all lockdown protocols. If any military or civilian official objects to this order, then transfer them directly to me.”

“Right away, Ma’am.” Darman loyally complied. A minute later, the brief hyperspace jump was complete, and the forty warships under Daala’s direct command started to take up position in Azure’s orbit.

But establishing a blockade over the planet was only a portion of her overall plan. Eyeing her timepiece, she knew the trap she prepared to envelop the entire Roshar System would be active in just a matter of moments, effectively trapping the enemy inside with no way out. With the gravity well generators about to come online of a strength greater than any known hyperdrive or hyperwave inertial momentum sustainer, the only device in existence that was capable of resisting interdiction fields, the risk of interference would be less than minimal.

And even then, there were still another sixty capital ships, twelve carriers, and nearly a hundred escort craft strategically positioned across the system to ensure no one escaped or interfered here. Knowing the Jedi and Sith’s power to create wormholes to pierce the interdiction field or let them fly right through the Olpakans’ formations, this reserve force would be crucial to short-circuiting the Last Alliance’s plans.

Finally, the dozen ships equipped with jamming devices, all strategically placed around Azure’s orbit to prevent any unauthorized or enemy transmissions from slipping through Daala’s trap, was the final element to her greatest planetary subjugation in her long life. And capturing all the Hegemony’s agents that dared to penetrate her new home, drawing the Last Alliance and Resolute into an unwinnable battle before cleansing her home’s ranks of enemies, it would be a perfect way to start her final war.

In a matter of days, the Olpakan Hegemony would be on their way to victory and unity, and nothing would stop Daala from fulfilling her destiny. Not the Jedi and Sith, not her traitorous son, not the so-called Olpakan Resolute, and not those repulsive old hags in the Lich Lords, would be able to end her long held dreams. Soon, the galaxy would be free of the sickness that was the Force, and all the galaxy’s sentients would rejoice at their inevitable enlightenment and liberation.

Near the Nihil Retreat/Olpakan Hegemony/Chiss Ascendancy Border

In Orbit Above the Planet Sunrise

Aboard the Quarren Eye

Inside the Wraiths’s secret headquarters, the eleven long-serving members of the infamous and feared GA commando squad were all hard at work, each attentive and learning everything they could that was occurring in this treacherous territory. Having been instructed to journey to and investigate one of the Chiss Ascendancy’s most vital territories on charges of corruption and treason, the team was hard at work to finish preparing for their long-term mission for the Last Alliance.

Voort saBinring, the sole Gamorrean able to speak Galactic Basic Standard via a throat-mounted translator device and a genius-level mathematical acumen, had led the team since its revival to take down two high-ranking members of the Lecersen Conspiracy, and was trusted by all Wraiths for his leadership. Reading through the many records provided by their Chiss allies, he was already putting together a mental diagram of the network used to funnel resources and funds beyond the Ascendancy and how to track them towards whichever evil power backed this latest corruption.

Sharr Latt, a Coruscant native and Wraith since the Yuuzhan Vong War, his expertise lay primarily in psychological warfare, though like all members of Wraith Squadron, he was also a capable pilot. His style of planning was best in slowly causing his targets to doubt their sanity through complex and convoluted schemes. And as the squad’s second-on-command, he was hard at work studying the records of each target to pinpoint their vulnerabilities and develop the strategies to expose the True Sith or Olpakan Hegemony collaborators.

Sharr was assisted in that endeavor by Turman Durra, a male Clawdite and once-famed stage actor before joining the squadron, with his theatrical training as well as his shapeshifting making him an expert at impersonation and covert intrusion. But more relevant to the current mission was how Turman was working to help him get inside the minds of the enemy kingpins and craft several possible plans to take down each spy.

The rest of the Wraiths were just as diligent in pulling their weight for the mission, each contributing towards a different field that would prove invaluable in this anti-corruption hunt.

Myri Antilles, the younger daughter of Wraith Squadron founder Wedge Antilles and New Republic Intelligence officer Iella Wessiri, and sister of Rogue Leader Syal Antilles, she was putting her talents in the use of disguises and her knowledge of dealing with corrupt elements to use. Having originally made her living on the casino vessel Errant Venture as a gambler and informant, she combined it with the Ascendancy’s intelligence briefings of the groups the team would encounter, and the team would be well-prepared when the fight began.

But not one to stay idle for very long, Myri was putting in a few extra hours each day to learn the inner workings of the types of starfighters used out in the Unknown Regions and instruct the rest of the Wraiths in honing their skills. Since their typical assortment of X-Wings and other military and civilian craft in the known galactic regions would give them away, they would have to adapt to the new environment they all found themselves in.

Thaymes Fodrick, a reputed slicer who could get into virtually any computer system, was hard at work in finding and accumulating all possible information on the enemy agents and war profiteers to help the Chiss clean up their ranks and outer territories. But due to his lack of skill with blasters, despite everyone’s best efforts, he would mainly work in coordinating the Wraith’s efforts aboard their vessels and makeshift bases of operations.

Jesmin Tainer, the daughter of two former Wraiths, Kell and Tyria Sarkin Tainer, was especially going to be a powerful asset for the team on this assignment, given her vast and unique skill sets. Weak in the Force but trained as both a Jedi and an Antarian Ranger, the young Tainer also supplemented her experience when assuming the identity of Zilaash Kuh, a Force-strong bounty hunter, searching for her fiancé's killers while taking other jobs. Rarely, those jobs were at the discretion of then-Chief of State Natasi Daala, but she eventually settled into the Wraiths as their infiltration specialist, being proud of her stealth and ability to kill with only one shot each, as per the Antarian Ranger motto.

Viull Gorsatt, a Yuuzhan Vong Extolled and the team’s biofabricator, was responsible for creating the neoglith masquer disguises the Wraiths used in many of their heists to maintain funding and complete their regular operations, was preparing the many surprises he had in store for their enemies. They would certainly be unconventional, even by the Wraiths’ crazy standards.

Huhunna, a Wookiee female aerialist, was preparing to use her wilderness survival, infiltration, and outdoors’ skills to help her teammates survive in the hostile conditions of the world. She would enjoy showing these frontiersmen how the Wraiths exposed corruption back in their part of the galaxy, having exposed many Galactic Alliance officers who abused their rank and privileges after witnessing Darth Caedus’s orbital bombardment of her home planet of Kashyyyk.

Trey Courser, a mechanical engineer by trade, thereby allowing him to serve as the unit's machinist, technician, droid fabricator, and light-duty slicer. He was also skilled with the use of explosives. Courser also was devoted to physical fitness, exercising daily and had the muscles to show for it. But his once-flirtatious ways would likely prove useful in gaining information from a few lonely women, even if his wife, Jesmin, was not fond of him getting reacquainted with those unreputable habits from his youth.

Wran Narcassan, the nephew of former Wraith Shalla Nelprin, was noted for his prowess as a sniper and close-combat expert, to the point where he used to be sought after by all sorts of private contractors and martial arts instructors. Fortunately, he turned them all down to remain loyal to his friends and to a higher cause. Also being a deep philosophical soul, he would be invaluable in working with Sharr and Turman in gaining insight into their enemies’ mindset while establishing a network of contacts among the Ascendancy’s fringe worlds alongside Myri.

Lastly, Drikall Bessarah, a male Devaronian who joined the effort to take down General Thaal and acted as the team’s medic, even without an official medical license, he was still a master of crafting all sorts of medicinal products and sedatives. Learning all he could about the dozens of previously unknown species out in this part of the galaxy, the unofficial doctor would enjoy experimenting with all sorts of new procedures, poisons, and medicines to help the Wraiths excise this terrible tumor in the Chiss’s ranks.

Knowing the team would likely be in uncharted territory for the rest of this war’s duration, everyone carried themselves with a rare seriousness and uncommon level of diligence. Everyone knew the full score this time, so there was no room for error or underestimating their opponents, so they needed to be prepared for all possible contingencies they might be forced to utilize upon first contact.

With the commando squad heading towards a planetwide immigration center and major industrial hub for the Chiss after its annexation, the Wraiths were ready for rampant corruption aby the administrators and desperation from the refugees, meaning they would have few friends for the mission’s duration. Well, they had experienced similar odds many times since the squad’s resurrection, and they would just have to triumph again.

And with such great fighters like the Imperial’s Inferno Squad, Mandalorian Protectors Mirta Gev, Ghes, Parja, and Bralo Gev Orade, and Cara Dune, smuggler kingpin and information broker Khedryn Faal, GA intelligence leader Jan Ors, Jedi Master Jaina Solo Fel, and Paladin-Captain Soldier Tirall, they should be well-prepared for anything.

But there was another batch of emotions each Wraith held, those that were far more childlike in nature. They were excited to see worlds previously unexplored by all but a few individuals of their species, and they hoped to pick up a few new allies and friends among the disparate races and worlds they would encounter and interact with.

Who knows? They might even find a few new Wraiths to add to their ranks if they were fortunate enough. Aside from learning new skills, it was long past time the unit got a bit of new blood to add to their ranks and keep its future going for at least another generation.

Finally, after six hours of waiting above Sunrise, the transmission the Wraiths awaited came. Saganu’s agents, those that remained free and loyal to the Ascendancy, had at last cleared the Quarren Eye for landing in the Che’ri Mountains, exactly where they needed to go.

Wasting no time, Voort piloted the repurposed yacht down towards the planet, and everyone observed the extensive mining operations underway. Whether it was by using excavation equipment, genuine miners, or indentured refugees as the Ascendancy suspected, Sunrise was a massive mineral goldmine for whoever controlled it to use for their fleets. He only hoped it wasn’t too late to stop this world from falling to any of the Last Alliance’s enemies.

Eventually, after getting seven detailed scans of the regions the Quarren Eye flew over for later analysis, the ship arrived at the three mines that would serve as the Last Alliance’s forward base of operations. Observing the Orinda’s Bloom and Junker perched within the mountains, Voort was not surprised when the yacht’s HoloRelay came online through the division’s private and encrypted system.

Seeing the stern and commanding form of Soldier appear, the Paladin-Captain brusquely asked, “What kept you?”

“Orbital traffic was insane.” Voort answered. “I take it everyone’s already here and settled in.”

“Yes, but there’s no time for pleasantries.” Soldier gravely interrupted. “The situation here, it’s much worse than we originally believed, and we’ll need to get to work immediately. You’ll get a full briefing aboard the Orinda’s Bloom, but you all need to double-time it. We’re going to need everyone on board for what’s coming.”

Recognizing the urgency in Soldier’s voice, Voort wasted no time in arguing, instead complying, “We’ll be there in five minutes.” He only hoped that whatever was transpiring or about to begin, it wasn’t too late for them to make a difference.

Within Wild Space

In Nirauan’s Orbit

Aboard the Conquest

“My Lord, Grand Master Katarn is asking for your presence.” A Quarren Sith acolyte informed Darth Krayt. “He’s requested your assistance with what he claims to be a pressing matter regarding the True Sith Empire’s forces and Abeloth.”

Turning to face the acolyte, Krayt paused as if he was considering his next words before answering, If the Grand Master of the Jedi Order is personally reaching out to him when he was supposed to be convalescing, then the matter must be truly dire. He firmly ordered her, “Transfer the communication to me. I will speak with him at once.”

“As you wish, Dread Lord.” The Sith disciple obeyed. “It’ll take a minute or two to reroute the call.”

“You have thirty seconds, Crova.” Krayt ordered the Quarren Sith. While the young woman hurried to follow his orders, the founder of the One Sith privately mused how his life had changed so drastically from his original path as he coordinated the battle aboard his personal flagship.

Born as A’Sharad Hett, son of the legendary former Jedi Knight Sharad Hett and apprentice as both Tusken Raider and Jedi before the former’s tragic death at the hands of reviled bounty hunter Aurra Sing. After his father was killed and his army was routed by the Hutts on Tatooine while leading the Sand People in a controlled war against them and their servants, he fully dedicated his life to the Jedi and apprenticed himself under two great Masters of their time.

Through Ki-Adi-Mundi and An’ya Kuro’s difficult tutelage, A’Sharad had grown into a model Jedi Knight and Master, serving with distinction and honor throughout the Clone War in many of its most brutal battles even as the Order and Old Republic crumbled from all sides. Even through losing many close friends, his apprentice, and the Jedi Knight he loved, coming close to death repeatedly, and killing many enemy soldiers, he maintained his principles and kept his anger and sorrow in check.

But through the betrayal of the Clone Troopers and Anakin Skywalker, the so-called Chosen One of prophecy and one who betrayed A’Sharad’s faith, the Jedi Order was broken, and the Republic was transformed by Darth Sidious and his minions into the Galactic Empire. With virtually all his friends and loved ones dead, he lost himself to his darkness and became a warlord of the Tusken Raiders, killing all who stood in his way until Obi-Wan Kenobi stopped him and exiled him from Tatooine forever.

Afterwards, A’Sharad learnt of Anakin’s fall and transformation into Darth Vader, and how one of his children was being protected by Obi-Wan. Falling deeper into his rage and self- loathing, taking jobs as a bounty hunter for several months before tracking his final quarry to Korriban and beheading the unworthy prey to protect his identity. He then found a temple containing the holocron of Sith Lady XoXaan, one of the twelve Jedi Exiles that revitalized the Sith Empire after their defeat in the Hundred-Year Darkness.

Seeing the opportunity to learn the Sith’s ways to understand how to best combat Sidious’s empire, A’Sharad spent decades learning under XoXaan’s holocron, only to find the Empire beaten and the Rule of Two’s remnants all but destroyed. Furious at failing again, he fled deep into the Unknown Regions to lose himself, only to find himself in the crosshairs of the Yuuzhan Vong’s scouts. Tortured for months by the extragalactic invaders, instructed by secret Sith acolyte Vergere in fully embracing the Dark Side and laying the foundation of the One Sith, A’Sharad Hett at last ceased to be, and Darth Krayt emerged from the flaming wreckage of the prison ship.

Traveling to Korriban to formally create the One Sith and build up their strength, the nascent order evaded detection for many years before Krayt was forced to prematurely reveal himself when Abeloth took over the Galactic Alliance. Working alongside Luke Skywalker to destroy her spiritual avatar in the supernatural realm of Beyond Shadows, he was able to protect his order from being compromised for fifteen more years, until Edaan Palpatine forced everyone’s hands when he began his desperate mission for redemption of Vestara Khai.

And now, after Abeloth had returned and the True Sith Empire and its dupes were threatening the Force itself, the One Sith had been forced to form a coalition with the Jedi to stave off these horrific dangers. But no matter how hard he tried to banish his emotions, he couldn’t help but feel the self-loathing he felt over his plans to betray the Last Alliance after the current threats were eradicated.

A part of him, no matter how hard Krayt tried to bury or channel it towards his One Sith’s grand design, yearned to end this infighting and unify the galaxy with stability and order. This dangerous sentiment, if it was detected by his followers, would engender further doubt throughout the One Sith and endanger everything he had strived for over the last thirty-four years.

Forcing his mind to focus on the present, Krayt remembered how the Last Alliance had been advancing on multiple fronts across the Unknown Regions. Along with the fight for the Rakatan Archipelago, the Jedi-Sith force had been making strides and experiencing several terrible setbacks as these wars continued to rage.

With the Olpakan Hegemony being penetrated by the Last Alliance, thanks to the Olpakan Resolute and many figures Krayt never thought he’d hear from again, it was only a matter of time before they began producing genuine results and Daala and her conspirators were apprehended or killed. Provided they were removed from the war soon, it didn’t matter to Krayt how they met their end. If they were captured and brought to justice while their cause was discredited and dismantled, then all the better for the galaxy’s future rulers. But the One Sith had more important enemies to deal with than an army of petulant adults.

As for others who needed to meet their end, Krayt’s thoughts drifted towards the Rakatan Archipelago and the True Sith. The dark side civilization and their vassals had been unusually quiet after their work in the Croke Reach and Abeloth escaping Lehon, no doubt planning something terrible for their enemies. But no matter what the Last Alliance’s seers and intelligence agencies attempted, they couldn’t discern their foes’ plans.

The Last Alliance was simply being pressed too hard on every front, and someone had to give up soon before they stretched themselves past their breaking point. Well, either that, or they needed new allies beforehand. Hopefully, the news Grand Master Katarn was delivering would be the first piece of good news in turning this war around.

A few seconds later, the hologram of the Jedi Grand Master came into focus, with Kyle quickly starting, “I hope I didn’t catch you at a bad time, but I need a favor from some of your elite followers.”

“What have you learned, Katarn?” Krayt asked, getting straight to the point.

“Someone high up in the True Sith’s military turned against their masters.” Kyle began, an unexpected tremor of fear evident in his voice as he continued, “Their intelligence, if it is genuine, reveals their plans to use Abeloth to recruit her last surviving sibling.”

Her last surviving… No. It couldn’t be. Even the Lich Lords couldn’t be so demented as to try and control a malignant monstrosity as Mnggal-Mnggal. But Krayt saw no deception in Kyle’s voice and gaze, and he found the nerve to ask, “Do you trust this source?”

“Yes, but I was hoping you could find another way to verify the intelligence.” Kyle reluctantly admitted. “I’ve already warned the Killiks and their Joiner Counselors so they can quietly and quickly enact a blockade around Mugg Fallow, but we’re still fumbling around in the dark.”

Nodding, Krayt agreed, “I’ll see it done at once, then I’ll personally lead a division to help you eradicate Abeloth.”

“Excellent.” Kyle profusely thanked the Dread Lord before he added, “But there’s one more matter I need to discuss with you, equally as dangerous for us. The source claimed there are spies embedded amongst the ranks of your Sith, turncoats that are feeding the Nihil Retreat information on our plans.”

Eyeing the Grand Master with renewed intensity, Krayt warned, “For all our sakes, this turncoat best has intelligence to corroborate his claims.”

“I’m sending you all the encrypted information now for you to review.” Kyle answered. “If you know of any of your followers who are still against our coalition, I’d bring them in line right away before we’ll be forced to take drastic measures.”

Nodding in understanding, Krayt signed off from the call to begin his work. And first and foremost, he read through the intelligence from the Last Alliance’s newest informant after decoding it. Seeing how General Yiv of the Nikardun had defected from the True Sith’s ranks and sent the intelligence to Ship before the vessel relayed word to Nirauan, he couldn’t believe the fortunate stroke of luck Jedi and One Sith were given.

Alongside a recorded transmission of the Lich Lords and their servants assigning Abeloth to reach and recruit Mnggal-Mnggal for the True Sith’s war, Yiv helped pinpoint several of Krayt’s Sith collaborating with their competition. All the traitors were operating on Nirauan, which filled him with unabashed dread and fury at such a heinous act of betrayal.

How dare these turncoats betray the One Sith’s cause for the nihilistic creed of the Nihil Retreat’s walking corpses! And under the Triumvirate’s own nose, no less! Someone would answer for this, and he knew where to start. But first, he had to find which route Abeloth was using to reach Mugg Fallow, and there was only one way he could do so in a quick manner.

Drawing on his power from Eipha, Krayt let his senses travel across the stars and planets dotting the Unknown Regions. Ignoring the lesser darkness of the foundries and many smaller distractions the True Sith had in place, he focused on reaching Mugg Fallow, recoiling at the very stirrings of the Cancer God and his bottomless cravings. Once he found the world he sought, he extended his awareness to look for Abeloth alongside the path Yiv claimed she would take.

Eventually, after hunting for what felt like a year in the void, Krayt found who he was looking for, slowly maneuvering her way past the Last Alliance’s positions and garrisons to avoid detection. At her current speed, Abeloth would reach Mugg Fallow in no more than one week, and she commanded a small fleet of warships and a dozen cargo ships for this mission, cargo ships each brimming with life from hundreds of slaves. He knew the implications of these unfortunate wretches involved in this mission, and the barbaric waste of life sickened him.

Returning into his body before the Bringer of Chaos was made aware of his presence, Krayt immediately moved on to the next item on his short agenda for today. There were traitors and dissidents to hunt down and deal with, and there was no more time to waste.

Telepathically contacting his right hand, Krayt scathingly began, You have much to answer for, Wyyrlok. Did you think your disobedience against me would go unnoticed?!

My Lord? Wyyrlok tried to ask, only for Krayt’s hold on his mind to tighten like a vise, letting the Dread Lord take dark satisfaction at his servant’s excruciating agony.

Did you believe your ‘loyal opposition’ to the Last Alliance would go unnoticed, Mas Amedda?! Krayt disparagingly continued, using his right hand’s former name. I know that you have been in contact with Sly Moore, your daughter, Lady Vindicaa, Lords Malleus and See-Chok, and seek to undermine our pact with the Jedi!

I have been aware of your efforts from the beginning and took steps to neutralize your misguided acts. But in your blinding drive to advance our goals, you opened the door for true traitors to sabotage us! There are those that are now operating for the Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Lords, and we need to ferret them out before they do any more lasting damage to our designs!

Feeling Wyyrlok’s humbling shame through their mental connection, Krayt loosened his punishing grip, just enough to keep his mind from breaking. But he sternly continued, reprimanding him, Do not let your zeal for the One Sith blind you to reality. Right now, there are enemies out there that take precedence over our dream and war against the Jedi, and the only way we hope to destroy the Olpakan Hegemony and Rhandite Sith is by using the only options available to us.

Once the Unknown Regions are tamed and our turncoats are destroyed, we can regroup and restart our plans to rule over the galaxy. I promise you, we will restore order to Skyriver, but we need to take this one step at a time. For now, I need your absolute trust and loyalty, Wyyrlok. Krayt implored his servant.

Not hesitating in reaffirming his loyalty, Wyyrlok vowed, I swear, I will speak with the rest of my confederates, and we will work with the Last Alliance in apprehending and eliminating these traitors. I won’t disappoint you again, Master.

Good. Krayt agreed, satisfied and silently grateful that the warnings were accepted. I will be leaving by the day’s end to help Kyle Katarn annihilate Abeloth. We’ve learnt where she is next journeying to, and her destruction is of paramount importance to us before she can reach her new target.

Ending his telepathic call, Krayt quickly assessed his options in aiding the Jedi. Sending a large fleet to deal with Abeloth was too great a risk, since the traitors might determine the truth and warn their masters. No, this required a strike team to handle, and he needed the best warriors for that attack. Perhaps a few of his more willful disciples would suffice, for a multitude of reasons. Lords Malleus and See-Chok definitely fit those criteria.

And Krayt would need a few ships to help the Jedi handle the enemy fleet, which meant Lady Irola would need to spare those from her own force. The rest of his dissenters could help the Last Alliance hunt down the turncoats and learn for themselves the folly of their inflexible mindsets. They would surely have plenty of time for that endeavor over the next few days, provided the True Sith and Olpakan Hegemony could be held back for that long.

But knowing how unpredictable the course of any war could be, Krayt was prepared for the worst to occur, even as he dreaded for that disastrous and apocalyptic outcome.

In the Unknown Regions

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

Deep Space, Near the Carthea System

Aboard the Alchemy IV

“Cylo, we’re receiving a priority transmission.” Raze warned his conspirator, surprising the self-cloned industrialist with the Aporthad’s uncharacteristic nervousness and the unfortunate timing of this message.

Cylo-V, beyond irritated at the interruption, reluctantly guessed, “Daala?”

“No. From the Supreme Knight on the Supremacy.” Raze answered, shocking Cylo-V beyond all measure.

Considering dozens of reasons why Vlad could’ve been contacting the duo, especially as they were about to hack into his databases to uncover evidence of his double life, Cylo-V knew how ignoring it would garner more suspicion. But perhaps this interruption concealed a new opportunity for the Olpakan Purists.

The makings of a plan quickly coming together in his enhanced mind, Cylo-V quickly told Raze, “Then let’s not keep Karamazov waiting any longer. What better way for you to hack and copy his personal data banks than for me to distract him with whatever dire news he wants to deliver us?”

Allowing the communication to go through as a three-way transmission, Cylo-V dutifully saluted the Supreme Knight, just as Raze gave a respectful nod, before the High Councilor asked, “Pardon my bluntness, but this is a surprise, Sir. Have there been any setbacks on High Councilor Daala’s attack on the Resolute?”

“No, but that isn’t why I’ve contacted you and Raze.” Vlad grimly began. “Our scouts in the Rakatan Archipelago were destroyed not one hour ago. But before they were discovered, they reported additional True Sith forces massing in the Tulpaa System. My agents believe they are the raiding parties that escaped the Croke Reach and will soon strike against the Makatak system and its defenders.”

“How do you propose we handle this, Sir?” Raze cautiously inquired, earning a surprised stare from Vlad. “A direct assault on the Rakatan Archipelago would be a very risky endeavor and likely cost us dearly in terms of ships and soldiers.”

“Perhaps.” Vlad acknowledged. “But I believe the time has come to remove that region as a threat to our designs, before they can complete whatever plans they have for us and the Last Alliance.”

Turning to directly address Cylo-V, Vlad ordered, “I want you to take a division of your best commandos and ships and launch a series of raids across the sector. You will use them as a cover to deploy resonance torpedoes across every star system you can reach.”

Then speaking to just Raze, Vlad added, “As for you, in Cylo-V’s absence, you will coordinate our intelligence operations alongside High Counselor Holdfast. Report directly to me and keep me appraised of all ships and individuals moving across our territories. I’m sure our enemies will try and strike at us somehow, and we need to be ready to respond at the first sign of trouble.”

Hearing the orders the Supreme Knight just gave him, Cylo-V dutifully nodded, even as he was stupefied by the command. But he still dared to ask his next question, just to test the unaltered Human and verify his intentions, “What of the Makatak System and its Last Alliance defenders? Do you want us to strike at them as well?”

“If you believe you can bypass their defenses, then you are more than welcome to try.” Vlad calmly relented. “But destroying the Tulpaa Forge and its defenders must be your top priority. If it and its defenders aren’t annihilated, I don’t even want to consider the horrors they’d unleash on us all. You are to depart in thirty-six hours.”

“Then I will see it done, Sir.” Cylo-V guaranteed, earning a stoic nod from Vlad before he ended the call, allowing his subordinate to review the data he covertly copied from the suspect’s data vaults.

Addressing Raze, Cylo-V answered, “It was a better success than I could’ve hoped. I managed to make off with ten terabytes of data from Karamazov’s personal data banks.”

“About forty percent of his files.”  Raze quickly calculated. “And you believe you can crack the encryption on his information and find what we need?”

“No, because you and High Councilor Holdfast will be the ones to decrypt them.” Cylo-V clarified. “I need to ensure our attack on the Rakatan Archipelago succeeds, and I’m fairly certain our leader will be watching me carefully for any signs of sedition.”

Seeing the logic in Cylo-V’s argument, Raze promised, “Then Jet and I will see this done. And the moment we crack the code on these files and find what we need, you will be the first to know.”

Hesitating, Raze warned, “But try to be careful. Neither of us needs our decades of experience in running our own operations to be sure this is a trap.”

“Oh, it’s undoubtedly a trap.” Cylo-V agreed before he knowingly smirked, “But we can still turn it to our advantage if we play our hand right.”

Within the Outer Rim, Imperial Space

On Bastion

Within the Capital City

Within the Imperial Headquarters

Jagged Fel had to give his peers credit where due: the Galactic Alliance and Confederation’s leaders, for all their governments’ faults and the never-ending nightmare of bureaucracy, Kajin Bar Yimmon and Denjax Teppler knew how to operate the levers of power better than he did. And he would be glad when the Empire’s general election was finished, and his desired successor was selected to take his place.

If Jag thought managing the Imperials when they were a military power was a slog, running it as a democracy was a nightmare. And with the ominous specter of the Sith, both tentative allies and new enemies, looming over the Empire while the Olpakan Hegemony tried to appeal to their expansionary and totalitarian roots, there were too many moving parts for the Head of State’s liking. Added together with Daala’s earlier coup attempt and brief but bloody civil war, it was obvious to all how precarious the situation was for the former dictatorship.

It was only thanks to the patriotic loyalty of most of the Empire populace, the stable leadership of its interim leader, and the well-timed aid of the Jedi, GA, and Confederation that the democratic government didn’t collapse by now. And after going through so many military briefings and tending to a multitude of diplomatic matters, Jag was ready to call it a day, even though it was only mid-afternoon at this point.

Unfortunately, the wars underway were far from over, and there were threats attacking the territory from all angles that wouldn’t relent. And there was another matter Jag needed to tend to, one that only a few dozen individuals in the entire Empire were aware of, and even fewer in the Last Alliance knew about.

Discretely navigating his way through the capital city’s Pellaeon Gardens, after ensuring no one trailed him and snuck past his decoys and escort, Jag let the guard droids take his biometrics for entering the Empire’s dirty secret. Despite its shift towards democratic elections and more liberal policies, there was still a need for the brutal element that gave the old government an edge over its enemies, hence the secret maximum-security penitentiary built within the tribute to the Empire’s noblest and final Grand Admiral.

And there were prisoners that needed the secrecy to hold and interrogate with impunity and total security. The Olpakans and their recruits, captured in their prison break and attack on Coruscant over two months ago, were the Last Alliance’s most prized source of information on Daala and her actions against the free galaxy. When she was captured or killed, the governments and worlds would need to prove beyond all doubt of her atrocities to deter anyone else from living up to her twisted example. Hence, why Fyor Rodan, the Imperial traitors, and Olpakan commandos were detained until the Fourth Cosmic War ended.

Saluting the guards that protected the facility and escorted him in, Jag let them lead the way, the trip in solemn and grim silence. A fitting attitude, given the dark atmosphere and bitter work that was underway in here. Seeing the interrogators press a few enemy commandos for information, a mixed group of Chiss, Imperials, Aquilians, and even a couple Jedi that saw the situation through the Empire’s lenses, it repulsed and inspired the Head of State from everyone’s joint efforts.

But questioning a few soldiers wasn’t the real reason Jag was down here. No, there was a more pressing matter that he needed to tend to, after he ensured Rodan and the rest of his collaborators were safe from anyone’s attempts to silence or liberate. Someone he never hoped to deal with again had returned into his life, and the traitorous Moff only hoped that he killed him quickly for all the harm he inflicted on the galaxy and his family.

Containing his rage, Jag simply greeted the Galactic Alliance admiral in charge of questioning the captives, “Nantz.” Looking at the bruised and bloodied form of Rodan strapped on an interrogation chair, he calmly noted, “You’ve been busy, I see. But I trust you haven’t been too harsh with the prime minister. Teppler and the Confederation are rather insistent on making his own example of his subordinate’s betrayal when the time comes.”

“He’ll live and be able to speak and walk without aid, if that’s what you’re inferring.” Firmus Nantz, a long-served admiral dating back to the New Republic’s nascent years, and longtime political prisoner of Darth Caedus and Daala before being liberated on Borosk. “But the information he and his cohorts have provided us is well worth any unpleasantries the politicians and humanitarians would squirm from. We’ve apprehended and eliminated hundreds of enemy agents and stopped Force-knows how many plots they had prepped for us.”

“Well, we might have another in our own backyard.” Jag reluctantly revealed. “I received an encrypted transmission from Lecersen not two hours ago.” Seeing Firmus suspiciously raise an eyebrow, the Head of State elaborated, “It bore the symbol and encryption of the Olpakan Resolute from its leaders.”

Now that revelation wasn’t anything the GA admiral expected from the slightly ajar jaw and wide-open eyes. But he composed himself quickly enough and asked, “Who’d be crazy enough among them to let a schutta like him into their ranks?!”

“That’s what I’m here to find out.” Jag answered, before requesting, “But I could use a trusted ally for this call, someone who’ll help me see through whatever con the Sith pawn has planned this time.”

Glancing at the ongoing interrogation of Rodan, Firmus casually shrugged his shoulders, “Why not? I could use the break from my routine, anyway. And I’ve wanted to interrogate another rogue Moff after so many decades of coexistence between our governments.”

Not bothered at all by the reply’s implications, Jag led the way towards the prison commandant’s office. After excusing the woman and setting up several layers of encryption and white noise machines to ensure maximum secrecy, the interim leader activated his holocomm and keyed in the frequency Lecersen gave him. The two military leaders didn’t have to wait long, and the well-weathered face of the many-times traitor to the Empire and Sith sycophant appeared.

Lecersen, not wasting time with getting right to business, quickly began, “I know neither of you have any reason to trust me, but I promise you, the information I’m providing you could very well mean the difference between life and death for the Empire and us all.”

“Get to the point, Lecersen.” Jag ground out, his voice giving off more heat and mistrust than he intended.

Not bothered by the suspicion, Lecersen immediately warned his former superior, “The Olpakan Hegemony has dispatched a team of assassins to eliminate you, Grand Moff Sarretti, and any Imperials they deem a threat to their taking over the Empire. I’m sending you the dossier on each member of this task force, and their orders, direct from Natasi Daala and her peers on the Olpakan Grand Council.”

“And on that note, how in the galaxy did you work your way into the Olpakan Resolute to acquire this supposed intelligence?” Firmus warily asked the rogue Moff.

Knowingly smirking, Lecersen smugly answered, “Actually, Admiral Nantz, their leader came to me and offered me a deal in exchange for my services. I help him bring down the Hegemony and end Daala’s madness, they let me live in exile in their territory and help them rebuild.”

Genuinely stunned by the claim, Jag would’ve issued a scathing rebuttal of doubt before he checked his datapad, seeing the dossiers on the Olpakan commandos. And seeing the profiles of the twenty assassins and hitmen the Olpakan Hegemony supposedly sent to decapitate the Empire’s leadership, he began to understand the urgency of Lecersen’s warnings.

Reigning in his hostility, Jag read through the rest of the report, stopping at the ship the enemy used to infiltrate Bastion. Angry at his people and himself for letting them make their way through, even as part of him was impressed with the audacity, planning, and execution of such a maneuver, Jag handed the datapad to Firmus before he asked Lecersen, “What’s your game, Drikl? You never make a move without something in it for you, and you’d never settle for exile from the Empire and the heights of power.”

“Simply put, Head of State Fel, I want out.” Lecersen wearily stated, more than age showing in the weariness of his posture and gaze. “And the Olpakan Resolute gave me a way to live my life without any enemies hunting me when this war is over. That is, if I survive the madness we’re facing.

“You can believe me or not, gentlemen. But that’s the truth, and all the information I’ve given you is the genuine article. What you do with it is up to you and your people.” Looking over his shoulder, he warned, “I need to go. Got a major mission upcoming, and I can’t afford to garner the One Sith’s suspicions. I’ll keep you posted as I learn more. Good luck to you all.”

Lecersen quickly ended the transmission, leaving a stupefied Jag and Firmus to plan their next move in solitude. But the Head of State couldn’t help but think back to the visions Jayce had four weeks ago and wonder if the attack he foresaw was the Olpakan Hegemony’s commandos. But knowing how unreliable the Force can be with exact information, and the terrifying enemies the Empire faced, the threat that might come was far more powerful and devastating than a few infiltrators.

Still, Jag had a few ideas on how to find and flush the Olpakans out before they were ready to strike. But he’d need to move fast and work with the right people to ensure everything was in place for his trap. And it would start by quietly amping up security of all traffic coming in and out of all the Empire’s worlds. Best not to take any chances with a military power that could put most of the Imperials’ legions to shame.

His datapad generating a message marked from Imperial Intelligence, Jag read the file and clenched his fists almost tight enough to draw blood. He then warned Firmus, “Looks like Lecersen was right about the enemy’s infiltrators. They’ve already made their first major move against us by capturing one of Krayt’s agents he embedded here.”

“Who?” Firmus asked before Jagged handed him the datapad. Scanning its contents, he frustratingly seethed, “How in the blazes did O’Pali stay under our radar so long?”

“Another failure on my part due to our focus on all our immediate enemies.” Jag berated himself, remembering the public relations catastrophes the Pantoran political commentator and deep-cover One Sith agent caused the Empire during their collaboration with Daala. If Lenang O’Pali was still on Bastion but was captured by the Olpakan Hegemony’s agents not a day earlier, then the Imperials’ capital city wasn’t as safe as anyone might assume.

One Sith, True Sith, Olpakan Hegemony, anyone now walking on Bastion might be an enemy agent, and the Empire had no way to guarantee everyone’s safety. It was Jag’s worst fear that came to life and filled his gut with dread that Jayce’s visions might come true faster than he or anyone else dreaded.

Within the Unknown Regions

Deep Space, In the Olpakan Hegemony

On Zonama Sekot

 On the Far Distance Islands

“You’re going to be okay, little ones.” Adari soothingly promised the Yuuzhan Vong children while she finished escorting them into a newly established shelter for the islands’ populace. She only hoped that the vow wouldn’t be broken.

Having helped construct dozens of similar structures across the planet for the last two weeks, Adari was quickly growing exhausted from this arduous endeavor. It didn’t help how her two children, growing in her womb for the last month and eighteen days, were slowly sapping much of her strength. But she knew Edaan and the rest of their loved ones were facing far more difficult battles, so she had no right to whine.

And it helped how Adari was assisted by Bardan, Ochi and Chelli, three new friends from the most unlikely walks of life, in aiding the evacuation of all noncombatants from Zonama Sekot’s major cities and towns. It seemed their time with the Mandalorians or One Sith was useful in crowd control and pacifying any unruly or disobedient members, especially when tempered by restraint to ensure no one was hurt more than their bruised pride.

But time was up for relocating the planet’s civilians, so Adari hoped no one left anyone unaccounted for. The call went out not three hours ago for all available Last Alliance forces to rendezvous outside the Roshar System, where Natasi Daala and her fleet were preparing to launch a scorched-earth attack to destroy every Olpakan Resolute and Last Alliance agent and sympathizer there. A brutal and indiscriminate plan to try and crush dissent, but the Keshiri Palpatine recognized it would more likely stir up more unrest and trigger a civil war amongst the Olpakan Hegemony.

For everyone’s sake, Daala and her cronies needed to be captured or destroyed in this battle. The galaxy couldn’t afford any more of her petty retribution and spiteful wars, especially with the True Sith surely taking advantage of the chaos and destruction left in her wake.

And Adari suddenly found herself unable to move, unable to speak, a passive observer as she bore witness to something she couldn’t control. But what she saw, filled her entire being with terrified dread and horror at seeing how the galaxy hung at the precipice for eternal darkness.

She saw the entire world of Zonama Sekot and the whole galaxy, all of it was burning. It wasn’t just the planets and moons, but also the suns. Every speck of stone or dust big and firm enough to hold even a single foot. And the fires traveled from place to place as fast as a wildfire, being set by torches carried in the hands of all manner of species, the inferno growing brighter with every passing second. Eventually, every world blazed as brightly as suns and every system flared as brightly as a supernova, until sectors shined as brightly as the center of a star, and the whole galaxy erupted into one huge eternal flame.

At the core of this prospect of annihilation, Adari saw many faces cross her field of vision, hundreds, perhaps thousands, of individuals that would play a part in this galactic holocaust. And she recognized several through her well-honed memory: Daala, Abeloth, Darths Nashtah and Haxar, they were all pawns in the True Sith’s plans. But there were countless others, scattered throughout the galaxy, adherents to the Way of the Dark and devoted to the destruction of all pinpricks of light that dotted most worlds.

Adari stumbled away from the confused children, feeling horrified and confused. She knew enough about Force visions to recognize what she saw, but she could not fully bring himself to accept what she saw. Visions were symbolic, but the meaning of this one seemed clear enough to her.

The galaxy was about to erupt in a war unlike anything it had ever seen before—a war that would never end, that would spread across every world until it had consumed Skyriver and its satellite galaxies.

But there was no clear way to prevent it or save all her loved ones. And that simple acknowledgement terrified her even more than the revelations she had just received.

“Do not give into fear, Adari Thayn Palpatine, for that is precisely what the enemy wants you to do.” A familiar voice spoke from behind her.

Seeing all the Yuuzhan Vong reverently bow before the entity in front of them, Adari felt a calming presence envelop her, and she turned to politely greet the new visitor, “Hello, Sekot.”

She expected Sekot to be using one of its disciples or take the form of a person that held deep significance to the living world, not using Bardan as a temporary host for its consciousness. But to do this for a cynical Mandalorian and returning Jedi, the gesture demonstrated how much the planet trusted him and believed his desire to do good by his people and oaths.

Bardan-Sekot, anticipating Adari’s next words, spoke first, “You wonder why I’m using Bardan as a conduit to speak with you. Well, there are certain revelations that he shared with me, revelations that I was asked to bring to your attention, and only you.”

Placing a hand on Adari’s shoulder, she felt Sekot’s mind connect with hers, and the next set of glimpses of the future she saw, they filled her with a joy and dread she never felt before.

She saw herself with Edaan, raising a family and helping many worlds recovering from the scars of war. Their children and grandchildren, many of them adopted and raising families of their own, would eventually help protect the galaxy with the same dedication and loyalty as the Skywalkers. And one of her descendants would be key at resolving an evil that lurked beyond the galaxy, maybe even this reality.

In one world she saw one of her grandsons or great-grandsons fight to end a planetary war and tear down the corrupt rule of a Prime Minister and his accomplices, working alongside reformists and revolutionaries. And he also worked to uncover the secrets of this world’s many supernatural entities and its ties to the three Cosmic Wars that darkened the galaxy and diminished the Celestials’ presence and their legacy. This world could be the original home of Humans, and its fate hung by a threat between salvation and eternal damnation.

The other world was the most clouded to his senses, scarred by war between an imperialistic empire and chaotic kingdoms, one of the latter a blatant tyrant that organized pogroms against other races and those that held powers similar, but also vastly different, from those that used the Force. But this evil Human monarch, as despicable, hateful, paranoid, and vile as he was, he wasn’t the worst threat the world faced.

The world held dangers beyond the sapients that ruled over it. Monstrous creatures, dozens or hundreds of various species from other worlds, plagued the world and forced Humans to undergo dangerous mutations to combat these threats as monster hunter mercenaries. And they weren’t alone in endangering the innocent, for a race of elvish brigands, different from the kind that her grandson might encounter, for they were armored head to toe, and raided countless targets for whatever they pleased.

But the worst danger, a white frost that left no life behind on whatever world it hit, would eventually follow wherever this pack of warriors attacked. And the only one that could stop this plague was an ashen-haired woman, one with the power to travel between worlds and held exceptional skill with a blade.

But Tau held another destiny, a fate linked to that of Allana Djo Solo with more than battle, but also in pure love and devotion. They would travel beyond the galaxy, see wonders and horrors few others could imagine, and alter the destiny of more than just Skyriver. And the one of two alternate realities they traveled to, it had an impact at least equal to that of Adari’s descendant.

The first world they might journey to, it was even worse than the two her distant offspring might impact. Its peoples were bitterly divided against each other in a period of war and intrigue from gray-skinned and horned invaders from another continent, nations darkened by heinous practices, blatant bigotry, devouring by unholy creatures, and terror of the potential destruction of all they held dear by one elvish leader obsessed with restoring the past at the cost of countess lives in the present. And lurking behind a veil of magic were beings of unfathomable power and evil, waiting to emerge amidst the chaos to reclaim a world that had long forgotten and abandoned them.

In another galaxy, another reality, mechanical beings who believed in the freedom and autonomy of all beings cooperated with Humans in peaceful mining of natural resources. But they were at war with other machine organisms who, like their brethren, could transform into vehicles and were trying to revive an entity whose power and malevolence dwarfed all transformers in a mad bid to control him.

The key to stopping this war and the devouring of all life in this alternate reality, was in the deactivated husk of the leader of the freedom fighter automatons. But where his body now resided, that was beyond Adari, Bardan, or Sekot’s knowledge.

And there was one more reality, a galaxy – perhaps the primordial home of humanity, unaffected by the Bedlam Spirits after they visited the original Earthworld and convinced many Humans to settle on many worlds across Skyriver. This sea of stars, a Milky Way galaxy, Adari discerned, was full of over a dozen different races, most of which shared a precarious and rigid balance of power through politics.

But a stark difference between this political system was how the races couldn’t use hyperspace travel on their own, relying on a network of giant stations to create artificial trade routes and paths through the vast array of space. And through this system, an ancient mechanical evil manipulated the galaxy towards its systemic controlling and culling of sapient species every fifty thousand years. These harbingers of death and corruption, enslaving and eventually annihilating all those in their path, they would sweep over the Milky Way galaxy once again, with only one Human standing between them.

Only now, Adari saw a new series of visions, flashes of what could be for either Tau or one of her offspring. Interfering with the normal flow of time for this galaxy, the changes they wrought would reverberate across the entire universe, with forces of Light and Darkness using this untouched galaxy as a new front for the Outer Gods’ never-ending designs. And it would go on to affect Skyriver as a whole, just as both wars the Palpatine heirs would one day find themselves involved in.

Adari, the tears streaming down her face from all the revelations she just experienced, fell to her knees and quietly wept. Knowing the role her family, Tau, and his future love would play in the coming decades, it filled her with equal pride and fear from the trials they would one day face.

But Sekot wasn’t finished with her. Still using Bardan as its conduit, it emphatically told her, “I’m sorry to bring all this on you. It was not my desire to thrust this knowledge onto you so suddenly, but you need to understand just how dangerous the situation is, and how much hangs in the balance with your family.”

“Who else knows about this?” Adari asked, her voice broken from her galaxy-shattering visions.

“A small few.” Bardan-Sekot answered. “But they have all been sworn to secrecy until the time is right, just as you must be. If the Enemy learns of what we know, then they will twist it for their vile ends.”

Hugging Adari, Bardan-Sekot promised, “Your husband already knows much of what you have just seen, and he will soon be able to help you bear this burden, just as you’ve helped him with his.”

“And everything else I saw? Is all that destined to come true?” Adari asked.

“That will depend on the choices we all make throughout the coming months and if our resolve can surpass the True Sith’s. Remember, the future is never truly set in stone. But for now, we need to stop Daala and her followers from dooming all creation with her vindictive madness.” Bardan-Sekot enigmatically answered before Sekot left the old Human, leaving him with vertigo as Adari helped him sit down while she contemplated all she’d just learnt. But as much as she wanted to learn more, she knew there were more immediate matters to tend to and greater duties she had ongoing.

Sekot would soon be moving against Daala to save Azure and countless other worlds from her destructive rampage, and there were still a handful of civilians that had to be evacuated to safety. Adari would do her duty, and if all went as promised, she’d be able to see her beloved husband again after the battle was won, and they would live long and plentiful lives with their future family when this war ended.

Within the Olpaka System
On the Orromol Moon Military Base

Aboard the Supremacy

“Did they take the bait?” Vlad asked his personal confidant, widow of a slain Jedi Master, underworld mastermind, and fellow Olpakan Resolute agent.

“They did, quicker and more ferociously than we ever could’ve imagined.” The hooded woman assured her longtime compatriot and superior. “Raze and his consortium will handle the decoding and dissemination of information, but my people will be ready to arrest him when they’re decrypted. Provided everything goes as planned, we’ll dismantle the Purists before the week’s end.”

“It had better. We’re risking too much to leave anything to chance this time around.” Vlad let out a worried sigh. If anything went wrong in these intricately laid strategies, if the True Sith interfered and told their pawns, or Daala and her buddies figured out the scheme, then absolute chaos would erupt and only embolden the Father of Shadows and his disciples.

The concealed contact, seeing Vlad’s fears in his eyes, assured him, “You’ve done everything you can to ensure this plan succeeds. All we can do now is trust in the Maker and Force that we’ll win this fight.”

Reluctantly conceding the point, Vlad nodded and pulled out a bottle of his painkillers. Eager to take a pill or two and suppress his growing headaches, he dismissed the obscured ally. “Then may the Maker protect you on your end, Madame Vos.”

“And with you also. Tell my son how much I love him when you next hear from him.” Khaleen Hentz requested of Vlad, who could only nod before she ended her call.

Seeing the shrouded hologram that hid the widow’s form vanish, Vlad quickly took two of his custom pills with a glass of water to quell his migraines, if only for a few hours. But even as his head pains started to fade away, he uttered a quiet prayer to the Father of Lights that nothing went wrong with the many dangerous gambles he helped set in motion.

Between Daala invading Azure and Cylo-V prepared to destroy the Rakatan Archipelago, with the Supreme Knight having already sent word and the proper intelligence to the Last Alliance so they could counter their offensives, the end was fast approaching for the Olpakan Hegemony. Whether its final fate concluded for the Resolute and Last Alliance in a near-bloodless victory or terrible civil war, the vile anti-Force government would at last face justice for its long list of atrocities.

All Vlad could do now was do what he could to ensure the collateral damage and pandemonium were kept to the bare minimum when the Hegemony was dissolved. And with the former wife to one of the old Jedi Order’s best spies prepared to eliminate one of the tyrannical government’s best enforcers and help dismantle his consortium, that chaos would be a lot less messy when the truth finally came to light.

Vlad only hoped the fallout from the many revelations wouldn’t drive more people into the True Sith’s arms out of despair and denial, even if he knew that outcome was all but impossible with his society’s evils. If any decided to join the nihilistic cause, then he would do all he could to make their end as swift and merciful as possible. But if it did the opposite and gave most of the Hegemony a heavy dose of clarity and desire to redeem itself, then he would rejoice at this miraculous victory and give all praise to the Supreme Maker and His Celestials.

Chapter Text

Melona 23^rd, 59 ABY

In the Inner Rim

Within the Hapes Consortium

In Shedu Maad’s Orbit

Aboard the SoroSuub Horizon-class Star Yacht Jade Shadow

“Are you sure about this course of action, Luke?” Tionne Solusar, Jedi Council member and the first historian of the reborn Order, tried to counsel Luke while he finished preparing his vessel for the long journey into the Unknown Regions. “Your injuries-”

“The procedure was a resounding success, Tionne. Telki already discharged me, and any lingering pain or aches will fade in the time it will take us to reach Nirauan. And don’t forget, I won’t be alone in this trek.” Luke firmly, but kindly, pointed out. After hearing how the war against the Nihil Retreat was going and how the Olpakan Hegemony was constantly interfering with the Last Alliance’s efforts, he knew he couldn’t afford to sit out this fight any longer.

It may have taken a few hours longer than Luke would’ve preferred to get cleared to fly, and included a bit of arguing and dealing, but he was eventually able to leave, provided he ensured he was given all the necessary medical supplies to aid his recovery. Even more important would be the large task force that would be accompanying him on this arduous journey.

Along with the fifty Jedi Knights that were set to aid the war effort, there were many more friends that were either just joining the cause or fully grasping the severity of the threat. The Matukai, Luka Sene, Baran Do, and the Kashi Mer Guardians of the Breath, four of the most well-known Force Orders that were on good terms with the Jedi, had all agreed to send many of their best and brightest to aid the cause.

But many other groups, upon learning that the legendary and brutal Rakata, those that allied with the True Sith Empire, had regained their connection to the Force, they all abandoned their desperate attempts to wait out the battle and agreed to formally support the Last Alliance. The Zeison Sha, Fallanassi, and the Followers of Palawa were among those that agreed to a full-fledged pact with the Jedi.

And dozens of other groups were agreeing to establish formal ties with the known galaxy, especially the Kilian Rangers of the Unknown Regions and the Jal Shey. All these groups would send several of their own to work alongside the Jedi and all ruling governments to help maintain stability throughout the known galaxy throughout this war.

If all went well, the wide array of Force users would be entering the Unknown Regions no later than by the end of next week. Following that, they would rendezvous at the Last Alliance’s central command before they were deployed to all active war zones.

But to counter these good tidings, word was trickling in of several wicked Force orders doing just the opposite, rushing to the Chaos to join the True Sith, bolstering their forces with numbers and their corrupt command of the Force. The remnants of the Mecrosa Order and the Shapers of Kro Var were among the most high-profile of those answering this evil call.

It was for all these reasons, and Luke’s own sense of responsibility and loyalty for the galaxy and all its denizens, that he would lead this convoy and rejoin the fight before all hope was lost. Although he knew this war would be his final one to participate in, he knew the Jedi Order would do more than survive, but flourish beyond his long-storied leadership and guidance. He only regretted how his final deeds in this plane of existence would devastate those he loved most of all.

After the final systems-checks were complete, and he received word that the Jade Shadow was at last clear for takeoff, Luke sternly warned his ship’s small Jedi crew, “Everyone, you’d better strap in. We’re ready for hyperspace, and we’ll need to move fast if we want to make it to the front lines by the following week’s end.”

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

Within the Roshar System

In Azure’s Orbit

Aboard the Sir Trilag

“High Admiral, we’re ready to begin our attack on the enemy’s positions.” A tactical officer aboard the Resurgent Destroyer, reported to Daala.

Having spent the last six hours preparing to storm the Resolute’s known safe houses and strike the city of Kholar, the enemy’s central base of operations and capture or kill everyone that opposed the Olpakan Hegemony, Daala was ready to deal with the heretics and interrogate the survivors. Her plan, reviewed and refined by her partners, would drive the religious fools out of hiding and leave them with no other option but to surrender or fight to the bitter end.

Daala knew the Jedi and their allies would survive the first few waves of attacks, but their sentiment and desire to protect all life would prevent them from thinking logically. And when they surrendered to her and confessed all they knew of the Resolute’s plans and spies in the Hegemony’s ranks, it would vindicate her beliefs and be the next big step in purifying the galaxy from its plague of the Force while ridding the Olpakans’ society of its traitors.

She only regretted how her son was part of the Last Alliance and a slave to their primitive morality. Armand Vorn, a man with such great skill and leadership potential, had thrown his lot in with the Jedi and their lost cause, and betrayed her on every level. Even if it broke her already fractured heart, she would kill him, even if he surrendered, just to set an example for all others who might consider double-crossing her.

“Ma’am, we’re receiving a transmission from Azure’s surface.” A comms officer alerted Daala. “They’re using an Imperial code, claiming to be one Captain Vorn, and he’s demanding to speak with you.”

Daala’s eyes alight with renewed fury, she immediately ordered her officers, “Track the signal, record the entire transmission, and have our forces ready to move on the source of the call once I give the order.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” The officer obeyed before putting the transmission through. And the first thing Daala saw was the holographic form of her son, controlled but holding back a fury that filled her with regret at having to kill such a fiercely passionate military officer.

Daala, not letting Armand speak first, smugly stated, “If you’ve come to negotiate a surrender with me for your handlers, I’m afraid you’re in no position to be making demands of me any longer.”

“No, Mother.” Armand tightly interrupted. “The only ones who are going to surrender will be you and your fleets. Otherwise, you’ll all die in disgrace and be eternally vilified for all your attacks on life and civilization itself.

“Did you even think of the consequences of your actions in working with the Olpakan Hegemony? Starting a war against the free galaxy, experimenting on countless innocents for their gifts, murdering countless innocents, can’t you see you’re only being used by the True Sith and their false gods?!” Armand shook his head, before he continued,

“No. Like always, you impulsively blasted everything in your path, destroyed millions of lives, turned families and worlds against themselves, all for your wounded pride, obsessive need for control and lust for battle. And that ego and hate is only aiding the Nihil Retreat in their goal of galactic domination! Honestly, you’re acting just like Caedus in his rampage and megalomania.”

That last remark nearly made Daala break her composure, and Armand took pride in goading his mother, “Did that truth hurt, Mother? Well, if you don’t give up your dark crusade and own up to all your crimes, this will be your final battle, and you’ll be hated for all of time, just as your precious mentor is.”

“No, Armand.” Daala slowly seethed. “This is your last fight. One way or another, I will have you dead by the day’s end, and your friends will soon follow your path. Now, either you and your masters surrender and spare the planet you’ve contaminated with your filthy preachings, or all the deaths and destruction that will follow will be on all your heads.”

Smiling at his mother with a grin that belied a knowledge and certain determination she was wrong, Armand contradicted her, “No, this is your last chance. Surrender now, or you and those that follow you will perish before our righteous might.”

Before Daala could try to figure out what Armand meant with that last remark, the Sir Trilag’s alarms began blaring across every deck. Seeing her son’s smirk never leaving his face, she began to realize its implications, even if she couldn’t understand how her plan could possibly unravel so quickly.

Deciding to take no chances, Daala ordered her ship’s captain, “Pull all our soldiers back, then order all batteries to fire on the source of the transmission!”

“I can’t!” The officer anxiously called back. “All our systems, they’re not responding to any commands.”

Reading through the data feed, she apprehensively added, “All our systems, they’re infected by a computer virus. I’ve never seen anything like it, and it’s spreading throughout the fleet and all the gravity well generators!”

Suddenly, everything made sense to Daala, even as she felt like her mouth was frothing from such rabid fury at Vlad Karamazov’s betrayal. Only a handful of individuals, no more than a dozen, in the Olpakan Hegemony knew the full scope of this operation, and just one had the means to accomplish this treason.

Prepared to pull out personal comlink, ready to contact Cylo-V with a confidential and custom encryption known only to those two, she was stopped when the Sir Trilag’s proximity alarms blazed to life. Armand’s smug voice then came through the hologram, “And that would be our reinforcements. I’d advise you to give up now, or you’ll all be destroyed, just as your cause will soon be demolished.”

A murderous fury overwhelming her, Daala shouted to her officers, “Cut this transmission and get our ships back to fighting shape!”

“It won’t work! The ship’s shutting itself down!” The captain desperately stated, just before a distant explosion could be heard to the Sir Trilag’s stern.

A tactical hologram of all Olpakan Hegemony ships, colored gold, came to life on its own, Daala saw no more than seventy-five red-colored warships cutting several paths through the system-wide blockade.

Scattered into six groups of ten capital ships, with the last ten escorting the Cal Omas and Megador, the Last Alliance was hitting all the gravity well projectors while the two dreadnoughts devastated their enemy’s front lines. And she instantly recognized two more destroyers, the Imperial II-class one being the red-painted Errant Venture that belonged to entrepreneur Mirax Terrik Horn, while the Secutor-class was commanded by the One Sith’s Darth Irola.

If her fleet wasn’t in mortal danger from this terrible betrayal, Daala would be impressed with the ruthlessness and intricate genius of those that crafted this lethal plan. But she knew that at their current pace, it wouldn’t be long before the Last Alliance reached her position unless a miracle occurred. And since she believed miracles only came to those who could make their own luck, she knew she had to take matters into her own hands again.

Hurrying to the command center to plug in her comlink, she keyed in Cylo-V’s personal frequency and spoke into it, “We’ve been betrayed at the highest levels! Karamazov gave us up to the Resolute and Last Alliance, and he seeded a virus throughout my fleets that rendered my ships inoperable!”

“I know. We just cracked the encryption on his files, and they incriminated him for high treason.” Cylo-V’s angry voice filtered back. “I’m sending your fleets a prototype antivirus to counter his program, and it’ll give you all a fighting chance against the Resolute and their masters. The rest is up to you.”

Observing the Sir Trilag’s systems restart at an accelerated pace, Daala remained pensively quiet until the captain contacted her, “Ma’am, whatever you’ve done worked! All systems are operating at least at 80% capacity, and the rest of the fleet is coming online.”

Letting a tight smile appear across her face, Daala ordered her, “Then have all ships that can fight regroup into orbit above Azure. Those that cannot, have the crews scuttle their vessels or withdraw. We still need to set an example for those that defile our Hegemony.”

Ignoring the captain’s compliance, Daala returned to her comlink and told Cylo-V, “There’s no more time to waste. Take every loyal soldier you can spare and enact our contingency immediately.”

“Of course.” Cylo-V agreed before he signed off, leaving Daala with the exhaustive task of rallying her fleet and pushing back the Last Alliance. It might mean leaving the Rakatan Archipelago alone a while longer, but removing the traitors from the Hegemony’s ranks took precedence.

But while she gave orders to her captains and prepared to draw the enemy into the Hegemony’s crossfires, she wondered where the Olpalan Resolute might be. Not seeing one Resolute ship amongst the opposing fleet, Daala knew they wouldn’t let a chance to devastate their old foes go to waste. They were prepared to strike when the opportunity was greatest, and when they did, she would be ready to teach them a fatal lesson.

And Vlad Karamazov, if he lived long enough, he’d be publicly paraded and executed by the entire Olpakan Hegemony as an example of all those who, going forward, would even think of trying to betray their sacred cause.

Within Chiss Space

Near the Nihil Retreat/Olpakan Hegemony/Chiss Ascendancy Border

On Sunrise

Within the Che’ri Mountain Mines

Aboard the Raider II-class corvette Orinda’s Bloom

Jaina was prepared for rampant corruption in this vital Chiss world. Being perilously close to the borders of both the Nihil Retreat and Olpakan Hegemony, a refugee center, and extensive mining operation for the Chiss navy, the Jedi Master expected many of the officers and soldiers taking advantage of those unfortunate souls forced to flee their homes. Not even the Chiss Ascendancy was immune to corruption and the temptation to exploit the vulnerable, and not everyone amongst its ranks was as honorable and strong-willed as her husband.

But what Jaina sensed from Sunrise upon approaching the planet, the suffering permeating the very fabric of this world, it threatened to shatter her resolve and make her weep from the pain of decades of abuse and death. The darkness was as potent as Dromund Kaas and Korriban but was far fresher than the two ancient Sith worlds. And if the few Chiss commanders, administrators, and the handful of Aristocra Saganu’s agents that remained loyal to their people and cause were telling the truth, the situation was far darker and desperate than everyone’s worst estimates.

Over the last six years, the highest-ranking officers, industry titans, and civilian bureaucrats that were supposed to have fairly overseen the resettlement of tens of millions of refugees had enslaved them to mine the many minerals within Sunrise’s mountains. And they had funneled most of the wealth not to themselves and their Houses for the Ascendancy’s never-ending intrigues, but to the True Sith Empire and their vassals and armies.

Anyone who dared try to report this ultimate betrayal was executed or condemned to work in the mines, except for the few Force-sensitive that could be of greater use were sent to the Nihil Retreat. Those tens of thousands that were forcibly converted to the Way of the Dark and turned against their loved ones, it was too much for anyone to bear.

A murderous rage enveloped Jaina, and she glanced around at everyone else as they brought the Wraiths up to speed on these terrifying revelations. She knew everyone else felt the same disgust, sorrow, and thirst for justice consume them all. No one, not even the jovial Trey or battle-hardened Parja, had any compunctions about what they were prepared to do, even if their odds of success were next to nonexistent.

To free Sunrise from its inhumane occupation and liberate the slaves, the infiltration team would need to send as much intelligence they could provide to Nirauan to give the Last Alliance an edge on the inevitable military strike. They’d also need to inspire the imprisoned masses to resist their overlords and eliminate as many True Sith collaborators they could covertly assassinate.

But there was another problem that impeded their efforts to rally the populace and Last Alliance to stop this despicable atrocity. Jaina and Solider sensed many Sorcerers of Rhand prowling Sunrise, ensuring any defiant souls were snuffed out and made examples of, and one amongst them was more powerful and ancient than any they’d faced before. If this individual was the leader of this operation, then a more judicious and precise touch was needed here.

The only question here was where to begin? Reviewing all the data from the Chiss-loyal officers and spies, Jaina, Jan, Iden, and Cara identified many key True Sith allies and commanders, but recognized how one false move would doom this whole operation. And with tens of millions hanging in the balance and the one chance to undo the Rhandites’ malicious influence in this region of space, there could be no room for error. But what the insertion team needed now was a game-changer to give them a fighting chance at ending this terrible evil.

Khedryn, interrupting the quiet analysis, inserted a data card into the Orinda’s Bloom’s holoprojector before he quickly explained, “I got through to Nirauan, and they had critical information to relay to us. We have a new agent in the True Sith’s ranks, and they’ve just given us the chance we need to shatter their hold over this world.”

“What are you talking about, Faal?” Iden skeptically asked, not fond of this smuggler kingpin inserting any unknown data into her ship’s computer before a planetary hologram of Sunrise appeared, with several icons appearing across the six continents. Scouring through the data, revealing the locations of dozens of enemy garrisons, mining operations, and the positions of the highest-ranking Sorcerers of Rhand and their Chiss servants across the planet, it was the bombshell the Last Alliance needed.

Jan, always getting to the heart of the matter, told Khedryn, “This information, can we trust it? We’ll need to assemble a massive force-”

“Not if we work to sabotage the enemy’s defenses and remove a few of their key commanders.” Cara insightfully interrupted. “If we can keep their attention focused on us, and not on the impending attack, then the element of surprise might be enough to cripple their operations out here.”

“Then it’s a good thing we’re all masters of improvising and have decades of experience with this type of work.” Khedryn agreed, a bit too smugly for Jaina’s liking, but she let it slide as she reviewed the encryption.

This intelligence bore the personal seal of Vurawn, and only a handful of trusted individuals knew of this code. Whoever the spy was, the Last Alliance would owe them a deep debt if they survived this war. But there was a long way to go in laying the groundwork for Sunrise’s freedom, and likely only a matter of weeks before time ran out for everyone.

Jaina, keeping the meeting on track, ordered Khedryn, “Get word to Nirauan. Tell them we’ll get to work on putting this information to good use, but we’ll need a few weeks to move everything into position for their attack.”

“Is that all we’ll need?” Iden rhetorically asked.

“No. We’ll need more than our usual amount of luck, act with perfect unison and timing, and ensure no mistakes are made by any of us going forward.” Jaina grimly answered.

Mugg Fallow Orbit
Aboard the Annihilation-class Corvette Oblivion

Abeloth could feel her brother’s insatiable hunger across the entire planet, long starved and resigned to feast on whatever scraps foolish enough to fall into the trap that was Mugg Fallow. Having long been kept confined within the Chiss Ascendancy’s borders as its darkest secret and greatest danger, Mnggal-Mnggal had been a source of myth and terror for the few that knew anything of his existence. Living as a sapient monster without a solid physical form as a parasitical and slimy ooze that took control of anyone or anything that he encountered, the being could despoil and devour the galaxy, perhaps even all of creation, if left unchecked.

Why the True Sith wanted to recruit Mnggal-Mnggal for their cause, Abeloth couldn’t comprehend the long-term benefits. Spreading terror across worlds was one thing, but her last surviving kin had no designs to rule the galaxy and would destroy everything in his path. And he was far more treacherous and cunning than most gave him credit for, sure he would find a way to break free from whatever bindings the Rhandites tried on him, just as she was slowly doing.

But she knew better than to reflect on such venomous doubts for long and forced herself to get underway with her terrible mission. She pushed through the self-loathing by reminding herself how Mnggal-Mnggal was a mere instrument in her ascension to godhood.

Reaching out through the Force to try and connect with its consciousness, Abeloth felt nothing but indifference and wariness from her only surviving sibling. And such unresponsiveness more than peeved her a bit, since the True Sith went to such lengths to liberate him from his prison.

Sending a fleet to slip past the Last Alliance’s lines to Mugg Fallow, only to face a horde of Killiks hellbent on keeping any from going through their blockade, such a gesture should solicit even a hint of gratitude. But perhaps Mnggal-Mnggal knew exactly how the True Sith’s earlier attempts to summon him to Lehon failed and was plotting vengeance against his last living sister.

“I mean you no disrespect, Madam but I think you may be going about this all wrong.” A humble voice came from behind Abeloth. Sighing, she glanced at one of Tor Valum’s newest disciples. 

Seeing Meeka, the last leader of the Crimson Nova Guild of Jedi hunters and former One Sith collaborator before defecting to the Sorcerers of Rhand, bowing in front of her superior before the Farghul dared to speak, “You can’t be polite with a power as great as Mnggal-Mnggal without first establishing your superiority over him. Otherwise, to your target, you’re just another would-be snack for it to feast on.”

“What do you know of the Force?” Abeloth austerely challenged Meeka, offended at the bounty hunter’s daring to presume and advise the Beloved Queen of the Stars during such a crucial mission. Just staring at the feline woman, now embedded with dozens of small crystals across her body, a True Sith technique to imbue a chosen few with a connection to the Dark, the sight of her now repulsed the entity.

“Aside from what Tor Valum and his fellow Sorcerers have taught me so far about my new blessings?” Meeka shrugged, oblivious or ignorant to Abeloth’s disgust. “Not very much, I admit, but I do know how to deal with people and creatures with an arrogant disposition. Unfortunately, that means we’ll probably have to go down to the planet below and meet with our would-be ally face to face. And that endeavor will take time we likely do not have.”

Appraising the recent addition to the Servants of Chaos with a newfound sense of appreciation, Abeloth acknowledged, “Perhaps. But you may have just given me an idea on how we can speed the talks along.”

“Send a message to our forces right away. Advise everyone to buy us as much time as they can give me.” Abeloth ordered Meeka. “I will journey down to Mugg Fallow alone and convince our hesitant friend of the wisdom in allying with our masters.”

“Alone?” Meeka questioned. “I can’t allow that. Aside from the danger of letting anyone go down on their own, my orders-”

“I need to show Mnggal-Mnggal a great extent of the power I now hold again, and I can only do that without risking any of the best of my vanguard.” Abeloth patiently explained. “And you are only beginning to grasp your newfound strength in the Force, so you would only interfere in my efforts right now. But what you can do is keep the task force on full alert until I return, and inform me if you are forced to withdraw, should the Last Alliance make their way out here before we are finished.”

Anticipating the next protest, Abeloth, an eager smile gracing her face, grimly continued, “Unlike the Rhandites and their servants, I would not wish to discard such vital followers and agents like yourselves so foolishly. And should the Chiss and their friends try to stop us, we will be prepared to deal with them.”

“When all is said and done, Mnggal-Mnggal will have but a small sampling of the bountiful feast we can offer when he joins the great cause and is at last liberated from this infernal prison of his own making.” Abeloth promised before she felt a familiar presence fast approaching the planet.

Darth Krayt, several of his fellow One Sith, and the Jedi Order’s current grand master, were all leading a new force to reinforce the Killiks’ devastated lines to try and prevent the negotiations. It looked like General Yiv’s information was taken seriously, just as she hoped it would.

But Tau Palpatine, holding the power of Niphal, wasn't in this task force, a disturbing prospect. If the Last Alliance wanted to prevent this unholy alliance, they would need both of Elegast’s kin to stop the True Sith. Why was the Jedi clone not involved in this mission? Could they have punished him for hesitating against her on Lehon by transferring the Jedi agent to another front? If that was true, she’d have to hammer the point home that to stand against the True Sith, the Jedi and One Sith needed their best people in the right spots.

Either way, Abeloth would need to take precautions to ensure the Last Alliance and all its commanders survived this battle, if a bit battered from its impending and terrible failure. She already took every possible step to ensure the Killiks suffered minimal casualties, and left clues for the Nihil Retreat’s plans scattered in the ships she sacrificed for the True Sith’s costly frontal assault.

But the risk of exposure would only skyrocket if Abeloth tried anything any more overt. She would simply have to trust that the leaders of the Jedi, One Sith, and all their friends would find a way to lead their people through this catastrophe. If there was anything she understood of Skyriver’s short-lived denizens, too many of them were too stubborn and hard-headed to give up when faced with insurmountable odds. She still bore the spiritual scars from her last war with them to think differently.

In Wild Space

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

In the Makatak System

Aboard the CEC Consular-class Cruiser Dark Beauty

“It’s him.” Phasma whispered, sensing a familiar wave of darkness approaching the planet, one she perfectly knew from the decades she fought alongside her dearest comrade before he joined the True Sith Empire. 

Keldo was coming, and he was bringing with him a force strong enough to threaten the Last Alliance and Makatak’s own set of defenders. And amongst those fleets, with Ship and his One Sith handler able to scout their strength, everyone knew it would be several forces of the Nihil Retreat’s raiders, a Tulpaa Rakata fleet, and several spacefaring predators and abominations that escaped the Croke Reach’s devastation.

The Last Alliance had spent the last seven hours mobilizing their fleets and engaging their defenses to prepare for the inevitable onslaught. Seeing the Makatak fleet and their allies take up the bulk of the blockade to protect the planet below, it relieved Phasma to know the Jedi and One Sith chose their friends wisely. When the True Sith attacked, they would be hard-pressed to break through this incredible force.

Still, Phasma recognized how this battle would be too close for any strategist to predict the outcome, just as the war would be too unpredictable to call. Between the uncountable legions the True Sith Empire possessed, their growing number of proxies and servants, and the horrific abilities their Force users possessed, it would take far more than military might and simple strength to prevail. And the unnerving feeling in her chest, the pit of foreboding dread that wouldn’t go away, it was telling her that she would fully understand that in due time.

Be ready. The enemy is about to arrive. Ship’s voice echoed not only throughout just Phasma’s mind, but that of everyone in this unlikely coalition. Moments later, her skull felt as if it was collapsing, and she instinctively and immediately knew what it meant.

The True Sith had come, and they were making their first move out here against the Last Alliance. This Force attack, a tsunami of dark side energy washing over their enemies, was a debilitating attack that was surely affecting all but the greatest adherents of the Ashla. And it seemed that joining the Sorcerers of Rhand and their Lich Lords had taught Keldo more than a few new abilities after he joined their ranks.

But there was something else – someone else, who was coordinating this assault. It was an eager individual whose bloodlust matched Keldo’s, but his command of the Force was more untested and unnatural than the One Sith deserter. Wondering who the new enemy was, even through her splitting migraines, Phasma felt the True Sith acolyte reach back to her. And upon realizing whom it was, she paled beneath her armored helmet from the sheer impossibility of the traitorous Mandalorian.

The pressure on her mind unrelenting, Phasma remembered the Jedi exercises her friends taught her to shield herself against the darkness, and felt the pain slowly fade into minor aches. Once she was certain the agony wouldn’t return in full force, she keyed in the frequencies for the Dodonna and all other command vessels.

Speaking with a renewed sense of urgency, Phasma warned everyone, “I’ve identified one of the enemy’s commanders. It’s Belok Rhal of the defunct Neo Hidden Chain. And I don’t know how it’s possible, but I can sense him bearing a strong connection to the dark side.”

A few seconds of perturbed silence went by before Kara’s rough voice uttered back, “Well, that would have to be there tocomplicate things for us.”

The Dodonna’s alarms heard through the comm channel, the Aporthad GA officer let out a frustrated growl, “We’re out of time. The Rhandite fleet’s about to revert to real space, and scans are picking up a lot of ships. Whatever happens next, let’s hope we live to find out.”

“Be careful what you wish for, Vice Admiral.” Phasma wearily whispered after the comm channel was closed. Checking her ship’s long-range scanners, she quickly understood why Kara was so concerned.

Alongside a fleet of twenty refurbished and modernized Tulpaa Rakata warships, at least three dozen military vessels of Grysk, Nikardun, and Ssi-Ruuk designs appeared beside them. And following those enemies were a few escort craft of a like Phasma didn’t recognize but felt an immense and ancient darkness emanate from these jewelry-shaped transports.

Those had to be Rhandite vessels, and whoever they were bringing in to aid them in this battle, they would be the most dangerous of all the Last Alliance’s enemies. And Phasma was sure there were more forces on route or waiting for the right moment to strike. Unfortunately, that was little more than a hunch right now, for the dark side encircled the Makatak System and was closing in like a vice. But her battle-honed instincts hadn’t failed her yet, and she was certain they wouldn’t do so now.

Still, the redeemed Sith Lady instinctively knew that unless a drastic change through the Fourth Cosmic War and its handling soon occurred, the Last Alliance and its allies would find themselves at the brink of annihilation. Regardless of the war’s conduct, Phasma would keep fighting until her life was snuffed out to protect the galaxy’s innocent and downtrodden. It was the least she could do to atone for her sins against the One Sith’s countless victims and to give them a chance at a better future.

Chapter Text

Melona 25^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

Within the Roshar System

Aboard the Megador

In her role as the One Sith’s liaison with the last Galactic Alliance-owned Super Star Destroyer, Belot found herself impressed with the efficient and firm command Nek Bwua’tu had with his soldiers. Unlike most Bothans she’d heard of and the few she had the distinction to cooperate with, this one kept a tight hold over his men but allowed them the flexibility and trust to make their own decisions within the confines of their roles. And watching the democratic republic’s supreme commander take charge against his former lover and superior, she understood why he was trusted with so much responsibility.

In the last forty hours, the Olpakan Hegemony’s ranks, while holding firm and preventing their lines from utterly collapsing, hadsustained deep casualties on their naval forces. The Last Alliance’s Force users had proven their worth in slipping dozens of troop transports and humanitarian convoys through the enemy’s failing formations. Between the Alliance of Light’s diverse array of friendly Force orders and conventional soldiers, the One Sith’s elite commandos, Bwau’tu’s strategic brilliance, and the Olpakan Resolute’s tactical insight, the enemy’s ranks were slowly giving way.

Give this partnership another two days, at most, and the enemy would either be captured, forced to retreat, or killed in combat, and the Hegemony would be on the verge of collapsing. But Belot was not as optimistic as some of her peers and allies were. She recognized how a wounded and cornered enemy was a dangerous one, and a delusional warlord of Daala’s caliber couldn’t afford to be underestimated.

And the rest of Bwua’tu’s advisors and field commanders, they all recognized the merit of Belot’s arguments. Tau Palpatine, especially, supported her in wanting to leave nothing to chance with a lunatic leader of Daala’s ilk. Which was why the Jedi clone was currently using his Celestial-blessed powers and abilities to coordinate and embolden the resolve of all Last Alliance forces.

Just thinking of how Edaan Palpatine, the man who threw her into a coma to “save” Vestara from the dark side, was cloned by the One Sith, only to lose the prized investment for the Jedi, it made her blood boil. She longed to do the same to him or at least humiliate him and make him pay for his brutality back on Kesh. But she was a mature woman and loyal One Sith acolyte, and she would play nice if the need was there. And these so-called “True Sith”, they were a greater threat to all and had to be dealt with before Lord Krayt’s plans could restart.

Seeing another Olpakan Hegemony destroyer explode, making it twelve thus far, Belot returned her focus to her duties. From her post as a tactical officer aboard the Megador, she relayed her superiors’ orders and helped coordinate the recovery efforts for crippled ships and escape pods. A tedious task, as far as she was concerned, but she would play the part if it gave her a chance to soon get back into the action. And judging by the enemy’s fleet losing nearly twenty percent of its forces, that time might come soon.

And helping keep the fleet’s attention on task while being prepared for any surprises, that was a job even a warrior of Belot’s caliber recognized as vital to the war effort. Between the Nihil Retreat’s numberless thralls and the rest of the Olpakan Hegemony’s fanatical forces still on the loose, everyone recognized the need for vigilance in all aspects and to shore up their more vulnerable lines.

Breaking through her thoughts, Belot adjusted her comm headset, trying to key in the frequency for the unexpected caller. Hearing a man’s voice, one she recognized all too well, she was tempted to cut the transmission. But Krayt’s orders and Vestara’s pleas echoed in her mind, and she worked to establish a better connection.

After a few moments, Belot managed to secure a comm frequency for Edaan, but he didn’t speak to her. Instead, a transcript began appearing across her monitor, and she viewed the message with great alarm. Ensuring the communication link was securely encrypted, she spoke to the Jedi prodigy, “You had best certain of this information, Palpatine. If I take it to Bwua’tu, we will probably lose our best chance cleanly to permanently remove Daala as a threat.”

“My sources aren’t wrong on this, Saber Belot.” Edaan professionally answered. “We’re about to get a lot of unwelcome intruders, and we need to be ready to face them.”

Pausing, remorse plastered over his face and deep in his eyes, Edaan emphatically spoke, “I know you loathe me, Belot, and you have every right to. I did you wrong, and I deserve your hate. But we can settle this after we stop the Nihil Retreat’s incursion. If we don’t, the death toll will be catastrophic, and we’ll lose too many of our best assets to count.”

“Besides, if you save my life, I’ll owe you another debt. And know this, I always pay my dues.” Edaan vowed, the sincerity in his voice obvious to Belot, and it deeply impressed her.

“I’ll relay your word to Bwua’tu. But let’s just hope neither of us live to regret the decision.” Belot promised. Taking a datapad to copy Edaan’s message onto the device, she brusquely walked towards the command center. Addressing the GA Supreme Commander, she alerted him, “Message from Azure, Sir, from the Resolute and their allies. Jedi Palpatine and his allies groundside have new warnings for you.”

Handing him the datapad, Bwua’tu read through the message with keen alertness, and ordered Belot by gravely addressing her by her current military rank, “Excellent work, Captain Belot.”

“Sir, you have a transmission from the Sir Trilag.”  The Mandator’s XO carefully informed Bwua’tu. “The enemy commander wishes to speak with you.”

Something unreadable moved through Bwua’tu’s eyes before he ordered his officers, “Clear the room of all nonessential personnel, but have our system record everything Daala says. If she lets anything slip that can aid us, Captain Belot and Jedi Edaan will relay it to the right people.”

No one was prepared for that remark, and Belot gave voice to everyone’s doubts, “Sir, I don’t believe Daala will welcome the likes of me or Edaan in this call.”

“Perhaps.” Bwua’tu allowed. “But this isn’t a conversation between old lovers, if that’s what you’re suggesting. I need her to understand the reality and gravity of this situation, if we hope to get her to surrender and I believe it’s best done with people representing all members of our Triumvirate.”

Everyone following their admiral’s orders, the Megador’s command center was quickly emptied of all but a handful of servicemen and ensigns, and Bwua’tu set the central holotable to record this vital conversation. Belot, waiting for Edaan to enter the call, cautiously advised the military commander, “Let’s hope your old friend will be in a listening mood.”

“I doubt it.” Bwua’tu crestfallenly said. “Natasi’s rarely been one to change her mind, even on a good day.”

The connection quickly established with both the Sir Trilag and Olpakan Resolute’s safe house on the planet below, Daala and Edaan quickly came into view, with the former angrily beginning, “I see our call has an audience, Nek. Have you fallen so far under the illusion of this ‘Last Alliance’ to let vigilantes and criminals attend military matters?”

“Cut the tough talk, Daala. None of us have the time for it.” Belot brusquely berated the madwoman. “We’re all about to be attacked by the True Sith, and you need to decide whether to help us or be destroyed.”

Bwua’tu, sternly glaring at Belot to silence her, diplomatically took advantage of Daala’s surprise to implore, “Captain Belot’s statement, while clumsily handled, is accurate. The Nihil Retreat will be here in a matter of hours, and our best hope to save this system and both our fleets is to join forces against them.”

Bitterly chuckling, Daala dismissed her old lover’s warnings, “You expect me to fall for that old ruse? Even if your so-called officer’s claims are accurate, neither I nor any of my forces will take orders from yours. Clearly, your alliance with these wizards has dulled your brilliant wits.”

“It’s no lie, Daala.” Edaan angrily stated. “Your Hegemony is compromised by the True Sith, and they’re set to invade this territory and others by the day’s end. And, much as it sickens me to admit it, our only chance to stop them is to combine our fleets and armies against theirs. This is our only opportunity to hold them back and save billions of lives across your territory from death or enslavement!”

Something snapped in Daala’s mind at Edaan’s imploring, and she rabidly countered, “You dare speak to me of compromising the Olpakans when their so-called Resolute have already done that to us? You dare tell me that billions of lives are at risk when all you Jedi and Sith do is fight over the galaxy and leave the ordinary citizens to pick up the pieces each time?!”

“Natasi-” Bwua’tu tried, only for Daala to direct her wrath at him, despairingly and hatefully decrying,

“I know your friends’ secrets! How they seeded an agent in our ranks and helped him climb the Hegemony’s highest echelons of power! I know how Vlad Karamazov is a spy for you all, and I’m going to make him pay for betraying us, just as I’ll make sure everyone who betrays the Olpakan Hegemony is made an example of!”

“Once he’s destroyed, I’ll deal with you and your Last Alliance. And after we eradicate all the accursed Force users, then, and only then, will we turn our attention to the Nihil Retreat.” Daala fanatically concluded.

His temper flaring in a rare display, fur standing upright and his canine teeth bared, Bwua’tu fiercely warned Daala, “Don’t do this, Natasi. This madness is only playing into the Rhandites’ hands.

“If you go through with this, then you’re nothing more than a pawn for the True Sith. They need us divided to conquer the galaxy. And if the Jedi and One Sith can put aside their differences long enough to defend all life against so many unspeakable evils, then you should be able to do the same. If not, then you’ll only go down in history as the despotic monster you’ve become.” He firmly stated, impressing Belot with the sheer honesty and conviction of his declaration.

Vindictively grinning, her sheer malevolence and megalomania frightening even Belot, Daala threw away her last chance at redemption by dismissively stating, “The only history that will be written, Admiral Bwua’tu, is the one I will write when this war ends. I only wish you joined us when you had the chance.”

Bwua’tu, seeing no chance of getting through to Daala, solemnly ordered Belot, “End transmission.” Once the order was carried out, he let out a deep breath, and with it, all his regrets at having to give his next command. “Have all commands relay my terms of surrender to all of Hegemony ships and Azure’s garrison, along with a redacted version of… High Admiral Daala’s rant across her fleets through Resolute frequencies. And have the ground forces prepare for rapid deployment by the day’s end. I think our friends planetside will need the reinforcements soon against the Rhandites and their Olpakan pawns.”

“Yes, Sir.” Belot prepared to comply, but paused to compliment Bwua’tu, “One minor detail I wish you to know. What you’re planning, what you said to Daala, it was a krething impressive sight to behold.”

“He’s only doing his duty, Belot.” Edaan sympathetically answered. “He gets no pleasure from overseeing the deaths of countless men and women, especially one who he once held dear to his heart.”

Then addressing Bwua’tu, Edaan saluted him, “Good hunting, Admiral, and Maker watch over you all in these next few days.”

“Same to you, Jedi Palpatine.” Bwua’tu returned the gesture before the holotable returned to its previous readouts. Belot, taking this as her cue to depart, hurried back to her station to carry out her orders, but with a renewed sense of respect for the Bothan, and a slightly diminished hatred for Edaan.

Relaying Bwua’tu’s orders to all Last Alliance commanders, Belot hoped the Olpakans would accept the terms of surrender, just to preserve everyone’s strength against the Nihil Retreat. And she hoped with equal yearning that Vestara was faring well on her front in this war. Given her and her Jedi lover’s predisposition for unforeseen developments, they were facing a decisive battle of their own at this very moment. If nothing else, she hoped her former mentor survived, no matter what her allegiances now lay.

In Wild Space

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

In the Makatak System

Aboard the Jade’s Legacy

The darkness threatened to envelop everything in its path, and it would not relent until it corrupted or destroyed all who opposed its wielders. Vestara was learning that firsthand in their efforts to defend the only Last Alliance bastion in the Rakata refuge, just as all others who stood alongside them faced that terrifying truth.

Phasma warned everyone of how her brother was a driven and fanatical Sith, how he was fully consumed by the dark side and determined to slay all in his path. But even she was surprised by the power he now wielded under the Sorcerers of Rhand. Working together with a great many of their number, Keldo was relentless in trying to erode the wills of his enemies. Combined with the True Sith’s servants and many eldritch predators under their command, they were wreaking great havoc across the Makatak System.

It was only through everyone’s indomitable will, the Last Alliance’s own Force users’ efforts, and the Makatak Tribe and its allies’ deep knowledge of their enemies that everyone’s ranks hadn’t dissolved altogether. With the Silentium, Chiss, and Aquilians working with their friendly Rakata in guiding the Jedi and One Sith in countering the Force-based assault on everyone and helping coordinate the defense, the True Sith hadn’t broken through their innermost layers.

But for how much longer such a spirited effort could last, that was a question still up in the air. And the betrothed couple who flew their tenth strike to strike isolated pockets of True Sith warships, they suspected the Last Alliance’s brave defiance would not last too much longer unless decisive actions happened.

The future Mr. and Mrs. Skywalker, they knew all their comrades were facing fatigue and slowing reflexes. Already, the body count and ship wreckage littering the empty space was increasing with every passing hour, and no matter how many True Sith proxies the Last Alliance destroyed, they wouldn’t stop coming. With the unrelenting assaults, everyone was barely able to get a few hours rest from rotated rest periods, all servicemen, officers, and pilots having barely gotten ten hours of sleep over these last three days.

Why, even Vestara was exhausted from the last six hours of constant fighting today alone, and her shift still had another two hours before she was to return to the Dodonna to effect repairs and let Ben take over for a while. And with the Jade’s Legacy also in dire need of rest and an intricate set of repairs,

Barely managing to destroy her fifth Rakatan warship with the ship’s last Force-guided baradium torpedo, Vestara almost didn’t hear the Jade Legacy’s subspace comm unit activate. Before she could answer, Kyp Durron’s firm voice filtered through with complete seriousness, “Vestara, return to the Dodonna immediately. We’ll have a new mission for you, Ben, and a select few after you’re all refueled and get a bit of rest.”

Hearing no room for argument in the typically jovial Jedi Master’s voice, Vestara grimly warned, “Give me thirty minutes to get back. Might get a little dicey for me out here.”

“You have twenty minutes.” Kyp gravely answered back. “This is critical and time-sensitive information that goes beyond this one battle. I’ll have assets to cover your withdrawal and give the enemy something more pressing to worry about.”

Perplexed at Kyp’s cryptic and ominous warnings, wondering what could be more pressing than the armies of darkness marching on their very doorstep, Vestara complied, turning the Jade’s Legacy around to accelerate towards the Dodonna. But while she did so, she connected to an old friend that wouldn’t hide the truth from her.

Ship. Vestara began, contacting the sapient Sith vessel. What new developments can you share with me?

You wish to know why Master Durron has summoned you. Ship knowingly stated. Not wasting any time with pleasantries when he and Phasma were also fighting for their lives, the Sith construct answered, He and his superiors have new information for you that requires you to seek a reprieve from the front lines, along with your Jedi betrothed and Lord Imperious.

Well-concealing her surprise at the redeployment, Vestara assumed, What’s happening with Makatak?

Both our enemies, the Olpakan Hegemony and Nihil Retreat, their designs for the planet, its inhabitants, and the region have been divulged to us. And we now must take contingencies to save its people from destruction or enslavement. Ship answered, filling Vestara’s mind with images of what might come to pass if either wicked power achieved victory.

The Olpakaan Hegemony, their hatred of all things tied to the Force was simple enough to understand. With their weapons, they would seek to destroy the Rakatan Archipelago if given the chance, using weapons not used in many decades and had incinerated multiple star systems with their destructive power. Their bigotry would deny any the chance to employ the power of this region or redeem it and its people if it was still possible.

But the True Sith, they would take full advantage of the ancient darkness that pervaded this region, corrupting all those they could and twisting everyone else to whatever evil ends they desired. And the monstrosities they were seeking to ally with, they would do far worse than simply killing everyone. Just seeing Ship’s few revelations on this matter terrified Vestara, and she had to force her mind to stay on the task at hand to prevent the fear from overtaking her.

Not bothering to ask how Ship learned of these dark designs, Vestara flew the Jade’s Legacy at top speed, using her Force-enhanced reflexes to evade any pursuers and dodge their attacks. If the Last Alliance learnt from turncoats in both their enemies’ camps of their twisted plans and had a plan to save this sanctum of freedom and light, then she and Ben would do everything possible to save Makatak. It would be the perfect way to atone for her years of ruling Kesh and its people as a One Sith serfdom world.

But before she arrived at the Dodonna, Vestara called out to Ben through their bond, hoping he was already awake and briefed on the changed situation. And she was relieved when he tugged back, assuring her that he was up to speed on their new orders.

I wish you the best in this endeavor, Vestara. Ship told his old friend. I will not be going with you down to the surface, for I have another assignment to tackle with your compatriots. It is one that will give us more time to prepare for the darkest eventualities that plague Makatak.

Sending her well wishes to Ship, Vestara soon found herself safely behind Last Alliance lines and neared the Dodonna. Sensing Ben waiting for her, she prepared herself for a brief retrofit and rest before heading planetside. And she knew she’d need every second of sleep and ounce of strength she could find for what might lie ahead.

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

Within the Roshar System

Zonama Sekot Orbit

Aboard the Bestoon Legacy

Darth Vua hadn’t been this eager for battle in decades, since he failed the Yuuzhan Vong in destroying Zonama Sekot. Finally, after three decades of shame and hiding, he was ready to fight with his people again, even if it was under circumstances he never imagined possible before everyone reached this point.

Of course, Vua would’ve rather commanded a starfighter to deliver death to the enemy in space, not help the Jedi and their forces rescue any downed ships and crewmembers and allow Sekot to hog all the glory for itself. He, and everyone else amongst the One Sith’s ranks, were ordered to focus on recovery efforts as the Last Alliance fleets tried to apprehend Daala and her few remaining Olpakan Purists that refused to surrender. With most of the Hegemony’s functional warships having already capitulated, the first battle for this star system would likely conclude in a critical victory against these short-sighted fools.

But Daala and her core group of supporters and vessels, were sacrificing the rest of their followers to ensure their own escape. A cowardly act that didn’t surprise Vua, even if he was disgusted by the display. And before they began fleeing, they unleashed an orbital bombardment of several of Azure’s key cities and agricultural fields, likely a last-ditch effort to hurt the Olpakan Resolute and their backers before continuing their mad war.

This galaxy’s infidels – sentients - he reluctantly corrected himself, often valued their own personal survival above all concerns, and the warlord the Last Alliance sought to deal with was no exception. And by endangering all Daala’s subordinates that surrendered through some kind of master control function to render their warships vulnerable, she was only putting everyone in greater peril.

Rescuing the Last Alliance’s newest prisoners and transferring them to shelters on Zonama’s surface was a task Vua realized was beneath him, but the loyal warrior in him still obeyed his orders. And he knew the time would soon come when everyone would get their chance to fight. When that moment came, he would do his duty and protect his people from the Nihil Retreat and Olpakan Purists.

For now, though, helping Ochi aboard his small transport to recover the next batch of EV pilots, six that belonged to five different species, and prepared to get them to the nearest Last Alliance warship for debriefing and reassignment. But Vua couldn’t shake the dark presence in the Force that he knew was fast approaching this battlefield. The anger and fanaticism that neared the Roshar System, it was so familiar to him, but more brutal and tortured than anything he ever felt before.

The Nihil Retreat’s raiders were at the border of this system, and they were preparing to strike at both their enemies. And with this crisis diverting the Last Alliance’s full attention, they would find themselves grossly unprepared for the impending slaughter.

Ochi, picking up on Vua’s troubled thoughts and efforts to penetrate the shroud of darkness, prepared to offer insight and assistance before both One Sith agents felt Sekot’s consciousness telepathically speak to them. And the alarm and sorrow the planet’s mind had in its voice spooked both professional killers.

I recognize this enemy. These are my children, those the True Sith kidnapped from me and twisted to serve their cause. Sekot brokenly wept, shocking Vua to his very core, even as he berated himself for not figuring it out for himself.

“Can anything be done to save them?” Ochi anxiously asked, surprising Vua with the compassion the assassin just offered. “Is there a way to reverse whatever’s been done to them?”

I do not know. Sekot grimly answered. But if we do not stop them here, then this system will fall, and countless innocents will perish.

Vua knew what had to be done, but Sekot further surprised him by saying, Journey to the Far Distance Islands before you enter the battle. There, you will drop off your rescued souls and have the reinforcements you desire for this fight.

Hurry. There is not much time left before the True Sith strike at us with all their might. Sekot all but begged the duo. And Vua, in a rare display of cooperation with the world that led his people’s exile, did not protest as Ochi turned his ship towards Zonama and barreled towards it. He only prayed to the Gods that if it was still possible, those the Rhandite Sith captured and tortured could be saved. The Yuuzhan Vong had suffered for too long already, and they deserved better than to be this galaxy’s eternal pariahs.

Within Chiss Space

On Mugg Fallow

Surrounded by the cancerous monstrosity that lay a few millimeters away from devouring her, Abeloth felt the mind of Mnggal-Mnggal grow ever more excited at the offer earlier laid before him. She knew the time for the amorphous being to make his decision in this war was close, and she knew what would transpire by the day’s end.

Over the last two days, the Bringer of Chaos communed with her brother, detailing the proposal the Lich Lords gave him, and now patiently awaited his answer. Those undead walking corpses promised Mnggal-Mnggal hundreds, perhaps even thousands of worlds to feed upon, with countless beings to inhabit to satiate his hunger. And recognizing the severity of her present danger, Abeloth showed no fears anyone could sense. Not even the battle raging in orbit between her forces and the Last Alliance would deter her from completing this mission.

Knowing from time immemorial how Mnggal-Mnggal wanted to eventually devour the galaxy whole, it took all Abeloth’s control to keep her mental restraints in place until everything was in place. Even more imperative was keeping the truth of her sabotaging the True Sith’s summoning efforts on Lehon. Much as she wanted to break ties with those self-destructive madmen, she couldn’t do so until she freed herself from their bindings on her very soul.

Finally, after hours that seemed to drag on for eons, Mnggal-Mnggal’s bloated voice echoed through Abeloth’s mind, and he hatefully uttered, “I will fight for your putrid cause, and I will enjoy the many bounties you will offer me in return, as you promised. However, if you even consider reneging on her agreement, then I will have my revenge in an appropriate manner. And I will start with you and your precious Servants of Chaos.”

Utter relief and disgust coursed through Abeloth’s mind, both from successfully soliciting Mnggal-Mnggal’s help and being forced to sacrifice countless worlds and lives for its appetite. But before she could give any orders, she was interrupted by a shadowy projection appearing before both entities, and she recognized the Sorcerer of Rhand’s newest disciple all too well.

Meeka, with her new set of armor, full of dings and esoteric carvings all over, carrying her blasters and a crystal sword, she looked more threatening than ever to Abeloth. And her orange eyes, pulsing veins, and red crystals that the Rhandites embedded into her to facilitate her connection to the dark side, only increased her intimidating appearance.

Mnggal-Mnggal, amused at the interruption, coarsely asked Abeloth, “Who, dear sister, is this audacious neophyte that dares intrude on our conversation?”

“Someone who needs your help to ensure we can successfully extract you from this prison world you’ve called home for all these eons.” Meeka confidently answered in her patron’s place. “And our forces intercepted several transmissions between the Last Alliance and its Killik allies, messages both of you should take seriously.”

Using her strength in the dark side, letting her mind connect with Abeloth’s, Meeka shared all she knew with her, and what she saw shocked her greater than any previous revelation or setback for her designs. A leftover nanotechnology, a remnant of the Celestials’ servants to prevent the Utegetu Nebula’s worlds to fall to the Killiks or virulent races, it was being studied by the Last Alliance. This was being done to both help slow the insectoid race’s ability to create Joiners and reverse its effects in those that volunteered to serve as liaisons between the Jedi and their new allies.

But the final and ultimate danger of the technology, a purpose that had yet to be uncovered by the Last Alliance’s paltry scientists. Still, if they uncovered what it was truly designed for, not merely to serve as a bulwark against the expansion of calamity and evil, but a tool to prepare for this very eventuality, then it would undo all that the True Sith Empire was on the cusp of attaining. Abeloth would have to be sure General Yiv told his new allies of this critical intelligence coup, ignoring Mnggal-Mnggal’s incensed roars at his existence being threatened.

“There is more, I am afraid.” Meeka’s spiritual avatar warned both. “A more immediate danger that threatens you all and our plans. The Last Alliance, they are breaking through our fleet’s lines. It won’t be long before they are able to target our transports and keep Mnggal-Mnggal contained in this prison world of his.”

“Then send the transports down immediately.” Abeloth ordered her subordinate. Seeing the perplexed look on the Farghul’s face, she elaborated, “Mnggal-Mnggal and I can incapacitate the enemy’s pursuers and ensure they cannot stop us, provided he is willing to cooperate with us in full.”

“And you will have my full support.” Mnggal-Mnggal eagerly pledged, wholeheartedly promising its power to those that it considered marginally more intelligent and powerful than their enemies. But Abeloth was no fool. Once he built up his strength enough, he’d turn on them and continue his feasting until all life was devoured by him.

Playing the part of the Beloved Queen of the Stars, Abeloth once again ordered Meeka, “Have the Oblivion and a few transports come down to pick us up. For what my brother and I are about to attempt, we’ll need to move quickly and ensure no one is able to stop us.”

She only hoped that Krayt and Katarn survived her attack and could send a warning to the Last Alliance. Their strength and intelligence would be crucial to her plans, and keeping up the coalition’s morale was just as important as eliminating key adversaries.

Within the Outer Rim

In Imperial Space

On Bastion

Within the Capital City

In the Dirsa District

Morit Astarte wasn’t a man most people found sociable or approachable. Too many, even those within the Olpakan Hegemony, squirmed at his more aggressive and brutal approach to dealing with one’s enemies. But those doubters and weak-willed fools couldn’t deny his results, especially when it came to interrogating prisoners and extracting critical information out of them.

And recalling the broken form of Lanvorak, likely weeping in the storage closet of the primary residence of the Olpakan strike team, they had no room to complain of Morit’s methods. He sadistically grinned at remembering how the Pantoran One Sith agent gave his captors everything they needed to throw the Galactic Empire into chaos.

With the agent’s backdoor access into the Imperials’ mainframe and neatly compiled archives on the Empire’s leadership, likely successors, and emergency contingencies, the Olpakans had all they needed to complete their mission. All that was left was to requisition a few more assets to give them the best opportunity to strike. Give the team a few captured Chiss and Resolute ships, throw them and a few hundred prisoners against Bastion’s defenders, and they’d have their opening.

The cyborg assassin’s gleeful thoughts interrupted by his cranial cavity’s built in comlink, his good mood was soured by his sister stressfully alerting him, “We have new orders from Cylo. The mission’s been scrubbed. We’re to stand down and get out of the Empire as soon as possible before they apprehend us.”

He couldn’t be hearing this right. Both the Olpakan Hegemony’s most aggressive and boldest High Councilors wouldn’t pull back now, not when they were so close to destabilizing one of their enemies and opening the door for them joining the grand cause.

Aiolin, likely anticipating Morit’s vehement string of protests, sternly continued, “We have direct orders to return to the Hegemony and aid in capturing or eliminating the Supreme Knight. They uncovered undeniable evidence of his collaboration with the Resolute, and we’re going to help deal with his supporters.”

His sister sending him a copy of the message, Morit’s cybernetically enhanced mind read through it all in a matter of milliseconds. Stopping at the part with Cylo-V’s personal seal, he couldn’t help himself as he lashed out, leaving a significant dent in the durasteel wall of this residential home with his single punch.

Much as Morit wanted to help destroy the Olpakan Resolute and direct the Hegemony’s full focus on all its external enemies, he was looking forward to spreading chaos across the false empire and expanding his patrons’ influence. And wiping out a few Jedi and one of their key allies was a nice bonus for the former scion of Confederation-sympathetic nobles.

Hearing Aiolin’s firm voice break through Morit’s mental fuming, she reminded her brother, “I assume you’re done with your tantrum, so I’ll get back to business. We need to get out of here soon and make sure we leave no trace behind of our presence here. And that means disposing of our captive before he becomes a liability to us.”

“What about Fel and his people?” Morit irritably questioned. “If Karamazov’s been exposed, the Last Alliance will want to protect their best Resolute asset with everything they’ve got. And removing a Jedi-sympathetic leader and his key supporters will be crucial to diverting pressure of our superiors.”

“Maybe, but we have our orders.” Aiolin sternly responded. “And I don’t want to see our home destroyed by either an invasion or civil war, which means we need to stop the Resolute crisis at its heart.”

Softening her tone enough to show sympathy, Aiolin reminded Morit, “We’ll have plenty of other chances to strike back against the Last Alliance. But protecting the Hegemony must come first.”

“And just how do we expect to get off Bastion without some form of support from our fleets?” Morit petulantly reminded her.

“I’m sure we’ll figure something out.” Aiolin casually answered before she gravely reminded him, “Make sure you stay professional with everyone else. We may be siblings, but you’re our team leader now, and you need to set an example for the rest of us.”

Knowing Aiolin was right, no matter how much he wanted to berate her for her slavish devotion to orders, Morit gritted out, “Fine. But let me finish off O’Pali myself. I could use a bit of stress relief from this bad news.”

Softly sighing, Aiolin relented, “Just hurry, and don’t make a mess you can’t clean up like last time.”

Quickly closing the twins’ private comm channel, Morit muttered out a string of curses in several different languages. Why, when the Olpakan Hegemony was set to accomplish its greatest triumph in generations, did something have to go wrong and derail its expansion?!

Cursing the Force for letting this opportunity slip away, Morit wished he had more power to destroy all the Hegemony’s enemies. Karamazov’s Resolute, the Jedi, One Sith, all their pawns in their governmental friends, the Nihil Retreat, he wanted to eradicate everyone who opposed the anti-Force cause.

Hearing his comlink vibrate, not his cranial one, but conventional piece, Morit quickly pulled it out and angrily spoke, “What is it?”

“I heard about Cylo’s orders, and I’m as angry and disgusted with them as you.” Daala’s sympathetic voice came through, shocking Morit and silencing any insults he then planned to hurl. “I’m going to talk with him into letting you complete your mission, but you need to convince the rest of your team to stay until you get the official word.”

“It won’t be easy.” Morit warned Daala. “You don’t know how my sister gets when she’s given a chance to avoid a fight.”

“You’ll find a way.” Daala soothingly assured him. “I’ve seen you rally your men to do impossible feats, and I have every confidence in you to keep them in line this time. But until I can get you your reinforcements, you’ll have to keep ahead of your pursuers. The Last Alliance knows you’re here, thanks to Karamazov and his cohorts.”

Letting his eagerness and confidence show, Morit promised Daala, “Don’t worry about that. With our inside information, we’ll be one step ahead of them the whole time.”

“That’s just what I wanted to hear.” Daala satisfyingly stated, with a hint of something else, another emotion Morit didn’t think he ever heard in her voice before, just before she ended the communication.

Moving with a renewed spring in his step, Morit quickly packed up all traces of his staying here, minus the wall’s new dent, and donned his disguise before setting out. The sooner Aiolin and the rest of the team heard the news, the sooner they could start to plan their next move in their bold attack for the Olpakan Purists.

In the Unknown Regions

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Olpaka System

On the Orromol Moon Garrison Base

Vlad Karmazov wasn’t one to easily be riled up. His double life as the Olpakan Hegemony’s Supreme Knight while serving as the Resolute’s most prized agent helped him hone his patience and keep him in the loop of virtually all that was underway in both powers. Not even the looming threat of the True Sith Empire and its countless vassals was enough to make him lose his composure for more than a few brief moments.

But Natasi Daala, that sanctimonious and megalomaniacal pawn of darkness, had finally unleashed the full fury of the righteous man who was about to discredit and strip her of all authority and refuge in the Hegemony. Having heard how the Grand Council’s newest member was abandoning the Roshar System to the Nihil Retreat’s marauders to commit genocide against her political enemies, it infuriated him more than any betrayal he’d faced or atrocity he’d been forced to commit. Even if he now had all the justification he needed to eliminate and discredit her, he’d rather have her die in battle where it could serve something of a noble purpose.

Of course, that justification was useless if the Hegemony and all its worlds were destroyed in the imminent civil war, now that Daala and her collaborators had exposed Vlad’s ties to the Resolute. Hearing from Khaleen, having barely managed to escape Raze and Cylo-V just as they cracked his files’ encryption, how they sent it to the fanatics amongst their ranks to disseminate all throughout their forces and territories, it was the worst news the forces of light needed now.

Not even the dissemination of Daala deserting the Roshar battlefield and swearing a war of genocide was enough to deter most of her supporters from following her self-destructive path. Already, about three-quarters of the worlds and armies were answering the Purists call to arms to destroy the Resolute.

With paranoia and betrayals reaching an all-time high, neighbors and rivals turning on each other, whether to grab power, settle old scores, or out of loyalty to their twisted cause, it only further eroded the once-great society. And the fleets and armies turning on each other, turning five of their once-secure worlds into giant battlefields, it only accelerated the Olpakan Hegemony’s collapse and emboldened the True Sith Empire.

Vlad knew the Nihil Retreat would capitalize on this chaos to invade or further drag the Olpakan people down the dark path most of them were now on. This strategy, infiltrating and dividing their enemies to weaken them from within, had all the hallmarks of the True Sith’s Lich Lords, their Sorcerers of Rhand, and countless agents and cults throughout Skyriver. And Daala and her peers, egomaniacal and self-righteous bigots they were, were too caught up in their scheming to see the truth for what it was.

But thinking about destroying the Olpakan Purists and saving his people wouldn’t help Vlad stop this madness and unite them against their true enemies. No, if he wanted to salvage something from this emerging crisis, he needed to take control of this situation and quell this outpour of hatred. And that meant trying to get the public and armed forces on his side while he still had the opportunity, for it was only a matter of time before his enemies tried to storm his only remaining fortress.

Deep within the capital world’s moon garrison, the soldiers stationed here, all fifty thousand of them, loyal to the now-exposed Supreme Knight and the Resolute, had fortified this vital facility in the event of an enemy attack. It would take an army at least ten times the facility’s size to even make a dent through its outer defenses. But the onslaught was thought to come from the Nihil Retreat or its vassals, not from the Olpakans’ own armies. They would surely find a way through, and Vlad needed to preempt them before they could strike.

Much as Vlad wasn’t one for public speeches, the time to disclose everything to the Olpakan citizenry, his double life, exposing the Hegemony’s atrocities, the Resolute’s true goals, and the deadly danger they found themselves in while beset by enemies on all sides, had finally come. Unfortunately, to affect the best outcome in quelling the damage the purists could do, he needed to coordinate this with everyone he trusted or valued most dearly. And most of the individuals he had in mind for this emergency broadcast already had their hands full facing the True Sith and their unknowing agents.

Before he could consider his next move, Vlad received a communique from the only High Councilor who hadn’t disavowed him, the Columi who called himself “Legate.”

Frantically speaking, Legate urgently warned Vlad, “Daala and here people completely outplayed us, and it’s worse than you think. My spies, the few that Cylo’s feelers didn’t catch and remain loyal to us, warned me that she’s heading straight for your position, and they’re packing enough firepower to obliterate your base.”

Not wasting time with useless questions like asking how long before the Purists attacked, Vlad quickly urged Legate, “Get the word out to all our allies, then get yourself to Nirauan. Pull everyone you can spare to come to our defense and do whatever you have to so you can convince the Last Alliance to help us.”

“I’ll do everything I can, but it’s still going to take time.” Legate warned Vlad.

“Just do your best like you always do, old friend.” Vlad then paused before he solemnly asked Legate, “Actually, there’s one more thing you can do for me, and this takes top priority. I’m going to make a recording, and I need you to disseminate it throughout the Hegemony as quickly as possible.”

Legate recognized the fear and resolve in Vlad’s voice and knew what he was planning. “Do you really believe your testimony can stop the civil war that’s about to erupt?”

“It couldn’t hurt to try. I’ll be in touch with the message in no more than an hour.” Vlad simply answered. Closing the commlink, he refocused his attention to the upcoming battle. He was certain how Daala and her followers would try and break his forces’ resolve before destroying them all. Fortunately, he had several ideas on how to counter them and slow their attack, one of them utilizing the Olpakan Hegemony’s most prized warship against the invaders.

It was time for the Supremacy’s maiden voyage, after rechristening it with a more appropriate name for the Olpakan people’s penitence. Hmm… Penitence. That was an excellent name for the Hegemony’s ultimate war machine, Vlad immediately realized.

But there would be time to change the Supremacy’s name later. Vlad still had a recording to make and shore up Orromol’s defenses to prepare everyone under his protection for the impending siege. If the Maker willed it, the Resolute would be able to survive and guide their people through rebirth and long-awaited redemption. And he needed to start by donning his power armor and being the warrior leader everyone needed him to be.

Chapter Text

Melona 26^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

In Chiss Space

Mugg Fallow Orbit

Aboard the Raven’s Claw

Kyle didn’t need a connection to the Force to feel the malignant evil emanating from the planet below. Just being near the graveyard world, an ancient prison for the one offspring that Tilotny realized that no one could ever control, it ate away at his resolve and concentration.

Even as Kyle drew upon his training as a soldier and Jedi to continue flying his custom fighter, triggering a chain reaction that consumed an old Gallofree transport, he knew it wouldn’t be enough to stop Abeloth and the True Sith’s plans. He, along with Darth Krayt and the rest of his fellow One Sith, sensed the Bringer of Chaos and her brother on Mugg Fallow’s desolate surface. The sheer power both were generating rivaled that of the former’s brief but bloody rule over Coruscant, on the brink of surpassing her dark will and energy from her and the Lost Tribe of the Sith’s heinous dominion.

If the two dark entities were going to make a break for freedom, the Jedi Grand Master intuitively knew the Last Alliance would be all but powerless to stop their escape. Even if their fleets were holding their own against the Nihil Retreat’s and destroying all but six transports that made it to Mugg Fallow, Kyle viewed this as a terrible defeat for the coalition.

With Mnggal-Mnggal’s endless hunger and dark mind working with the True Sith Empire, the danger for the galaxy was only skyrocketing with every passing hour. If even a few of its agents summoned the parasitical monstrosity onto a handful of worlds, the resultant outbreaks and panic would jeopardize every planet’s safety and unity. And without any effective way to protect the galaxy from his reach, everyone was at the evil entity’s mercy, if only he had any to begin with.

Suddenly, Kyle’s ship began flying back to the Amelia, the nearest Killik-owned Hapan Battle Dragon of its own volition, and he had no control over the Raven’s Claw. This should be impossible. Between his and his wife’s modifications to the long-served vessel, the old military infiltration craft should be immune to any form of enemy hacking.

Running a quick diagnostic on his ship, Kyle recognized the emergency code used to recall the Raven’s Claw, a code only a few Jedi and friends knew. And one of those individuals was ThuruhtThul, the current lead Joiner-Counselor and liaison for the Killiks.

Putting the pieces together in the span of just ten seconds, the Grand Master contacted the Amelia, quickly seeing ThuruhtThul and coolly demanding, “There had better be a good reason why you’ve sent my ship towards yours.”

“You are not the only one we have recalled, Grand Master.” ThuruhtThul calmly answered as the Raven’s Claw arrived in the Amelia’s hangar bay. “The Kind is working to escort both yours’ and Darth Krayt’s followers to a safe distance before the Cancer God and Abeloth unleash their attack on us all. But there is more, something just as concerning for all our peoples.”

Kyle, hearing the deeply troubled tells in ThuruhtThul’s eyes and face, asked, “What do you know?” Hearing the clicking of a multi-layered encryption enter the communication, he knew whatever he was about to hear was strictly confidential.

“Our drones scoured over the True Sith’s ships for survivors and supplies, but we uncovered something else that is equally vital to our cause. Information on the Nihil Retreat and many of the True Sith’s plans.” ThuruhtThul answered. “I will tell you more once you and Krayt arrive on the bridge.”

Before he could say or do anything, Kyle felt a terrible shockwave burst from Mugg Fallow, an eruption of energy sicker and darker than any he ever felt before. Not even the twisted energies of Korriban or Dromund Kaas compared to this evil, and it was nearly enough to make him vomit and faint. But a few coughs worth of bile and blood slipped out of his mouth, and he could barely move as the Battle Dragon lurched and was blown aside from the attack’s force.

Even if he was weakened and disoriented from the sudden assault, Kyle knew what it meant. Abeloth, her Servants of Chaos, and Mnggal-Mnggal were making their attack to incapacitate the Last Alliance and cover their escape. Struggling to get to his feet, he found himself subjected to another form of torture by the Soulworm’s final offspring.

His mind being attacked by Abeloth, Kyle heard her mocking voice in his cranial cavity and felt like his body was twisted and broken into a thousand pieces. And the Bringer of Chaos mocked him as she made him repeatedly experience the pain, each time more excruciating than the last. She swore that she would make him regret ever opposing her and her dreams, just as Luke Skywalker would soon suffer forever. And she said that the only ones that could even stand a chance of stopping her and her masters now, even if he recognized something within her recoil at the admission, were Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt.

The pain was almost enough to make his skull shatter, and Kyle tried to fight it but was barely able to move a muscle. And Abeloth, her assault was not done yet. She filled his mind with images and memories enough to push him to the edge of insanity and despair. Seeing the evils of hundreds, perhaps over a thousand worlds in the Nihil Retreat, each holding horrors most could never defeat, and most of their inhabitants already surrendered themselves to the Way of the Dark, it nearly overwhelmed him. It filled him with heartbreak and sorrow for those suffering a fate worse than death.

His agony almost too much to bear, Kyle sensed Abeloth’s presence pushed back by Krayt and ThuruhtThul and gently brought back to the present, he found himself in the Amelia’s medbay, tended to by three healers. One Killik, one Selkath, and a Human, all tending to the Grand Master, with the leader Joiner-Counselor watching in a nearby chair.

ThuruhtThul, kindly gazing at Kyle, emphatically spoke, “You are a very resilient and fortunate soul, Grand Master Katarn. Had Abeloth and her brother pushed any further, then you would surely have died before we breached your ship.”

Trying to work his mouth and speak, Kyle found himself too parched and exhausted to verbally communicate. Instead, ThuruhtThul solemnly answered the unspoken question, “Abeloth and her forces escaped with five transports full of her brother’s essence. Our fleets were pushed away by the Force and rendered inoperable for just over four hours.”

“And… Krayt…?” Kyle hoarsely croaked out, barely able to say that much at this point.

“He is alive, and in significantly better condition than you, we regret to tell you.” Placing a firm hand on Kyle’s shoulder, ThuruhtThul compassionately but sternly urged him, “Try to get some rest. Our fleets will be ready to return to Niaruan by the end of the day.”

Attempting to speak, Kyle stopped himself, mouthing the question instead, and ThuruhtThul answered, “The message we sent you is important. And the threats the Bringer of Chaos sent you, Krayt also heard them, so we are reviewing and forwarding them all to our scholars, seers, and intelligence agencies. But you need to rest for now. Everyone will need you to regain your strength quickly to lead the Jedi through these coming tribulations.”

Dissatisfaction and anger bubbling up, Kyle quickly worked to let the self-loathing and ire drift away from his thoughts, knowing it would do him no good with the galaxy looking to him to help lead them. Instead nodding, he let the doctors administer a sedative to aid his rest and pray the galaxy wouldn’t fall to pieces without him helping lead for a few days.

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Roshar System

On the Planet Azure

In the City Kholar

Azure was burning at the hands of the Nihil Retreat’s marauders and hunters. Its farms, towns, and agricultural fields were being incinerated by their Sorcerers and Yuuzhan Vong monstrous fire breathers, scorching everyone in their path. The Olpakan Hegemony’s defenders, sparse in number compared to their city brethren, were too few and outgunned to mount more than a brief and futile last stand and cover the escape of a fortunate few thousand with whatever ships they found or commandeered.

The planet’s major cities were faring little better, with all but three of them already having fallen to the Rhandite Sith’s forces. Over ten thousand Yuuzhan Vong, all corrupted by the True Sith Empire’s esoteric and wicked use of the Force, had stormed the already-devastated city of Kholar to hunt down and destroy both Olpakan factions and their newfound Last Alliance protectors. Supplemented by hundreds of eldritch monsters from the Nihil Retreat, these unnatural predators slaughtered everyone in their path, easing their handlers’ conquest.

Iskat, even as she used both her lightsabers to decapitate a Yuuzhan Vong warrior’s amphistaff before lopping his head off his shoulders, recognized the terrible odds the forces of light faced. The extragalactic marauders, already nearly unstoppable before their augmentations by the True Sith, had been endowed with a virulent connection to the dark side of the Force, just as their loyal Rakata were. And they were utilizing their new powers to lethal effect, turning nature against Azure’s defenders to devastating effect.

The eight thousand Olpakan Hegemony soldiers that didn’t abandon the Roshar System alongside Daala’s fleet, found themselves unprepared for this massacre. It was only through Kal Skirata’s decisive rallying and coordination of both factions that Kholar hadn’t fallen by now. Making the True Sith’s forces pay for every inch of ground, the Jedi and Olpakan Resolute’s Force Users launching dozens of harrying strikes against their enemies, it delayed the city’s inevitable destruction enough to launch a full-scale evacuation of this city.

By holding the True Sith’s attention on the current fight, Kholar’s civilians and the Resolute’s Cephalons could evacuate at a less frantic pace. With the Last Alliance and Olpakans keeping the enemy’s focus on eradicating their naval and ground forces, their numbers were insufficient to go after every ship that fled the battle zone. And with Jax Pavan, Djinn Altis, and Akku Seii II’s company guiding the farseeing and amorphous beings to a safer haven, the unfortunate task of halting the Nihil Retreat’s advance fell to everyone that remained behind.

But no matter how many True Sith forces were killed, and the number wasn’t as high as most would hope, they wouldn’t relent in advancing. Empowered by the dark side and whatever unholy experiments the Nihli Retreat’s sorcerers carried out on their victims, they didn’t need rest or food, unlike their enemy counterparts. And thanks to Daala’s previous attack leaving lasting damage on Azure’s defenses before her cowardly retreat, they were many vulnerable spots in its fortifications that could be exploited.

As the sun set over the smoking sky, Iskat knew this battle would be over in the next few hours. She sensed friendly reinforcements arriving in the Roshar System, arriving with such vibrancy and determination that they momentarily distracted many of Yuuzhan Vong, and those that could took this opportunity to fall back to more defensible ground.

Before the True Sith could pursue their quarry any further, the familiar hum of gunship engines could be heard fast approaching, and Iskat felt a rejuvenating presence wash over her, filling her with energy and lifting the pall of darkness off her soul. It felt like the art of Battle Meditation that Oppo Rancisis could employ, but the one who employed it was younger, less experienced, but far stronger with the technique than he ever was.

But whoever it was that employed the ability, they were also sapping the will of the True Sith’s Yuuzhan Vong, like the darkness that controlled them swiftly fed its hosts, leaving most to fall comatose. And the rest of their forces, bereft of their strongest marauders, found themselves vulnerable to a vengeful counterattack from multiple vectors.

Between the Last Alliance, Sekotan, and Olpakan Resolute gunships’ strafing runs, their commandos and the Olpakan Hegemony’s ground forces swift and precise retaliatory strikes, and the True Sith’s resolve evaporating in moments, they were slaughtered down to the last fighter and monster in Kholar. This temporary victory, if a costly one, allowed the rest of the civilians and soldiers to begin evacuating their fallen stronghold and the few cities that had yet to capitulate.

Still, if Iskat’s senses and Kal’s contacts across Azure were accurate, then the planet had all but fallen to the Nihil Retreat. Exhausted nearly to the point of collapse, the Pkorian Jedi, through the meld composed of the many Jedi and Resolute agents that coordinated their defense, transmitted her urgency and warnings to everyone. She knew that even if this batch of True Sith forces had been slaughtered, they had countless more to send against the Olpakans. And with civil war erupting across the Hegemony, neither the Purists nor the Resolute had the numbers or strength they needed to defend their territories.

Her mind racing a parsec a second with countless contemplations and plans, Iskat felt the same presence wash over her, soothing her troubled soul and calming her turbulent thoughts. Even as she quickly moved to the Resolute’s secondary safe house that held an underground hangar, she felt Tau Palpatine’s mind reach out to hers before he made several requests and gave instructions to her on Vlad Karamazov’s behalf.

She also heard him ask her to give this message to all the Last Alliance agents under her care, to ensure they all rendezvoused with her on Zonama Sekot. The living world wanted to be away from this doomed world before the Rhandite Sith sent reinforcements to secure it, and there were still refugees and prisoners to tend to.

The few hundred Yuuzhan Vong that were captured in their comatose state, they would be taken to Sekot to understand what terrible acts had been done to them, and to see if the transformation could be undone. And the surrendering Olpakan Hegemony forces that agreed to join the Resolute in testifying against Daala’s betrayal, they would have to be put to good and judicious use to help dismantle the Purists’ designs.

If Iskat had her way, she’d like nothing more than plop down hard on a soft bed and sleep for the next few days to rest her weary body. But she understood there were still several battlefronts to help, and she would have to get what rest she could before she started her next mission on the Resolute’s behalf. Whichever warzone it might be, she needed to be at her best to help those in need, and she would do her duty.

Her helmet’s comlink automatically typing a message before her eyes, Iskat was surprised as Kal told her that all Resolute and Last Alliance were ordered to rendezvous above Zonama Sekot before they left the Roshar System. According to the colonel, in addition to the Olpakans’ civil war and the True Sith advancing across the Rakatan Archipelago, there was a new front about to open in the Chiss Ascendancy’s frontier. But this one was the most dangerous battlefield of them all, full of corruption and collaboration with the True Sith Empire, which was where she, Tau, Djinn, and Depa Billapa would help relieve and liberate tens of millions of disenfranchised and broken souls.

Iskat immediately realized she wouldn’t be getting much rest for the next several months, if not years. But she would make the most of it, figuring it as the Father of Light’s sense of humor for her sitting out most of the Clone War and her later work for Darth Sidious’s Galactic Empire and his Inquisitorious.

Within the Olpaka System

In Orbit Above the Orromol Moon

Aboard the Strident-class Fast Frigate Absolute Justice

Darman knew the assault on the Olpakan Resolute’s strongest and most secure fortress would be beyond costly. Were it done purely through conventional means, the Purists’ casualties would be depleted beyond any hope of recovery. The traitorous Supreme Knight had spent the last twenty years fortifying the moon of Orromol to surpass any other world’s defenses, greater even than Bastion’s ever-growing number of fortifications and soldiers to protect the Imperial capital world.

But thanks to Cylo-V and his top hackers and scientists helping find the few cracks needed to undermine Orromol’s defenses, the imminent attack was suddenly feasible. And to Darman Skirata’s joy and honor, he was chosen to lead the assault to decapitate the Olpakan Resolute’s leadership and break the traitors’ resolve. After all the sacrifices he’d committed, leading hundreds of operations in securing the Hegemony’s position, preparing for its final ascension, and hunting down his own family and their Jedi friends for the last nine years, the newest colonel of Olpakan Special Forces was getting what he deserved.

In his newly minted flagship, a strike cruiser that also served as a blockade runner and mobile garrison, the Absolute Justiceprepared to fight through the Resolute’s emplacements to drop off the first wave of commandos to breach their defenses. But as the Olpakan frigate and its sister ships readied for the big push, Darman couldn’t help but reminisce over all the choices that led him to this point in life and yearn for all those that he once cherished.

Darnan remembered all those that died in his many years as a soldier. He fondly his first GAR commando squad on Geonosis at the Clone War’s onset, to the millions of brothers slaughtered by the Confederacy’s droids and flesh-and-blood soldiers, all while ostracized and mistreated by the Old Republic’s Senate and Jedi lapdogs. And he mourned the three years of hellish war, all for a Sith Lord to gain power over the uncaring masses and continue a religious feud while catching everyone else in the middle. But just as ironic was how Sidious’s bloodline continued to this day, but with his last two descendants serving the Jedi Order and helping to form the Last Alliance between them and the One Sith’s forces.

Just thinking about the Jedi, those hypocritical, dogmatic, baby-stealing monsters, how they duped most people to worship them and fund their continued enslavement of the galaxy, his blood raged, and he yearned for their extinction. One would like to believe that after their use of a slave army, serving a corrupt democracy like the Old Republic, and recruiting babies and children to bolster their numbers, everyone would sever ties with them.

But what truly empowered Darman’s hate, was how the Jedi, a Padawan who escaped his rightful death from Order Sixty-Six, murdered his wife. No matter how much he wanted to forget, he perfectly remembered that terrible morning, how Etain died when a skirmish broke out between the GAR and the traitors, and he saw her save a Clone Trooper at the cost of her own life. Seeing her die a handful of meters before her, it killed all that was good in him and left him with an unquenchable vengeance.

And no one, not his father, nor his clansmen and son, could or would stop him from cleansing the galaxy of everyone that wielded the Force. Jedi, Sith, everyone who could manipulate that accursed energy field, they would die just as Etain did. He spent the first two years of the Empire’s founding committed to just that promise, until he and his detachment pursued the Altis Jedi and their collaborators into the Unknown Regions, where that damned wormhole appeared and threw everyone nearly seven decades forward in time.

Being saved from death by the Olpakan Hegemony and offered a chance to help them with their shared crusade, Darman only regretted that he couldn’t convince his loved ones to follow his path. Instead, they threw their lot in with the Jedi and their friends in the Resolute and tried to prevent the galaxy’s salvation. And for nine heartbreaking years, he helped ready his patrons and the eight thousand Clone Stormtroopers that still followed him in this war. Only now, everything he’d worked for was at risk from traitors and sympathizers that plagued his final home.

Finishing his recollection as he entered the lead gunship that would soon debark for the moon’s surface, Darman completed a final diagnostic on all his armor’s systems and armaments. Always leading from the front to inspire his troops and instill fear in his enemies, the veteran Clone Commando was eager to begin deployment. And he hoped that if he was lucky enough, he would be the one to capture and execute Vlad Karamazov and his retinue of traitors.

An encrypted communication interrupting his eager reflections, Darman accepted the call, hearing the monotone voice of Raze echo through his helmet. He immediately warned the colonel, “Be advised, my analysts detected several burst transmissions from Orromol just before we completed the jamming field for the moon. We’ll likely be receiving an unwelcome intrusion by Karamazov’s patrons soon enough.”

“Let them come.” Darman resolutely stated. “We’ll crush them just as we will the Resolute.”

“Admirable determination and enthusiasm, but don’t get too confident.” Raze cautioned Darman. “Move as fast and efficiently as you can, and good hunting to you all.”

Feeling the gunship lift off and his custom Olpakan power armor’s magnetic boots activate, Darman knew the ground attack was now set to begin. Pulling up a tactical feed of the Absolute Justice’s sensors, he observed the continuing bombardment of the moon’s weakened defenses, and the diminishing number of Purist casualties in orbit as more emplacements were destroyed.

The path to the main citadel, as treacherous and well-protected as it still was, was now open to attack by the Darman and his battalion of commandos. And before the week was concluded, he swore that the fortress would fall, and the Olpakan Hegemony would be reunified under the Purists before it became the Olpakan Galactic Empire. His drive and hopes were too great to let him consider failure.

But if anyone interfered with his great mission, if the Jedi or his former family tried to stop him, then he would kill them all with the cold efficiency and vengeance as Imperial commander and deep-cover Olpakan agent Roly Melusar once taught him. And if his son didn’t choose to join him in this righteous cause, then he would do to him what he did to Niner, no matter what grief and misery his fate would cause him.

In Wild Space

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

At the Makatak System’s Outskirts

Aboard the Dodonna

Normally, Kara hated relying on unverified intelligence. Too many things could go wrong from anonymous or confidential sources. And with the True Sith and their colossal creatures pressing down against the Last Alliance, nothing could be left for chance or risked on foolhardy gambles, no matter how reliable the supposed spy’s information might be. But in this rare instance, she was willing to forego her suspicions.

Thanks to Ship and whoever provided the vessel with the information on the True Sith’s vulnerable checkpoint, the Dodonna and its fifteen-ship fleet ambushed a vital choke point. Striking with the speed and stealth needed to decimate their enemy’s naval forces, with Kyp Durron’s StealthX wing commencing the attack, the damage they inflicted would help give Makatak’s defenders plenty of breathing room. And with hardly any casualties from both the Last Alliance’s fighters and capital ships, this small victory was a certain boost to their weary morale.

With Kyp’s detachment the enemy with at least a dozen barrages of Force-guided Shadow Bombs, destroying or crippling ten True Sith warships and their cruiser and fighter escorts, Kara worked alongside the Silentium and Aquilians in destroying or driving back as many predators they could reach. Thanks to the peaceful droid culture’s deep knowledge on the Abominor and Zakuul’s unique slugthrower weaponry, many mechanical and organic giants were ripped apart by their enemies. And those few that wisely withdrew were too wounded to continue this fight.

The casualties slowly rising for the Rhandite’s thralls, Kara wished this slaughter could continue a while longer. Every monstrosity and True Sith dupe the Last Alliance slew today weakened their empire for its inevitable collapse and liberation, but she knew better than to overextend herself and her forces for too long. And with the Tulpaa System’s forces continually throwing themselves against their wiser brethren, her force needed to return to the main battle before the next wave made themselves known.

Prepared to recall her fighters and strike cruisers back into formation, Kara’s cybernetics received a priority message from Makatak’s surface. Specifically, the contact was Vestara Khai. Narrowing her eyes a little at the repentant Sith messaging her now of all times, she quickly but diligently read through the digital warnings, and she soon understood the need for her to send these warnings.

If these reports from the Olpakan Resolute, Killiks, and the Last Alliance Triumvirate were genuine, then the Rakatan Archipelago’s one free world was in more danger from all the incoming threats than most realized. And failing that, everyone needed to ensure Makatak’s populace survived their world’s prophesied doom. Between Mnggal-Mnggal possibly being unleashed on any enemy world, the Olpakan Purists preparing to incinerate the entire region, and the never-ending waves of True Sith servants and spies, all possibilities would have to be considered.

Reflexively typing a message acknowledging her receiving and reading Vestara’s message, Kara focused her augmented brain to order an immediate recall of all her forces to their carriers or begin their withdrawal. If her forces were getting a reprieve from the front lines to help defend Makatak and ready its people for a potential evacuation, then she intended for all those under her command to make the best of this opportunity.

In the Unknown Regions

Within Chiss Frontier Space

On Sunrise

Within the Northern Hemisphere

In the Magys Garrison

Finally, Tor Valum could once again move about in the open. After many decades of secretly operating in Chiss Space and the rest of the Chaos, the Grysk Sorcerer was able to take a direct hand in advancing the Nihil Retreat’s grand vision. And the best piece of vindication for his efforts were the Chiss soldiers and civil servants working under him and his agents while overseeing the enslavement of Sunrise’s populace.

Having the Chiss and their slaves wait on him hand and foot, providing him with everything he asked for while filling him in on their mining facilities, it was a glorious bit of irony Tor relished every second of. And in the luxurious command center he resided in, enjoying a few of the Chaos’s most prized delicacy foods and sampling several wines, he took stock of the True Sith’s position within this vital world.

With the Lich Lords’ servants spending decades inserting agents and priests on the mineral-rich fortress world, turning most of the Chiss stationed here to converts of the Way of the Dark, their fleets and armies were equipped with weapons most modern fleets could hardly stand against. And with the tens of millions of gullible wretches drawn to Sunrise in the hopes of starting over, they had a virtually limitless supply of slaves to continually mine the planet’s resources. Fortunately, thanks to their collaborators’ clever and diligent procedures, the world suffered few scars or incidents to prematurely draw the enemy’s attention and endanger their operations.

But now, with the Nihil Retreat’s strength reaching heights not seen in tens of millennia, the time for secrecy was about to end. And what great timing too, since the Chiss Ascendancy and the Last Alliance had sent agents to investigate the corruption infesting Sunrise. Once Jaina Solo Fel and her friends, along with the few Chiss that hadn’t pledged themselves to the Way of the Dark, managed to warn Csilla and Nirauan, all Chaos would break loose and the True Sith would have to begin the next phase of their plans.

It was why, before the enemy preempted them and tried to take Sunrise away from its rightful occupiers, Tor was readying his disciples and thralls for the inevitable siege. With all the True Sith’s servants and new allies ready to decimate anyone who dared attack their latest conquest, never mind the agents that would sabotage the enemy from within, they would be well-prepared for any attack.

Interrupting Tor’s smug preparations, his mind was swiftly ripped from his body and pulled across the Chaos. Feeling the bottomless darkness and entropy surround him, he recognized the dead world of Rhand as where he was summoned to. Quickly dragged underground, he came across the many True Sith sorcerers, those whose devotion to the Dark all but destroyed their corporeal forms and were now held together with nothing but that omnipotent power.

As for the Lich Lords, those who’s strength nearly equaled that of the Immortal Gods of the Sith and held supreme dominion over the True Sith Empire, they sat on their unholy thrones, ready to administer praise or judgement on Tor for any reason. And judging by their stern gazes, the Grysk was afraid he would be punished yet again for his well-founded reservations or supposed failure.

But Tor’s worries were banished when a Lich Lord croaked out in praise, “You have done well, Servant of the Dark. Your preparations in protecting our converts and slaves on the world of your people’s greatest folly have been found to be without reproach.”

Another Ankath, a former Sith warlord before she found herself constrained to her throne, then cautioned Tor, “But there is still the matter of the enemy’s few defiant souls on their corrupt stronghold. Our converts among the false Sith have already learnt that the Last Alliance and Chiss know of our presence there. It will not be long before they send a force to try and punish our own and free our slaves.”

Tor, daring to speak, assured his dark monarchs, “I am aware of all this, my masters. And I have spent my time wisely in preparing for this eventuality. Our defenses are ready to meet the Last Alliance’s forces. And the Purge will begin in less than twenty-four hours.”

“Good.” A Taung Lich Lord commended Tor in a raspy voice, before he warned, “But you must be wary. The Cancer God is eager for us to fulfill our promise to him, and he will not be patient for long. We will need to satiate his hunger soon, before he turns against us.

“Activate our sleeper agents across Skyriver, Tor Valum.” The Taung ordered the old Grysk, surprising him with the bold command. “All our cults, call on them to begin the summoning rituals for Mnggal-Mnggal, and to sow as much chaos and discord as possible between our enemies.”

The Grysk Sorcerer was prepared to obey these commands, but he was halted when the Lich Lord continued, “There is one more thing, the most important warning we need to give you. Our Prophets, they have glimpsed the future, and there are many defiant souls that stand in the way of the Gods. Not only the heirs to Eipha and Nihpal, but those that follow in their teachings and are close to them.

“To ensure our triumph, these enemies must be broken and killed before they endanger our work.” The Sith woman proclaimed. But she continued, “You will work with the rest of our Sorcerers and followers to eradicate them all, after you protect this world from invasion.”

“Yes, Masters.” Tor softly vowed, before his mind was nearly overwhelmed by the many visions the Lich Lords and their Prophets foresaw. Seeing the Nihil Retreat’s victory all but guaranteed, but with a final few obstacles opposing their triumph, it both emboldened and unnerved him.

He saw how Tau Palpatine and Darth Krayt inspired those around them to continue their struggle, turning certain defeat into a defiant fight for life. The galaxy’s paltry leaders, encouraged by their example, convinced their citizenry to stand together against annihilation, and this courageous defiance threatened the True Sith’s final victory. And seeing Allana Djo Solo, the so-called “Jedi Queen” many believed destined to usher in a galaxy at peace, it reviled and enraged him more than his people’s opposition.

But there was something else, a final vision that terrified Tor greater than the last series of revelations. He saw Abeloth, freed from the shackles that the True Sith bound her under, and determined to do whatever possible to oppose her betters’ designs. And behind her unholy and grotesque grin, there was a certainty and harmony he never saw in her before. It was the certainty of a woman who made peace with her role in the greater scheme of things and was prepared to face up to all her dark acts, just before she attacked him.

Heaving from the last bit of clairvoyance, Tor was prepared to ask the Lich Lords if what he saw was guaranteed to occur, only to find himself back on Sunrise. The vividness of this last glimpse horrifying him, he needed to down a large cup of brandy, maybe even ten, to calm his terrified nerves as the sun was setting on the despoiled world.

Once he was sure he wasn’t trembling any longer, Tor exited his cabin to continue his preparations and enact his masters’ decrees. Perhaps, if the galaxy was too embroiled in fighting itself, Abeloth might not be able to break free from the True Sith’s control. But deep down, he feared it was already too late to stop that outcome and was prepared to destroy her when given the next chance, no matter the risk for himself.

Chapter Text

Melona 26^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

Within the Carthea System

Aboard the Orbital Asteroid Superstructure Kolovish

Listening to Cylo-V’s agents and fellow Olpakan Purists brief all their confederates on their readiness for war, Daala fervently wished she could’ve done this on her flagship or ignored it altogether. She knew the last stages of planning for stabilizing the Hegemony while destroying the Resolute were essential, but she despised dithering about and being stationary.

And with Raze, Rede, and Darman leading the initial assault on Karamazov’s stronghold of Orromol, Daala desperately yearned to finish these deliberations and return to the thick of fighting. With Shimkif and Jet working to control the propaganda efforts to keep the Olpakan citizens’ from supporting the traitors, she knew she’d be able to do better on the front lines against their enemies. No matter what upgrades and repairs the Kolovish’s technicians and scientists had in mind for the Sir Trilag, they couldn’t be anything better than what the weapons she already had.

Finally, after two hours of offering input and learning of the full situation for the Purists’ precarious state, everyone concluded the meeting, and Daala was prepared to excuse herself. Ready to get back into the fight and help shatter the Resolute, she was halted when Cylo-V interrupted, “Natasi, Jet. A moment, please.”

Inwardly sighing, Daala maintained her stoic composure and waited until everyone except Jet and Cylo-V were the only other ones in the latter’s office. Before any tempers could flare, Jet started to talk, explaining, “I apologize for keeping you trapped in here when civil war is raging, but there were a few vital matters Cylo and I needed to personally inform you of. It involves the first trial batches of your superweapons we’ve been struggling to replicate, along with the final solution on the Yuuzhan Vong.”

Her attention raptly held, Daala remembered her plans to recreate the bioweapon capable of wiping out the extragalactic invaders down to their last molecule, along with the star-destroying resonance torpedoes she developed in the Maw Installation. But progress had stalled due to the True Sith and Last Alliance raiding her shipments, and she had no idea when her hidden aces would be ready.

Daring to ask the dangerous question, Daala questioned, “They’re ready, then?”

“The first prototypes of both, yes.” Cylo-V confirmed. “But there are many more prototypes I wanted to give you, weapons that will hopefully not make your WMDs necessary to save our homes.”

“What kind of weapons?” Daala wondered out loud, just as Cylo-V handed her a small stack of data cards, at least ten to her discerning eye. Recognizing the sensitive nature of this gesture, she silently nodded as she bagged the package and prepared to thank him and Jet.

But Jet wasn’t done, and advised Daala, “There is more we need to talk about. Information has come to our attention regarding several worlds and regions of interest to both the Last Alliance and Nihil Retreat. It is one of these targets that Cylo will be striking while you work to break the Resolute. If you can kill Karamazov before he is done, we will need your help either at Sunrise or the Rakatan Archipelago.”

Many pieces of information coming together in Daala’s mind, she wisely kept quiet on her suspicions and acknowledged, “Then I’ll be sure to work quickly and make sure I can help on either front.” Pausing, pretending to consider her next words, she proposed, “But if you need a few extra ships and hands to help, I believe Edmond and Reep can help either mission as needed. I am confident I can help Raze and our colonels with just my personal force.”

Genuinely smiling, Cylo-V cordially acknowledged, “I’d be more than happy to take you up on your offer. My work in securing minerals and recruits from Sunrise will be a large operation. As for the weapons we’ve given you, they should be securely installed aboard your ships by now.”

Bitterly chuckling, Daala reprimanded herself, “I should’ve known you both had a reason for keeping me here through this tedious politicking.”

“A rare concession of defeat from the legendary High Councilor Natasi Daala.” Jet chortled before she seriously advised her two Human peers, “You’d both better be careful, very careful. If we were to lose you or Cylo now, then our cause will be set back decades, if not shattered altogether.”

Stunned by the Nosaurian’s warnings, Daala and Cylo-V listened as Jet continued her impassioned plea, “You’ve convinced countless people to take up this fight, and it’s thanks to the both of you that we’ve come so close to freeing our territory from the Jedi and Sith’s dupes. Your natural leadership skills and industrial knowledge have overhauled our military and prepared us for the coming wars. And we’ll inspire more people to fight against the Force-based status quo as we continue our struggle.

“But if both of you, maybe even one of you, were to die now, then we are effectively doomed. We need you both, and that means being cautious with picking your battles.”

“Playing it safe has never been my greatest strength.” Daala sighed. Seeing Jet’s imploring gaze, she relented, “But I’ll try and be more judicious with choosing my fights. As will Cylo.” Looking at him, she saw his nod of agreement, even if she knew that avoiding the risks of battle would be all but impossible in her role and all her enemies closing in around her. Still, for the sake of her soldiers and those that depended on her, she would try to follow Jet’s sound advice.

Within Chiss Space

Near the Nihil Retreat/Olpakan Hegemony/Chiss Ascendancy Border

On Sunrise

In the Che’ri Mountains

Aboard the Quarren Eye

Voort knew the job Wraith Squadron signed up for would be more daunting than any his team faced in its long career. But he and all his teammates loved a challenge, and they were tackling the task before them with a greater diligence and zeal than any mission they’d undertaken before. And taking a fifteen-minute break in the cockpit to get some light fluids and food in his tired body, he knew this was an operation that dwarfed all others in daring, danger, and dire odds.

Cooperating with the few Ascendancy-loyal Chiss soldiers, their civilian staff, and the modest but versatile network of local contacts and spies they’d cultivated, the Last Alliance’s infiltration team spread word of their forces about to fight for their freedom. And the Wraiths were proving essential in accelerating rumors and misdirection efforts of this imminent invasion.

In the few missions the division’s best infiltrators took outside their mountain refuge, aided by Viull’s neoglith masquers in creating the perfect disguises, Cara, Turman, Sharr, Myri, and Jesmin each rendezvoused with small groups of informants in the surrounding regions. Learning all they could of the enemy’s positions and high-ranking officers would be vital to the coming attack.

The only downside to this reconnaissance was how this was strictly a covert operation, with all attempts at sabotage or assassination prohibited. With the True Sith and their armies still having a stranglehold over Sunrise and its slaves, any actions needed to be handled with deliberate precision and caution. This dampened the moods of many, but everyone understood the danger they were all in.

But there was far more underway to undermine the True Sith’s rule over Sunrise than just scouting and verifying the enemy’s positions, numbers, and key commanders. Everyone who was sent here pitched in to prepare the resource-rich border world for its liberation, and no stone was being left unturned in helping coordinate their part in the operation.

Alongside the Imperials’ Inferno Squad, Thaymes and Trey were hard at work to carefully slice into what computers and databases they could without risking discovery. Assembling and using all the data they acquired to give the Chiss’s informers a little more breathing room, they used it for a multitude of purposes.

Huhunna, the Wraiths’ quartermaster, along with their master psychiatrist in Sharr, the Aquilians’ Paladin-Captain Soldier Tirall, and Khedryn Faal, helped prepare and distribute foodstuffs and medical supplies to the malnourished slaves in their vicinity while spreading word of the coming attack. Aside from giving the destitute and broken souls renewed hope in their eventual deliverance, they filled the True Sith’s comm channels with hundreds of false transmissions each hour. This way, the Nihil Retreat’s forces would, hopefully, be unable to figure out the Last Alliance’s true plans until they were well underway.

And working alongside Jaina, Jan, and Mirta and her family, Voort helped to coordinate this large-scale operation. Fortunately, so far, at least, the Last Alliance hadn’t encountered any major difficulties or signs of detection by the True Sith or any of their thralls. But their Sorcerers of Rhand and military servants likely knew they were somewhere on Sunrise and were preparing some grand plan to flush them out or draw them all out of hiding and into a slaughter zone.

Of course, the success of this operation hinged on the Last Alliance arriving in force to break the Nihil Retreat’s hold over Sunrise. And given the multiple battlefronts already underway and their forces being stretched perilously thin, the likelihood of forthcoming relief was not highly expected. But this unique assembly of fighters and infiltrators was nothing if not resourceful, and they would find a way to persevere until everything was in place.

A sudden and terrified shriek came from the Quarren Eye’s briefing room, Voort recognized the voice belonging to Mirta. Dropping his few remaining snacks and beverages to rush towards the source of the scream, he quickly saw the Mandalorian administering CPR on a convulsing Jaina, just as the rest of the present Wraiths arrived and tried to help the unconscious Jedi Master.

Before Voort could ask what in the Nine Corellian Hells just happened, the ship’s holotable lit up, with Soldier, as shaken as he was ever seen and with blood trailing down his mouth, anxiously alerted everyone, “I’m pulling everyone back to your position. We’ve got a series of massacres going off across the planet.” Stopping to see the unresponsive Jaina, he worriedly added, “I’m guessing she got off worse than me from the True Sith’s attack.”

Jan quickly took charge, and coolly told Soldier, “Send me all pertinent information, and I’ll get word out to Nirauan for immediate support.”

“We’ll need to move fast.” Soldier warned. “Our contacts are reporting dozens of widespread slaughters by the True Sith against their slaves and most of our few friendly garrisons. They’ve already murdered at least fifty thousand people. And I expect they’ll be coming for us soon.”

“Then you’d better make sure everyone comes back.” Voort gravely stressed. “We’ll need all hands to stay alive until help comes.”

If help can come in time. Voort anxiously thought as he glanced at Mirta, Viull, and Ghes administered a medical stimulant to Jaina, slowly stirring her back to cognizance. But pushing that dangerous fear aside, the brilliant Gamorrean knew there was crucial work to do, now more urgent than ever. He needed to ensure the rest of his squad, friends, and as many innocents and allies made it to their mountain stronghold before the True Sith struck way here.

And although having calculated and prepared dozens of contingencies for this inevitability, Voort could only pray to whatever deity really existed that they would delay the enemy’s advance until the Last Alliance arrived in force. Still, he took a moment to mourn the untold number of deaths this genocide already took, and all the untold others that would soon meet the same terrible fate. He knew this killing was just the start of the battle to control Sunrise, and no one would be able to predict or determine the outcome.

Six Hours Later

Melona 27^th, 59 ABY

Within Wild Space

In the Gradilis Sector

On the Planet Nirauan

Within the Hand of Thrawn

Vurawn listened with complete and rapt attention as his fellow Triumvirs, the Killiks’ Joiner-Counselors, and the newly arrived Luke Skywalker delivered one piece of dire news after another to him. And the most dangerous warnings he learned was how Mnggal-Mnggal, an evil the Chiss had spent millennia working to keep imprisoned on Mugg Fallow, had been freed by the True Sith and Abeloth.

The only piece of good news was how ThuruhtThul and Grand Master Katarn gave the Last Alliance the knowledge and tools they needed to contain and push Mnggal-Mnggal back to Mugg Fallow. The nanotechnology spread throughout the Utegetu Nebula to prevent expansion by the Killiks, it had another purpose. If it could be tailored to counter the Cancer God’s genetic makeup, it could be used as an antibody for everyone and all worlds that hadn’t yet been attacked by the malignant entity.

Still, the Last Alliance and all its members would have to implement a new series of emergency protocols for every world. If the True Sith or any of its cults and agents successfully summoned Mnggal-Mnggal onto any planet, then its populace had to be evacuated before they could become one of the monstrosity’s countless victims. The political and economic ramifications alone, well, Vurawn would leave that to the heads of state and their subordinates. His focus had to be on leading this war effort.

But there were other threats to the Last Alliance that were pressing down on the free galaxy. For starters, the Olpakan Hegemony’s civil war was quickly escalating and the Purists trying to destroy the Resolute and all their patrons. Hearing from Vlad Karamazov how Daala and her cult of fanatical followers were attacking Orromol, along with preparing to strike Sunrise for resources and recruits while destroying the Rakatan Archipelago, Vurawn knew those pawns had to be eradicated before they played any further into the True Sith’s hands.

And Sunrise, a world vital to the Chiss’s military buildup and giving refuge to victims of brutality, it had to be liberated from the Nihil Retreat’s insidious grip. Learning from General Jan Ors and Wraith Leader how the True Sith’s pawns were commencing a planetwide genocide against its slaves and their few enemies, Vurawn felt a cold fury threaten to overtake him. This atrocity, it would not stand, not simply for his grandfather and people’s honor, but for the sanctity of life and to atone for his people’s failure to keep its promises for the refugees’ protection and start at a new life.

First things first, though. Vurawn and his fellow leaders needed to finish making their plans for each battlefront. And seeing each leader in attendance, the Chiss genius already had a good idea of where to send whom.

Addressing everyone amidst the fierce deliberations and desperate allocation of resources, Vurwan cut through the noise with his firm and loud voice, “We are not a mob or fresh batch of recruits. We are the leaders of the galaxy and must set an example for our peoples and subordinates to follow. If we cannot maintain a collected composure amidst these crises, then how can we expect our armies to follow us into war?”

“That’s all well and good, but we still need a plan for our forces.” Darth Irola reminded him from aboard the Conquest. With her fleet working with Zonama Sekot and Bwua’tu in preparing to relieve the siege of Orromol, she was eager to get back into the fray and take the fight to all the Last Alliance’s enemies.

“I already have several in mind for every front that’s opened up.” Vurawn answered without any smugness, just pure certainty. Turning to face Luke, he asked, “Master Skywalker, how would you and the bulk of your recruits like to help lead a force to liberate Sunrise from the Nihil Retreat?”

Prepared to answer that, Luke was saved from the difficult task of explaining his path when Kyle interjected, “I can handle that mission. We’ll need a massive force and plenty of commandos to free that world from its occupation, and I have experience with that kind of work.

“But right now, I believe Luke could best help us by working in the Makatak System. With all the enemies moving on there, we’ll need someone who can inspire our defenders to fight on against overwhelming odds, and he’s the best one for that task.”

Seeing the logic in Kyle’s argument, even if he had reservations about Luke's request, Vurawn nodded his agreement. But he then told Kyle, “Very well. You will command the ground portion of this effort, Grand Master Katarn. But the naval element will be under my jurisdiction. It’s time for me to personally join the war effort.”

Everyone stunned by Vurawn’s bold declaration, ThuruhtThul reminded him, “We would advise you to consider this matter carefully, Supreme Commander. If the Last Alliance were to lose you now, then…”

“Your concern is appreciated, ThuruhtThul, but not needed.” Vurawn interrupted. “If Darth Krayt and Grand Master Katarn can fight on the front lines, lead their forces, and survive overwhelming odds, then it’s only fair for me to do the same. And Sunrise has more value to us than you all might believe it to have.”

“What are you talking about?” Irola suspiciously asked.

“You’ll find out when I give you the full set of your new orders.” Vurawn simply told Irola. “I’m reassigning you and your fleet to help free Sunrise. You’ll be part of the second wave of reinforcements to avert this genocide.” Turning to face the Dread Lord of the One Sith, he added, “Krayt and his personal detachment will take your place in breaking Orromol’s siege and eliminating Daala.”

Glancing at her master, who’s gaze betrayed no disagreement at the new deployment, Irola wholeheartedly acknowledged, “I’ll have my fleet ready to move on Sunrise by tomorrow’s end. We’ll be ready to help when we’re called upon. But I hope you have a surplus of reinforcements to free a world as densely populated and occupied as this one.”

“I’ll personally make sure we do so.” Vurawn promised.

In the Rakatan Archipelago

On Makatak

In Skal’nas City

Within the Temple of Balance

Overseeing the capital city’s defensive efforts while simultaneously preparing for a potential planetary evacuation, Vestara deeply admired the Makatak people’s diligence and unity. All its citizens, from every race, post, and rank, were working as efficiently and swiftly as they could to protect their home or escape if all was lost. And with the True Sith and Olpakan Purists’s twisted designs aimed at the Rakatan’s sole free world, the latter was looking to be the only option they could utilize.

She sensed the approaching darkness, an all-consuming hunger that yearned to feed, and recognized what it meant. The Rhandite Sith were about to release Mnggal-Mnggal on Makatak to force the Last Alliance’s hand. And with everyone’s forces stretched perilously thin by the repeated attacks, the chances of even a sliver of the parasitical entity’s essence breaching the planet’s atmosphere.

As every Rakatan settlement readied themselves for a mass exodus to leave the only home they’d ever known, Vestara couldn’t help but reflect on her own exile from her home planet. Remembering with perfect clarity how her rule over the Lost Tribe of the Sith’s domain was ended by the Jedi and their many friends, she recognized the stark differences between Makatak and Kesh’s evacuations.

Unlike hers’ and the One Sith’s hasty escape, the people of Makatak had prepared for this eventuality over the long eons they lived here. With the prophetic warnings from Ralthar and his fellow Rakata priests delivered over twenty-five millennia ago, everyone maintained an exceptional discipline in staying vigilant and knowing when their refuge would fall. Ensuring no one was left behind in the evacuation, only taking their most precious belongings and essential provisions they all required for their emigration while activating many of their ancient defenses to shield their escape, the plan deeply impressed Vestara.

No matter what species they belonged to or their status and age, they were ready to move out and leave the only home they knew to protect their loved ones and culture. And as thousands of people orderly made their way into the city’s sacred place of worship, a repurposed ship that was being reactivated for takeoff in the next few hours, Vestara prayed that this endeavor succeeded. Too many had already suffered or been killed against this insidious evil, and she didn’t want to let that number grow if she could help it.

Bursting into Vestara’s thoughts, a terrifying presence she hadn’t sensed with such power in fifteen years forced her way into her very soul. And Abeloth wasn’t pretending to be a benevolent would-be goddess like her last attempt to take over the galaxy. No, she was assaulting her with the same level of malevolence as her brother, but with a desire to rule over the masses after all her enemies were crushed.

Flooding Vestara’s very being with images of her plans, the depraved darkness she felt from the True Sith Empire’s servants through Abeloth made her keel over from the nausea her malice gave her. But the analytical part of her mind took note of everything she observed, even if she wondered why the Bringer of Chaos was showing her so much of her masters’ plans.

Abeloth was journeying to Tulpaa to ensure the True Sith’s efforts to duplicate the planet’s Star Forge succeeded. Creating many similar facilities across the Nihil Retreat to mutate their soldiers and slaves into more lethal marauders, she was overhauling their armies and solidifying their hold over their vassals’ worlds. And in the process, she was helping them twist countless innocents and misguided souls into vessels of darkness who would need to be killed before they doomed others with the same fate.

But there was more that Abeloth showed Vestara, more of the Nihil Retreat’s plans that scared her more than their mutated armies. She saw the Olpakan Hegemony succumb to their unholy horrors, aided by secret cults and traitors that pledged themselves to the Way of the Dark to fuel their fanatical bloodlust. Those that opposed them on their own were either driven into shameful exile, slaughtered by Mnggal-Mnggal and any number of the True Sith’s monsters, or forcibly converted to their destructive dogma.

And the Olpakan Purists’ deep-cover agents scattered across Skyriver were manipulated by the Lich Lords and their Sorcerers to advance the destruction of all their enemies. There were even those on Bastion that were now being subverted to decapitate the Galactic Empire, just as other spies and saboteurs that existed in thousands of other worlds and organizations that were waiting to be activated. And one of them was a Kaminoan scientist whom Vestara immediately recognized from both their work for the One Sith, just as there were several Sith Lords in Darth Krayt’s order that betrayed him for the Nihil Retreat.

Even as she recognized the turncoats in the One Sith, Vestara found it hard to believe that Abeloth would freely share this such crucial information with her to subvert the True Sith’s plans. But she then felt her mind be twisted more, with the mad entity gloatingly reprimanding her,

There is so little you truly understand about me, Vestara Khai. My dreams and plans are beyond your infinitesimal mind and pathetic hopes. And when I am ready to enact my grand design, you will never see it coming.

Vestara felt the pressure quickly lift from her mind, followed by the comforting presence of her beloved Ben surrounding her, she saw her vision clear. And helping her recover from the vicious attack was not only the man she loved, but K’Kruhk and Sintas Vel.

Trying to speak, Vestara felt as if her tongue was swollen to fill her entire mouth, and her words were nothing more than a mumble. But K’Kruhk firmly held and administered healing energies into her to help dissipate the residual darkness Abeloth inflicted on her. Slowly breathing with increasing steadiness, she attempted to talk again and was able to get out several words, “Abeloth… she showed me visions of…”

“Easy.” Sintas gently advised Vestara. “Whatever Abeloth did to you, it left you a terrible mess when we reached you. You were lucky K’Kruhk was able to save you in time.”

“The… evacuation.” Vestara belatedly realized before she tried to stand but found herself too weak to move more than a few centimeters.

Ben, seeing the terrified glean in his wife-to-be’s eyes, he reassured her, “We’re all ahead of schedule. We’re ready to stop Mnggal-Mnggal in his tracks when he comes.”

“You don’t understand.” Vestara warned, her energy slowly coming back, and she could speak clearly and fluidly. “Abeloth, I know what she and her masters are up to. We… we need to warn everyone now, before they make their move.”

K’Kruhk, seeing more to Vestara’s pleas than just desperate ravings, patiently told her, “I will set up a transmission to Master Luke Skywalker and his forces. He will relay your warnings to Nirauan and they will act upon your information.”

“Use… use the Jade’s Legacy to reach him.” Vestara interjected. “Traitors… from the One Sith are watching all Last Alliance communications.”

“Abeloth told you this?” Sintas deduced, unable to believe what she was hearing.

“I don’t know why she did this, but we need to be sure we aren’t compromised.” Vestara answered. “Too much of what she showed me made sense to me, and we can’t afford to leave any stone unturned now.”

Gripping Ben’s shoulder, she pleaded with her fiancé with earnest eyes and heavy breaths, and she begged, “There’s more at stake than just facing our enemies head on. The True Sith, they have agents and turncoats across the galaxy, and we need to start rooting them out now, before they throw everything into chaos.”

Seeing him nod, even if his eyes conveyed doubt, Ben promised, “All right. I’ll do what you ask, Ves.”

“Thank you.” Vestara gratefully acknowledged before bidding him, “Go. I’ll be okay.”

Reluctantly leaving his love to K’Kruhk and Sintas’s care, he pleaded with them, “Protect her with your lives.”

“We will.” Sintas promised. “I’ve got a ship I can safely take her in when my people finish our part of the withdrawal. And the good doctor here,” Gesturing to K’Kruhk, she added, “he’ll keep a good vigil over her the whole time.”

Nodding his gratitude, Ben deftly moved to reach the Jade’s Legacy before time ran out. K’Kruhk and Sintas then helped Vestara onto her feet and aided her move to one of the nearby Mandalorian transports.

Seeing Vestara’s worry, Sintas reassured her, “Don’t worry, it’s one of Mirta’s crews. They won’t harm you.”

“That’s not what I’m afraid of.” Vestara clarified while she hobbled along. “I’m scared that all Abeloth told me will come true. And if that’s so, then we’re woefully unprepared to face her and the True Sith.”

In the Unknown Regions

Deep Space, Within the Olpakan Hegemony

On Zonama Sekot

Within the Village of La’okio

Tau saw Edaan and Adari joyously reuniting, affectionately kissing and holding each other as tears of love streamed down their faces. He witnessed the old crew of the Rude Awakening, aside from K’Kruhk, Jarael, and Atai, catching up and just taking a little time to rest and relax. And they weren’t the only ones using this opportunity to rest.

Walking all throughout La’okio, Tau saw friends and loved ones reconnecting and taking this brief reprieve from the Fourth Cosmic War. He observed Darth Vua and Taleth Qua walking through the latter’s fields and sharing some of her delicacies with him, with the One Sith Slayer looking more content than the Jedi Iteration ever saw him.

The members of Clone Force 99, while waiting to be redeployed to Sunrise alongside him, along with their new teammate and protégé in Chelli Lona Aphra, were conversing with Han and Leia, learning of the Solo family’s many exploits. And Tech was especially having a field day in learning all he could of the Millennium Falcon and all its custom modifications, taking notes to soon try on the Havoc Marauder.

Kal and his fellow Mandalorians had their own reunion, with the eldest Skirata rejoicing over seeing Venku and Bardan after all they’ve been through. Tau sensed the decades of loss and hurt begin to heal between everyone but recognized how this reunion was tragically incomplete.

With Darman still with the Olpakan Purists and having murdered several of his brothers and friends in his quest for vengeance, there was the tragic job of putting him out of his misery. And Tau knew once Kal gave his adoptive grandson his new mission for the Olpakan Resolute and Last Alliance, Venku would need everyone to help guide him through this terrible task.

After all the battles and stress everyone was under, it helped to do this and remember who and what they were fighting for. And with the imminent battles about to erupt across the most treacherous region of Skyriver, they would need what little time they had to renew their fighting spirits. Once they left Zonama Sekot and returned to battle, there was no guarantee that anyone would survive this war.

Sitting down on a nearby hill, with Butch cuddling up beside him and silently watching the many groups have their precious moments together, Tau felt a familiar presence approach him from behind. Smiling despite himself, he turned to see Allana, and listened while she emphatically greeted him, “It’s good to see you taking a little time to relax. But I’d think you’d want to find someone to hang out and talk with before we leave Sekot.”

Seeing Allana sit beside him, Tau playfully challenged, “And I thought you’d want to hang out with your grandparents before you go off to lead your people.”  With the Chume’da ordered to command a Hapan fleet and help evacuate Makatak’s populace and the Last Alliance forces, and him being reassigned to Sunrise and liberate the enslaved refugees and dismantle the True Sith’s hold, the two friends hadn’t had a chance to talk until now.

“They’re coming with me in the Falcon, but I want to make sure you’re okay before we both set out.” Allana put a hand over Tau’s, her eyes full of concern and compassion. “With this war escalating and our enemies multiplying, we’re not likely going to see each other again for a while. And I wanted to get plenty of things off my chest before we set out.”

Letting out a wearied sigh, Allana slowly began, “When I was on Azure, I learned… Well, it might be easier to explain if I just showed you.”

Pulling Tau up, Allana took both her hands in his and warned him, “All right, I need you to empty your mind of all superfluous thoughts and stay calm, no matter what. What I’m about to show you, it won’t be easy unless you let me guide you through this.”

Doing as Allana said, Tau silently nodded and let the young woman connect her mind to his. And the moment their minds and souls intertwined, they felt something shift in their very beings. Everything was laid bare to each other now, there were no secrets to keep and a bond being built that most people could never truly comprehend.

Nearly distracted by the surge of emotions and memories each experienced that weren’t their own, both Jedi quickly regained their focus, and Allana led Tau through her encounter with the Cephalons and the leaders of the Olpakan Resolute.

Tau learnt of Allana’s future role in rebuilding Skyriver after the wars with the Sith and Olpakan Purists ended, how the fourth-dimensional beings and their Jedi guardian in Jax Pavan foresaw her supposed destiny. Even a single revelation was enough to make most beings believe her to be a lunatic. But he knew she was too intelligent and well-grounded to let herself be fooled by false prophecies.

Learning how Allana was destined to take the Throne of Balance and help heal the galaxy, just as her family foresaw in many visions, albeit with varying differences in each premonition, it made Tau’s heart break in sorrow for her. He knew she secretly yearned to live her own life, free of her royal burdens and the wars and tragedies she’d long been scarred by. If there was a way to help her be free of these pains, or at least lessen their weight, he would do it.

His compassion for Allana, how Tau sensed her fear and resignation through their newly strengthened bond, led him to firmly hug her and let tears drop down his face. Feeling her hands wrap around his back, he gently rubbed little circles on her shoulders and whispered soft apologies in her hair.

But he sensed there was something else, another secret she was trying to keep from him. And beneath it was embarrassment, confusion, guilt, even. Gently probing into it, he recognized the feelings she hid, and felt his cheeks blush a furious red. Nearly breaking the hug, he instead placed a chaste kiss on her head, and promised, “It’s okay. I’m not going to leave you now.”

Letting go of Tau, Allana was prepared to speak her mind, only for him to hold her hand and beat her to it, “These feelings you have, they’re not like your old crush on Edaan. I can sense that what you have for me, they’re deeper than your brotherly bond with him.

“We are alike in several ways, but I can tell a few distinct differences between us.” Tau began. “We both may have a deep compassion and empathy for our fellow man, but I’m not obsessive over Vestara as he was.” Seeing Allana give an unladylike snort, he knew his plan to cheer her up was working.

Continuing, Tau added, “And although I may not have the same determination and single-minded focus in pursuing a goal, I won’t give up in helping the galaxy and serving the Maker.”

“Tau…” Allana squeezed his hands, getting him to stop talking and let her get a few words in. “There’s more than just what Jax and the Cephalons told me. But it’s not just about our feelings for each other or the distant future. It’s about the war with the True Sith and their false gods, and how to beat them.”

Letting out a frightened and exhausted sigh, Allana pressed on, “What I’m about to tell you, it can’t go beyond us. If anyone else finds out what I was told, then it will leave all our fates up to chance and eternally doom the galaxy.

“Stars, I’m taking such a risk telling you, but you’re the only one I can trust with my visions.” Allana nearly cried. “I need you to promise me that no matter what, you don’t tell anyone until the time is right.” Seeing Tau earnestly nod, she gathered the courage to continue speaking, and what she confessed petrified him to silence.

Temporarily unable to speak, Tau slowly sat down and gingerly rubbed Butch’s head, barely reacting as he nuzzled up beside his master and Allana sat beside them both. Eventually, he mustered the courage to ask, “Is there anything we can do to save him?”

“Not if we want to save all creation.” Allana regretfully clarified. “He’s had his own revelations and knows the stakes just as well as we do. He’ll do what needs to be done to let us finish the war.” Wiping a few stray tears, she crossed her sides and admitted, “I just don’t know what to do about anything.”

“We’ll figure it out.” Tau promised. “No matter how far apart we are, no matter what battles we have to fight, we’ll find a way to face these trials together.”

Nothing else needed to be said, both Jedi felt the other’s fears and hopes, their doubts and dreams, and took comfort in their shared presence. For however long they had together before the war called them back to duty, they would simply enjoy their company and the peace that Zonama Sekot could give them.

Within Chiss Space

On the Planet Csilla

In the Capital City of Csplar

Csilla’s treacherous and deadly blizzards today were more intense than usual. Across the frozen world that served as the Chiss Ascendancy’s center of power, icy storms buffeted it and made life miserable for those that lived here. The underground cities and bases where its eight billion inhabitants lived were hard-pressed to maintain power for everyone. Added to everyone’s burdens was the limited contact with their sister worlds and allies, with the maelstroms making communications more difficult than usual.

But this natural disturbance was minute compared to the governmental nightmare that was unfolding between the Chiss’s military and political leaders. With everyone present now aware of the Sunrise’s corruption into a slave-powered mining operation for the Nihil Retreat, and most of the planet’s soldiers and allies collaborating with the True Sith Empire, no one felt like they could trust anyone else. And without trust, no society and culture could function, let alone exist.

Since Sunrise’s occupation and administration was a joint effort by all aspects of the Chiss Ascendancy’s society, military, and government, the truth coming to light tainted every institution and individual, and no one wanted to be associated with this grand treason. And Shawnkyr and Ba’kar, having delivered terrible revelations to the Defense Council, the heads of Parliament, and the leaders of each Ruling and Great Family that triggered this vicious infighting, struggled to maintain order and get the meeting back on track. Not even the Speaker of the Assembly, sergeant-at-arms, or the five dozen honor guards that were supposed to keep the peace over this large assembly, could accomplish this miraculous feat.

Currently, twenty of the one hundred and thirty Chiss leaders denied the Last Alliance’s findings, unwilling to believe more of their own would sell everyone out to the True Sith. But after learning how Saganu was brainwashed to leak vital information to the Sorcerers of Rhand before he broke free, they couldn’t form an effective refutation or draw others to their side.

On the other hand, another forty of their peers were advocating for an immediate military response to punish their traitorous brethren and reclaim Sunrise. This faction generally had more support from their peers, but when half of their number proposed handling this matter on their own without help from the Last Alliance, their plan found gridlock from the rest of their members.

The rest of the Chiss, seventy members of this historic summit, they wanted a more intricate and collaborative approach to solving this disaster. Reminding everyone how they were now part of a galaxy-wide coalition and how they didn’t have the numbers to liberate Sunrise on their own. And with the Nihil Retreat’s entrenched presence and mass enslavement of the tens of millions of refugees, this would be a joint military and humanitarian operation, something none in the Ascendancy had living experience with, especially on such a scale.

But making such a decision was next to impossible in this volatile climate. Neither the Supreme Admiral or General, nor their allies in the Syndics and Aristocras, could break the deadlock that plagued the Chiss. With this emergency council requiring at least ninety votes to mobilize the Defense Fleet and its local forces, and the majority short by just ten votes of getting their plan approved, there was no legal way of enacting any effort. And with many in this assembly still suspicious and unwilling to trust their rivals or new partners, there was little hope of uniting them at this precarious juncture.

The Speaker was vainly calling out to everyone, trying to restore order when an aide hurried to his side and handed him a questis. Seeing who the dispatch was from, he quietly thanked the messenger and decided to take matters into his own hands, but not until he put in his ear plugs.

Pressing a button on his desk, a deafening sonic screech reverberated throughout the chamber for three seconds before it ended. Letting everyone recover for a few minutes and get their hearing back, the Speaker addressed everyone, “If you are all done arguing like our ancestors did during the Jixtus Crisis, we have a guest that seeks an audience with us. Jedi Master Luke Skywalker is requesting to speak on behalf of Vurawn and the Last Alliance Triumvirate regarding Sunrise.”

Most were skeptical of the timing of this message, but one of the five Aristocras, Sev'eere'nuruodo, an elderly woman whose service went back to the Clone War, acknowledged on her people’s behalf, “Let us hear what he has to say. It might give us an idea on how to solve this disaster.”

Hearing little to no dissent, the Speaker rapidly patched a communication through to Luke, and once he was visible, the Human Jedi Master quickly began, “Vurawn just informed me of your dilemma in reaching a consensus for liberating Sunrise. And he’s devised a plan to aid you in freeing the world and its inhabitants from their overlords before they can finish consolidating their hold over it.”

“Why isn’t he speaking to us himself?” A Syndic challenged Luke. “Why delegate this task to an outsider, especially one that is supposed to be an internal matter for our people?”

“Because Vurawn is preparing to personally lead the Last Alliance armada that will assist you in this effort.” Luke answered. “After his grandfather’s efforts in saving the Ascendancy and its neighbors from the Grysk and Rhandites before his exile, he asked me to relay his wishes to the people he loves so deeply.”

“And what exactly does he desire of us in this endeavor?” Shawnkyr asked, her voice barely betraying her hopes for this gambit.

“That is what I am transmitting to each of you as we speak.” Luke answered. “His strategy can work in saving Sunrise and its people while you bring your traitors to justice, but you need to act quickly. The Olpakan Purists and True Sith are planning to raid or fully seize the world for their own war plans.”

“How do you know this?” Ba’kar warily inquired.

“The Olpakan Resolute and their spies delivered their information to us, and our agents on Sunrise were able to break through the planet’s jamming field just long enough to deliver us a final message.” Luke answered. “They warned us that the True Sith are enacting massacres across the world, and they’re moving against the few garrisons that have remained faithful to you.”

His gaze becoming equally sympathetic and stern, Luke warned the assembly, “If you want to save your society from annihilation and people from enslavement, you, as the Ascendancy’s leaders, will need to act now in sending your soldiers and fleets to help us, and rallying your people to accept the burdens this war is about place on them all.

“Right now, you have a chance to show the galaxy the immense sense of duty and loyalty your people possess, and to change the perception most have of you all and your insular culture. But to accomplish this, you’ll need to be courageous, show no fear or reservations in working with the Last Alliance, and be willing to make amends for your misjudgments and prejudices, something the rest of the galaxy knows all too well of.”

“Well spoken, Master Skywalker.” Arazi'or'elani, a young woman and promising pro-Jedi syndic, commended Luke’s brave speech. “I believe I can speak for at least most of us when I think that the Ascendancy, intractable as many of its people may be, will see what is before with clarity and bravery.”

“That’s all well and good, Master Skywalker, but it will still take some time for us to move the fleets needed to liberate Sunrise, even with our allies’ assistance.”  Prard’ras’kleoni, an aging Aristocra and war hawk among the Chiss, cautioned Luke. “We can spare two battle groups at this moment, and we can spare three fleets’ worth in the next three days. But unless you’ve been holding out on us with reinforcements, trying to free the world with so few people and men is a virtual suicide mission.”

“More like assets and armies we’ve yet to best utilize in our coalition.” Luke evasively answered before he elaborated, “The Outer Rim Alliance and its newest lead ambassador, Atai Molec, for starters. He’s been eager to rejoin the fight after helping integrate his allies into the Last Alliance and is more than willing to help lead the charge against the True Sith and Olpakans.

“And there are many others we can call upon for this effort, starting with the Rogues’ Gallery and Confederation. Generals Antilles and Phennir have already agreed to lead many of their forces to this endeavor, as well as commando teams and emissaries from the Silentium and Aquilians.”

Shawnkyr, seeing almost everyone present showing approval for these initial plans, quickly proposed to the Speaker, “Let us put the matter up for a vote.”

“There is no need, Supreme Admiral.” The Speaker answered, an amused smile crossing his face, “I believe the matter has already been voted on by everyone.”

Seeing her questis, Shawnkyr saw that the statistics for voting had changed, with all one hundred and thirty leaders voting in favor of a joint military and humanitarian intervention alongside all the Last Alliance. Nearly fainting from relief at the measure unanimously passing, the Supreme Admiral gratefully nodded to Luke before she ordered everyone,

“Disseminate our orders through our most secure channels to all commands, and make sure we’re ready to disclose this truth to the public when our forces reach Sunrise. It will take all of us to ensure these scandals do not tear the Ascendancy apart.”

“And with that, I’ll take my leave.” Luke humbly excused himself with these last words, “I’ll pass along word of your decision to Nirauan at once. Good luck, and may the Force be with you all.”

Shawnkyr politely acknowledged Luke’s departure, but just before he ended the communication, she saw something different in the former Grand Master’s eyes. It was a sense of contentment and finality that she recognized in those that seemed resigned to death, and that realization deeply disturbed her.

Chapter Text

Melona 28^th, 59 ABY

In Wild Space

Within the Gradilis Sector

On the Planet Niraun

Within the Hand of Thrawn

Krayt always hated having to attend these doctor’s meetings, even as he knew they were vital to keeping his horrific and agonizing affliction under control. As 11-4D injected multiple needles into his hardened flesh, cut away at several rotting Coral seed growths and set them aside for further examination, Wyyrlok and Invidious briefed him on both the One Sith and Last Alliance’s state of readiness.

And the Arkanian Sith’s hunt for possible double agents had made substantial progress, with the list of suspects narrowed down to a pool of seventy-seven individuals in the dark side order’s ranks. It helped how Invidious, Wyyrlok, Sly Moore, and 11-4D could covertly requisition aid from the rest of the Last Alliance’s intelligence divisions for this investigation. At this rate, they would identify and remove the traitors from their ranks and close the leaks in less than two weeks.

But the rest of the news was far more dire, with every front Jedi-One Sith coalition was engaged in slowly draining them of strength and personnel. Between the Olpakan Civil War, the True Sith’s advances on the Rakatan Archipelago and Sunrise, and the latter threat recruiting Mnggal-Mnggal and preparing to unleash him on the weakened galaxy, the Last Alliance would need to get more creative to attain victory.

Feeling 11-4D finish his scans of the Dread Lord’s body, the medical/spy droid stoically reported, “To put it bluntly, Lord Krayt, your condition is stable. At least for the time being. But I cannot stress enough the danger of forcing your body to endure the rigors of combat for prolonged periods. If you exhaust too much energy and effort on the battlefield, then it could trigger a relapse of your affliction.”

“Your counsel, blunt and daring as always, is deeply valued.” Krayt calmly acknowledged while he donned his helmet before he warned the Sith-loyal droid, “But I cannot afford to play it safe or hide away while our followers fight on the front lines. The One Sith look to me for leadership and to set the example of this coalition, and if I were to withdraw now, or let the Nihil Retreat or Jedi learn of this vulnerability, then they would take advantage when the best opportunity arose.”

“Of course, Dread Lord.” 11-4D obediently bowed before his head whirred, the circuits in his cranial cavity barely heard, which all three Sith recognized as the droid being contacted through one of his disciples’ codes. And he soon informed his superiors, “Oh, my. It seems former Lady Kitai has delivered a crucial piece of information to share with us through Jedi Master Luke Skywalker.”

“I beg your pardon?” Wyyrlok warily asked.

“It would be best if you hear it from the Jedi personally.” 11-4D worriedly answered, a hint of anxiety rarely seen in the otherwise stoic and professional droid. “He’ll be arriving outside the medical wing momentarily.”

Surprised at the bold intrusion but knowing his people had to help maintain the Last Alliance, Krayt ordered Invidious, “Escort the Jedi to me. Whatever he wishes to speak of that is so important, I will discuss it directly with him.”

Prepared to offer an argument, but knowing better, especially since his master was due to depart for Orromol in just under eight hours, Invidious silently obeyed. Better to let the former bureaucrat and older Sith handle the unenviable task of trying to protest Krayt’s bold move.

Once Invidious left to allow Wyyrlok to prepare Krayt for the meeting, the Chagrian cautioned his master, “Are you sure you wish to let the Jedi see you like this. If he learns of your deterioration, then…”

“It is not Luke Skywalker that concerns me.” Krayt breathed, drawing on the dark side and his iron will for strength as he firmly stood on his two feet. Taking their cue, Wyyrlok and 11-4D began to help him don his armor, and the Dread Lord continued, “Something is about to be set in motion, a decisive moment of choosing for us that will affect not only us, but all the cosmos.”

Daring to speak, Wyyrlok asked, “Has Eipha offered new revelations to you?”

“Not him. Someone far deadlier and unpredictable, but who knows the Son better than almost anyone else.” Krayt enigmatically answered while allowing his breastplate to be wrapped over him. “I believe that our former adversary has information related to these clues and is deeply connected to this moment.”

He then sternly warned Wyyrlok and 11-4D, “Speak not unless I directly order either of you to. Whatever Skywalker wishes to say, I will address him with the full authority and power of the One Sith.”

A few minutes later, after feeling the hostility and suspicion from his disciples at allowing a Jedi to enter their barracks, Invidious ushered Luke into the medical chamber. And Krayt noted his calmness and peace in such a foreign environment, wondering what was going through his mind and soul at this vital hour.

Luke, nodding in gratitude to his hosts, acknowledged to Krayt, “Thank you for allowing me a little time to speak with you all. But what Vestara told me, she instructed me to give it to you alone.” Raising a hand to forestall any harsh rebukes, he continued, “But I am aware of these three and their unwavering loyalty to you, so I will bend the rules in that aspect.”

“The subject of this meeting?” Krayt sternly asked. “You told 11-4D that Vestara was given vital information on the Rhandites.”

“Yes. Given to her by Abeloth before her forces attacked.” Luke gravely clarified, stunning all to silence. “It seems the Bringer of Chaos is pursuing her own agenda while being forced to serve the Nihil Retreat.”

Sensing no deception in Luke’s voice and expression, Krayt reluctantly agreed, “That would appear to be the case, for she did as much the same to me and Grand Master Katarn above Mugg Fallow. What did she warn Vestara of?”

“Many pieces of information. But among the most pressing were the likely identities of several members of your order that are collaborating with the Lich Lords and their spies.” Luke wearily answered. “It seems the Jedi aren’t the only ones who’ve suffered from spies in our order.”

Bristling at the accusation and costly purge of the One Sith’s spies from the Jedi’s ranks, Wyyrlok wisely bit his tongue, and Krayt took over, “What proof do you have to corroborate these claims?”

Handing Krayt a data chip, Luke answered, “Vestara asked me to record and transcribe all the information Abeloth assaulted her with before giving it to you. Along with identifying Aurra Sing and Sidirri as your most prominent and dangerous traitors, she spoke of the Sorcerers of Rhand’s plans to co-opt the Olpakan Purists’ agents and strike teams, among many others, to destabilize Skyriver from the inside.”

Passing the chip over to 11-4D and Invidious, Krayt promised, “I’ll have them examine it to corroborate the information before we take action.”

“Good.” Luke briefly smiled before he advised everyone, “But in the spirit of collaboration and maximum efficiency, I might suggest you cooperate with our entire intelligence division. There are many more enemy spies in our ranks than just those in your order, and it would be more expedient if we worked together to purge ourselves of these traitors.”

Sensing his followers’ disbelief and offense, Krayt judiciously acknowledged, “That would be the wisest course. In theory, at least. But whether we can truly work together in capturing or killing our turncoats is another matter entirely.”

“I’m sure you and the rest of your more reformist-minded Sith can find a way to make it work.” Luke shrugged. Bowing before them all in gratitude, he reminded Krayt, “Be sure to have your forces ready and in orbit in no more than four hours. The sooner you depart, the sooner we can deal with Daala’s fleets.”

“Then take your own advice and make sure you’re prepared for a long fight against the Rakata.” Krayt acidly countered. “I would hate for you to be killed before I had the chance to battle you once our alliance dissolves.”

Mirthlessly smiling, Luke promised Krayt, “I highly doubt that will ever happen. May the Force be with you.” Turning around to walk out, he offered the Dread Lord, “And if you ever want help with the Yorik-Kul coral seeds eating away at you, let my people know and we’ll do what we can to save you.”

Stunned silent with the bold proposal, Krayt said nothing as Luke departed. An eerie silence coming over everyone, he wondered just how much the Jedi Master already knew about him and his plans, and what else he might be hiding from everyone.

Within the Unknown Regions

Within the Olpakan Hegemony

In the Olpaka System

On the Moon Orromol

Vlad knew he shouldn’t be doing this. Between the Olpakan Purists’ ground forces advancing, backed by a plentiful reserve of fighters and gunships engaged in strafing runs, and Raze’s fleet blockading the moon, leading his forces on the front lines was a virtual suicide mission. Even in his Zellot Battle Suit, the most advanced version of the Olpakan Hegemony’s strength-enhancing armor, allowing him maximum maneuverability and access to enough weapons to annihilate dozens of enemies in a single attack, it wasn’t nearly enough to win this battle.

Across the garrison moon, reports were surging in of Purists massacring all their adversaries, even the few that dared to surrender. Raze and his armies were taking no prisoners today, a desperate attempt to demoralize the Resolute and attain control over their subjects. At least ten thousand enemy soldiers wielded Jansar Battle Suits, the superior version of a Mandalorian Supercommando’s armor and equipment, but not nearly the equivalent of a Zellot suit. But with Vlad’s Resolute having only five thousand such suits, the enemy had another advantage to employ.

Regretfully, the Olpakan Purists’ elite commandos and their regular troops were not simply being used as cannon fodder as Vlad futilely hoped. Colonels Rede Melusar and Darman Skirata were cunning warriors and brilliant military leaders, even if fanatical monsters, and they would not waste their soldiers’ lives on futile frontal assaults. Repelling such an attack was what Orromol’s military base was just what it was designed to do, even with its diminished defensive network.

Instead of just throwing their forces against the weakened emplacements and overwhelming them, Darman and Rede employed a strategic approach to carving a path to Vlad’s main citadel. They knew that most of his soldiers would be defending it and were preparing all sorts of prototype weapons to meet them in battle. But thanks to Raze and Cylo-V’s technological brilliance and computer capabilities, the Purists hacked into many of the moon’s defenses to turn them against each other, annihilating each other and easing their destroyers’ advance. Only then did the Purists move and work to secure their hard-won gains.

But for every inch of ground the Purists gained, their enemies made them pay for it with six times the number of casualties they suffered. Thanks to the Celestial-loyal faction’s shields still holding, Daala and her cabal had to make Vlad and his people pay for their betrayals in person. Still, with their artillery and heavy walkers starting to land and be deployed, time was quickly running out for all the Olpakan Resolute, just as the disgraced Supreme Knight recognized.

Seeing the spider-like walkers and tortoise-like tanks starting to move out, launching long-range missiles against the Resolute’s turrets and bunkers, Vlad personally ordered all his soldiers, “All forces, fall back! Regroup at the second layer immediately, without delay!”

Seeing ten Jansar armor-wielding commandos fly towards him, but recognizing the colors and insignia of the Purists, Vlad sighed, knowing he’d have to deal with these would-be pursuers before he withdrew alongside his soldiers.

Pulling out his custom ion rifle, he used his Zellot suit's built-in targeting array to aim with pinpoint accuracy. Firing four shots in rapid succession, he witnessed each blast hit his targets and see their long fall onto the hard and unforgiving ground. By that point, the rest of the enemies realized what he was doing and scattered to avoid meeting a similar fate.

Three of the surviving Purists fired their shatter rifles against Vlad, keeping him near the ground while the rest fired ion blasts to try and short out his armor. A typical strategy to dealing with a better-armed foe, but not a terrible one. And to the Resolute agent’s keen eye, these enemies were better than most of the enemies he’d faced until now.

Still, Vlad didn’t have time for any delays, not with his forces counting on him to lead them until help arrived, never mind winning the Fourth Cosmic War. Quickly keying in a set of commands on his gauntlet, he herded his pursuers towards their imminent deaths. After he flew past a ravine and the six enemies chased him over it, he sprung his trap.

Fire, pure fire and the force of a blast strong enough to level a giant building, both destroyed the six Olpakan Purists and nearly devoured Vlad in the process. Barely able to stabilize his jetback and repulsorlifts in time to avoid an abrupt shutdown, he deftly landed right before the second layer of the Resolute’s defenders protecting his citadel.

Letting out a frustrated grunt as his armor’s systems cycled through a damage assessment from the shockwave, Vlad allowed his soldiers to help him hunker in a nearby trench. His armor may be among the most lethal offensive weapons in all creation, but it was all but useless if he could barely move in it.

The tactical feed and communication systems the first things to power back online, Vlad was prepared to give orders to his frontal and citadel defenders when he saw the comm signature of Khaleen, before a message scrolled down his helmet’s heads-up-display. Maybe it was the help he was hoping would soon arrive. Without the Last Alliance and the rest of the Olpakan Resolute, this brutal slog would eventually turn into a crushing defeat for the latter.

Two pieces of intelligence to give you. Which do you want to hear first?

Good news and bad news. That was never a good sign in Vlad’s experience. But he needed something to give his soldiers hope, so he verbally communicated with Khaleen, “Give me the good news first.”

Kal and his armies are bound towards your position. They’ll be arriving in just under fifteen hours, and they’re bringing Zonama Sekot and enough fleets from our people and the Last Alliance to occupy five solar systems. Among the commanders are Nek Bwua’tu and the Aquilians’ Julius Gaia.

Stunned silent for a few moments as his armor’s remaining systems came back online, Vlad gratefully breathed, “That is news I desperately needed to hear.” But then he remembered there was one more warning the Olpakan Resolute’s best infiltrator had, and he reluctantly continued, “Okay. You can give me the bad news now.”

I’m afraid it’s already here. Daala and her fleet just reverted to realspace above Olpaka, and they’ll be joining Raze’s attack on your base in just under two hours.

Biting his tongue to keep himself from screaming to the heavens, Vlad slowly gritted out, “Anything else you might want or need to share with me?”

Only that I recommend you start to start up your personal flagship. You’ll need the firepower to hold off the Purists until help arrives.

“Thank you, Agent Obvious.” Vlad sarcastically remarked, when it was actually a good idea he hadn’t considered. The Penitencestill needed a bit of time before it was ready to fly, but its already active weaponry and three generators could shore up Orromol’s defenses and wreak havoc on the Purists’ lines.

Calming himself down, Vlad gratefully acknowledged Khaleen’s advice, “I’ll get right on it. You keep yourself safe until help arrives.”

Playing it safe has never been my style, Karamazov. I’ll be in the thick of the fight soon enough.

Vlad just knew Khaleen said that with a confident and determined grin, and hoped she had an effective strategy for whatever harebrained plan she and her spies concocted. But he had more immediate matters to deal with than worrying over a comrade and refocused his efforts towards the fight for his people’s survival. It wouldn’t do anyone any good if they were all killed before their deliverance arrived.

Hyperspace, On Route to Sunrise

Aboard the Lucrehulk-class battleship Chu'unthor III

In the repurposed Trade Federation warship, now a carrier for Olpakan Resolute fighters and their Jedi agents, Tau was keeping busy by preparing for his next mission. But hooked up to an experimental device that measured his brain waves while he probed Sunrise wasn’t how he expected to help the Last Alliance.

With the True Sith blocking all conventional communications over Sunrise and no one able to break through the jamming field, it fell to more Force-based methods in learning the full situation. And Tau, with the help of his fellow Jedi and Niphal’s essence, was scouring the planet for information and to find Jaina’s team. If the Last Alliance tried to free the planet without local support, then it would quickly dissolve into a massacre.

But what Tau found, the agony and darkness that seeped into the very ground, it was almost as virulent and entrenched as on Lehon. The slaughters underway across Sunrise, hundreds of thousands of slaves being massacred for no given reason, it sickened him. The Chiss that once pledged to protect the refugees, corrupted and now commanded by the Nihil Retreat and its Lich Lords, were moving across the entire world, hunting anyone who tried to oppose them and murdering them in the grisliest ways imaginable.

Panting and on the verge of withdrawing, Tau braved ahead, looking for the Che’ri Mountains, the last known location where the Last Alliance and its local friends were seen. Sensing a defiant glimmer of light, surrounded by a thick, black fog of dark side energy, he homed in on it. Allowing his mind to see the battlefield, he was astonished and terrified by the carnage unfolding before him.

Hundreds of siege units were pressing in on the mountain stronghold, trying to obliterate the enemy fortifications and overwhelm its fewer defenders. Accompanied by tens of thousands of troops and hundreds of starfighters to rattle the Last Alliance, the Nihil Retreat’s Sorcerers led the war of attrition. And Tau sensed the few thousands of brave souls, maybe five thousand total, holding out against this massive army, but their resolve failed against this overwhelming force, not simply from battlefield stress and fatigue.

Tau sensed the malevolent will of the Sorcerers of Rhand working against their enemies, slowly undermining their will and making it easier to advance towards the final push. And their leader, a Grysk man who carried himself with the authority and power of a long-lived warlord, turned to stare at the Jedi Iteration. Knowingly smirking at the invisible projection, he gloatingly waved at him before turning his attention back to the battlefield.

Startled by the bold play, Tau realized the Nihil Retreat knew their enemies were on the way, but they didn’t care. They didn’t care if they suffered heavy losses, or if the Last Alliance eventually prevailed in this battlefront. All they had to do to win was to continue fueling the darkness of war, letting more people fall into Bogan’s waiting grip and become his servants, and they would have the final victory.

Eventually, the final seals would be broken on the Father of Shadows and his fellow fallen Celestials, and he would be ready to make their last war to enslave and destroy the Supreme Maker’s creations. This war could be the very catalyst for that apocalypse.

Focus, Tau. Remember why you are here, and work to save what lives you can. Djinn Altis calmly reminded the Jedi clone. Do not let the enemy have this victory over you and fill you with needless fear.

Grateful for the maverick Jedi Master’s compassion and wisdom, Tau refocused his efforts, penetrating the Che’ri Mountains and came across Jaina, barely able to move, let alone help the defense. Seeing her severely weak after sensing the miasma of darkness the True Sith triggered with its planetwide genocide, it filled him with empathy for the Sword of the Jedi.

Deciding to do something to help, Tau gently washed healing energies over Jaina, easing her pain and allowing her to stand straight without any help. But while he helped reenergize her, he felt her fill his mind with information on the pogrom underway. He learned where the most dangerous hotspots were, where the largest pockets of Ascendancy-loyal Chiss and their informants were holding out, and the few defiant slaves that were hiding from their would-be murderers.

This was it. Jaina was giving Tau all the information the inbound strike teams needed to make their attack plan. Committing it all to memory, the Jedi agent silently thanked her, only for Jaina to reply out loud, “Hurry, Tau. And kick some shebs for us all when you finally get here.”

Pulled away from Jaina before he could make a wisecrack, Tau found himself heaving and sweating a torrent, back in Djinn’s flagship. Letting his eyes adjust to the bright lights and regain his bearings, he tried to speak but was too parched to utter a word.

Feeling a firm hand hold him down, he heard Iskat Akaris gingerly speak, “It’s all right, Tau. We got it. Everything Jaina told you, we know, and we’re preparing our strikes accordingly.” Able to see the Pkorian clearly, he saw her hand him a large bottle of water, who desperately drank its contents. “Try to pace yourself. We’ll be at Sunrise in about twenty hours, and we’ll need everyone at their best for this fight.”

“We always need to be at our best for any battle, Iskat.” Djinn lamented. Eyeing Tau, he knowingly stated, “I’m worried for our people and the innocents there too.”

Chugging the water down, letting the cool beverage refresh his exhausted body, Tau tearfully whispered, “We’ll have to move fast to stop this madness. What I saw… we can’t let it continue any longer.”

“We know.” Iskat sympathetically agreed. “We all can feel the butcheries, and they’re getting stronger the closer we get to Sunrise.” Knowingly eyeing Tau, she insightfully added, “You know, it’s okay to be scared. We may be Jedi, but we’re not omnipotent beings like the HoloNet often makes us out to be.”

“It’s not just the war that terrifies me.” Tau admitted. “It’s what it’ll cost us if we can win, and what it’ll do to those I care for by the end.”

“You mean Allana and Edaan.” Djinn correctly deduced, speaking of the woman Tau had feelings for and his brother. Seeing a bashful Tau, he counseled him, “It’s not a crime or burden to care for others, Tau.”

“It’s not that, well, not just that.” Tau awkwardly answered. “It’s also that I don’t know how to handle these feelings in the middle of a war.”

“Does anyone?” Iskat challenged Tau. But seeing the haunted look in his eyes, she realized what was truly troubling him, “But you’re really worried about what happens when this war ends, and what it’ll take to win it.”

“Is the future truly set?” Tau blurted out. “Is what the Cephalons foreseen the only path to triumph? Can we find a way to victory without sacrificing so much?” Looking at Djinn, he ardently pointed out, “You always preached connecting with your fellow sapients, helping the destitute, finding a better path for all over war, and avoiding double standards. What changed?”

“Tau-” Iskat tried, only for Djinn to hold out a hand before he sighed and acknowledged, “You’re right. I could very well be considered a hypocrite for my actions. I’ve helped escalate a civil war in a part of the galaxy most beings shy away from, and it’s emboldened our enemies to heights not seen in millennia.

“But through it all, I’ve always tried to help everyone I could and heal the wounds I’ve inflicted. And I dealt with my pain and fears one day at a time, just like everyone else.” Eyeing Tau, Djinn intently stated, “I see that same spirit and struggle in you and those you care for the most.”

“What you’re going through, the love and fear you have, it’s the same as everyone else in this mad cosmos. But your battles are only amplified by the power and responsibilities you wield.” Djinn reasoned. “And like Allana and everyone else, you don’t need to carry all your burdens on your own. If you try, it will consume you as it did to Anakin Skywalker and Jacen Solo.

“Just do the best you can, and trust in everyone else to do their part when the time comes. Trust in the Father of Lights to guide us through this war.” Djinn concluded. “It’s really all anyone can do in any era.”

Gingerly patting Tau’s shoulder, Djinn advised him, “Try and get a few hours rest. Once we reach the twelve-hour mark, you’ll be discharged, and you and your team will be reassigned to me and my detachment. We’ll be heading into the worst of the fighting to divert the True Sith from Jaina’s position, and I’ll need everyone in their best.”

“I’ll be ready.” Tau promised, his doubts giving way to a firm resolve to honor his elder’s wise words. But inwardly, he hoped and prayed that Allana was faring better than him and was prepared for the carnage that was consuming the Rakatan Archipelago. He put such thoughts aside and entered a healing trance to speed up his recuperation, for he knew he’d get so little rest when everyone entered the war for Sunrise.

Hyperspace, On Route to the Rakatan Archipelago

Aboard the Hapan Battle Dragon Isolder

To say Allana was stressed would be a terrible understatement. And it wasn’t merely from the impending battle and the danger everyone was about to face from the True Sith that frightened her, even as she and the rest of the Last Alliance commanders were briefed on Makatak’s peril. No matter how hard she tried to push aside the revelations the Olpakan Resolute told her, no matter what Jedi techniques or mental exercises she attempted, she couldn’t get them out of her mind.

Allana learned how the wicked Rakata, enhanced and revitalized by the Nihil Retreat’s servants, were pressing hard against their righteous brethren on Makatak. Several battalions of their soldiers had already slipped past the planet’s defense net, thereby could advance on the major settlements as the populace neared completion of their evacuation procedures. And from her cousin and his fiancée’s reports, the armies were nearly within striking distance of many city-ships, preventing them all from taking off from the heavy artillery they were setting off if anyone fled now.

Even worse, the True Sith and their partner in Mnggal-Mnggal were attacking more than just Makatak, with a dozen ships already falling to the parasitical monster’s ravenous hunger and its crew being absorbed into its being. The horrific briefings of grief and panic the few that could flee before their vessels were lost, the terror and agony they felt were etched onto Allana’s very soul, which she would never forget. And judging by her Grandpa Han’s stone-cold face, neither would he.

Of course, it didn’t help how Han faced this very plague-carrier before, decades past when encountering and fighting Project Blackwing, Darth Vader’s attempt to weaponize Mnggal-Mnggal’s essence as a bioweapon for Darth Sidious. He, Chewbacca, and a handful of Imperial prisoners and personnel, were able to escape the plague vector and stop others from suffering the same heinous fate, but not without scars of their own. That story was one he hadn’t spoken of before very many, and he would’ve kept it to himself if not for the relevance it had for the present danger. Knowing how the Cancer God operated and spread would be essential in stopping him, if he could be stopped at all.

And equally as terrifying for Allana was how she sensed the familiar and equally terrifying presence of Abeloth grow closer as she approached the Rakatan Archipelago. Having first sensed El’Shuddem’s last creation as a young girl, when she was preparing to escape the Maw Cluster and was making Jedi Knights go mad, the Chume’da felt both revulsion and pity for the evil entity at once. Knowing how she was but a tool in the Soulworm’s vengeance and the True Sith’s war of annihilation, she wondered if Tau was right and there was a way to reach the tormented woman she once was.

But more detrimental to the Hapan Jedi Knight and heiress was the horrendous fates of all her loved ones, and the tremendous burden placed on her shoulders. Everyone expected her to save the galaxy and lead it into a final age of peace and prosperity as the heiress to Anakin Skywalker, the final Chosen One in a long line of prophesied saviors. But how was she supposed to do so when she was tormented by fear and unable to bear this burden alone?

Sworn to secrecy and fiercely reprimanded by the Olpakan Resolute for telling Tau, Allan was forced to make some type of Force-based oath by Ventress that prevented her from telling anyone else. This only worsened her troubled state, and as she felt the carnage and madness grow closer, she didn’t believe she could effectively lead her detachment in battle. No matter what her grandparents and friends believed, she couldn’t be shaken out of her terrified stupor.

Oh, sure, she could pretend and hope that things would work out, that the prophecies she was burdened with were misinterpreted or completely wrong, but she knew better. No one could construct such a horrific lie and make it sound so believable, and she instinctively knew that this war wouldn’t be won without great courage and terrible sacrifices by all. And she was terrified for everyone she cared for; they would suffer terribly for a galaxy that undervalued them all, if they even survived the apocalypse.

Going through the motions while overseeing the assessment of all personnel under her command, Allana barely noticed two sets of footsteps approaching her from her station on the Isolder’s bridge. Sensing only a void where a living being ought to be, she had a fair guess as who it might be. Glancing at her side, she was vindicated when C-3PO and his Yuuzhan Vong associate, High Priest Harrar, coldly acknowledged their presence, “Did General and Master Solo send you to ask something of me?”

Harrar, the first to speak, calmly answered, “They just asked Threepio to bring you to them, but I asked to come as well. I believe there is something troubling you, terrible revelations that are crushing your spirit, and I wanted to offer you what help I can.”

Surprised by the bold admission, Allana bitterly lamented, “They shouldn’t bother with me, not with the horrors we’re about to face.”

“Oh, I wish you would speak with someone, Mistress Allana.”  Threepio fretted. “Everyone is under enough stress already without whatever troubles you now.” Seeing both priest and Jedi glare at him for his tactless words, he added, “And I am worried for you as well. Surely whatever frightens you can be solved if you tell someone you trust about this burden.”

“This isn’t a conventional problem, Threepio. And talking about it won’t change anything.” Allana regretfully brushed off. But hearing her comlink vibrate three times, she knew what that meant. Just three hours remained until the Last Alliance fleets arrived at Makatak, and the Fourth Cosmic War’s first major sacrifices would begin.

“Because you already know what will happen.” Harrar sorrowfully deduced, making Allana hitch a breath and Threepio sharply stare at the reformed Yuuzhan Vong. “Whatever you told Jedi Tau Palpatine, the young man you care for so much, while we were on Sekot, whatever is tearing your soul apart, it has to do with you and your time with the Olpakan Resolute.”

Unable to voice her surprise or confirmation, Allana silently stared as Harrar explained, “I may no longer practice the deceptive arts of my former Priesthood, but I know a series of burdensome and conspiratorial secrets when I see one. And I am considered a highly intelligent member of my people by all, so I can see patterns where most can’t.”

Kindly gazing upon Allana, Harrar sympathetically continued, “You do not have to tell me anything, Allana. I understand the crushing pains and burdens you feel. The need to change what you believe is set in stone, the fervent desire to protect those you care for, and the hunger for righteousness in a war that has so little light.”

“Because you went through this same crisis of faith as me.” Allana ruefully realized, letting out a haggard sigh. “I know your story, Harrar, and the struggles you went through… well, they were awful. But they’re not quite the same as mine.”

“I would imagine not.” Harrar amusingly smirked while he somberly continued, “Everyone’s trials are different, and my struggles were a mere microcosm of what my people suffered for millennia. But I can see in your eyes that you believe that you are marked for greatness and suffering, just as your father was.

“Jacen Solo felt the same as you, and that need for greatness, fear for his loved ones, and controlling everyone’s destiny, as I understand, were what drove him into the Sith’s arms, just as my ancestors did when we were threatened by the Abominor.” Harrar sagely reminded Allana, who, to his credit, continued before she could lambast him. “I am not saying you will fall to the dark side. But one does not need to be a disciple or convert of the Dark to do damage to those most precious to you or the innocent.”

Allana, daring to speak, carefully admitted, “I know. But it’s not just repeating my father’s sins that scares me. It is a fear that my choices, no matter what I decide in this war, will lead to ruin and death for all.”

“Mistress…” Threepio hesitated, surprising Allana at the usually talkative droid’s uncharacteristic silence. “I am one for probabilities and odds, to the ire of many, as you know. And the subject of divination has not been an area I am well-versed in. But, if you will let an old and frightened protocol droid say a few words, I may be able to offer you some advice.

“No matter how dire the situation seems, how dark a war may get and how many people lay down their lives in the coming months or years, I have seen a repeating pattern throughout the decades.

“Everyone, well, almost everyone, knows they are going to die, but it is how they choose to die and what they die for that lets the individuals live on after expiring. I could very well be destroyed in this war, as could Artoo. But I think that, if one person can live because of my destruction or deactivation, it would take comfort in that. And I know that all our friends and everyone else in your family feel the same way.”

Feeling her terrible fears abate, even if only just a little, Allana gratefully hugged a surprised Threepio, rendering him speechless at the affectionate display before she repeated the gesture to Harrar. She gratefully told both unlikely friends, “Thank you. What you both said, it helped a lot.”

“We didn’t tell you anything you didn’t already know, Allana. You merely needed to be reminded of these truths.” Harrar sagely reminded the young Human woman before he reminded her, “We’d better be escorting you to the Phoenix Whirlwind. You have a very important call to take before we enter battle.”

“Who do I have to talk with?” Allana asked before another question popped to the forefront of her mind. “Wait, you’re going to be joining us in battle, Harrar?!”

“I am not as weak and frail as many would assume me to be, Jedi Djo Solo.” Harrar lightheartedly chuckled, before seriously adding, “Facing the True Sith is as much my people’s responsibility as the Jedi’s, and I will not let my friends face this peril alone.”

“Your mother wishes to talk with you, Mistress Allana.” Threepio interjected. “She wanted to offer you a few last-minute pieces of battlefield advice and leadership techniques before we enter the fight.”

Her mood brightening at talking with her mother one last time before reentering the war, Allana energetically urged both her escorts, "Then what are we doing on this stuffy bridge?! Let’s get going!”

While leading the way for Threepio and Harrar, Allana couldn’t help but pray to the Father of Lights that, if it was possible, she could save her family and friends from the terrible fate before them. But she took a little comfort in how, if their sacrifices were the only way to achieve a lasting peace for everyone else, they would do so with light and love in their hearts.

She hoped that Tau would overcome the fears he was battling right now. Through their growing bond, Allana knew that he was terrified of the revelations she experienced and shared with him and would need someone’s wisdom to function effectively in battle. And in the name of her blossoming feelings for him, she hoped they could have some time to themselves in-between the impending carnage. As selfish and hormonal as that wish was, she enjoyed his company and wanted to get to know him better, and she knew he felt the same way.

In Wild Space

Within the Rakatan Archipelago

In the Tulpaa System

Aboard the Dominance

Drawing on her incredible connection to the Force, powered by her millennia of pain, self-loathing, and hate for her enemies, Abeloth felt herself connected with every True Sith ship in the system. With her intimate knowledge of the Nihil Retreat and Rakatan vessels that mainly made up this giant armada, she poured the dark side into these Force-powered vessels, reenergizing them to operate with such strength not seen since the height of the latter’s Infinite Empire. And with well over fifty warships that operated with such esoteric methods, not counting their twenty Nikardun and Ssi-Ruuk capital ships to boost their numbers and the Bringer of Chaos expected to help direct this fight, this protracted campaign would soon be concluded.

This reinvigoration would be crucial towards finally overrunning the Last Alliance’s defenses in the nearby Makatak System. Mnggal-Mnggal had yet to feast upon the bounties he was promised, and the Lich Lords were eager to fulfill their part of the bargain. And the rest of the Rakata under the True Sith’s spell were just as hungry for new flesh to feast on and new weapons to pilfer and utilize for their wars of conquest.

Abeloth could feel their desperate cravings, and such barbaric cruelty sickened her to her very core, just as the countless slaves the Rakata and Rhandite Sith used to power their war machines. But while she used that disgust and anger to accelerate her efforts, she made sure that her prized agent was a silent witness to this dark act, ready to deliver word to the Last Alliance before he fully defected to them. Leaving the Nikardun double agent in charge of her forces while carelessly allowing him access to her ship’s entire databases, she knew he was gathering what information he could to share with his new patrons.

Oh, General Yiv could hide his disgust and terror for the True Sith from most, for he was a brilliant and cunning military leader. But to those that were well-versed in such deceptive tools and could command the Force as the tool it was, his feelings were laid bare before them. It was why Abeloth had protected him from meeting with the Nihil Retreat’s higher-ranking members and those close to her side. If he was discovered before all was in place, then her bid for freedom and efforts to stop her competition were doomed.

Sensing another presence start approaching Abeloth, daring to disturb her efforts in her cathedral ship’s most private sanctum, the chapel where her Servants of Chaos gathered to hear her daily proclamations, she was about to smite them the second they walked through those doors. But she instantly recognized the individual as her attaché and liaison to Tor Valum and quelled her murderous impulses before they could be detected.

Briefly wondering if Meeka was sent by Tor to strengthen the wards and bindings etched onto her flesh, to try and prevent her inevitable betrayal, she restrained herself from giving voice to those fears. If the Grysk sage knew of her treachery, then he would deal with this problem himself instead of sending a neophyte to tend to it.

The steel doors slowly opening, the loud and ominous creaking echoing throughout the chapel, Abeloth put on a slightly irritated frown as the Farghul convert approached her, and reprimanded her, “I did not summon you before me now, Meeka.”

Stopping just before the throne where the Beloved Queen of the Stars sat, Meeka humbly prostrated herself before Abeloth, “A thousand humble apologies for this unwanted intrusion, my Lady. But there are several vital matters that have come before our attention I felt best to bring directly before you. One of which involves our efforts to seize Makatak, but also the meddlesome efforts of Luke Skywalker and his many new recruits, as our spies on Nirauan report.”

Her excitement and apprehension coiled together, Abeloth intuitively hoped this was the opportunity she was waiting for. Keeping her expression focused and placid, she beckoned for Meeka to continue, and the ex-mercenary elaborated, “Darths Nashtah and Haxar, they decoded several transmissions between the Last Alliance’s triumvirs. One of them details the Jedi Master’s plans to lead a force of Jedi and their allied orders to Makatak to try and break our siege.”

Her smile coiling in vicious anticipation, Meeka added, “We also have Skywalker’s itinerary and can verify the report’s authenticity. He’s left himself and his people vulnerable to a slaughter by our death squads.”

“Excellent. Truly excellent.” Abeloth commended her aide. This was the chance she needed to take Luke’s power and light for her own, but she first needed to convince Meeka of the merits of her plan.

But before she could interject, Meeka continued, her voice taking a more troubled tone, “There are several other pieces of information that require your attention. Nirauan has been searching for our spies, and they’ve correctly closed in on several of their identities.”

Genuine shock plastered across her sunken and silver eyes, Abeloth quickly took command of the situation, assuring Meeka, “Give me the identities of our agents at risk, and I will warn them of the present danger.”

And find a way to undermine their place in the Last Alliance so they can be eliminated that much easier. Abeloth silently vowed before she suggested out loud, “But onto the question of how to best deal with Luke Skywalker…”

“I cannot allow you to go after him, Abeloth.” Meeka interrupted, her voice brooking no dissent. “My orders are for you to finish preparing our forces to secure this region, which means both our vendettas against the Jedi must wait a while longer.”

“Of course.” Abeloth nodded, anticipating that decision and already having a backup plan in mind. “But I was hoping that you and the Servants of Chaos could be the ones to capture and bring him before our people and leaders.”

“Me?” Meeka apprehensively. “Forgive my impudence, my Lady, but how could I possibly capture our enemy alive when he is surrounded by countless followers?”

“By threatening the people under his care.” Abeloth sagely answered, outlining the strategy she devised to personally deliver the Jedi Master into her hands. “If you can achieve this incredible feat, then we will not only prevent the Last Alliance from reinforcing Makatak but also have a faster and more effective way to cripple their resolve.”

Seeing the final shreds of doubts vanish in Meeka’s eyes, eager to humiliate Luke and extract every piece of information he had on the True Sith’s enemies, she agreed, “I’ll prepare a force to capture him. We’ll be ready to intercept him before he gets anywhere near Makatak.”

“Excellent. But see if you can use my followers in this endeavor. They are eager to contribute to our lords’ efforts.” Abeloth advised Meeka before she dismissed the True Sith convert.

As Meeka walked away, a flurry of worries traveled through Abeloth’s mind, especially as she cut Yiv’s connection to this classified conversation. The True Sith were still one step ahead of her, even as she was closer than ever to liberation. And she knew she was being extremely reckless in her subversive efforts against the Lich Lords and their “Outer Gods.”

Her warnings to the Last Alliance, the information she leaked by using her Servants of Chaos to secret vital intelligence on the Nihil Retreat’s plans to their enemies, and her Force attacks on her most resourceful foes that hid the revelations she gave them, she was risking everything on a mad gamble. It was only a matter of time before the True Sith noticed and acted against her, so she needed to be free of their control long before then. And capturing and co-opting the Skywalker elder’s power and wisdom was integral to all this. But since she couldn’t personally oversee this effort, she just had to hope for the best, hope that the True Sith didn’t catch on to her plans, and hope that no one needlessly interfered in her efforts.

Perhaps Abeloth could use Yiv to achieve this. If the Nikardun’s last military leader passed word to Luke on the True Sith’s designs, while forcing his hand so he would fully go over to the Last Alliance with as many like minded souls and intelligence they could hold, it could be enough to lead him into her trap.

Rising from her throne, Abeloth prepared to finish empowering the invasion fleets before she reached out to her prized agent. She would have to act fast in carrying out her insane gambit, but she would meet this challenge and overcome it. For the memory of her mother and all her servants, vile as they were, victory would finally be hers.

Chapter Text

Melona 29^th, 59 ABY

Within the Unknown Regions

Deep Space, Near the Sunrise System

Aboard the Alchemy IV

Few things in this mad galaxy could perturb a man as stoic and composed as Cylo-V. He’d committed acts most beings would consider abominable, both for Darth Sidious’s Imperials and the Olpakan Hegemony, in his quest to remove the Force as an influence over all beings. And his work for the latter in expanding its influence, ranging from assassination or dissidents and enemy figures, capturing Force-sensitives for his experiments, and gathering resources and recruits from all corners of the galaxy, were enough to put him in jail for life by his enemies, if not outright execution.

But what Cylo-V was observing over Sunrise, seeing through his deep-space probes and the few communications his slicers could intercept and decode from the True Sith’s accomplices and Last Alliance interlopers, it deeply disturbed him. The massacre of hundreds of thousands of slaves, indentured workers that were serving them in unearthing large deposits of so many minerals, served no strategic value or long-term gain for the Nihl Retreat. He knew they were of a different breed of Sith than those he worked with, but this unprovoked and wasteful slaughter, it disgusted him greater than any vile act he ever committed or witnessed.

Suddenly, Cylo-V had another reason to strike Sunrise and strike a blow against the Rhandite Sith, one of a nobler sort he never expected him to uphold. While his cohorts and subordinates were ordered to destroy their enemies and eliminate worlds that would only create harm to the galaxy, he would be doing something quite different, Liberating well over eighteen million slaves from their personal hell and showing them the emerging and enlightened order the Olpakan Purists were creating, it was an unusual experience for him, but it would be a valuable learning experience for all involved.

As for the Last Alliance and its agents they sent to investigate and alleviate the world’s suffering, Cylo-V was still considering the possibilities for dealing with them. Aside from the vow to eradicate the Force from all things, the pragmatic High Councilor realized they were doing good work in keeping the True Sith’s attention away from the real danger. When the Jedi-One Sith fleets arrived to strike against the butchers, his ships would swoop in and seize all the resources and recruits they could carry.

A buzz striking his head, Cylo-V stopped his plans to answer the communication. Recognizing the contact as Vice Admiral Edmond Rampart, one of High Councilor Natasi Daala’s best subordinates and leader of the attack on the Rakatan Archipelago, he could healthily guess what his call was about. And he’d be sure to remind them to be smart in removing a terrible threat from the dejarik board.

Seeing the shortly cropped hair and deceptively friendly face of the unaltered Human military commander, Cylo-V let Edmond speak first, calmly informing the industrialist, “All my officers and flight leaders are briefed on the mission, High Councilor, and Admiral Tonith reports the same from his men. We’re all ready to set out on your command.”

“Good.” Cylo-V nodded. “Be judicious in selecting your targets, and don’t underestimate the enemy. Better we achieve a partial victory against the Rakata than risk losing two of our best fleets for foolish attempts at getting personal glory.”

“We’re not in a Sith Lord’s empire, Sir.” Edmond confidently assured Cylo-V. “If anything, I take inspiration from Grand Admiral Thrawn when he waged his wars in creating the Empire of the Hand and later against the New Republic.”

“Excellent.” Cylo-V approved. “Make sure Tonith and his subordinates understand this point to the last detail. And do not forget your contingency, should your operation prematurely end.”

Saluting his superior, Edmond vowed, “Once we finish up eradicating the Rakata, we’ll rendezvous with you and serve in whatever capacity you require of us. But I hope you can finish up without us, just as High Councilor Daala will on her end.”

“When it comes to fighting Force Users, I have learned to never assume anything and be prepared for all possibilities.” Cylo-V advised. “Good hunting to you all.”

Ending the communication, Cylo-V, through his connection to his fleet’s sensors, detected Edmond and Reep’s fleets moving out. Observing them move towards their first target while preparing to jump to hyperspace, he couldn’t help but feel a jolt of apprehension flicker through his mind.

Forty capital ships in total between the two Olpakan commanders, with another twenty-eight support ships and cruisers, was the force that was supposed to destroy the Rakatan Archipelago and its opposing patrons. No matter how many times Cylo-V went through the plan in his mind, the chances of success were notoriously slim. He recognized the reason for this atypical sensation, even if he didn’t want to believe it. He was afraid of the high odds of defeat.

Daala and her best strategists might have devised the plan, and Cylo-V might have given the attack his personal approval, but that was before the Olpakan Hegemony dissolved into civil war. With Karamazov and his Resolute spreading the Purists precariously thin across their territory, never mind the Last Alliance and True Sith breathing down their necks, he recognized the need to readjust their priorities.

It wasn’t like Cylo-V to doubt himself, but even an intelligent and evidence-based, if extremely stubborn, man, like himself, could read the writing on the wall. As it was, if the Olpakans continued fighting the entire galaxy by itself, it would meet the ash heap of oblivion that the Star Cabal and other anti-Force organizations ran themselves into.

He’d have to prepare a failsafe, or ten, to ensure the Olpakan Hegemony could live on if this war was a lost cause. If the worst came to pass and the Purists’ leadership was destroyed or apprehended, there needed to be a way to let likeminded individuals rediscover their creed and goals so they could continue and conclude their noble work. And if the Cylo network he created to make himself immortal was somehow destroyed, then it was all the more imperative to find a way to ensure his work and legacy.

But all this was conjecture and worst-case scenario thinking right now. Right now, he had a planet of slaves to free and to strike a blow against both the True Sith and Last Alliance. And theorizing over the future’s infinite possibilities wouldn’t do anyone any good. Connecting to his flock of Purgill through his neural link, he commanded the spacefaring cyborg animal to jump to hyperspace alongside the rest of his forces.

Sunrise awaited him, and he would make the next few days a lasting impact for not only the Olpakan Purists, but the entire galaxy.

Hyperspace, On Route to the Sunrise System

Aboard the Shatter-class WarMaster Fate Breaker

Empowered with more foresight and power than he’d felt in his years as a simple-minded Jedi and short-sighted Imperial Inquisitor, Tualon Yaluna showed a feral smile as he sensed the death pervade Sunrise. Even as his force and acolytes were still barreling towards the flashpoint, just over thirty-six hours away from the world, the Twi’lek could envision exactly how the coming slaughter would proceed. Meditating in his private quarters while his followers carried out more mundane matters, he enjoyed feeling the darkness spread across the galaxy.

When Tualon joined the True Sith and fully gave himself over to the ultimate power nine years ago, he was blessed with the rare ability of Darksight and utilized it to great effect in accelerating the Nihil Retreat’s war. Finding and recruiting hundreds of powerful individuals, whether they were strong in the Force or had excellent connections to expand the Way of the Dark’s influence, he helped undermine Skyriver’s very foundations and prepare for the Gods’ imminent return.

But there were many that still stubbornly adhered to their archaic beliefs, and those individuals and worlds needed to be taught the price of defiance, which was why Tualon was journeying towards Sunrise. Many on that world, one which was vital to the True Sith’s cause and a perfect testing ground for corrupting an enemy world, clung to the failed ways of their ancestors and kin, and were awaiting deliverance from their current plight.

Both the Last Alliance and Olpakan Purists, both having diverging designs for Sunrise, were finally meddling in their future overlords’ great work. The latter had prepared to strike against the True Sith and their thralls to seize the resources and recruits they needed to continue their cause. And Tualon lamented having to destroy such a brilliant mind as Cylo and his top advisors. If only the atheistic industrialist and his supporters could accept the full truth of the universe and join its rightful rulers. But they served their purpose as the perfect lightning rod to let the Nihil Retreat complete their preparations for war. Now, Daala and her confederates could be disposed of, and the Fourth Cosmic War could begin in earnest.

And the Jedi and false Sith, the true threat to the Nihil Retreat, working with the Chiss to investigate the corruption plaguing the world, had uncovered their enemies’ operations and were giving the masses false hope. But Tor Valum, a competent saboteur and administrator as he was, was unable to eradicate the enemy infiltrators alone. And with their fleets and defenders inbound towards Sunrise to try and save the world and deliver judgment on its traitors, the old Grysk would need Tualon’s help to secure the prize.

He sensed the vibrant light of several the Last Alliance and Olpakan Resolute leaders and champions bound for the same destination as him and his acolytes. And he recognized many of them from previous encounters, one he especially loathed and yearned to destroy above all others, even more than the old Jedi Order’s greatest maverick and terrible enemy to the Dark.

Iskat Akaris was still with the Resolute, and she was journeying to Sunrise to prevent the planet’s full fall to the True Sith. And Tualon, through his use of Darksight, saw his former lover fighting alongside one of the Last Alliance’s most powerful fighters, Tau Palpatine, heir to Niphal’s power and Iteration of the Jedi’s poster boy. She served as a guiding figure to the Palpatine-clone, mentoring him on the burdensome responsibilities and power he now wielded.

He sensed Iskat preparing Tau for what he would soon encounter, and Tualon knew the boy wouldn’t hesitate to strike down Sunrise’s rightful rulers and many collaborators this time around. The boy’s hesitation in striking down Abeloth in Lehon’s catacombs aside, he was prepared to do whatever he could to save the slaves from their rightful place in the Nihli Retreat’s looming cosmic empire. Such moralistic thinking nauseated the Twi’lek sorcerer, and he would take great pleasure in ruining all the fool’s hopes.

Suddenly, his orange eyes rolled back into his skull and Tualon felt a surge of images surge through his mind, his Darksight subconsciously activating and showed him many possibilities the future held. Hundreds of scenarios and events colliding all at once, his disciplined mind was able to effectively process them all with perfect clarity, even as many surprised him at their otherwise impossibility under normal circumstances.

All this occurring in an instant, Tualon felt his breath leave his decaying body, wetting his cracked lips with what little moisture his tongue still held, as he worked to commit them to record. Telekinetically calling his Sith holocron before him, he let his mind recall all he just witnessed and let the visions flow into his personal recording device.

Once this was done, Tualon would send word to the Lich Lords on the revelations he just experienced, and they would take the appropriate measures to stop the worst possibilities from occurring. As impossible as it seemed, if General Yiv and Abeloth werecollaborating with the Last Alliance to stop their plans, they needed to be eradicated at once.

Letting a vindictive smirk cross his black face, Taulon hoped he would get to see whatever punishment Rhand’s rulers would devise to punish Tor Valum for failing to control the Bringer of Chaos. Even amongst the True Sith’s countless legions and acolytes, he was exceptionally cruel to everyone, and his allies were no exception.

And the True Sith’s spies in their Last Alliance’s ranks were about to be exposed and killed, which would quite hamper their plans. Best to find a way to help them escape or inflict severe damage on their enemies’ ranks before the Nihil Retreat loses valued and powerful converts. But he was still looking forward to the impending carnage he would wreak over Sunrise throughout the next few weeks and ensure the world fully gave in to the Way of the Dark.

Within Wild Space

Ten Parsecs Away from the Rakatan Archipelago

Aboard the Jade Shadow

“Then, everything is in accord.” Luke informed Kajin, addressing the Galactic Alliance Chief of State from his cockpit after hearing his summation of the recent talks between the Jedi Master’s agents and all the galaxy’s leaders.

“On all major points, Master Skywalker.” Kajin clarified. “But your proposal will still need to be ratified through each body’s government, even if we must be covert about it. Given the True Sith and Olpakan Purists’ agents and collaborators' efforts against us, we’ll need discretion and unity in ironing out the amendment to the Galactic Constitution. And there will still be many minor details to iron out in the next sessions of talks.”

Sighing, the Cerean head of state ruefully acknowledged, “Still, given the One Sith and enemy Olpakans’ acts of sabotage and terror across so much of Coruscant, I can’t imagine the Senate having much opposition at your agency’s aid in ferreting out any True Sith collaborators and consider your brave proposals.”

“Among our other plans regarding the Galactic Alliance and its sister governments.” Luke pointed out before adding, “I can’t imagine the Chiss will handle my proposal with as much grace and poise as you, Head of State Fel, and the Prime Minister Teppler have, never mind the Mandalorians and Hutts.”

“That’s yours and your people’s problem, I’m afraid. It was your idea, which means it’s your hurdle to overcome.” Kajin held his hands up in joking fear, earning an amused smile from Luke before the Chief of State insightfully suggested, “Although, since the Ascendancy and Mandos have had their own share of Sith infiltrators and traitors, they don’t have very much political ammunition or much moral high ground to use against you this time around. And the Hutts, well, I’m sure they’ll swallow their pride this time around, or you can always try and cut a fair deal with them.”

Luke genuinely chuckled at Kajin’s bold words of wisdom before his holocomm began chiming again. Not expecting any other messengers at this time, Luke cautiously examined the transmission code before immediately recognizing the holosignal. Turning to Kajin, he politely and formally apologized, “I’m afraid I need to end this call, Chief of State Yimmon. The Millennium Falconis hailing me, likely an update on the campaign in the Rakatan Archipelago.”

Nodding in understanding, Kajin professionally gestured, “Another time, Master Jedi. Good hunting out there.”

Nodding in appreciation before disconnecting the call, Luke keyed in the Millennium Falcon’s holofrequency, and waited no more than thirty seconds before the signal was securely established enough to generate a strong image of his twin sister. Once the hologram was strong, he greeted Leia, “I’m glad to hear from you. I have good news to report on our covert front, and I’m closing in on Makatak with my detachment.”

“Then it’ll be better than what I have for you.” Leia tiredly answered. Seeing Luke’s worried frown, she clarified, “It’s not an apocalyptic report yet, but it’s just about as dark and crazy.”

Seeing a conflicted look on Leia’s face, one well-concealed behind decades of diplomatic, military, and Jedi training, Luke guessed, “Something happened to someone in our family.”

Regretfully nodding, Leia began, “It’s about Allana. She’s been deeply suffering because of the Olpakan Resolute and whatever burden they’ve forced onto her.”

Listening with full attention as Leia detailed what Harrar told her, Luke silently lamented for Allana over the responsibilities and fears she now carried. And he felt a cold anger for the Resolute for how they tactlessly and cruelly thrust his great-niece against the True Sith and their evil false gods, even if their intentions couldn’t be nobler.

Luke may not know the full scope of the secrets Allana carried, but he could make an educated guess as to many of them. Remembering the visions and of Jacen’s warnings to him when he went into Beyond Shadows where she would lead the galaxy into a just age with peace and freedom for all, but facing evils no ordinary mind could comprehend, he was certain this war was the prelude to this era, even if there was much that remained a mystery for him.

And Luke was especially surprised when he learned how she told Tau everything, even if he was sworn to secrecy alongside her. But when Harrar correctly guessed Allana’s growing feelings for Tau, he was both surprised and mortified. When did she develop romantic feelings for the Jedi clone, or was it just transference of her old crush for Edaan? And did the young man feel the same way about her? So many questions to ask, but there was no time for him to get them answered.

Before Luke could utter another word, the Jade Shadow’s holocomm began igniting, with the signal cutting out altogether a few seconds later as the ship’s console suddenly burst into flames, and the vessel was spontaneously pulled out of hyperspace. The ship’s fire suppression systems immediately came online, foam spewing out to stop the flames, and he struggled to figure out what was happening to his ship before he felt an unfathomably strong presence fast barreling towards him.

Recognizing the power and who it belonged to, Luke knew exactly who she was coming for and set out to repair enough of the cockpit’s systems to plot a hyperspace jump, determined to protect his charges from her and whoever else she might have brought to capture or destroy him.

Such efforts are futile when they compare to me, Skywalker. You ought to remember that from all our past battles. The entity’s ethereal voice echoed through Luke’s skull, before Abeloth’s use of the Force kept him pinned in his ship’s pilot’s chair. But you need not worry about the motley crew of Jedi Knights that you’re herding against the Nihil Retreat and their Rakata. I only want you for now. For the moment, your learners and compatriots are inconsequential to me.

If you surrender to my associate the moment she arrives, your fellow Jedi and the rest of your forces will be free to fight another futile day. If you refuse or your people offer any resistance, then Meeka will deliver onto them a fate worse than death itself.Abeloth warned Luke before she departed from his mind.

Sensing the penumbra of darkness fast approaching the Last Alliance flotilla where it was performing its final recalibrations before entering battle, Luke knew he had to move quickly to protect his people. Knowing how Meeka, the former leader of the Crimson Nova Bounty Hunters’ Guild and vicious Jedi hunter, just as her mother and grandmother before her, would never pass up the chance to slaughter many of her enemies, he had to take matters into his own hands.

The Jade Shadow’s systems finishing a hard reboot, with its comms array coming back online first, Luke recognized what was happening, as impossible as it seemed. Immediately getting to work, knowing how he had precious little time before the True Sith’s trap snared shut, he set out a fleet-wide transmission, urgently warning all, “I’m going to open a wormhole just outside the Makatak System. All ships need to be through it before the enemy arrives.”

Then contacting Thull Vandorn, leader of the Thrysus Sun Guard and longtime ally of the Jedi Order, through a private comm signal, Luke told him, “I’m entrusting complete command of our forces over to you. Get the rest of our people to the battlefield and give my last wishes to my family.

“Don’t try to stop me, old friend, and don’t ask me how I know this. But if I don’t give you all this chance to escape, then you’ll all be slaughtered.” Luke sternly ordered the paramilitary leader.

Immediately shutting down the comm array to let him focus, Luke envisioned the Rakatan Archipelago, a region infested by the dark side and its countless thralls and acolytes, held back by a few pinpricks of light. He felt his son and future daughter-in-law sense his efforts, their determination and fears, and gave them a soft assurance that everything would be okay.

But quickly working on ripping a hole in the fabric of time and space, Luke felt the incredible strain of maintaining such an effort without letting the shockwaves strike all those in its path. Opening the wormhole while struggling to keep it open, he felt an iota of relief when the Jedi and allied Force schools began entering the shortcut.

The encroaching darkness, almost upon them, sensed this act of defiance and tried to retaliate against Luke. Mentally attacking him with enough force to give him whiplash, Meeka, impossible as it was for her to use the Force, he nearly lost control of his creation before he felt a few souls of light come to his aid.

Knowing what this boost of energy meant, Luke tried to urge the ten Jedi to fall back but felt their pure certainty over their course of action. These defiant souls were sacrificing their lives to let their comrades escape and give their former leader the strength to continue the wormhole. Such bravery touched his old heart, even as he mourned whatever grisly fate the True Sith would devise for them. But he would not let them fall today.

Just as the first group of True Sith warships exited hyperspace, Luke used the rest of his depleting strength to let the wormhole sweep over the last group of Jedi. Ensuring they were securely moved with all their compatriots, he then let himself fall unconscious, satisfied how he could save a few more souls from suffering a terrible fate before such an end came for him.

On the other hand, if Luke was right and the Force and Maker had more planned for him as he suspected, then his role in helping the galaxy wasn’t over, not nearly close. And he would do everything possible to make this chance count, insane as it might seem now.

Within the Unknown Regions

In the Olpakan Hegemony

At the Olpaka System’s Outskirts

Aboard the Ballista-class Cruiser Bright Reaper

Witnessing how the Olpakan Purists enacted a total lockdown over their territory’s capital world while invade their mortal enemy’s main headquarters, both naval leaders had to give Daala credit for her well-honed military mind. Julius Gaia especially recognized the massive coordination and strength of her efforts, even as he was disgusted by her people’s barbarity and short-sighted mindset.

While the Aquilian Navy’s best pilots and scout ships reconnoitered the Olpaka System to gather a clear picture of the enemy’s formation and find what vulnerabilities they could, the rest of the Last Alliance prepared to, Maker willing, bring Daala down for good. But even with their overwhelming numbers and inside knowledge of the Purists’ tactics and methods, victory wasn’t anywhere near certain.

Everyone present knew how unpredictable Daala was, and if she had the weapons Vlad’s agents warned them of, then the Last Alliance had to tread carefully. No one wanted to be responsible for a galactic outbreak of Alpha Red, the Yuuzhan Vong’s extinction, and the death of Zonama Sekot, never mind the possibility of star systems going supernova through her resonance torpedoes if the mad despot felt she was backed into a corner.

But the Aquilian’s bravest and noblest High Admiral was tired of letting Daala get away with her atrocities, and Julius knew that she needed to be brought down by bold and decisive action. Which was why he was prepared to force the rest of the Last Alliance into attacking if it spent much longer dithering about. Everything was prepared for their ground assault forces to launch and break the siege of Orromol, while their fleets would hold off the Purists and give the Resolute time to recover and retaliate.

What in the blazes were Bwua’tu and Krayt waiting for, a personal sign from the Supreme Maker to give them the go-ahead to attack?! The longer everyone waited, the stronger Daala and Raze’s positions would get, and the less time the Resolute had before it was broken by their onslaught.

The Bright Reaper’s communications officer urgently reported to Julius, “Sir, we’re intercepting a transmission coming from Orromol. It has the Resolute leader’s personal comm signature.”

A message from Karamazov, now of all times? Perplexed at the interruption, Julius was about to inquire for more information when the officer continued explaining, “It’s being broadcast across the entire system, on all Olpakan comm frequencies.” Keying in his equipment, he gaped a moment before he elaborated, “I believe he’s trying to testify against the Hegemony and its evils.”

“Sir, we have a new set of orders coming in!” The cruiser’s XO reported, brusquely walking towards Julius and handed him a datapad.

Reading through Bwua’tu’s orders, he quickly understood the delay in attacking and let out a breath of relief before he ordered his officers, “Put me through to Bwua’tu right away, and prepare all ships to move out on my command.”

Seeing the hologram of the veteran Bothan appear, Julius blithely joked, “For a little while, I was worried you’d lost your nerve.”

“Apologies for keeping you in the dark like that, but we had to make our deception look as convincing as possible. And we need to make our strike as surgical as possible so we can deal with the enemy commanders as quickly and bloodlessly as possible.” Bwua’tu humbly answered before he gravely warned Julius, “And we needed to verify Karamazov’s intelligence in Daala receiving dozens of prototype weapons from Cylo and his scientists, which won’t be easy to counter or neutralize.”

His respect for the GA Supreme Commander rising higher, Julius assured Bwua’tu, “We’ll manage, especially now that you have all the information we’ll need to finalize our attack plan.”

“Actually, we’re preparing to deploy our forces right as we speak.” Bwua’tu responded. “I’m transmitting to you your attack vector and selection of targets, along with the enemy’s positions and the Resolute’s secure comm frequency.”

Amazed at how comprehensive Bwua’tu planned out the attack down to the last detail, from the enemy’s responses, the routes the Last Alliance’s strike teams would take to Orromol, and the expected losses, Julius felt his hopes buoyed from this information. With everything accounted for, even the possibility of the True Sith barging in, he knew this fight was all but won for the forces of light. But he lamented at how this would likely be another escape for Daala, even as the seeds of her final defeat and the Olpakan Republic’s rebirth would be deeply sown.

Still, if Edaan, Darth Krayt, the Skiratas, and their many teams did their duty and ensured the Resolute’s survival, then the Aquilian high admiral would consider this a good day. And another chance to humble a warmonger like Daala and her confederates was a bonus for him.

His division jumping to hyperspace, Julius compartmentalized his distracting thoughts and emotions, focusing only on the battle he and his people were set to enter. He only prayed that the casualties would be far below the worst estimates and that the Purists would get what they deserved in this crushing defeat.

In Wild Space

Along the Rakatan Archipelago’s Western Border

Aboard the Keldabe-class battleship Ursa

Even if she couldn’t utilize the Force, Kopri recognized the signs of being lured into a trap all too well and was grateful that she and her peers trusted their instincts. The True Sith were supposed to have near-total control over the Rakata’s last refuge, and they would surely notice the large enemy fleet about to storm their domain. But so far in their journey, they’d encountered no opposition, even as word filtered in of the enemy’s large buildup of military forces across the region.

It was only through her well-honed hunch and the Last Alliance’s Force-sensitive leaders that their fleet didn’t walk right into it. Just at the Rakatan Archipelago’s borders, Keyan Farlander, a well-experienced Galactic Alliance general and onetime Jedi Knight, along with Darth Snoke, recognized an old tactic they’d seen used to devastating effect in the Yuuzhan Vong War.

Having their fleet stop, the former Jedi-turned-leaders ordered their ships to open fire into what should’ve been open space. But when the blasts triggered well over one hundred miniature black holes across the region, they knew they were witnessing the return of the dovin basals and all their destructive potential.

And these organic weapons were augmented to levels no veteran of the Yuuzhan Vong’s invasion ever saw before. The gravitational force of these dovin basals, at least ten times stronger than their predecessors and far more durable to destruction, were keeping the entire Last Alliance fleet from reaching their destination.

Aside from creating an interdiction field that prevented the True Sith’s enemies from continuing towards Makatak, there was a malignant will towards these newer dovin basals. It was like each one was sentient, able to think for itself and desired to destroy anyone who stood against them or their creators.

But the Last Alliance fleet had no time left for delays, not with the dire reports Kopri’s Force-aware peers sensed occurring across the region. She knew the situation was dire, but if Keyan and Snoke were correct in their warnings, Luke Skywalker was captured by the True Sith’s servants, and they were trying to unleash Mnggal-Mnggal against Makatak’s defiant populace so he could devour them all.

They couldn’t wait any longer, and Kopri was ready to urge her fellow commanders to open one of their wormholes so everyone could bypass this interdiction field. If there was a way to neutralize the dovin basals, it was far beyond her means and understanding. She was a soldier, and she needed to be in the thick of the fighting again.

The Ursa’s communications array activating without any warning, the familiar spherical form of the high-profile Silentium agent Vuffi Raa appearing, and his deep voice reverberated across the bridge, “I’m glad to see that you all avoided the Nihil Retreat’s trap. But in case you aren’t aware, this isn’t the time for you to be resting on your laurels.”

Irritation creeping up on Kopri, she frustratingly told Vuffi, “If you know a way to destroy these black holes, then you can gladly help us out. Otherwise, I’m afraid we’re stuck here. Nothing we’ve done to destroy them so far has worked.”

“I am aware of your situation, Colonel Wren. That’s why I’ve brought along help to neutralize this defensive line.” Vuffi assured Kopri before her ship’s tactical monitors picked up six dozen new arrivals appear, all transmitting Last Alliance signals. While many of the ships were the size of corvettes, there were at least fifteen Aquilian and Hapan warships escorting them.

Confused at the reinforcements, Kopri was prepared to ascertain their plan when Snoke interrupted, asking, “You really believe the solution is so simple?”

“If these dovin basals were empowered by the dark side and are controlled by them, it would make sense that a concentrated burst of light side energy could render them inert.” Vuffi explained before he elaborated, “We already tested the theory against many dovin basals on the way here, and we succeeded.”

“Then you brought so many Jedi and their friends here, to give us a path forward.” Keyan realized.

“Exactly, General.” Vuffi answered, before he anxiously warned the three leaders, “But we will need to act fast if you hope to make it to Makatak in time to make a difference. Both the True Sith and Olpakans are moving against us, and they won’t stop until all we stand for is destroyed.

“The Olpakans, those that answer to Daala and her fellow fanatics, are striking the suns across the Rakatan Archipelago to destroy all its worlds. They’ve already triggered the incineration of all life across the Hilak and Malata Systems, and they are moving against the remaining five systems.”

Appalled at Daala’s sheer brutality and callousness, even if she wasn’t surprised, Kopri couldn’t help but seethe, “She won’t stop until she grinds everything into dust.” Remembering Snoke and Keyan’s earlier warnings, she cautiously asked, “What about Master Skywalker’s fleet? Did they make it to Makatak?”

“Yes, but not without a casualty of their own.” Vuffi regretfully affirmed. “Luke was captured by the True Sith after ensuring his fleet escaped their ambush. But that isn’t the worst of this situation, I’m ashamed to say.”

Clutching his head for a moment, likely from some Force-induced headache, Snoke painfully gritted out, “What else is going on at Makatak?”

“The True Sith just got a ship to the planet’s surface that is controlled by Mnggal-Mnggal, and he’s already spreading like a wildfire across its jungles and lakes.” Vuffi anxiously admitted before he added, “I do wish I had better news to give you all.”

Snoke and Keyan’s headaches getting worse, both former Jedi nearly fainting from an unseen pain, Kopri wanted to help, but couldn’t figure out what was bothering them. Vuffi then apologized, “It seems the effort to counter these dovin basals is proving just as arduous as with the last group.”

Before Kopri could ask any more questions, her sensors’ officer reported, “Ma’am, something’s happening to the interdiction field. It… it seems to be shrinking.”

Realizing what was happening, Kopri ordered her officers, “Have all ships ready to go to hyperspace when I give the order. We’re about to get our opening towards Makatak, and there’s no telling how long it’ll stay open.” Seeing Snoke and Keyan slowly recover from their agonizing migraines, she remorsefully urged them both, “You’d better take some painkillers for this, because I think we’ll be facing those monstrosities a lot more often soon enough.”

Within the Tulpaa System

Aboard the Tulpaa Star Forge

The Jedi and many worlds and cultures often proclaim how being brought low is the beginning of wisdom. Once, even a few months ago, Abeloth would’ve scoffed at such a notion. Deluded in her conviction that she was destined to rule the stars and needed no one else’s wisdom to guide her, she repeated the same efforts to attain ultimate power and rise above all others, no matter how she failed in every attempt.

But now, after being ensnared by the True Sith, forced to do their bidding, and watch as others like Abeloth in self-destructive megalomania tried to raze the galaxy and rule over the remains, she amended her earlier stance. Watching how Natasi Daala and those like her shatter a mighty empire like the Olpakan Hegemony and turn it against itself, it was the wakeup call she needed to see the folly of her path. Just like her mother and the power-mad Human, she believed because she had great power and knowledge, she was destined to establish a new dominion over the galaxy, no matter how it was achieved.

Only now, the galaxy was united against both Abeloth and Daala, and both were pawns of entities that made the former quiver in terror from their bottomless malevolence and unrelenting power. And the Bringer of Chaos, ostensibly touring the Star Forge and ensuring the True Sith’s defenses were at full capacity to repel the Olpakan Purists’ paltry attack, she grasped how this war would end, even if it meant the end for her.

While Abeloth examined the Tulpaa Forge and made sure its lesser facilities were fully active across the Nihil Retreat, she once more peered into Daala’s mind, seeing her obsessive and demented drive to destroy the Olpakan Resolute and their newest patrons. No matter who stood against the Human warlord, who tried to reason with her or turn her away from her wicked path, no one could stop this broken woman from unleashing her wrath on everyone. It was a fanatical drive she recognized all too well in herself.

Only death would set Daala free from the hate that consumed her, just as it would for those that followed her in this attack, like that poor Darman Skirata, about to fight and be defeated by his own son while he massacred all who opposed him. And the rest of the Last Alliance, determined to bring their enemies to justice, would give it their all to win this fight, even if they would never foresee what heinous acts the Olpakan Purists would commit to continue their festering vendetta a little while longer.

Not even the reports from Meeka on how Luke Skywalker was now in her custody and was being delivered to her was enough to shake her from all these demoralizing realizations. Even if she would soon be free of the True Sith’s control and chart her own course once again, she lamented all the misery and devastation she wrought across an already wounded Skyriver and its grieving souls.

The first thing Abeloth would do when emancipated from her shackles, she would ensure Daala and her would-be cultists were brought down by her personal hand. How ironic, that after she once manipulated the disgraced head of state to try and take control of the Galactic Empire, she would dispose of her like the rabid beast she truly was. And eventually, she would then meet the same oblivion she so keenly and rightly deserved.

Hearing a soft whisper behind her, the words incomprehensible but their meaning and origins perfectly clear to her, Abeloth glanced behind her, daring to hope to see him one last time. But seeing only her Servants of Chaos and True Sith attaches escorting her, she realized that Elegast wasn’t there. It was likely a trick of her grieving mind, desperate for the Celestial that once adored and cherished her before she betrayed his trust, just as she did to Eipha and Niphal.

Quickly forcing the ancient heartache from her mind and heart, Abeloth felt the familiar presence of her personal advisor returning. And imprisoned by Meeka was an old enemy she instantly recognized, filling her with grim but fierce anticipation over what was about to happen.

How ironic, the Sith Code spoke of how the Force would free one from chains, only for their lie to be a truth in this rare instance. And it would be a perfect mockery of their deceptions to use it against them as she was set to wage her own war on the Nihil Retreat and all their pawns.