Lord vivec
Know what you're doing yet?
- Joined
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Not even possible considering no one in the entire history of the sith nor jedi order ever did what u say is possible. Not even other people that lose limbs to them.
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A New Player in the Force (SW/Lite Gamer)
- Thread starter USSExplorer
- Start date
Not even possible considering no one in the entire history of the sith nor jedi order ever did what u say is possible. Not even other people that lose limbs to them.
ForgottenSovereign
nilgh'rinah aimgr'luhh ahorna ain'ghft vulgtmnah
- Joined
- Nov 11, 2020
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Darth Krayt AND Darth Nihl both had organic replacements.
Also from a wiki after a lightsaber duel with Cade Skywalker:
"Immediately after Skywalker's escape, Nihl was tended to by Maladi and Wyyrlok, along with Talon and Krayt. Though the latter was not injured, Nihl and his fellow Hand were hurt extensively, and Maladi was put in charge of their healing. Since the Nagai's arm was cleanly cut, Maladi offered to have it reattached, but Krayt refused; Nihl's incompetence had failed the Sith, and Krayt felt that he was no longer worthy of his arm as a result. Instead, Nihl was to receive a Yuuzhan Vong bioform replacement for his severed limb."
random123abc
Getting some practice in, huh?
- Joined
- Jan 24, 2024
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- 5
Never watched Rebels, nor from the clips, do I want to.
I watched Ashoka, and regretted everything about it.
That was not Thrawn. That wasn't even a discount Thrawn.
That... thing...
You may like the Rebels version of Thrawn, But sadly he only shows up during the third season if I remember right. And only has about 1 - 1 1/2 hours time in the whole series. I don't remember exactly how he was in the books, (been quite a while) but from what I heard others saying its somewhat close to who he was in the books.
ForgottenSovereign
nilgh'rinah aimgr'luhh ahorna ain'ghft vulgtmnah
- Joined
- Nov 11, 2020
- Messages
- 99
Contrary to their idea that it is impossible to reattach, Star Wars Legacy Issue #27 "The cut is clean. If we move quickly, there should be no problem reattaching the arm." The arm in question being removed via lightsaber. Just need to do it quickly for it to be No Problem.
LuciferBael
Mand'alor Te Talyc
- Joined
- Dec 16, 2020
- Messages
- 238
He. . . . was not close at all tbh, he was way more hot tempered, he couldnt out down a single rebel cell with speed (and a band of rebels that just. . . werent really that impressive intelligence wise)and a few other things i remember irking me but can't quite pull to mind
Chazamataz7
Getting some practice in, huh?
- Joined
- Jul 21, 2022
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- 6
I thought of a cool anti-force-user weapon that Cam could have built and kept in his inventory that would take advantage of his
Cam would teleport to place it at a location a few hundred meters from where he expect the battle to take place, pull the tripod out of his inventory, place it on the ground,
then he would teleport back into range of the battle.
As he would fight, he would taunt his opponent that after the battle he would post the holovid of their humiliating defeat at his hands to the holonet.
Unknown to his opponent, the tripod would also have a special claymore-type mine that it would keep aimed right at the center of the battle.
The claymore would be extra-special, in that it would use the taozin's imitation duracrete formed into flechettes as the projectiles, instead of any normal matter.
The claymore would be set to detonate on a coded signal from Cam's armour.
Cam's armour would easily tank the projectiles, but any unarmoured force user fighting him would be facing a world of hurt, facing scores of small, fast moving missiles that cannot be sensed in the force, or deflected with TK.
I wouldn't have been as dramatic as the battle you wrote, though, but I think it would be funny.
- Beskar armor
- Ability to teleport
- Reputation for thinking himself more capable than he actually is
- Unique items that he has found in his adventures
Cam would teleport to place it at a location a few hundred meters from where he expect the battle to take place, pull the tripod out of his inventory, place it on the ground,
then he would teleport back into range of the battle.
As he would fight, he would taunt his opponent that after the battle he would post the holovid of their humiliating defeat at his hands to the holonet.
Unknown to his opponent, the tripod would also have a special claymore-type mine that it would keep aimed right at the center of the battle.
The claymore would be extra-special, in that it would use the taozin's imitation duracrete formed into flechettes as the projectiles, instead of any normal matter.
The claymore would be set to detonate on a coded signal from Cam's armour.
Cam's armour would easily tank the projectiles, but any unarmoured force user fighting him would be facing a world of hurt, facing scores of small, fast moving missiles that cannot be sensed in the force, or deflected with TK.
I wouldn't have been as dramatic as the battle you wrote, though, but I think it would be funny.
The Phantom Menace 6
USSExplorer
Doing what's necessary, even if it causes chaos
- Joined
- Mar 4, 2019
- Messages
- 474
A/N:
As always, thanks to those helping me write and plan out this story and checking it for continuality and logic errors.
This chapter was released at least 3 weeks ago to my Patreons (with them seeing a draft version around 2 months ago) and on the story's Discord server (in GDoc form) about a week ago.
Links for both are at the end of the chapter.
Hopefully, all the little mistakes have been found and removed.
Yes, this chapter is far longer than normal, but that's so everything can be handled in one go.
I sat on one of a half-dozen medical beds inside a private ward of the royal palace of Naboo. The man examining my lower arm, or more accurately, where my elbow had once connected to it, ran a scanner over the burnt, sealed flesh. He wasn't, as Padmé first insisted, one of the Naboo doctors, but a fellow Mando'ade. I'd told the Queen that her people needed more help, and I knew the wound was already sealed and not infected; one odd upside of a wound coming from a lightsaber and not a vibroblade, which was why I had a Mando'ade medic giving me the once-over.
While I was glad to have survived Maul, and relieved that, in the end, the various tools I'd prepared for fighting him had worked, the fact I'd lost my forearm had to be some sort of sick joke by the Force or TPTB. I wasn't Anakin or Luke and wasn't set up as the Chosen One, yet I'd suffered the same injury as they had. The only difference was that I'd lost my left forearm whereas they'd both lost their right.
Still, from what I'd felt from Anakin, something had happened to him at the same time, so perhaps it was my connection to the true Chosen One that had resulted in me losing my forearm.
"The bacta has done its job," the medic, Mij Gilamar said, drawing me from thoughts about why I had to suffer this injury, "and there's no hint of infection. There is some damage done to the nerve endings, however, the wound was cauterised instantly by the lightsaber, saving you from any complications. Though that fact is also why the limb would be extremely difficult to restore." I nodded, understanding that issue, as while the wound was clean, Maul's lightsaber had burnt away around an inch of flesh, so if I had the hand reattached, my left arm would be fractionally shorter than my right.
"Small mercies," I muttered with a dark chuckle.
"Yes," Gilmar replied. "I can forward you a list of Mandalorian companies that specialise in replacement limbs so you can decide on what sort of replacement you wish to get."
"I didn't realise there were options." I was playing dumb as I knew Adonai's replacement leg had several after-market modifications, including – according to Bo – a built-in launcher with three rockets similar to those she used in her vambrace. What I wanted to learn about was what my options were regarding modifications for my replacement limb, and how easy it would be to hide those changes from detection by others.
"There's a large range, going from a thousand credits up to, I'm told, close to a million. The materials used in the cover and internal circuitry, along with hidden compartments of weapons. Something I'm told Alor Adonai has in his leg, though that's not something I can speak to. That said, from the other Mando'ade that I know with replacements, a hidden blaster is the most basic advantage taken from the mechanical limb." I nodded as he continued. "Though I suspect that those alterations won't be popular with either the Republic or the Jedi Order."
I chuckled and held up my left arm, displaying the missing limb. "If I'd have fought as a Jedi I'd have lost far more than just a forearm," I said with a dark chuckle.
"Fair enough," Gilamar replied with a smile. "Nor, I suspect, would you have reached out for warriors to march under your banner." While he was being friendly, there was something in his tone that had me pause.
"I wasn't trying to make a statement with the move." That was true, as while I was grateful so many had answered my call – be it because of loyalty to me, Adonai or Torrhen, or the promise of credits – I'd noticed that since Naboo was freed even Mando'ade who had held issues with my status as a Jedi seemed more tolerant of me. Not to the point that I didn't think it was still an issue, but to the extent many, if not most of the gathered Mando'ade saw me fully as one of their own. It hadn't reached a point where I'd caught suggestions I should become a leader of our people, but the hints – such as in Gilamar's tone – meant I knew I'd have to speak with Adonai, Torrhen, and others about how my actions might be misconstrued.
"I understand that, but to others, it could be seen as a statement of intent," Gilamar countered with a friendly smile. "Your status as an Alor, even one from a very minor clan, and your alliances with Houses Kryze and Ordo aside, for any Mando'ade to send out a call to arms, and have so many warriors respond, and unite under their banner, is something that others will take note of. Especially, at least to some, that you also found worthy allies to fight beside us in the Lokella." He chuckled softly. "To those already predisposed toward you, due to your heritage or verd'goten, these actions will resonate. To those who weren't, it will place your name upon their lips; either as a threat to their intentions or as someone they might have use for."
"I have no interest in trying to lead our people."
Gilamar leaned back, raising his palms defensively. "I never said you did, nor, as a Jedi, would I expect you to have it. However, to others, especially those with desires to lead our people – for better or worse – the mere chance you might is something they'll have to consider." He smiled as he stood. "Remember, that you are the first to defeat a Darjetii since before the Dral'Han; and that you did so as Mando'ade and not Jedi also affirms your stance as aligned with our people over the Jedi and Republic." He placed a hand on my right shoulder. "To many, even those with no wish to have the Clans unite, that, when combined with the number that fought under your banner, means something. Especially after another devastating war."
"Again, I don't plan to or want to lead our people. The fact I'm a Jedi as well means I simply can't." That said, I understood his thinking. It would be better, perhaps, if the Mandalorians united under the banner of someone else. Yes, I'd have to follow that person as Mando'ade myself, but having that sort of might as an ally may well be more useful than having it directly under my control. I expected it would also remove most of the issues with commanding a nation that, if the numbers I'd heard were right, numbered in the hundreds of millions, if not billions spread across the galaxy.
"That is something you will, perhaps, one day have to reconcile, as I did. Perhaps, even choose between the laws of the Republic and the Resol'nare. Know though that, as long as the Mando'ade and the Republic don't find themselves at war, I would be happy to consider you a friend."
"Vor entye Mij," I said, accepting the offer and extending my good arm.
He laughed gently as he grasped my forearm. "Ba'gedet'ye Cameron. Though it is I, and others, who should thank you." After that, we broke the clasp. "Now, I think I'll head to see if the local medics need any help. While there were few injuries among our people," he glanced behind me, to the bacta tank that supported Serra, "or the Lokella, the Naboo suffered greatly. As did the Gungans. I and the other medically trained Mando'ade have offered our services to help with the wounded, though Queen Amidala was insistent that you be checked first."
"Since you've finished then, I won't keep you." He gave me a final nod and smiled before leaving the ward. That left me alone in the place. Well, besides Serra, but she was in no condition to speak with me, and Fenrir who was resting at the base of the tank containing Serra, chewing on the remains of a battledroid that he'd had ever since the battle had ended. Fenrir had been there ever since Serra had been brought in and placed in the tank as if guarding her.
Fenrir had few marks on his skin, some from blasters and others from lacerations that didn't appear to have gone deep, but otherwise looked fine. A doctor had tried to scan him, but they'd scampered away when Fenrir had growled loudly at the unwanted attention.
When Gilamar had arrived, Bo and Naz had been with him, the pair pleased to see I was safe – bar the missing limb – and Bo had spent time checking on Serra as she floated in the tank. Bo had seemed off when she turned back from the tank, and Observe revealed she felt as if Serra's injuries – and the death of Master Drallig – were in some way her fault. I'd talk with her later about that, and hopefully clear the air, but before I could do so the pair had, at my insistence, left.
While the battle was won, Theed was in ruins and Padmé needed everyone she could get to search the rubble for survivors and bodies. Plus, if Bo remained here, having to keep seeing my lost arm and Serra's condition, I feared she might become depressed. Helping search for survivors would distract her for a while. At least until I could talk with her about what I feared had happened to Anakin. Still, with them and now Gilamar gone, I was left in my own thoughts, which centred around my friend and lover in the bacta tank.
The constant, steady beeping from the tank for her vitals filled the now silent room as the bacta worked to heal her myriad of physical wounds. Those she would recover from soon enough, but the mental wound of losing her Master – and the closest thing she had to a father – because of choices she made, was one that would take a year, or longer, to heal.
Not only did losing Drallig have major repercussions for Serra, but it would massively affect the Jedi Order. The High Council would want answers as to why he was even here, something Serra would have to face censure for, along with comments from other Padawans, and I would also be questioned for allowing my emotions to influence my choice to let her come along.
However, for all that, the biggest issue Serra was going to have with what happened here would be regarding my choice for Maul's fate. Yet, with what I knew was brewing now with Sidious as Chancellor – though I'd yet to have it confirmed – I needed insight into any plans Maul was privy to.
That could wait though, as I first had to figure out where to store him, and how, and then work to recover from our first battle, hopefully to surpass him so that when we fought again it was clear I was the better fighter. Otherwise, I doubt he'd ever consider speaking with me, never mind the more insane ideas I had for using him to help bring about the end of the Banite Sith.
However, thoughts about the future and what it would bring for me, Serra, and Maul were things I could consider over the next few days. As was heading to see Anakin and learn what had caused him to shout into the Force with such strength and pain. For now, with time alone to think, I turned my mind to the Interface, or more accurately, the messages that had come once the battle for Naboo was confirmed to be over. I'd already read them, but I still pulled them back up, wanting to go over them once again and consider my choices now that I'd finally reached Level 30.
LEVEL UP!
Level: 29 -> 30
FP: +650
PPP: +1
PP: +2
STAM: 43
SP: +6
SKP: + 41
...
Even though I'd read that before, I was still impressed with the choice I had for reaching Level 30, and how either option had the potential to be amazing. However, the more time I had to consider them, the more I was leaning toward Natural Evolution. While it had a lower Skill tier available and would cost me some training with the Force, the ability to match – or even surpass – beings like Yoda, Windu, Sidious and Plagueis wasn't something I could ignore.
As I'd seen with Maul, with the limits currently in place, I simply couldn't engage a Council member or higher – before leaving Maul with Osto to be taken from the battlefield, I'd used Observe on him to discover he was Level 36. I needed to improve, yet Player+ only took me to the level of a High Council member, which given how those who'd come with Windu had done against Sidious simply wasn't high enough to be capable of stopping his plans. And that was without considering my actions might've resulted in Plagueis' fate changing.
However, I also understood that I couldn't, and wouldn't, make the change now. The moment I took Natural Evolution if that was my final choice, then I'd lose Dark Side Masking, exposing the taint I no doubt had because of how often I'd drawn on the Dark Side. While that would cause massive problems with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan currently on Naboo, more than likely members of the High Council and Palpatine would be arriving soon to handle Drallig's body and celebrate the liberation of the planet.
If I took Natural Evolution then I needed time away to learn to mask my Force presence, at least enough that none could sense anything different about me to the point they'd either try to imprison me (the Jedi) or recruit me (the Sith) or attempt to kill me (possibly both).
Now, Qui-Gon, and possibly Obi-Wan though given his limited Force Potential I wasn't sure, had likely sensed my flares of anger but I could easily play those off as concern for my friend. While a Jedi Knight, I was young, and still maturing physically, so emotional reactions were prone to occurring, especially for one who's come late to the Order. Appearing without the ability to mask any taint I might have would be another matter entirely. To say nothing of the other things I'd learnt from Ada's holocron ever since I'd first activated it on Zonama Sekot.
That would ruin everything I'd done up until now, and place my slowly developing plans for the future in danger, all but handing the galaxy to the Sith.
Pushing those concerns to one side for the moment, I pulled up my base stats, wondering how they'd changed because of reaching Level 30 and my injury.
Overall, that wasn't bad. The loss of HP because of my missing forearm wasn't massive, though the concept of HP when a single blaster bolt or lightsaber to the gut could, potentially, kill you made the value seemingly worthless as far as I could tell. The XP being a little over a quarter of the way to Level 31 was an indicator that even with the massive force I'd managed to bring to the planet, the way the Interface granted me XP for every droid taken down meant large-scale battles against the CIS in future would be a useful method for XP farming. At least to a degree.
Since there was no definitive reveal of how much combat XP I got, I couldn't tell how much I'd done, but I felt I'd not gained any XP from the space battle. The battles in Theed and on the grass plains had been connected to me via the Battlenet, so gaining a minute fraction for each droid, tank and transport from those battles made sense. If the space battle had been added in, then the XP gain would've been less as there were more people manning the various ships in the allied fleet engaging fewer droids when compared to those on Naboo.
I was slightly surprised that the Changing Fate [Qui-Gon] quest was complete as the objective was to ensure Maul didn't kill Qui-Gon, with nothing being stated clearly about that having to take place on Naboo. There was still a chance the quest could be retroactively failed if that occurred in the future, but if that happened then I'd cross that bridge when I came to it. While I wasn't overly close to Qui-Gon, bar us both being members of the loose – and rarely meeting – Coalition of Jedi trying to prepare for the darkness to come, as a fellow former Padawan of Dooku I felt a faint kinship toward him.
I dismissed my Stats page and those relating to the choice I had to make. Once everything regarding Naboo was over, and I was lightyears away from the Jedi and Sith, I'd see about making my choice. For now, my focus could return to the present.
I slipped from the bed, moving toward a small table nearby. There lay my beskad along with two lightsabers and the remains of two more. Like myself, Serra had lost a blade when fighting Maul, though for her it had been the shoto I'd helped her with. Most of the components hadn't been recovered, but the crystal had been found by Fenrir when He'd been helping Bo dig Serra out of the rubble, and like the two smaller ones from my main blade, it now rested on the table. My issue, however, was that one of my crystals was cracked, having been damaged when Maul destroyed the emitter.
Beside Serra's remaining blade was Master Drallig's, which Bo had placed there thinking Serra would want the connection to her former Master/father figure, which was a sentiment I agreed with. When she awoke and began to recover mentally, she'd have to decide what to do with the blade, though I half-expected her to start wielding it along with her blade, returning to dual-wielding two full-sized lightsabers.
I picked up the crystals and small krayt dragon pearl from my lightsaber, rolling them around in my palm as I considered how to handle rebuilding my blade. While I'd still go for a curved hilt as Makashi was the base of how I fought, I wanted to add more features. The ability to have it not short out when wet, or be able to alter the blade length were things I knew would be added, but I wasn't sure what other features I might add.
I knew that I wanted to add the Mantle of the Force crystal to the blade, and while the crystal was almost entirely aligned with me, having four crystals in a lightsaber was currently beyond what I could manage. Mechanics [Lightsabers] was at Professional:97, and I hoped that once I hit Master:1 I could add everything I wanted to my new blade, but only time would tell. I could manage with the shoto and beskad for now, and if I waited to rebuild my blade until Anakin had found a crystal, we could bond further over building our blades together.
That had my thoughts turn to the Chosen One, and I looked upward, wondering just what had happened to him. I could still, very faintly sense his pain, but it was just a background feeling, only able to reach me due to our bond and the strength of our force sensitivity. However, before I could consider once more what had happened to him, the door opened.
Turning I took a step back, a clearly emotional Sia-Lan Wezz bearing toward me.
"Hey," I said, though I couldn't get anything else out, nor was there a reply as she stormed past me to Serra's bacta tank.
I blinked, processing the flood of emotions rushing from my friend as she placed a hand on the tank. Sorrow and concern were the dominant emotions but a slowly growing, but powerful rage was present as well. That anger, I suspected, was directed at me, and I was fine with that. Sia-Lan was closer to Serra than me, and likely blamed me for Serra's injuries and Drallig's death; something I did as well.
"Rann," I said to the other Padawan who entered with Sia-Lan.
"Cameron," the older but lower-ranked Jedi replied. "We didn't know you were on the planet until we sensed you during the battle." His tone was calm, but I noted his mind was closed as if he didn't want to project his feelings outward. That fit with my previous interactions with him as his thoughts and feelings had always been distant and protected. Though from the way he stood, at a distance, arms crossed over his chest and slightly at an angle, it felt like he wasn't happy I was here. "Nor that Serra and Master Drallig were also present."
I opened my mouth to respond only to stop as Sia-Lan spun and marched toward me.
"Why was she here?!" The girl raged, a finger gesturing toward my face. "It's your fault that she's in that tank and Master Drallig is dead!" the finger jabbed closer, forcing me to lean back and avoid being poked in the eye.
"Padawan!" I snapped, not liking her behaviour. "Calm yourself. Now!" I used Force Persuasion as I spoke, entirely unimpressed with her behaviour. While we were roughly the same age, my rank carried weight, as did the fact that even without an arm or lightsaber I knew I could beat the shit out of both Padawans.
Normally, I wouldn't use the Force against another Jedi, but Sia-Lan's behaviour was unacceptable. No matter how right she was.
"Don't you dare tell me what to do!" She snarled back, the finger jabbing my chest as she lowered the hand. "youghd…"
Her words trailed off as I closed my fist, grasping her with the Force. Before she could get another sound out, or counter my grasp, I lifted her upward, bringing her to my eye level, which left her feet dangling below as I held her afloat via her robes.
"While we are, I hope, still friends, you are overstepping your bounds, Padawan," I said as calmly as I could, though my annoyance and irritation at her behaviour were still clear in my tone and body language. "I understand why you, why both of you," I added, glancing at Rann whose hand had drifted toward his lightsaber though he'd yet to grasp it, "are upset. But remember that you are a Jedi, and if I need to remind you of that fact again, you will regret my training."
With my piece said, and some of her anger lost by the shock of my actions, I let her go. The fall was short, as while she wasn't as tall as me, she wasn't that short, but I'd already turned away from the pair, moving toward the bacta tank. While my way to nullify her anger wasn't one most Jedi would do, I wasn't going to stand there and let her berate me for choices I, or Serra and Drallig, had made.
I placed a hand on the tank and sighed. I knew that, as a Jedi, I'd fucked up in letting Serra come along, and thus having Drallig come as well. However, as a Mandalorian, I'd been left with little choice. To dismiss an ally and friend when I'd called others to battle would've made me look weak and unworthy to gather the forces I had, never mind lead them into battle.
Turning back to the pair I saw that while Rann had relaxed, Sia-Lan's hand rested on her hilt, though she hadn't drawn the weapon yet. The narrow eyes that glared at me suggested it wouldn't take much to have her do so. As amusing as it would be to see her lose control, and then school her about the failure of doing so without proper training, I wasn't interested in that. Not when a stray move of a lightsaber could damage Serra's tank.
"Sia-Lan," Rann began, placing a hand on the elbow of the arm gripping Sia-Lan's lightsaber, "perhaps we should hear Knight Shan's reasoning before jumping to assumptions."
"I know what happened!" Sia-Lan snapped at Rann as she turned to him. That had him raising a single eyebrow. I was a little surprised when that, more than anything else, was what broke through her anger at Serra's condition. "Fine," she muttered, her shoulders slumping and the hand drifting away from her lightsaber, "but I doubt anything you say will change my mind."
I looked at her carefully, thoughts of reminding her of the Jedi Code and the concept of keeping an open mind drowned out by a need to smack her around the head for acting like a Force-damned child. "Understandable," I eventually said as I rejected both options, "but I again remind you of who and what you are." That drew a scoff as if she felt I was being hypocritical, which in a sense I was as I'd come to Naboo as more Mando'ade than Jedi. To say nothing of my tendency to ignore the Code. That said, any irritation I had with her behaviour I let go of, as staying annoyed at her was fucking waste of time, and would show that I could still act like a Jedi.
"To begin, Serra knew I was intending to come to Naboo to help with the situation. I consider both Queen Amidala and Senator Palpatine friends and felt the Force wanted me to help them. That said, I knew this battle would be dangerous, and when Serra first asked to come with me, while she was still inside the Temple, I told her to stay away."
I paused here, turning back and placing my remaining hand on the tank. "The Force, it seemed, had warned us both that if the other came to Naboo, we'd be in great danger. I didn't want her here anymore than she wanted me to go alone, but I pulled rank." My shoulders slumped as the tank continued to beep in time with her constant, but slow, heart rate. "However, Serra reached out to our common friends, and they arranged for her to leave the Temple." I didn't have to mention that those friends were Mandalorian. I was still in my armour, sans my helmet and the section I'd lost with my arm which suddenly itched, and given the warriors that had fought on Naboo, even a youngling could put two and two together. "When I discovered her at the meeting point for the allied fleet, I wanted to send her back; to order her as a Padawan to return to the Temple. She, however, convinced me to let her stay."
I turned back to the pair. While I could mention how she convinced me, by appealing to our status as Mando'ade, it would only make things worse, and drop Serra in deeper trouble with her friends and the rest of the Order. If she wanted to reveal that, it would be her choice to do so. I wasn't going to shift blame to her to save myself from rage and disappointment from others that I felt I deserved.
"Once we were planet-side, Master Drallig arrived soon after. How he slipped past the Federation's fleet I'm not sure, but he did. At that point, and after he'd spoken with his Padawan, there was little I could do to insist he not join the allied forces once he stated he would do so. He outranked me just as I outrank Serra or you. That said, during the battle, I assigned them what should've been a low-risk assignment: to find and rescue a group of Naboo who were about to be shipped off-world and sold into slavery." I sighed and looked down. "I'd hoped by doing that to keep them out of danger. The Force, however, had other ideas."
Silence fell over the room, Rann seemingly considering my words while Sia-Lan slowly calmed herself. I stood there patiently, ignoring as best I could the itching of my missing limb, waiting for their response.
Ever since the battle had ended, my mind had been replaying my choices. I should've pushed for Drallig and Serra to fight elsewhere on the planet. I should never have let them come to Theed, not when I knew Maul was there. In the end, however, I had, and now Serra was paying dearly for my mistake, though I swore on Drallig's memory that I'd not make that mistake ever again.
"Was it really a Sith?" Rann asked after perhaps a minute.
"Well, I didn't exactly stop and ask him if he was," I replied with a small smile which drew a chuckle from Rann. Sia-Lan seemed uninterested in my humour though. "By the time I reached him, he'd already killed Master Drallig and was about to dispatch Serra. I… I couldn't allow that, so I rushed in trying desperately to save her."
Another silence fell over the room, though this one was broken not by a question but by the doors to the medical centre opening and Qui-Gon walking in.
"Well, it seems I was beaten to meeting you, Cameron. I do hope that I'm not too late to hear of your battle with the Sith." He wore a smile that I suspected was meant to relax the tense atmosphere in the room, but there was a hint of, perhaps, apprehension, under it.
"You're sure it was a Sith, Master?" Rann asked, earning a small smile from the old Jedi.
"While I didn't engage him, I sensed his presence as he fought Master Drallig, Knight Shan, and Padawan Keto. I'm left with no doubt that the Zabrak was a Dark Sider, however until Padawan Keto recovers, the only proof we have of his status is Cameron's report."
"And that he defeated Master Drallig inside a few minutes," I added, wanting that point to not be forgotten. While I could understand them dismissing Maul as a Sith if he'd just fought me and Serra, Maul had dismantled Drallig in the time it took me to reach them. And there, again, I saw another mistake that I'd made and had made at times before. A flaw of not using the menagerie of powers at my disposal when they'd be most applicable.
"Yes, there is that," Qui-Gon agreed with a sigh, his shoulders drooping slightly. "While it is conceivable that a random Dark Sider, or even a failed Padawan that I'm unaware of, might be able to defeat a random Jedi Knight or Master, Master Drallig was the Order's Battlemaster and one of our most skilled duellists. That any but a trained Sith could defeat him is something I find doubtful."
Silence returned to the room as the Padawans contemplated Qui-Gon's words. As it stretched on, I considered a way that might help convince Qui-Gon and the Council that Maul was a Sith. I lifted my vambrace and went to access the controls only to stop as I moved my wounded arm over, forgetting the hand was missing.
I sighed loudly, annoyed at making that mistake, but knowing that I'd be making it for some time to come. Even after getting a replacement limb, I knew I'd suffer from phantom limb syndrome as I'd known a few former operators in my former life who'd had to deal with that.
"There is no shame in being wounded," Qui-Gon said, his hand giving my shoulder a gentle squeeze, gesturing to what Gilamar had done earlier. "The Zabrak defeated a Jedi Master and almost killed another Jedi. That you were able to defeat him is a testament to your skills; and the training of your Masters."
I nodded, accepting the praise, though it wasn't fully deserved. "I only won because of the beskar and the weapons in the vambrace," I said slowly, letting my regret seep into the Force and tone. "If I'd fought as a true Jedi, Serra and I would've shared Master Drallig's fate."
"Then it seems the Force has guided you to places where you could discover how you might survive the battle without you perhaps realising it." I looked at him, seeing the sort of wise, amused smile that I often saw from Fay. The kind that implied they knew something I didn't. "It was the Force that led you and Padawan Keto to Mandalore to train. There, like when working with Master Dooku to free those who would become the Lokella, you came into contact with others who'd be of use to you when Naboo was under threat. It also, at least with the Mandalorians, showed you another way to fight in ways not taught in the Temple. A way that, when the chits were down, allowed you to survive and defeat a Sith."
"Yes, Master," I said with a nod, accepting his words even if I didn't entirely believe them. While the Force may have played a part in my helping to establish the Lokella, going to Mandalore had been my choice. I'd wanted to head there and determine if they might be of use come the Clone Wars. Still, it was reassuring that, if nothing else, he didn't hold it against me for using non-Jedi – or less civilised as Obi-Wan famously said – methods to combat Maul.
"And I am relieved that I don't have to inform Master Dooku of your death. While it has been many, many years since I've faced it, I'd prefer to not face him once more when he is displeased."
I chuckled at that. "Aye, that's understandable," I said, well aware of the face Dooku had when annoyed, irritated, or unimpressed with someone, something, or a piece of news he disliked.
"Is he as scary as they say?"
Qui-Gon and I turned to Rann, who, realising what he'd just blurted out, brought a hand up to cover his mouth. The stuttering start of an apology began to slip through his fingers, but it died out when my earlier chuckle turned into laughter as I imagined how Dooku would react to the question. I heard a few quieter, though just as amused, chuckles slip from Qui-Gon before I got myself under control.
"Master Dooku isn't scary per se," I replied, "he's just… very strict about the high standards he expects. And while he expects that from everyone, for his Padawan the standards are considerably higher."
"A very diplomatic answer. One, I suspect, Master Fay would be proud of," Qui-Gon commented, to which I smiled in confirmation. "Now, while I'm glad you're alive and have recovered enough to joke about other matters, I must return this impromptu meeting to the Zabrak." He glanced at the bacta tank, the constant beeping of Serra's heartbeat bringing me a small amount of comfort. "The High Council is aware of what has occurred, and representatives are being dispatched to recover Master Drallig's body and speak with you directly. However, they, like myself, will no doubt wish to hear the details of your battle with the Zabrak."
"As expected, Master, and I believe I can help with that." In the original timeline, many of the Council had come to Naboo for Qui-Gon's funeral, and as Drallig was more important to the day-to-day operations of the Order, his death would have greater implications and importance.
I reached over to another table, this one holding my severed arm contained in a stasis jar. Turning it over with my remaining hand – and doing my best to ignore how awkward and painful doing this was – I accessed the still-working controls of that vambrace and ejected a datacard.
Carefully I passed it to Qui-Gon. "That's a recording from the armour's sensors up until the Sith lashed out after I struck him with poisoned darts," I explained as he took the datacard. "The poison wasn't designed to kill, simply render anything affected by it unable to move. That he was able to continue fighting afterwards was a testament to his skill, and I suspect how infuriated he was that I'd managed to drug him."
"Yes, I suspect that would anger many Dark Siders," Qui-Gon said as he moved over to a nearby console. There, after a minute or so of typing at the console, he activated a small holoprojector, and the image of Maul as I found him standing over Serra, ready to kill her emerged.
Seeing that again, my gaze drifted to Serra, and I had to control myself, lest my fury at what she'd endured resurfaced. A faint gasp of shock from Sia-Lan was accompanied by her residual anger toward me easing, though, after her earlier behaviour, I didn't care if we ever recovered our friendship.
The recording ran on, and we watched silently as my battle with Maul played out. Qui-Gon had slowed the file down slightly, though not by much as the blades were still moving rapidly around the screen. What I did notice was that Rann and Sai-Lan, even at the slower speed, were struggling to keep up with the display. The speed of the battle was still too much for them to handle.
Eventually, the recording stopped, cutting out after Maul had thrown me back, his rage at getting poisoned lashing out hard enough that the impact with the wall was a logical place to edit the recording. Now, the commanders of the allied army who had access to the Battlenet knew it had lasted slightly longer, but since all were Mando'ade and would have no interest in speaking on the matter to the Jedi – not that the Jedi knew they had the recording as well – it wasn't a deception I expected to be discovered.
One of Qui-Gon's eyebrows rose, mirroring an action Dooku used when he wanted an answer but wasn't going to directly ask the question. That made me smile even as I detailed what had happened after the recording shorted out.
"After recovering from the Zabrak's Force attack, I stood to find him slumped against a wall not far from where we'd just been fighting. My beskad had been thrown from my hand in my tumble, and at the time, I didn't know where it had gone. However, I could still sense my shoto and summoned it to me as I approached him. The Sith was down, his breathing steady but slow, the tranquiliser I'd shot him with having begun to overpower his body as the Force abandoned him."
"As is often the case for those who think the Dark Side offers power without cost."
"I thought he was down for good," I said, dismissing Qui-Gon's remark. "But he drew on his remaining strength, leapt to his feet, and charged at me." Pausing to ensure everyone was listening, I projected honesty about my words. "His attacks were slower than before. I sidestepped, wanting him alive, and drove my blade into his side. He snarled, then pushed forward, and was bisected just above the waist. He fell into the river and went over the falls."
"Did you try to recover his lightsaber?"
I cringed. "I admit that it slipped my mind as I watched the body disappear, though the last I saw it, it was still in his grasp." This was true, though the 'he' here wasn't Maul but Osto as he'd been holding the blade as the subdued Maul was taken away by the warriors in his squad.
Qui-Gon looked at me intently, as if sensing I was holding something back. I saw that Rann and Sia-Lan were also looking at me, but that was likely because they were struggling to process that I'd defeated the Sith who'd killed the Jedi Battlemaster. If Sia-Lan still wanted to blame me for Serra's injuries she could do so, though if she pushed about it again my patience would be even less than last time.
"It is unfortunate that the Sith – and after viewing your duel I have little doubt he was one – chose death over imprisonment, but it isn't unexpected," Qui-Gon said slowly, seemingly accepting my recounting of the end of the duel. "And your actions, made so soon after your injury, are entirely expected. However, I feel the Council may wish for greater detail about those final moments. Not just in how the Sith died, but regarding why he was on Naboo, and why you, if as I suspect, felt a danger here, you didn't ask the Council for support."
"I believe you said they wouldn't listen to you when you asked, Master," I said, recounting something he'd mentioned before we'd entered the system. "As for why he was here, I'd wager a good number of credits that he, and his Master as I feel he was the Apprentice, were, and possibly still are, involved in some way with the Trade Federation."
"Yes, the choice made by the Viceroy to blockade Naboo was rash, and invading downright reckless. Illogical even for one who places importance in credits over direct power." Qui-Gon paused and stroked his beard. "The Viceroy is secured in the palace. Obi-Wan, a squad of Naboo and Gungans and a unit of Mandalorians standing watch over him. When the time is right, he will be handed over to Republic security for questioning and trial."
"I suspect he might not make it there," I said slowly, seeing a way to cover my tracks if I was able to enact justice on Gunray. "If the Sith are involved, then the Master will want the Viceroy silenced before he reveals anything that might incriminate others."
"Yes, that is true. And it is something I already plan to mention to Master Yoda when he arrives," Qui-Gon replied with a smile. "I'll ensure your agreement with that is also mentioned." I nodded in thanks, pleased I wasn't being dismissed and would get some credit for the decision. While I doubted it would make any difference to how members of the Council saw me, it would help divert attention and blame from me if Gunray was removed from the board after leaving Naboo. Before that, I had to determine how, when, and where he would face justice for his actions. "Now, since you've been given the all-clear, perhaps you and the Padawans would be willing to help with the search for survivors?"
"I would Master, however, I first wish to collect Raven. During the fight, I sensed something shift in the Force, and I feel I need to investigate the matter quickly."
"This would be what brought about your moment of hesitation during the duel?" he glanced at my missing hand, making clear what he was referring to. I nodded in confirmation. "Hmm. I will speak with the Queen to arrange your departure. Though I suspect she and others will be disappointed to hear of it."
"I don't think I'll be gone long. Perhaps a week at most, and if I still can't find the source of the shift, I'll return so I'm here when the Council arrives."
"That would be advisable. I don't think Queen Amidala would be willing to hold the celebrations of victory without the one responsible for the forces that came to her planet's aid." His lips twitched. "You two may speak with Knight Shan when he returns," He continued, addressing the Padawans. "For now, our services are needed by the populace of this world."
Rann gave me a nod, which I returned. Sia-Lan stared at me, the fury she'd had earlier calmed slightly by, I suspected, seeing the duel I'd had with Maul. The trio then left the room and once the door was closed, I turned back to the bacta tank.
Placing my remaining hand on it, I sighed. "I'm sorry," I muttered, taking a moment to reach out for Serra's mind. I could sense it, though it was obscured; likely from the drugs flowing through her system that were keeping her sedated. I could sense her pain and anguish but knew there was little I could do to help with that currently.
Turning, I attached my shoto to my belt and then the beskad. Fenrir lifted his head, sensing we were leaving, and after he stood and stretched, he gave Serra a long look, one mirroring mine from moments earlier. Moving toward the door, I wondered how difficult it was going to be to fly Raven with only one hand. While we shared a connection and she could sense my intentions and react, I'd be slowed down in using the controls because of the missing limb.
I knew Anakin was still alive, but something had happened to him. What I'd felt wasn't a premonition, but a live reaction felt through the Force. Why it had to happen while I was engaging Maul only the Force could say, but it had.
Carrying my helmet under my remaining arm, I used the Force to open the door and walked out of the medical bay. Two guards stood outside, nodding as I exited; admiration and respect were easy to sense from them. As I walked away, I started playing around with ideas in my head. Gunray had to be removed before he was handed over to Palpatine, as that would simply allow the snivelling grub to return to Sidious' control. However, with the guard on him currently, it would take a bit of work to ensure the Neimoidian ended up dead without anyone being implicated.
The fact that I was contemplating the removal of Gunray by assassination - as that was what it would be - was something I'd taken a few hours to process. I could remember clearly that when I'd been captured by those who raped and abused children, including a fellow Jedi, I'd decided against executing the rapist. Yet now, less than a decade later, I was fine with ordering an assassination of an enemy that could trouble me in the future.
Pulling on my helmet, I opened a secure channel and contacted HK. If anyone knew how to remove Gunray without it being linked to me, it would be the droid. It was what Revan had constructed him for after all.
… …
… …
"Your ship is refuelled and ready for launch, Master Jedi."
I looked up and gave the technician who'd approached a smile. "Thanks." He turned and walked away, and I looked at Raven.
Finding her unharmed in the swamp had been a relief as this was the first time I'd parked her somewhere off the beaten track, and after settling in I'd flown her to the palace. Currently, she was resting in a small private hangar inside the cliff that the royal palace rested upon. The hangar was just large enough to let Raven enter, though the royal cruiser would've never fit, which was why it was usually docked in the hangars in Theed.
That said, the interesting fact was that I was in the second of two small bays, with the first being an unknown ship that had been discovered after Theed was freed. It hadn't taken me long to investigate the matter and discover that the vessel was Maul's and that it had already killed a group of technicians that had approached it before my return to the city.
Its presence raised a handful of issues as, while an impressive-looking vessel, I'd never seen or heard of it again in the knowledge I had of the future. No doubt it had come up in comics or novels, but I'd never read any, so I was at a loss here. Likely it had returned, slowly, to Sidious' control, but I wasn't willing to allow that to happen here.
While it had formidable defences – the video of a technician screaming as their body melted was one I wasn't going to forget, even if Eidetic Memory ensured that – I wanted it. The information inside would provide intel on the Sith plans. Intel that I might never get from Maul.
As such, I'd tasked HK with finding a way inside the vessel – whose name wasn't on the landing records nor the ship's hull – but already he'd run into a small issue. While a great combat and assassin droid, HK wasn't built for slicing into systems. That had, however, offered me an opportunity that I planned to take when I next spoke to Padmé.
HK would remain on Naboo while I returned to the ShaDo system to determine what had happened to Anakin. I'd tried contacting them via the Holonet, but the signal was down. While not an encouraging discovery, the fact neither he nor Dooku was dead – my quests for them and Force Bonds with them were still active – meant I wasn't panicking just yet about what had befallen the Lokella. Still, HK remaining here would also have him looking for ways to eliminate Gunray before representatives of the Republic arrived to take the Neimoidian.
HK's initial suggestions of simply vaporising the entire detention wing of the palace were shot down when I explained I needed it handled discreetly, with no links back to us. That had sparked a reaction in his optical receptors, and I suspected he was looking forward to that more than gaining entry to Maul's ship.
As I reached the Raven's ramp, I sensed two familiar presences and turning I saw Ferox lead Bo into the bay. While Bo wore her helmet, I could sense her concern, though it was drowned out by Ferox's for his newly-formed family.
"What's this about a problem with Anakin?" Ferox asked once he was closer, Fenrir growling at the Corellian's rapid approach and aggressive tone, though he refused to do anything more, content to laze around at the base of the ramp.
"During the battle, I sensed something happened to him," I replied. "I've tried to contact the station, but the signal's not getting through. Now, I know Anakin is alive, but I can't tell much more than that," I added, trying to calm his rapidly fraying nerves. "Because of that, I want you and Bo to come with me."
"The Mando'ade have gathered aboard our prize of war to celebrate."
"That can wait!" Ferox snapped at Bo, stepping toward her, and growling at her helmet. "The lives of my people, my family, matter more than any stupid celebration!"
Bo held her ground, and while she didn't audibly respond, I saw her fist clenching.
I moved forward, sliding my good arm between the pair. "Easy there," I said, moving the rest of my body between the pair. This had the potential to explode given both had fiery personalities, and that was the last thing I wanted to see. When it was clear that neither was going to add anything else, I turned my attention to Ferox.
"Ferox, Mandalorians always celebrate a victory, especially one of this magnitude. Something I know the Lokella do as well," he grunted at that and took a step back, turning in the process. That let me turn to Bo. "I'm not asking our people to delay the celebration, but tell me you wouldn't rush from a party if your family or friends were in potential danger?"
She nodded at that. "You're right, I wouldn't. Anakin and Shmi will always take priority over a victory celebration."
"I apologise for my aggressive behaviour," Ferox said, catching me off guard as he rarely apologised unless he had the issue beaten into him. The relationship with Shmi seemingly had smoothed his more unbalanced tendencies. "I am simply worried about my family."
Bo nodded, accepting the apology, and then turned to me. "How long will we be gone?"
"If I push Raven, and we don't run into any complications, perhaps a week, six days tops."
Bo nodded. "I'll inform my father and Alor Torrhen to delay festivities until then."
I frowned at hearing that as with the Ne'tra Tal'ade, Saak'ak, and Luuhan all controlled by them, and in orbit of Naboo, the longer they dallied here, the greater the chance they'd still be present when the Chancellor and High Council arrived. As much as I'd love to see their faces at the sight of a Mandalorian warship sitting peacefully in orbit of Naboo, it would be better for the ships to be gone. Then again, as Padmé had granted every warrior who'd fought to free Naboo permission to remain as long as they wished, and that so long as they weren't wanted for violating Republic law, every one of them - be they Mando'ade or Lokella - would have safe harbour in the Naboo system.
They would always be offered safe harbour – so long as they weren't being hunted by Republic security – there was no reason for the Mando'ade to leave early with their ships.
Now, the Vuutun Palaa was in orbit as well, however, she was little more than a wreck. Her engines had blown during the battle and one of the hangar arms had been breached just before they'd surrendered. From what I'd heard the Naboo were planning to have the vessel stripped for parts and sold to help with the rebuilding.
Personally, I'd have considered seeing what condition the power core and the rest of the ship were in as while it was a reminder of the invasion, as a station or defence platform it had some potential. However, I could understand why the Naboo wouldn't want a symbol of their planet's darkest moment remaining. That said, if I could, I hoped to convince Padmé to have an actual station developed that could help defend the planet, system, and nearby planets. It was unlikely to happen, but it was worth trying.
"They'll be fine with that?" I asked as Bo turned away, probably to open a channel to them through the Battlenet.
Bo stopped and looked at me as if I'd suddenly grown a second head. "Cam, you're the Akaan'lor of the battle. To celebrate without you, while appealing to many, would dishonour you, and those who fought under your banner."
I stared at her, wondering how much of that was true or not. Mandalorians enjoyed celebrating, or at least Bo did, so for her to suggest every warrior that had answered my call would simply wait for me sounded far-fetched, though I could see why she felt they would.
"Fine then. Contact them once we launch as I want us airborne inside five."
She nodded and moved toward the ramp. I looked at Ferox, and with a grunt, he followed the Mandalorian. As I moved toward Raven, Fenrir stood, sliding up to Bo, happy she would be joining us again. While I couldn't exactly speak with him, I knew the tuk'ata missed Bo, considering her a part of our pack. Truthfully, at any other time, I'd agree with the feeling, but my mind was still concerned for Serra, and I took the first step onto Raven's ramp, hoping she'd be awake by the time I returned, if not out the tank entirely.
"Cam!"
Turning, I saw Padmé entering the bay, her steps hurried enough that the guards with her were struggling to keep pace and continue to ensure the area they were entering was safe. Padmé wasn't in her royal garb, which was a relief as I found the clothing choices the Naboo had for formal occasions to be gaudy, if not pointless. I knew it was their tradition, but not all traditions made sense.
"Wh," she paused, taking a moment to regain her composure and breath. "Where are you going?"
"I need to check on something," I replied, amused at the worry I saw in her eyes. "When I fought the Sith I sensed a disturbance in the Force centred around a friend. Bo and Ferox are coming as they know this person as well."
"When will you come back?" There was a slight hint of urgency in her tone as if I was somehow important to the formal celebrations the Naboo were planning. I hoped that wouldn't be the case, but knowing my luck it would be.
"Five, maybe six days."
"Oh." Padmé relaxed at that. "OK then. I was just concerned you wouldn't be here for the celebration."
"Aye, Bo was worried about the same thing," I replied with a chuckle. "Didn't think you'd be joining the Mandalorian festivities," I added with a teasing smile.
"What?! No!" Padmé paused, realising she'd raised her voice higher than intended, and drawn the attention of several technicians in the bay. "There will be official celebrations for the liberation of the planet, the new alliance between the Naboo and the Gungans, and the election of a new Chancellor. One who will be coming here personally as his first official act." The last bit was spoken with a wide smile, which all but confirmed that this little detail of the timeline hadn't changed.
"Given your smile, I take it I know the new Chancellor?" I asked, matching her smile.
"Yes. Former Senator Palpatine was elected a few days before the battle," She replied, her smile widening as she believed this was a good thing for Naboo. "With him as Chancellor, I'm certain the Viceroy and the Federation will be forced to pay for their actions."
"I'd say losing three of their most valuable vessels along with the extent of their military might being exposed will cost them, though, I fear the Federation's sycophants in the Senate will work overtly and covertly to ensure the Viceroy and those with him escape with nothing more than a slap on the wrist."
Padmé held my gaze for a moment before sighing. "I… I fear you may be right. However, I'll reserve judgement until Chancellor Palpatine has had time to reshape the Senate into the voice of the people that it should be."
"I feel he will change the Senate, but I cannot say if that will be for the good of all," I said, adding a small seed of doubt about Palpatine's intentions to her thoughts. The speech she'd given before the battle, along with the help to free her world and people coming from those unaligned with the Republic had shown that she wasn't as ardent a supporter of the Republic as she had been in the other timeline, though I wasn't sure how much I could change her, and her planet's fate regarding the Republic.
Now, while I didn't want Naboo joining the CIS, or whatever they became here because of my actions altering plans that led to their creation, having Palpatine's homeworld, or at least its current leader and one the people would revere for her actions in liberating them, questioning some of his motives would, I hoped, lead to others to see through the blinkers the Sith Lord was placing over their eyes. All I had to do was ensure that I knew how to spin this approach once it got back to Palpatine, but I felt he'd subtly approve as it served his true intentions.
Padmé nodded, accepting my words, though her eyes soon fixed on my arm, the one missing a hand. "How is it?" She asked softly. Before I could reply, her eyes widened, and she brought her hands to her mouth. "I…"
I chuckled and lifted my good hand to cut off her apology. "It doesn't hurt, though I can still feel it. Phantom pains the doc said," I added with a chuckle. "I'll get a replacement limb when I can, and the galaxy will move on. For now, though, the disturbance in the Force takes priority. As it did when I knew I had to help you and your people." She nodded, though remained silent as if scared to make another faux pas. "There's nothing wrong with showing concern for a friend, Padmé," I added, placing my remaining hand on her shoulder. "Still, I'd rather questions about the limb came only from those I consider friends and not others who might gloat over the injury." The faces of Jon Savos and Master Belfour came to mind, and while I doubted either would say anything to my face, they and others who disliked or hated me would enjoy hearing I'd lost a limb in battle.
She nodded as her eyes met mine, a faint smile creeping back onto her face. There was a spark of something more than just concern in her eyes, and I slid my hand from her shoulder. She was only fourteen after all.
Though it all depended on Serra still wanting to pursue something with me after she recovered. For a while I expected she'd resent me for Drallig's death, which was understandable, but I hoped that, whatever became of our relationship, we'd remain friends. Serra was, and always would be, the first person in this life that I considered my friend and I'd do as much as I could to ensure that wasn't irrevocably damaged.
"I'll ensure Serra gets the best of care until you return."
And there was another reminder, however unintended it was, of Serra, my feelings toward her, and her condition that was heavily my fault.
"Thank you," I said with as natural a smile as I could manage. "And because I worry about your safety, and to ease your concern about my return, HK and Simvyl will remain behind to help ensure your safety." Currently, Simvyl was helping guard Gunray while HK was in the bay next door, which allowed me to segue into something I'd been planning to ask Padmé when I returned. "Actually, now that I think about it, HK has examined the vessel in Bay One, and has deduced he needs help accessing the ship's computer. While not what he was designed for, might I request that the R2 unit he knows be assigned to help him? I know the vessel will be turned over to the Republic and Jedi soon, but I want him to try and access it before then on the chance it might have information that could help ensure Gunray doesn't escape justice." I leaned closer, a smile widening as I spoke. "I feel, though he won't admit it, that HK misses T3, so a new companion might smooth some of his rougher edges."
Yes, I was manipulating her to get what I wanted. However, given R2's insane luck in the other timeline, the connection he'd formed with Anakin, the chaos of HK and R2 as a team, and whatever Maul's vessel contained, I had no issues with using Padmé in this way.
"I doubt HK would ever admit to that," Padmé replied with a small and gentle laugh, "but I agree with the idea that gaining access to that vessel might be of worth." She paused and looked at me. "As thanks for your services to Naboo, I'll have the R2 unit transferred to your ownership by the time you return."
"Yet another way to ensure I return, Your Majesty?" I asked jovially.
"Well, I can't have the Hero of Naboo absent for the victory celebrations," She replied with the same amusement. "May the Force be with you, Master Jedi. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Naboo and their current Queen will be."
I bowed, breaking eye contact as the spark of desire returned to her gaze. "And may the Force be with you and your people in the years ahead, Your Majesty."
I turned then and walked up the ramp into Raven.
Already I could feel the power racing through her skin, the engines slowly powering up as Bo worked to ensure Raven was ready to fly by the time I reached the cockpit. As the hatch closed, I put concerns about Serra, Padmé, my relationships, and everything else to one side. What mattered for now was Anakin, Dooku, and the Lokella.
Something bad awaited us in the ShaDo system, but I felt it wasn't anywhere near as bad as it could've been.
… …
… …
Raven slid from hyperspace, depositing us into the ShaDo system. Already I sensed her missing the exotic energies of faster-than-light travel, as if she was slowly becoming hooked on them, like an addict on spice. Or at least one of the less dangerous variants of spice as I never sensed she was becoming lost in the sensations and experiences of hyperspace, just that it seemed to excite her, making her more energetic and alive.
Thoughts on Raven's behaviour and reaction to hyperspace were driven from my thoughts as the initial sensor readings came in, confirming what I was seeing.
"The fuck?" I muttered as I scanned the debris of ruined vessels that littered the system. Now, it wasn't a massive number as the ships here were minute when compared to those around a Core or other well-developed world, but it was still a shock to see the wrecks of dozens, if not hundreds of vessels stretching from the hyperspace exit point toward Mtael's Gift and Gai.
"What happened?" that came from Ferox who sat in one of the spare seats in the cockpit behind me with Bo occupying the co-pilot's chair.
"Battle," Bo replied shortly. "A major one for the Lokella."
I bit back a sarcastic remark about stating the obvious, as this wasn't the time or place for it. Instead, as Raven slowly moved forward, I scanned the debris, noting which ships matched those I knew belonged to the Lokella and which didn't. The debris around us currently wasn't heavy, consisting of two gunships that had seemingly been overwhelmed when the attacking force had arrived, though as we neared the station, the amount and variety of debris increased.
Almost all of it around Mtael's Gift didn't match anything in Raven's logs, though one ship did. The markings on the hull that the scanners could see underneath blast marks bore a striking similarity to a vessel that had been on Tatooine when I'd gone there to meet Qui-Gon, Padmé and the others.
Before I could think on that further, a proximity alarm sounded and two battered, but still capable, CR70s slipped out from behind the wreckage of a large cargo hauler. With them came a flight of starfighters, mainly composed of Z-95 Headhunters.
Not wanting to get into a firefight, especially as Raven was unarmed, I threw open the comms. "This is Cameron Shan along with Ferox aboard the Raven. We request permission to approach and land on Mtael's Gift." While none of the approaching vessels had locked their weapons on us, I could sense their agitation and anger from here. That said, if any of them fired on Raven, I'd be having words with them; ones that they'd likely not enjoy as an annoyed Force user was not something many wanted to face.
Thankfully, before anyone could make such a mistake, the small holo-display in the cockpit flickered to life, revealing a Twi'lek that I couldn't immediately place. "Mtael," he began with a bow, "we are grateful that you and Commander Ferox have returned. However, the battle has ended and those responsible were killed, captured, or driven off."
"Yeah, I can see that," I snarked, drawing a snort of amusement from Bo. "I'll save questions until I've docked. Provided, of course, that I can?"
The Twi'lek blinked, and I thought I saw his lekku twitch, though that might just be a trick of the hologram as it flickered slightly. "Yes, Yes. I will inform the Council of your arrival." He turned as if to close the channel only to pause. "Many will be relieved that you and Commander Ferox have returned."
"Croz's twitchy," Ferox said once the channel closed, and the defence force started to change their vectors. "There's more that happened than just a space battle."
I stayed silent, as I already knew that. Anakin wouldn't have screamed into the Force so powerfully that I'd hear him from so far away for only a space battle. However, I could sense Ferox's growing fears about what might've happened and didn't want to add to them.
As Raven slipped toward the debris the corvettes and fighters had been hiding behind – which included a Valor-Class light cruiser built by TransGalMeg Industries – I reached out through the Force.
The first presence I sensed on the station was Dooku. The calm, almost cold centre he projected into the Force relaxed some of my fears even as he pushed back against my probe, letting me know he was in good health. I didn't try to speak with him telepathically, as I needed to keep my mind at least mainly focused on Raven. While I could pilot her easily enough with one hand, the increasing volume of debris along our flightpath meant I couldn't be too distracted.
Instead, I simply gave him a sense I was near and would soon be able to speak directly with him. That drew the expected cool acceptance, though there was a faint hint of concern as well. That was odd, though given the other Force presences I could sense on the station, I quickly understood why he was concerned.
Before I focused on the unexpected and unwanted one, I located Anakin. As normal, he was instinctively hiding from detection through the Force, but I was used to that and knew how to sense the faintest of shifts his natural attempts to hide caused in the Force. What helped to find him this time though was that his mind was a mess.
Anger, fear, disbelief, and despondency raged for control of him. He didn't react directly to my presence in the Force, but what he was feeling had me concerned about Shmi and her child. I kept my eyes forward, not wanting Ferox to catch my eye as his concern would only amplify if he felt I knew something he didn't.
That left me focusing on the third powerful Force presence I felt on Mtael's Gift, and wondering why Vosa was present.
Coming face-to-face with her was so far down my bucket list, that I suspected I'd have to go two systems over to find it. Yet, not only was she no longer on Gaia, as she had been ever since Dooku had started trying to rehabilitate her, but it felt as if she was unrestrained, though hopefully she wasn't armed with anything more than the Force.
My mind, as it often did when Vosa came up, returned to my time under her care, and the horrors I'd endured. My missing arm twitched, the pain of the lost limb merging with once more feeling the rage that had been brought forth by Vosa's machinations; suffering under her direction in an attempt to break and turn me.
I jerked when I felt a hand on my shoulder. Looking up I saw Bo there, a hand on my shoulder and a concerned expression on her face. Looking out of the viewport I saw we'd moved much closer to the station, so much so that I must've gotten lost, again, in reliving my experiences with the Bando Gora.
"You ok?"
"Yeah," I replied absently. "Just… When we get there I need you to remain calm," I said, turning back to her. Bo frowned so I kept going. "Vosa's there."
Her grip on my shoulder tightened, as did her jaw and her eyes narrowed as she looked toward the rapidly approaching and growing Mtael's Gift. The slightest of twitches crept onto her face and I felt I had to intervene. "Bo," I said softly, but in a clear tone that I knew she'd listen to.
Her gaze returned to me, and I felt a surge of desire and relief at the fire burning in her eyes. However, as much as that fire was one I wanted to sate, now wasn't the time nor place to do so. I needed her to remain calm once we landed, as while she was a good fighter – possibly becoming great with a few more years of experience – Vosa was several leagues beyond her.
"Fine," Bo said eventually, some of her fury fading away as she spoke through gritted teeth. "But if she puts a hair out of line, I'm going to blow it and the head attached to it off her shoulders and then jettison the body into the star."
I chuckled at the image, finding the idea of ending Vosa extremely appealing; even if what Bo suggested felt too quick and easy for what Vosa had put me through.
"That's all I can ask for," I said with a smile before turning my focus back to Raven and the controls as landing vectors came in from the station.
… …
… …
I stood in Raven's airlock waiting patiently for the ramp to descend. Outside were dozens of sentients, though three were closer to us than the others. Dooku wasn't with them, nor was Vosa who was close but not directly with him, or Anakin. While I'd have liked to speak directly with either of them upon arrival, given the chaos that had been seen outside the station – warships and fighters on high alert while a few transports slowly moved debris away from the station – I could understand if Dooku was busy helping the Lokella and Anakin was focused on whatever had greatly upset him.
Vosa not being present was a double relief, as not only would I not have to face her as soon as I arrived, but it removed the threat Bo might react to any off-hand remark the deranged bitch might make. Ever since realising that Vosa was on the station, I'd been dreading a run-in with her to the point that, once Raven had landed, I'd been reluctant to leave my chair. My remaining hand had gripped the controls tightly as Ferox had stormed from the cockpit.
With us being alone, Bo had come over and placed a hand on my shoulder for support. She'd not said anything, simply waiting for me to prepare myself and stand, but her presence and support had helped immensely. As had the silent promise I saw in her eyes that if Vosa stepped out of line, Bo would do everything she could to put that bitch down for good. It didn't, however, stop my missing hand with itching, nor with the nagging doubt I had that if I saw Vosa I'd be able to restrain myself from trying to kill her. Preferably, as painfully as possible.
As the hatch hissed and then opened, Ferox rushed forward. Fenrir growled at the disrespect, but I wasn't offended. Ferox was, understandably, worried about his family and if our positions were reversed, I'd have done the same.
Walking forward, the recycled atmosphere of the station filled my lungs, a faint hint of cleansing agent fresh in the air. That suggested there'd been a battle in the bay, and a quick look around confirmed it as blast marks dotted the walls, discolouring them.
As the landing area came into sight, I saw Ferox meeting with three other members of the Lokella Council. While the group was led by Baalta, the fact Maan Lonwin and Tweq Ruhn were missing – when both were high in the chain of command of the Lokella and Mtael's Gift – wasn't encouraging.
"What happened?" Ferox blurted out before Baalta could acknowledge my presence. "Where's Shmi?"
"Mtael, Ferox, we are grateful you have returned," Baalta said, trying to be diplomatic, yet in her tone, and within the Force, I could sense the pain and fear of the Lokella. In fact, it was so strong that the usual worship they had when I arrived was almost non-evident.
"Where is Shmi?" Ferox asked again, his voice positively feral, which drew a growl from Fenrir as he moved to my side. I went to place my hand on his head, only to stop as I realised he was on the side with the missing limb.
Baalta looked down and sighed. "I… It would be better if we took you to her." She then turned to a Rodian with her. "Take Commander Ferox to his wife." The Rodian did as asked, though as he stepped away Ferox came over, grabbed the alien's clothing and all but dragged him away.
"What happened here?" I asked once Ferox was out of earshot of us.
Baalta sighed again and shook her head. "It seems that not all who joined our cause did so because they believed in it. When the fleet answered your call, a signal was sent out. Not long after the Mtael had insisted that most of our forces return, another fleet arrived in the system, intent on forcing our people back into chains. Those who stayed behind fought valiantly, but by the time the Liberator and the rest of the fleet arrived, only two gunships remained to defend the station, which had already been boarded." Baalta paused and looked down at the deck. "While we wanted to honour the Mtael by providing him help as he had once done for us, in our haste we over-committed and many of our people died, though I'm led to believe that none were captured and re-enslaved."
I moved forward and placed my hand on Baalta's shoulders. "The future is uncertain, even to those of us who can use the Force."
She lifted her head, the faintest of smiles creeping onto her face. "Master Dooku said as much after the battle. I… If not for him and his apprentice, I fear the loss of life on the station would've been far worse." I nodded, choosing to not vocalise any thoughts about Vosa. Especially how she wasn't Dooku's apprentice. "He is currently in the station's command centre and awaits your presence."
I glanced over to the door that Ferox had raced through, the Lokella Council member being dragged along behind him. "What happened to the Skywalkers?"
"The boy, young Anakin, is fine. While he didn't see battle, he helped where he could." the smile on her face grew. "According to reports, he used the Force as you and Master Dooku showed him where he could and, at other times, seemed to know when and where the attackers would come from." The smile fell. "Shmi, however…" she shook her head, her lekku twitching while the montrals moved. "Many people suffered because of our haste to help."
"You did what you thought was right based on what information you had at the time. That is all anyone can do. To blame yourself in hindsight, if one doesn't learn from the mistakes, only leads to recrimination and doubt."
Baalta nodded, the smile slowly returning. "The Mtael is wise. As expected of a Jed… Your arm?!" she whispered as she saw the missing limb. "What happened?"
I lifted the arm, smiling as if I found it funny that this kept coming up even when it was hard to find anything amusing about losing my dominant hand. "While the battle with the Federation went easier than I'd expected, they had unexpected help. A Dark Sider, possibly even a Sith if that word means anything to you," judging by her non-reaction it didn't, "was there. While I was able to defeat him eventually, it came at a high cost."
Baalta's eyes widened as if she was struggling to understand what I'd just said. Her hand came out, gently touching my arm slightly above the elbow where I'd lost the forearm. "You… you paid this price to free others? To protect them from enslavement?"
"He did," Bo replied as I saw an amused smirk on her face, her helmet under her arm.
"You truly are the Mtael," Baalta said; a wide, proud smile coming to her face. "To pay this price for others shows that we were right to support you. While we will mourn our dead for some time, it will offer many some respite to know the Mtael continues to fight to protect others. To end the tyranny of slavers. And we will continue to stand with you, just as you do by arriving here so soon after your battle."
I considered heading to Anakin directly, though since Ferox was heading there already, I decided that speaking with Dooku and learning more about what happened here should come first. Yes, Anakin was in pain, and it sounded like Shmi – and possibly her child – was gone. While I wanted to comfort him, Ferox should, as his stepfather, be the first to have that opportunity.
"Is Dooku's… guest still present on the station?" I asked. I knew she was, as I could sense her twisted, deranged presence in the Force, but I wanted to hear from Baalta about why Vosa was here before I spoke to Dooku.
Baalta's face tensed, and her lekku seemed to vibrate. "Yes… she is currently staying in a small room near Master Dooku. He felt it was best if she remained close, but not too close, to him."
"An airlock would be better," Bo muttered, and I found myself disagreeing simply because, with her training, Vosa might be able to survive that long enough to make it to another airlock or a nearby hatch. Now, if we opened the airlock near the system's star and accelerated away before she could recover, I might consider it a fitting action to take.
"While many share your distaste for her Lady Bo-Katan, she fought beside Master Dooku during the attack. She saved many from the slavers when they boarded the station."
"You're sure they were slavers?" Bo asked as Fenrir growled, showing his dislike for those in that profession.
"Yes. While few of them survived, thanks to the actions of Master Dooku and others, we captured several of their boarding parties. Those that chose to surrender were quite forthcoming after Master Dooku spoke with them."
"Aye, I expect they were." While a Jedi, Dooku had no issue with doing what was needed to discover the truth, especially from sentients barely worthy of the name. It was honestly surprising he remained a Jedi for as long as he did in the other timeline given his opinion of most beings in the galaxy. "Although, perhaps we might discuss this as we walk," I added as I saw many in the bay were still watching us, and while I couldn't hear their voices – or at least wasn't going to bother using the Force to enhance my hearing – I could sense the growing curiosity, confusion, and even some anger all directed toward me. "Master Dooku isn't one to tolerate being made to wait."
Baalta chuckled. "Yes, that is indeed true." She turned and indicated toward a door leading from the bay, one heading in the opposite direction from where Ferox had gone. "While we respect him for his role in creating our people, he is cold, almost strict in a way that reminds many of their former enslavers. If not for his role, and his connection to you, Mtael, I feel many would fear his presence. Much as they do with his current apprentice."
"Master Dooku is… careful to a fault. It makes him, to those who don't know him, hard to read; almost to the point where one would question whether he has a heart."
"Yes. We on the Council, and among the first generation of Lokella, have always understood his importance to our cause. While I wished it hadn't happened, the attack has shown that to those who came to us later. If not for both his and his apprentice's presence on the station, we would have suffered far more grievously."
"Who hired the attackers?" Bo asked as we reached the door exiting the bay.
I was curious about that as well. While it was possible it was just a large slaving group, I felt that was unlikely. Even with most of the fleet gone, the concentrated forces left behind would've made the venture a risky one with the loss of slaver ships and personnel not able to be covered unless every Lokella was captured.
"The Hutts. Specifically, Decca." Baalta all but spat out that name, and I reached for my lightsaber, only to be reminded that it was gone, as was the hand that would normally wield it.
Decca had been the Hutt behind the slaving and mining operation in this system when Dooku and I had stumbled upon it. He'd held a grudge against the Lokella ever since and had been the one who sent the thugs after me during my verd'goten.
I ground my teeth; the face of the walking handbag that had shot me at my moment of triumph seared into my mind without the help of Eidetic Memory. Now, I knew that incident, and a few others involving Trandoshans had coloured my opinion of the species, to the point I wouldn't stop someone from wiping out the race, but a group that pleased their God by killing others wasn't one I considered high on any list to protect. Something the Wookies – among others – agreed with.
"While gathering your forces and striking back at Decca will be appealing, I must advise caution," I said slowly, keeping my feelings toward the giant slug out of my tone. "He deserves to pay for what he's done, but his mother is Gardulla. She is, even by Hutt standards, a remarkably influential being in the criminal underworld. And that's before we consider the Kajidic, Hutt Clan, that she leads. They are only rivalled, from what I know, by one other Hutt Clan for power, influence, and greed. Moving openly against Decca, Gardulla, or even the entire Kajidic would have the rest of the Hutt Clans allying to protect them. Not because they care about those two, but because it would be an affront to their entire system."
"We are aware of this. However, the need for retaliation is strong." Baalta's response was aggressive, almost challenging, and she seemed to understand this as she blinked in shock after she finished speaking.
"There's nothing wrong with being passionate," Bo said before I could tell Baalta she didn't need to apologise. "The trick is learning to focus that passion – that rage – properly to not get lost in your emotions and lose sight of the objective when facing your target. Also, you need to find targets that won't risk another major assault. Find weak points in your enemy's lines then strike them hard and fast; cripple their operations without endangering your warriors."
"Wise words, and ones I'll pass along to the Council," Baalta said as we stepped inside an elevator. That brought a few moments of silence as Baalta used a display inside the car. "A small security measure to ensure only those with permission can access the command levels," she said as we started ascending.
"A wise precaution," I said before turning to Bo. "With the war now over, might your father, Alor Torrhen, and other trustworthy warriors be interested in resuming the training program for the Lokella's warriors?"
Bo nodded. "Aye, I think they'd be interested."
"We would be grateful for any help you or others can offer," Baalta added with a smile; one that exposed the sharp teeth her species were known for. "The initial training programs put in place by your people are still used for training our warriors, but refresher and advanced courses wouldn't go amiss. Nor, perhaps, training in ship-to-ship operations."
Bo nodded, taking on Baalta's words and I knew she was sincere in her promise to pass on the suggestion to her father and Torrhen. Her people needed a focus and, while training a small group of freed slaves might not appeal to many, it was an honourable job to take. It would, if they chose to, allow the Mando'ade who came to see battle against the slavers; a foe deserving of extermination.
The Lokella were a small group, barely a power beyond their system, but with the right training, support, and targeted assaults, they could become a small regional power. One that, in theory, could check some of the Hutt influence in this section of the Outer Rim.
"What about the settlement on Gaia?" I asked, changing the topic.
"There was some bombardment, but no true damage was done. With the credits you've provided over the years, and what we've liberated from slavers and pirates, we purchased defences for the settlement. Those included a shield generator large and powerful enough to protect both the settlement and the mine from sustained bombardment from several cruisers for a few hours. After realising this, the slavers focused their firepower on the station intending to take it out before moving on the planet."
"I'm glad the credits allowed those simply looking to start their life anew to be protected, though I'd suggest a few surface-to-air cannons at a minimum as the settlement grows." The settlement, Hope, had grown a touch north of thirty-five thousand sentients when I'd last checked on it. The people there were, by and large, ones who simply wanted to live as peaceful a life as they could but had no interest in returning to the galaxy and Republic that abandoned them.
"I will pass along the suggestion, Mtael, though since the attack many who had chosen to not involve themselves in our struggle have changed their minds. It seems the idea of being re-enslaved has sparked a desire to fight for what they have and need to protect."
"A worthy reason to fight," Bo offered. I was thankful that was all she said, as I knew her feelings about those who wouldn't fight to defend what they had, and agreed with the sentiment. It was close to the ideals those called the New Mandalorians had followed. Thankfully, that group had all but been destroyed by the latest civil war; reduced to atoms. To the extent that even prominent supporters of the concept – like Satine Kryze – now saw the flaws in peace at all costs without the ability to defend it. "And it will increase your need for skilled trainers and weaponry."
"Yes, though we no longer need to rely solely on the generosity of the Mtael. Beyond the credits taken during freeing others who are enslaved, the phrik mine is now active enough that we can begin selling it."
"I'd suggest only doing so in small quantities and in a variety of different markets. The Republic, Jedi, and others will take note if a new, decent-sized phrik mine suddenly appears," I suggested, worried that selling the phrik too rapidly might draw unwanted attention. Especially from the Sith.
"We had already considered that, and as they are allies of yours, we were interested in seeing if the Mandalorians might be curious about purchasing the alloy. While I know many of your warriors use beskar, from my understanding, many don't. While phrik isn't comparable to beskar, in both cultural and practical significance, it has some similar properties; hence, as you would've observed on Naboo, why our warriors now wear it. As such, we'd be willing to pay any of your people who agree to train our warriors in either credits or phrik."
"I'll pass along the offer to my father and others," Bo answered, once more displaying, for her, unusual tact. I didn't think many, if any, Mando'ade would be interested in using phrik for their armour, but the fact Bo hadn't called Baalta out on that was a sign she was understanding, at least to a degree, the need for diplomacy. Something I was sure Adonai would be pleased with.
The elevator stopped, and when the doors opened I saw four guards, all in phrik armour, turn our way with weapons ready but not directly aimed at us. That was a new feature; one brought on by the recent attack. Once they saw it was us, they relaxed, though their blasters remained in hand.
Walking past the guards, we reached the door for the command centre quickly, which wasn't the one the Lokella had used initially. With the growth in the size of their people and forces and the handful of merchants that came to the system, they had needed more room. From what I'd been told, this was the former bridge of the Pius Dea cathedral ship, though most of the ostentatious decorations had been removed and sold for credits to both help the Lokella and rewire much of the station.
The large, recently installed bulkhead door to the command centre opened, and I saw two more guards there. They stood just as ready as those outside, though my focus quickly shifted to Dooku as he turned and looked our way. Vosa, thankfully, wasn't present, being located a level below.
"Master," I said once we came closer, "I'm relieved to see you alive and well." Several members of the command crew glanced my way. That was likely due to me using the term Master, though when they saw it was me, they returned to their duties. Well, all but two who seemed a little starstruck at seeing the Mtael.
"As I am for you, though it appears you didn't escape the battle unharmed," he replied, his eyes flickering down to my missing forearm.
"Sadly yes, but given the other option was death I consider it a fair exchange." I tried to be flippant about it, but I could tell that I failed to convey any hint that I was comfortable with what had happened. The smile I wore also wouldn't pass muster with someone who knew me as well as Dooku did. Plus, there was the fact he'd consider the loss of a limb a sign of weakness. While he'd never commented directly on the matter, I'd inferred he felt as much from the various discussions we'd had over the years.
"If that was the only other outcome, then I can accept your injury. However, I would prefer to speak further about what, or who caused you such a wound."
I smirked as my other hand slipped into a pouch on my belt. "I thought you might say that," I said as I pulled out a small datacard. "The recording from my armour. It begins from when I first encountered the Sith," a single eyebrow rose on Dooku's face, indicating how unexpected that reveal was, "as he was about to kill Padawan Keto having already dispatched Master Drallig."
Dooku's brow rose further. "I had sensed Cin's passing, but I was unaware he had been on Naboo when it happened."
"He came because of Padawan Keto," I explained as he took the datacard. "Though before you watch it, I'd like to hear about what happened here and then speak with Anakin."
"I expected that you would come for the boy," Dooku said as he slipped the datacard into his robes. He gestured toward another exit from the command centre. Like the one we'd entered through, this one was guarded, and after a nod accepting his suggestion, I fell into step at his side.
Bo came along as I expected, though I'd thought she'd have gone with Ferox to see Anakin. As much as she might protest it, she had a soft spot for the boy.
"During a training session with Komari, I sensed a shift in the Force warning of danger. I had planned to leave her on Gaia, however she said she felt the shift as well and wanted to help. I pondered the request for a short while before granting it, feeling it would be a good test of how far she has come in recovery from what the Bando Gora did to her." I bit my tongue, not wanting to mention that she had been the one who'd ordered me broken, not another. "We arrived on the station moments before a sufficiently large force exited hyperspace causing the beginnings of panic within the station. Neither I nor Komari have the inclination toward Battle Meditation that you possess, so I felt the best place for me was in the command centre. Komari followed along, though I had her assigned to a room nearby; the same one she has returned to now that the battle has finished."
"For that, I'm glad," I commented before taking a long, deep breath to push away the memories of what I'd endured under her attention.
"Understandably so, even before considering you fought a Sith on Naboo." There was no hint in his voice that he doubted my words, which was a nice reassurance after Qui-Gon and others not entirely trusting my words at first.
"The other Jetii needed to see the recording first before believing Cam." Bo's comment wasn't entirely accurate.
Dooku glanced at me as we reached an elevator, having passed another squad of guards in the short corridor that led to it.
"Master Jinn and his Padawan had been assigned by Chancellor Valorum to defuse the blockade of Naboo. They weren't successful."
"Quite." Dooku's tone was as close to amused as he'd ever come to be in public. While he accepted Bo around me, he didn't trust her to the degree I did. Then again, he didn't trust many sentients to begin with. I, his other former Padawans like Qui-Gon, and a handful of others might be ones he considered reliable, but the majority of beings were, in his eyes, unworthy of any role other than simply existing.
"Master Jinn accepted my words enough to agree with me that the Zabrak was a Sith before viewing the recording, though that helped to confirm his suspicions. His Padawan, and two others who were by chance on Naboo during the invasion, were less convinced without the recording."
"There is no chance where the Force is concerned, though their reluctance to accept the emergence of the Sith is understandable." He paused as the doors closed and he entered the floor we would be heading to. "Have you spoken to the Council regarding this?"
"No, Master, though they are due to arrive in about a week to collect Master Drallig's body. The new Chancellor, Sheev Palpatine," that drew an interested look from Dooku, "will be arriving with them to celebrate the liberation of Naboo. However, when I sensed Anakin's distress, I knew I had to come here first with Bo and Ferox coming along due to their connection to the boy and his mother."
"Indeed." There was a slight pause before Dooku resumed speaking. "Returning to events here, when I arrived at the command centre I discovered that the attackers, which I later learnt were hired by Decca the Hutt, had breached the station. Feeling I would be of more use there, I headed to the nearest landing bay. Komari accompanied me simply because I was unwilling to leave her behind on the small chance she might somehow betray my trust." I wished she had, as Dooku would've struck her down for the action, thinking her beyond redemption. "It was fortunate I allowed her to come. While I was engaged against a large enough group of attackers to require the majority of my attention, ones that were targeting a group of children which included the Skywalker boy, Komari slipped away. When I realised this, I pursued her, unsure of her motives. I didn't sense a hint of betrayal from her, yet she had disobeyed my commands."
As the elevator slowed, he continued. "When I found her, she was surrounded by bodies. A group of perhaps ten Lokella lay dead on the ground, killed by blaster fire. Nearby four Weequay lay, their wounds brought on by one trained in the force. Komari was there, knelt over one of the Lokella, the Force shifting around her and the woman on the floor. Once I was closer I understood the woman was Shmi Skywalker." He paused there, allowing a moment of remorse. "Shmi was gravely wounded, Komari rested her head on her lap. Komari was never skilled with Force Healing, yet I could sense her using the Force to try and save the life inside Shmi. I knew there was nothing I could do to help Shmi; such things are beyond my abilities, but seeing Komari work to save the child Shmi carried was unexpected." He paused again, meeting my gaze. "Even given that Shmi had been one of the few Lokella to have interacted with Komari, displaying a degree of patience with my former Padawan that would rival that of Master Yoda." That caught me off-guard as I didn't realise the Skywalkers had any interaction with Komari, though knowing how kind Shmi was, it didn't surprise me that she would be willing to help Komari if needed. "Just as Shmi passed, the last of her life given to protect her unborn child, the boy arrived." The doors hissed there, signalling we'd arrived at our level. "I believe that his anguished scream is what you sensed?"
"Yes, though the timing was less than ideal," I held up my missing forearm, the fingers on it itching again.
"Yes, that would've been most unhelpful when battling a Sith. However, the Force often acts in ways we fail to understand, or comprehend." He stepped forward, leading us into the corridor. "Even decades later I struggle to fully grasp certain moments the Force seemed to insist that I experience."
I considered responding, suggesting I was fine with what had happened, but the words died on my lips as we rounded the first corner and I saw what lay ahead of us.
We'd arrived at the largest medical centre on the station, yet the corridor outside it was lined with beds until the next junction perhaps a hundred metres away. Some of the beds had been brought here to handle the overflow, others temporary ones constructed in a rush. Every bed was occupied; many of them had people sitting and either talking to each other or keeping to themselves; bacta patches, bandages and the like showing the various injuries they'd suffered during the attack.
The fact they were still here days later, instead of inside the centre or returning to quarters to recuperate, was an indication of just how devastating the battle had been. As were the dozen or so medical staff moving through the corridor, checking on the patients.
I moved forward slowly, taking in the sight; a voice nagging me that what had happened here was my fault. I shouldn't have asked the Lokella for help on Naboo, and shouldn't have asked them to risk their fleet to help others in need.
"Mtael."
I stopped and looked down, seeing a young Twi'lek female looking up at me, reverence on her face. Her hand, the one not held against her chest, reached over her body. "You came," she said softly as I noted one of her lekku was bandaged, the tip of it no longer there.
Hesitantly I reached out, taking her hand into mine. As much as I wanted to comfort her, I didn't want my actions to turn the admiration on her face into devotion. While I accepted many of the Lokella felt that way about me, I never tried to encourage it, nor use it to my advantage. At least not intentionally.
As my fingers grasped her hand, her eyes saw my other arm and a gasp slipped from her lips. Her eyes returned to my face, and I already knew the question forming on her lips.
"Where were you?!" The angry, snapped question took my attention from the Twi'lek to an enraged Human. The man stalked toward me, pushing past others on their bed. "Where the kriff were you while we were dying?" He raged, anger burning in his eyes and fuelling his movement. "Why did you call our ships away?" That question was accompanied by the thrusting of his hand toward me.
Behind and around him, others turned, wondering what the commotion was. While some shared his rage as they saw me, and some displaced the respect the Twi'lek granted, most were confused as to why the man was so enraged at me.
I could understand the man's rage and the pain he felt. I understood the loss of a loved one as the image of a red-skinned Togruta was broadcast into the Force so loudly that I felt they'd sense it on Coruscant. Yet, for all that anger, his behaviour here, pushing past others far more grievously injured, was unacceptable.
However, before I could answer him, Bo pushed past me, one hand floating over a blaster pistol. "Don't your osikyr dare, you shabuir!" Her snarled, venomous response had the man stopping in his tracks, though the rage in his gaze never wavered. "Cam never asked your fleet to leave!" Bo added, taking another step toward the man. "Osik, he ordered them back when we saw how many had come, and if not for that you'd not be standing there to shabyr shout at him!" she continued to close on the man, her hand grasping the pistol though she didn't draw it. "And on top of freeing another world from slavery; besting a Darjetii to do so!"
"Bo, that's enough," I said, placing my remaining hand on her shoulder even as the Togruta blinked, confused at the venom in Bo's tone. I was too, but I saw it as Bo simply defending me from what she saw as baseless accusations. "Oriam is just angry; at the world, at the slavers, the Hutts and losing the one he loved in the battle." Oriam blinked; shock at me knowing why he was angry - thank you Observe - pushing back his rage.
Bo grunted, but she allowed me to gently ease her to the side so I could pass. "Oriam," I began as I came face to face with the man, "while I don't know the full details of what everyone else here endured, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked the council for help, not even to free the citizens of another world that were invaded and bound for slavery." As I spoke, I lifted my other arm, the one missing the forearm, using the injury to show I'd suffered as well. "The safety of the Lokella matters greatly to me. Certainly more so than asking them to forgo the defences of this station or the planet below to answer my wishes." Behind him I saw most were watching us, listening to my words. "I never expected the Council to offer the majority of the fleet, never wanted them to. Just because to many, though not all, I am a figure of importance doesn't mean my wishes and my needs supersede those of your people. Something I explained to the fleet that came to help when I demanded most of it return to this station."
I watched Oriam as I spoke, noting the anger slowly fading into the background. It didn't disappear, nor should it, but it pulled back enough that when he spoke again, there was little hint of it in his voice. "Why," he paused and licked his lips. "Why did we have to help a world of the Republic? They did nothing to help us!"
"No, they didn't. Nor did the Senate, whose new Chancellor hails from Naboo; the planet we helped to free. I, however, won't stand by and do nothing. Not if it led to innocents being enslaved and abandoned by those sworn to protect them. The Trade Federation, the Hutts, and others like them, have run roughshod over the Outer Rim for centuries, doing whatever they pleased. The voices of those they hurt, those they enslave – be it officially or with contracts so one-sided they might as well be – have been ignored by those in the corridors of power; many only concerning themselves with personal power and wealth."
"Yet I knew I couldn't help the Naboo, couldn't make a stand against oppression, be it of slavers or corporations, alone. So I reached out to the Lokella and the Mandalorians." Given their history, having them help to free the oppressed was an amusing turn of events, but it would also, I hoped, help rehabilitate their image with some. "I'm sorry that my request cost you, cost all of you," I added as I looked past Oriam and took in the sentients in the corridor. "But I won't stand by and do nothing because those who should've helped the Naboo, who should've helped you, did nothing."
I stopped there, taking stock of my words while Oriam considered them. It wasn't lost on me that my words might sound like something a Separatist would say, but I suspected that for many who joined the CIS, their issues with the Republic were genuine. However, their cause was only a front used by the Sith to shatter the Republic and the Jedi and bring everything under the control of a Sith-led empire.
If I'd seen myself say that back when I'd been inserted into this galaxy, I'd have wondered what had changed. Yes, Sidious had used the Clone Wars to gain control of the galaxy, but I believed in the concept of the Republic and the GAR. Yet, after seeing how the Republic worked – or in many cases, didn't – I could no longer see myself standing with the GAR against whatever the CIS became in this timeline. Not if it was, as in the other timeline, controlled and corrupted by the corporations before they were turned on by the true puppet masters.
The issue was that, unless something changed drastically, I only had maybe ten years before galactic war broke out. Yet, before I could begin laying true foundations for what was to come, I had to sort out several critical issues. With myself, with Anakin, and with others.
Putting those thoughts to the side again, I placed my hand on Oriam's arm. "I'm sorry that you lost someone you cared for deeply, I truly am. But I cannot change the past, nor will I apologise for the choices I made that led to your loss save for wishing I'd been clearer about only wanting a small section of the Lokella Force to aid me. However, no one; not you, or me, or the most powerful Jedi to have ever lived can know for certain the repercussions of any action we take. Nor how that action can alter events across the galaxy." I removed my hand from his arm and stepped back. "If you and others wish to hate me for what happened here, then I understand and wouldn't blame you. I'm not a dictator, nor do I ever wish to become one. That said, I will continue to do what I feel, in my heart, and in the Force, is best for not just myself but the galaxy as a whole."
Having said my piece, I moved to one side and slipped past him before he could reply. I was interested in hearing his thoughts, and those of other members of the Lokella. However, I wasn't here now for them. That was a cruel thought while they were in pain, but it was the hard truth and I'd be an arrogant, deluded fool if I ignored it.
The doors to the medical centre slid open as I approached, even as those in the corridor continued, like Oriam, to consider my words. The sickly-sweet smell of bacta – one I'd grown used to after defeating Maul – grew stronger as I entered the centre.
Beds lined the walls, all occupied. Bacta patches, larger than those used outside, covered many of the sentients lying on the beds. The other beds held sentients whose eyes made clear their injuries were mental more than physical. Nurses and doctors moved around, the signs of tiredness and weariness easy to see in their movements.
Dooku and Bo were at my side as the doors closed behind us. My eyes searched the room, though I didn't see Anakin. Reaching out with Detection, I sensed Anakin in a small room near the back of the centre. Inside were two others. Ferox and one I didn't know.
I moved toward the room, ignoring the looks from those present. Like outside before my impromptu speech, the faces that watched me ranged from adulation to disgust, however, I wasn't interacting with any of them. I wasn't here for them.
The door to the small, backroom slid open with an audible hiss. Inside I saw Ferox and Anakin, the boy had his head against the Corellian's side, one of Ferox's arms around the boy, as they sat near a bed. Something was on the bed; the source of the third presence I'd felt in the Force. Yet before I could approach close, Anakin shifted, sliding from Ferox's side, and turned.
"Cam!" My name came out in a mixture of relief, shock, and fear. Yet before I could process his emotions fully, I'd dropped to a knee as he rushed toward me.
His arms grasped around my neck as mine went around his back, and a moment later, tears flowed from his eyes as he sobbed into my shoulder. With my remaining hand, I gently patted his back, letting him release his pain. As he did that, I lifted my head and looked at Ferox.
His eyes, like Anakin's, were red, though in his arms I saw a small bundle of blankets. I knew instantly that this was the child Shmi had been carrying, though before I could ask its name, or even use Observe to determine if it had any true Force Potential, Anakin lifted his head from my shoulder, drawing my attention.
"Mom died," he managed to get out between sobs, his face wet and his eyes bloodshot.
"I know," I replied, offering him a small, sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry."
My hand came around and up, intending to wipe away his tears, only for me to stop as I realised I'd once again used the arm with the missing limb.
"Your Hand!" Anakin blurted out before I could lower the arm enough he might not see the wound. "What happened?"
"He fought a Darjetii," Bo replied, drawing Anakin's attention to her and saving me from having to explain what happened without revealing it was his scream that had distracted me.
Dooku clarified. There was nothing in his voice to hint at anything else, but I sensed a faint ripple in the Force suggesting he knew more than he was letting on. "However, Cameron sensed your pain, and as soon as he was able, came to visit," my former Master added, not letting me dwell on what he might be holding back.
Anakin's gaze returned to me, his eyes widening at Dooku's words, and I offered him a smile. "I felt your pain through the Force and knew I had to come," I explained as I brought my other arm around and wiped away some of his tears. I wasn't going to mention when I'd sensed his pain, or what it'd led to, for a good, long while. Knowing Anakin, he'd blame himself for it and never fully forgive himself which wasn't something I wanted. When he was older, I'd probably tell him the full truth, but by then he'd have moved on from the event enough it wouldn't affect him psychologically.
In truth, the mistake was mine. I'd enjoyed the fight with Maul far too much and granted the Zabrak too much control over how it went and where we fought. I should've gone to the tools in my armour sooner and used them more. If I had, I might've kept my hand. However, as I was aware, hindsight was a bitch, so I wasn't going to dwell on the mistake, only learn from it going forward.
"Mum's dead," he repeated as my hand came away from his face.
"I know," I answered again. My fingers brushed back the hair on his forehead that had stuck there when he'd buried his head in my shoulder.
I wanted to help him, to take his mind off events, but I wasn't sure how. I'd already promised to take him as my Padawan, but making that official now felt wrong; cheap even. And disrespected Shmi. Around us, I could faintly feel the Force shifting as if trying to nudge me toward an action it wanted. However, as was often the case, I wasn't attuned to its intent as strongly as most other Jedi. Yet, as my fingers lifted away from Anakin's forehead, I caught sight of my vambrace, of the beskar it was made of, and an idea took root in my mind.
"Anakin," I said slowly, sorting out rapidly if this was the right idea. "I want you to know that I'll still take you as my Padawan. However, I know you're not ready for that. You need to grieve for your mother. That said, I have… an idea that I think you might like." Anakin's head tilted to one side, his curiosity shining through his grief. I looked up at Ferox. "Were you and Shmi married?" I asked. It was a touch callous to ask that now, but for the idea I had, I needed to be sure of Anakin's relationship with the Corellian.
"No," Ferox replied gently, the bundle in his arms held securely against his chest. "W.. we'd agreed to wait until after Lia's birth before making it official. We… we had hoped you might be there when we married, given your role in bringing us together."
I nodded at that, unsure what to say to him to apologise for not having considered that when I'd taken Anakin to Mandalore before the invasion of Naboo. It was nice to also have a name for Anakin's sister – one that, amusingly, was close to what his daughter had been named in another timeline. However, my curiosity about Lia Skywalker would have to wait until later. "Then, with your permission, I'd like to adopt Anakin."
"I thought Jedi couldn't have families," Anakin blurted out before Ferox could answer my request.
"While that isn't entirely accurate," Dooku replied as I was reminded of Ki-Adi-Mundi, "I believe Cameron isn't interested in making you his son in a common, Republic sense."
I turned to my former Master, curious to his thoughts on the plan brewing in my mind. The slightest, barely perceptible movement of his head gave me his blessing, though I knew he'd want to hear my reasoning for this choice at a later date. Bo, on the other hand, was trying and failing to keep a proud smile from spreading over her face.
Turning back to Anakin, I smiled gently. "A Jedi isn't normally allowed to have a family. I, however, am far from what most would consider a normal Jedi." Bo snorted out a laugh that she tried to hide behind a cough. "Nor am I only a Jedi. I am Cameron Shan, Alor – that means Chief – of Clan Shan of the Mando'ade. If you want I cou…"
"Yes!"
Anakin's response cut me off from finishing my question as his eyes radiated joy at the idea of becoming Mandalorian. The pain was still there, but for this moment at least, it was replaced by other feelings.
"Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad, Anakin." He blinked at my words, clearly not understanding them. rather amusingly, he looked up at Bo for an explanation.
"That means you are now, by the laws of our people, Anakin Skywalker, son of Cameron Shan," She said, amusement easy to detect in her voice.
Ankin offered a weak laugh, any excitement at his change in status lost under the sorrow he felt over his mother's death. I held him close, letting the mixture of emotions wash over him while around us the others stood.
Later I'd speak with Dooku about how this development would change the Master-Padawan relationship I'd have with Anakin. I also knew that I'd have to keep this development hidden from the Jedi Council, and by extension, the Sith. However, given I planned to take some time, perhaps a year or two, away to train Anakin while continuing to build a base of support for the wars to come, that shouldn't be a major hurdle.
Eventually, and thankfully before I needed to call on the Force to counter the lack of fresh oxygen entering my lungs, Anakin eased his grip. As he slid back, a wide, happy smile dominated his face. "Wait," he muttered as his eyes drifted down. "Does that mean I get armour like yours and Bo's?"
"One day, maybe," I replied with a chuckle as I ran my hand through his hair. Given his changed mood, he didn't react to the action. "However, that won't be for a good while yet, and not until after you've completed your verd'goten." He gulped at hearing that, memories of the stories of my and Bo's hunts coming to mind. "First though, I'd like to meet your sister."
"Okay," he said, turning he grabbed my hand and dragged me forward. I stood as I moved, approaching Ferox who leaned forward slightly to grant me a sight of the babe in his arms. She looked much like any other newborn, though I swore I saw the same spark of curiosity in her eyes that I often saw in Anakin's gaze. "Lia, I'd like you to meet Cameron Shan, my new father."
I blinked as Anakin said that, marvelling at how right it felt to hear him call me father. I hadn't considered the idea of having children for a long, long time. Certainly not until the wars against the Sith were over. Yet, standing here with Anakin, meeting his half-sister – who Observe confirmed had little potential with the Force – I knew I'd made the right decision.
Yes, when it was discovered, it would place an even larger target on our backs, but that, I was discovering, happened naturally the more active I was in the galaxy. With events that were still to come, regardless of whether they happened as they did in the other timeline or not, I'd rather have Anakin trained and ready to fight than risk leaving him exposed to the chaos to come.
… …
… …
Later that day, as the station's chronometer ticked toward midnight, I was almost ready to leave Mtael's Gift. Anakin had transferred his belongings to Raven not long after I'd adopted him, taking a room between mine and Bo's. Currently, he was off saying farewell – for now – to Ferox, Lia, and his friends on the station. Many of the Lokella were sad to see him go, but as it was an open secret that I'd intended to make him a Jedi, most were accepting of the change.
Bo found the idea of the adoption amusing, teasing me regularly about it, even mentioning that she'd had the idea of adopting the boy first. When I'd shot back at that saying she still could, and we could co-parent Anakin, she'd laughed so hard she'd not been able to reply for nearly a minute. While she liked the boy, she continued to claim she had no interest in having children – be they through adoption or birth – and was happy to be the fun-loving, gun-toting aunt. Though when she'd spent time holding Lia, I noticed a look in her eye that suggested she wasn't as against the idea of children as she claimed. That, however, was a discussion for, at best, several years down the road.
Ferox, for obvious reasons, would be staying on the station. Not only did he have a new-born daughter to raise, but the Lokella needed his leadership. With a child to care for, I hoped he'd temper his more aggressive approaches to life. He had, though, given me a datacard to pass to Validus – who was back on Naboo, containing information on the attack and a private message between the pair.
Before I departed, and with Anakin still off speaking to his friends, I'd found the time to speak again with Dooku. After adopting Anakin, we'd not had much time to speak, yet as I approached him on the balcony that overlooked the bay containing Raven, I knew he'd have examined the recording of my battle with Maul.
"Master," I said as I neared though he'd already been turning before I spoke.
"Cameron, I won't keep you long," he replied as I approached. "I only wish to speak with you about your duel with the Zabrak, and pass along an unexpected revelation from Komari." I tensed at the mention of the bitch, but relaxed a moment later. "Knowing your continual disinterest in meeting with her, I felt relaying the message to you would be preferable."
"My thanks, Master," I said as I reached his side, my hand coming out to grip the balcony's railing and looking down at the Raven as Lokella technicians moved around her under Bo's watchful direction. "While I have grown and changed since my time with her and the Bando Gora, I know I'm not in any condition to meet with her again."
That was, as Dooku knew, a massive understatement. Everything I'd endured at the hands of Vosa and the Bando Gora was, because of Eidetic Memory, fresh and clear whenever I thought about it. That made releasing the feelings I held toward her, and about my time with her, into the Force as a Jedi was meant to do, be extremely difficult to manage. If not downright impossible, which was why I chose to push the anger and rage that time, and other moments in my life, down deep inside. It was something that would, if not for anything else, keep me from ever being a 'good and proper' Jedi. Though given I'd never really been a proper Jedi, it was perhaps not a major issue.
"Quite." Dooku's response was succinct, to the point, and oddly amusing. "According to Komari, she fought the Zabrak at some point while you were under her care." I grimaced at referring to my time with the Bando Gora like that, but I understood Dooku was being diplomatic about the ordeal. "It seems that the Bando Gora were involved in a plot with the Zabrak to kill someone I believe you are familiar with. Hego Damask."
I blinked at hearing that. "Huh." The word slipped from my lips as I processed what I'd just learned. "That wasn't something I've heard him mention, though if the Sith were involved, then it was likely only tangentially as otherwise the Muun would've died. I'll have to see what I can learn about this, subtly of course."
Dropping a nugget like that could, if Plagueis was still alive, cause friction between him and Sidious. It hadn't been a direct attack by the Apprentice on the Master – which spoke to how powerful Plagueis was – but it was an interesting development to learn of, nonetheless.
What I didn't know though was if, in the other timeline, that was the event that enabled Sidious to kill and replace his Master, or just an early attempt that failed there as it had here. Plagueis must've died not long after Naboo, as I felt there was little chance the Muun would've stayed in the shadows while his Apprentice was Chancellor, so I'd know soon if my actions, unintentional as they were, had fucked up this timeline enough that Plagueis survived. If he had, then things would be a million times harder as for all of Sidious' power – taking down three Council members almost instantly being a prime example – Plagueis would be on another level. Perhaps beyond even Yoda and Windu together.
That was a frightening thought and meant my plans for training Anakin would have to be accelerated.
"Indeed. Though I would be cautious of whom you reveal this to. To most outside the Council, Komari is missing and presumed dead. The reveal of this information, if it reached the ear of the Zabrak's Master, would have him investigating us, and those around us intensely. That could endanger many, if not all, of the plans we are contemplating."
"The Sith might also seek to take Vosa, replacing the Zabrak," I added, which was something Sidious would be working on now. Dooku was, I was all but certain, off the table as Darth Tyrannus, but the Sith would have backup plans upon backup plans. So much so that I feared little I did would stop them from reaching a point where they could implement Order 66.
"Indeed."
"Thank you for this, Master," I said after nearly a minute of silent contemplation. "Also, can you offer my… thanks to her? While, in the grand scheme of things, it's likely this information is unimportant, it is another small thread in our investigations of what the Sith are planning. With it, we might be able to find moments between where she encountered the Zabrak and Naboo that may have been influenced by the Sith."
"I shall pass along your words, though I'm unsure of how she will take them." he paused as if considering something. "She retains an interest in you, often wondering what latest event you have found yourself involved in. That interest has only increased with your defeat of the Sith, though I fear it has also increased the interest the Sith may have toward you, and potentially the boy."
"I had feared that Master, and have some plans to limit our exposure for the next year or so. If the Force allows me the freedom to avoid incidents."
Dooku grunted, understanding the joke. "Like you, I believe the Zabrak is only the apprentice. While his form is impeccable, he was intent on defeating you with the lightsaber only. A true master of the Force, be they Jedi or Sith, wouldn't allow themselves to be so limited. If the Master focuses on you, I am concerned you will be unable to escape their machinations."
"On that, we agree, Master. And while I take the time to train Anakin, I feel I now know how to overcome my deficiencies with the Force. While I'd have preferred the clarity to have occurred before losing my hand, I'm glad it has finally come." OK, the clarity came from reaching level 30, but Dooku wouldn't, and couldn't, understand that.
I took a step back and bowed to him. "May the Force be with you, Master."
"And with you, Cameron, and your new Padawan. I sense you will both need it for what is to come."
I nodded, understanding the final warning he gave, and then turned. While I was curious about his opinions of my fight with Maul, I already knew the critiques he'd offer as they'd been the same ones he'd been giving for the last few years. By the time I met Dooku again, if all went as planned, then I'd have overcome those issues, and at the very least, I hoped I'd be able to push him into taking actions during a spar that he'd not normally wish to.
Before then though, I had to return to Naboo. I couldn't avoid meeting the High Council, or the Sith Lord that was the new Chancellor of the Republic.
… …
… …
I had Raven turn, banking her under and around one of the arms of the Saak'ak before she then swooped over the arm.
"Woo-hoo!" Anakin called out as Raven turned almost on a credit-chit to face the entrance to the hangar. That let me see what was parked there and I whistled at the sight of the Royal Naboo Cruiser.
"Damn! Padmé's going to be pissed," I muttered as Raven moved into the bay and the damage to the royal cruiser became apparent.
The superstructure was still intact, and the engines still mounted, yet the hull was peppered with holes, scorch marks, and other forms of damage including what appeared to be the arm of a Vulture droid wedged through where the cockpit was. Sections of the inner workings were exposed in several places, with the panel R2 and the other droids had exited through during the cruiser's escape from Naboo having been blown off.
"It served its purpose," Bo remarked from the co-pilot's seat as Raven flew past the royal cruiser. "I'm sure the Queen is fine with the damage given it helped free her people. But, if she does have it rebuilt, please insist that she adds some shabyr weaponry."
"I'll pass that along," I said with a chuckle as Raven turned, planning to set her down between the royal cruiser and the assortment of vessels that filled this bay, along with the next one.
"Oh!" Anakin called out, his arm thrust between Bo and me. "That's a D-17 Patrol craft! I've always wanted to see inside one! And that's a…"
"Anakin," I cut in before his enthusiasm for the collection of vessels overwhelmed him, "When we arrive I need you to not start fiddling with other people's belongings. The Lokella allowed it because they trusted you. Here, while the Mando'ade trust me, none know you're my ad. As much as Bo would no doubt enjoy me settling any grievances that are brought up, I'd rather not waste my time doing so."
"Okay," he said, much quieter than before, and pulled his arm back.
"If you're good, I'm sure my father and Alor Torrhen would be willing to let you visit the Ne'tra Tal'ade, ad'ika," Bo offered, using the Mando'a term for child or little one, which oddly, was close to Anakin's name.
"Really?" Anakin asked, not even attempting to hide his hope. Somehow, the idea of getting to see the inside of a Mandalorian dreadnought was lifting his excitement to new, untold levels. While I was a little concerned about it, I was letting it go as it kept him distracted from crying over his mother. Something he'd done each night since we'd left the ShaDo system.
"Yes. As Cam's ad, you're now an ally of my Clan and Clan Ordo." From the corner of my eye, I caught the smile on Bo's face as she talked to Anakin, once more showing her feelings toward the boy. "If not for Cam, the Ne'tra Tal'ade might've been returned to dock without seeing battle. Since it is here, and because of everything, I feel it won't take much to convince them to allow you a tour of one of our older, but powerful, warships." She leaned closer. "Perhaps, if you're really good, it might even be possible for you to fire the turbolasers at a nearby asteroid," she added in a conspiratorial tone.
"Woo-Hoo!" I winced at Anakin's volume as he was right next to my seat. "Come on Fenrir!"
As Raven reported touching down on the Lucrehulk's deck, I turned just in time to see a bemused tuk'ata follow the boy out of the cockpit. "Are you trying to spoil him?" I asked Bo as I turned to her, even as, with just one hand, I powered down Raven's systems.
"Maybe, but I'm also encouraging his shereshoy," she replied as she stood. Shereshoy was a uniquely Mando'a word that, as close as it could be translated, meant 'lust for life' in Basic. While I didn't fully understand it, I knew that term only covered part of what shereshoy truly meant. It did, though, remind me of the saying 'seize the day' from Earth. "And to show him that our ways are better than those of the Jetii."
"I remind you that I'm a Jedi," I countered as I stood.
That drew a snort of amusement from her. "Even you know you're not a good one." She took a step toward me, entering my personal space. "You fought and defeated a Darjetii as Mando'ade, not Jetii." Standing on her tiptoes, her lips moved toward my ear. "And a very emuur'la one at that," she added before nibbling gently on my ear.
I rolled my eyes as she pulled back, well aware and used to her flirting. Though I'd admit that if not for Anakin, his trouble sleeping each night, and the fact his room was next to mine, then I'd have struggled to not give in to Bo's temptations. Even with thoughts of Serra still fresh in my thoughts.
Before we'd docked with the Saak'ak, I'd contacted Theed for an update on her condition. Padmé had informed me personally that while she was still in the bacta tank, her doctors assured her that my fellow Jedi would be out of the tank before the celebrations. Padmé was also glad I'd returned as the Chancellor and Jedi Council were due to arrive tomorrow. From the way she spoke of the festivities, I suspected – and dreaded – that she planned for me to be front and centre in them.
"Come on," I said to Bo, once more ignoring her flirting. "If we don't get out there quickly enough, I fear what sort of chaos Anakin might get into."
"Knowing his buir, a lot," Bo added as she fell into step at my side as we left the cockpit.
It took about a minute to make our way through Raven and reach the exit hatch. As we entered the airlock, the sound of the ramp deploying was heard, but attention was on Anakin and the way he was struggling to not bounce from foot to foot. I could sense his excitement, along with Fenrir's amusement, as he waited to see new vessels. "Anakin," I said, drawing his attention, "remember what I said."
"Yes, sir." He wasn't calling me father, which was a relief as I wasn't sure I was ready to hear that, but I'd made it clear he didn't have to address me as Master. For former slaves that term had negative, and likely painful, connotations. In time, I'd explain how to the Jedi it was meant as one of respect, but given he wouldn't be around any Jedi bar myself and Dooku when we stopped in the ShaDo system, that wouldn't be an issue.
I took the lead once the airlock hissed open, and looking around, made note of the various ships in the hangar. To say they were an eclectic collection would be like saying Kashyyyk had big trees. There was little to no uniformity in the ships in the bay, showing how each Mando'ade was free to select a vessel that suited them. While that allowed them great freedom, it also made it hard for others to track Mandalorians based on starship types. However, it did feed into the idea that they wouldn't be unified, at least not without a strong, powerful Mand'alor to control them.
Around the bay, Federation droids moved, though these were the unarmed, cargo-type droids a ship like the Saak'ak was meant to have and not the various battledroids that it had carried to Naboo. Since there was no cargo in the bay, at least as far as I could see, the droids were likely helping with the maintenance of the various ships here.
From what I'd learnt speaking to Asta Ordo when we'd approached for docking, the remaining battledroids and Vulture droids were being stored in the port arm, along with any surviving crew from the three Lucrehulks. Well, bar the senior figures who were, unfortunately for me, held in Theed. Hopefully, HK had discovered a way to remove Gunray while I'd been gone, but if not, I'd have to try another approach to ensure he never reached a Republic jail. There was no way I was allowing Sidious to keep that piece on the board.
Once on the deck, my focus shifted to an approaching group of Mando'ade. None wore their helmets, instead, like Bo, they carried them under an arm, but I'd know each of them even if they wore the helmets. I watched them all as they came closer, though I held Osto's gaze a touch longer until he gave a subtle nod. That meant Maul was secured aboard either this ship or more likely the Ne'tra Tal'ade ready for transport to a secure Mandalorian facility designed to house and contain Force users.
I wasn't sure what my plans would be with him, but I knew he'd be of some use. The Force had been clear in that as I'd stood over him, considering my options as the sedative designed for bull rancors that I'd shot him with rendered him unconscious. In the end, I'd used the Force-suppression cuffs I held in my Inventory to secure him, and then had Osto and his squad withdraw from the city with the Zabrak. I knew I'd have to talk with Adonai, Torrhen, and the handful of others who knew about Maul, regarding what to do with the Sith, but that could wait for a few days. Though I did know I needed him out of sigh, preferably out of the system, before Palpatine arrived.
"Alor Cameron, it's good to see you again," Adonai said as he led the greeting party. He extended an arm, thankfully for my remaining hand.
"You as well, Alor Adonai," I replied as I grasped his forearm. "Though I had shab'an idea you and Alor Torrhen would turn up with a shabyr dreadnought," I added with a smile. That drew laughter from everyone within range to catch my words. "Not that I'm complaining, mind you."
"We wanted it active for the civil war, but by the time the last upgrades were installed and checked, the war was over," Torrhen replied as I grasped his forearm while Adonai hugged his daughter, much to her annoyance. "The vessel had been powered down since then and we feared we'd have wasted the credits on improving her. Of course, that was when your call to arms came in and we felt it would be a waste to not deploy the Ne'tra Tal'ade into combat once again."
"Given the smoking hulk floating nearby, I'd say it more than lived up to design," I remarked as I greeted Asta and Ordo in turn. "And while I'm sure the Naboo are grateful for the extra firepower, I can't imagine how the Chancellor and Jedi Council will react when they arrive tomorrow."
"Aye, we're looking forward to that," Asta commented with a grin matched by the others. "It will be nice to show the Tsad Droten that Mandalore isn't the feeble backwater they believe."
"We had considered removing the Ne'tra Tal'ade to avoid an incident, but I was outvoted on the matter," Adonai added, though the smile he wore made clear he wasn't offended or upset to lose that vote. "Given reports of her travel would've reached Coruscant already, there was little point in attempting to hide her existence."
"Besides, your Queen granted every warrior and vessel that fought to free her world safe passage in their system, and a port in the storm if needed," Osto added. "So long as it's not to hide from Tsad Droten law or the Jetii."
"I'm sure the new Chancellor is going to love that," I commented with a grin, doing my best to ignore the teasing Osto used regarding my friendship with Padmé. Bar Adonai and Bo, though I couldn't see her face to confirm it, none understood what I was implying. "Until a few weeks ago, he was the Senator for the Chommell sector, being born on Naboo."
That had the group laughing in delight, which was what I expected. Having the homeworld of the Chancellor of the Republic – or Tsad Droten in Mando'a – grant Mando'ade safe passage and protection would place him in an awkward position if he ever had to censor the Mandalorian sector. Not that most Mando'ade would listen to the Republic, but it would be an interesting dilemma for Palpatine to handle.
"You mean that we didn't just save a Tsad Droten world, but the home of their new leader?" Asta asked between chuckles. My nod of confirmation only had her and the others laughing harder. "Shab elek!" She exclaimed, punching the air in delight.
As the group and those nearby heard and passed on my information, I realised that none had remarked on my missing limb. They'd all seen it, the glances impossible to hide, but none seemed concerned about it. It had been a regular thing that others asked about, but the Mando'ade here just accepted it. Now, Bo had already told me that would be the case, using her father's artificial leg as an example of how being wounded in battle wasn't something to look down upon, so long as the battle had been a worthy one, which defeating a Sith certainly qualified as. Still, seeing the lack of reaction to the wound in person was a nice experience.
As the laughter died down, Adonai's eyes drifted to those with me and Bo. "While I expected Fenrir, I hadn't expected the ad'ika to be with you," he said, looking at Anakin.
I turned and called the boy forward, placing my hand on his shoulder once he was in front of me. "Anakin, I'm sure you remember Duke Adonai."
"Hello sir," Anakin said, getting a smile from the older Mando'ade.
"To the rest, may I present Anakin Skywalker, my ad."
That statement caught everyone off guard, and they blinked as they stared at either me or Anakin. Adonai glanced at Bo, seeking confirmation, and when he returned his gaze to me I assumed she'd given it.
"M-my mother died when we were attacked by slavers hired by the Hutts," Anakin said, and I didn't need the Force to sense the shift in tone that fell over the hangar. Not just with the group in front of us, but with others nearby who were watching. "Cam was already going to make me his Padawan, but when he offered to make me Mandalorian as well, I accepted."
Adonai stepped forward, and after dropping to a knee, placed his hand on Anakin's free shoulder. "Su cuy'gar Anakin Skywalker of Clan Shan," he said softly. "While you were not born Mando'ade, you are now one of us. Aliit ori'shya tal'din."
"Family is more than blood," I explained as Anakin turned and looked up at me, he turned back and smiled at Adonai as I saw the others nod in agreement.
"Vur entye."
I chuckled at Anakin's attempt to use Mando'a. While he didn't know much, Bo had enjoyed, among other things, teaching him phrases along with telling the history of our people. So much so that Anakin was already listing ideas for his verd'goten. While I was against a sarlacc or a krayt dragon, I could see him taking on a Rancor: It would be a nice homage to what Luke did in the other timeline. That, however, was something I'd have to meditate on when he was almost thirteen.
"It's vor entye," Adonai corrected, "and ba'gedet'ye ad'ika." He squeezed Anakin's shoulder before looking up at me. "Have you taught him the remembrance chant?"
"Bo did," I replied. It had been something she did not long after I'd adopted Anakin. While she'd used it nightly ever since joining me – back at the start of the last Mandalorian civil war – I'd not joined her until our return from the ShaDo system. While I'd lost my grandfather and mother, I barely knew either of them or felt little connection to the pair. However, with Anakin now using it as well, I'd joined in and added my mother's name, letting him see that everyone suffered. I'd also explained that Jedi mourned the loss of friends like any would, however, we were expected to release our feelings into the Force. Knowing the boy, I knew he'd not do that, which was why the Mandalorian chant was something I joined in with.
"Good," Adonai said, looking at his daughter for a moment before returning his attention to Anakin. "Ni su'cuyi, gar kyr'adyc, ni partayli, gar darasuum. Urin Kryze, Sellena Kryze."
"Korkie Kryze," said Bo, adding the name of her dead nephew.
"Gregar Ordo."
"Ane Keldorn."
"Ressa Shan," I added, just as I'd done for the last few nights.
"Shmi Skywalker," Anakin said after me, and I gently patted his shoulder. This was the first time he'd not seized up when saying his mother's name. He still mourned deeply for her – that I knew without using the Force – but this was the next step in his recovery from that traumatic event. Since the chant was helping him deal with his grief, I planned to continue it after we left Naboo, and I began his training.
Other voices joined in, adding the names of loved ones lost over the years. While that would help Anakin see that he wasn't alone, that he was a part of something greater than himself, as the names continued to be added, my mind shifted to other things.
As far as I knew, HK and R2 were still working to gain entry to Maul's vessel. I'd contacted HK through a secured channel, wondering how they were doing. He'd been insulted that I was concerned for him as if the idea a starship could destroy him was in some way more demeaning than letting a meatbag do so. That said, he was impressed by the security on Maul's vessel. I wasn't yet convinced of where I wanted that ship stored, but I had a few ideas. I had to get the hyperspace coordinates of the systems without the Jedi or Sith learning of my intentions which would require me to head to somewhere other than the Temple for the information I required.
"Now, ad'ika, know that you aren't alone," Adonai said, bringing my thoughts back to the hangar bay. Adonai stood then. "All suffer loss, be it of family, friends, or limbs," he added, patting his leg, the one with the artificial limb. Given how freely he moved on it, it would be easy to forget, but given the rumours of weapons built into the thing, that might be what he hoped. "However, a warrior doesn't wallow in their loss. We mourn what has been taken, we remember those we love, and in the name of those no longer with us, we keep pushing forward. Oya Manda!"
"Oya Manda!" The chant was repeated by me and others in the bay.
"Oya Manda!" Anakin added a moment later, earning a nod of approval from Adonai as the man ruffled the young boy's hair.
"Good. We'll make Mando'ade out of you." His gaze then took in me, Bo and Fenrir. "Now, all of you, come. The warriors grow restless. We have delayed the celebration of our victory far too long waiting on the War Leader's return." He moved forward and clapped an arm on my shoulder. "First a dragon, then duelling for the fate of a planet, and now defeating a Darjetii," he said with a wide smile. "The blood of a true warrior runs thick in your veins."
"To be fair, I don't go looking for trouble," I replied with a chuckle and smile, "that said, I don't deny that I do enjoy the battles."
Adonai laughed loudly at that, as did others in the hangar. "Oya!" he shouted, others joining in a second or so later.
"And many say he's not Mando'ade." The partially whispered comment came from Osto and widened the smiles worn by his parents.
Adonai turned, pulling me with him. Anakin fell into step at my side as our group merged with Adonai's and we headed into the Saak'ak. Tonight, and probably into the morning, we'd celebrate. Food, drink, song, dance and other forms of entertainment would be partaken, and until I returned to Naboo's surface, thoughts of facing the Jedi and Sith would be pushed from my thoughts.
… …
… …
(Bo-Katan POV)
Bo-Katan moved to the free seat next to Cam's son – and that was something that continued to make her chuckle -- with a wide smile on her face and a large, just-refilled mug of ne'tra gal in her hand. "Enjoying yourself ad'ika?" She asked once seated next to the boy, enjoying the fact his name was so close to the Mando'a term for 'little one'.
The boy smiled back at her; his face rosy as he nursed the single cup of ale he'd been allowed. "Yes," Anakin replied, "but I don't know what you're chanting, or what the dancing means."
She laughed and leaned closer, placing an arm – the one not holding her mug – around the boy's shoulders. She had no interest in children of her own – be they adopted or naturally born – but she liked this ad'ika. Not only was he, according to Cam, going to one day be very powerful with the Force but he was intrigued by her culture. Well, now his culture as well since Cam had adopted him.
The other thing about Anakin was, much like Cam, Bo-Katan sensed there was something special about the boy. He was jate'kara; touched by luck and had a destiny. One that, again like Cam, Bo-Katan felt a need to help shape and follow. The pair were drawn to each other, and while she felt for Anakin that he'd lost his mother, she was glad Cam had made him Mando'ade, or at least an adiik of their people.
Once the celebrations here were over, she knew Cam planned to take time away to begin Anakin's training, but he had promised her that it wouldn't just be Jetii training; that he'd begin teaching the boy what he could about the ways of the Mando'ade. Bo-Katan had, in return, promised that if he needed help with that training, or ever found himself needing an ally, she'd do what she could to help. And to Bo-Katan, this felt like one of those moments.
"Then let me teach you," She said as the group on the floor, which was most of the warriors in the chamber, restarted the Dha Werda.
"The ash of the Taung beats strong within the Mandalorians' hearts," She said, translating the Mando'a into Basic. As they chanted, the warriors, led by Cam, Osto Ordo and Vonte Tervho – the generals of the ground offensive – pounded their fists against their armoured chests, setting the beat of the chant. Now, Cam wasn't able to set the beat properly, his missing limb ensuring that, but Bo-Katan knew none saw that as an insult. Cam had fought and defeated a warrior of great power and skill – one that had defeated the Jetii responsible for training all others in their ways of combat – becoming the first Mando'ade in centuries, possibly even since the Dral'Han, to defeat a Darjetii in single combat. That made his injury a mark of honour and victory, something even those who only came for the credits respected.
"We are the rage of The Warriors of the Shadow." As she continued her translation, Bo-Katan felt her smile grow wider as Anakin started trying, and failing, to copy the beat the warriors were pounding out. It pleased her that the boy was already becoming one with their ways, drawn in by the camaraderie the chant – and others like it – inspired in all Mando'ade.
"The first noble sons of Mandalore."
With this line, the warriors turned to their right, catching the ad'ika off guard, and continued the beat by bashing their fists against the armour of the warrior next to them.
"Let all those who stand before us light the night sky in flame."
She felt Anakin wince, taken aback at the ferocity of the fists that crashed against the armour of another warrior, understanding that they weren't pulling their blows. That striking with anything but close to full fury would insult those chanting with them.
"Our vengeance burns brighter still." The warriors jumped and spun to their left as Bo-Katan continued her translation. The hall echoed with the sounds of armour being pounded, every blow from the assembled warriors timed to perfection, making the deck vibrate with the ferocity and certainty of their blows. Almost as if the ship understood it was now part of their culture, that it served their cause.
"I was told a Jedi shouldn't seek vengeance."
Anakin's sudden statement stopped Bo-Katan from translating the next line as she looked down at the adiik. "You're not Jetii," she scoffed, "you are Mando'ade. Vengeance isn't something to be feared; it's something we use to power through our actions. To steel our thoughts during the darkest days of a cause." She pulled him closer, hugging him against her armour. "One day, when you're older, wiser, and better prepared, you will face the one responsible for your mother's death." Bo-Katan felt a pang at never being able to do that to the hut'uun who'd killed her mother and younger brother, though she knew her father had made sure of that. "When that day comes, don't let the desire for vengeance cloud your mind. Instead, temper it, control it, like the warriors are doing with this chant, into something infinitely more powerful. Use it to steady your mind, to guide your hand, but remain the one in control."
The ad'ika fell silent at that, and Bo-Katan sat with him, not bothering to translate the next few lines of the Dha Werda for him. The pain of losing a mother was one she understood well, and was perhaps part of why she'd thrown herself into teaching him what she could as they'd returned to the Naboo system; as if she wanted to be there for her ba'ad as her father had been there for her.
"I miss her."
The words were barely audible over the chanting that reverberated around the hall, but Bo-Katan caught them as she'd been watching Anakin closely. She shook him gently with her arm, keeping him closer to her side. "We all miss those we've lost," she said as the second verse of the Dha Werda began, the warriors had returned to pound their fists against their own armour for the moment. "However, we don't cry for their loss. We celebrate their life and their accomplishments. We honour them by continuing to live, by using what they taught us to fight each day as we carry their memories with us through battle and life."
Those were, she realised after saying them, the exact words her father had said to her after her mother had died. That had Bo-Katan blinking, wondering why, in this moment, that memory, those words came so easily to her thoughts, and if they'd been passed down through her family whenever someone lost a loved one.
"I want to kill the Hutts for taking her from me."
"Aye," she replied, loosening her hug, "I'm sure you do, but you're not ready yet." he turned and looked up at her, his eyes reddened by tears shed for his mother. Using the hand holding her mug, she gently pushed back a lock of his hair that had matted against his forehead as she hugged him. "Soon your father will begin your training, to start your journey toward being a great warrior, a true Mando'ade. The journey will be long, difficult, and dangerous. There may be moments where you feel you can't go on. That it's too arduous. In those moments remember your mother, your sister, your father, and everyone that cares for and wants you to succeed. Let those memories, and your father, mould you, train you, in the ways of the Jetii and the Mando'ade so that, when you're finally ready to stand beside us as a fellow warrior, you're something greater than either." She smiled. "On that day, when you ride into battle against the ones responsible for your mother's death, Cam will ride at your side. As will I and others."
Anakin's face had slowly shifted as she spoke as if he was engraving the words onto his heart. By the time she finished, a smile had returned to his face. "I'll be the best Jedi ever!" he said with certainty. "The best Mandalorian ever!"
Bo-Katan laughed, and almost attempted to ruffle his hair with the hand holding her mug. "I know you will be," she said as she chuckled at nearly drenching him in ne'tra gal. Yet, deep down, she knew that like Cam, Anakin would face a choice. The paths chosen by the Jetii and the Mando'ade were, at their cores, simply incompatible.
Cam knew this and warred within himself over it, yet he continued to try and keep to both. Bo-Katan knew it wouldn't, and couldn't last. Cam was Mando'ade – the joy and delight on his face as he neared the end of the Dha Werda with their fellow warrior made that clear – and in time, Cam would see where his path lay. As would Anakin.
Bo-Katan didn't know when that day would come, but when Clan Shan truly embraced their destiny, their jate'kara, the galaxy would tremble at their feet. And she, Manda willing, would be there at their side, revelling in the battles it brought forth.
… …
… …
(Cam's POV)
"Certain, you are, that a Sith this Zabrak was?"
"Yes Master Yoda," I replied as I stood in the centre of a small, secured chamber inside the Royal Palace in Theed. Almost the entire Council had come to Naboo for Drallig's funeral, which had taken place this morning; the morning after the Council and Chancellor Palpatine had arrived on Naboo.
While Drallig hadn't played a major role in helping free Naboo, to the Naboo and some Gungans it still mattered. As such, his body – at least part of it – had lain in rest for many to view and pay their respects to. I suspected that to many it was a reminder that even though it had been the Mandalorians and Lokella that had been the main source of the support for Naboo, the Jedi and the Republic hadn't entirely abandoned them.
Beside Drallig's body were the remains of a unit of Lokella and Mando'ade that had fallen fighting to free Theed. The Lokella had drawn an unfortunate short straw and encountered a group of heavily armed mercenaries who'd been guarding a group of Naboo. The same group I'd originally asked Drallig and Serra to free. Without the help of the Jedi, the Lokella had suffered badly, but those they'd fought against had died and not a single Naboo was killed or shipped off-world.
The Mando'ade had encountered a squadron of tanks moving to support one of the main battles in Theed. The pair had destroyed all eight tanks and their accompanying droids, but as both had used durasteel armour, they'd succumbed to their wounds before others could reach them.
All the fallen off-world warriors were granted honorary citizenship of Naboo by Padmé in a ceremony, and along with the Naboo and Gungans who'd died fighting to free the planet, would be forever remembered as Heroes of Naboo.
Not long after Drallig's funeral, as expected, I'd been summoned to speak with the Council regarding Drallig's death and events that happened in the lead-up to and during the battles for Naboo. The meeting had begun with them watching the recording I'd provided Qui-Gon of my duel with Maul, ending as it did, before I stood to supposedly kill him unintentionally.
They'd asked about what happened after the recording ended, accepting the reason for the failure. It seemed that they also believed me when I told them the story I'd told to Qui-Gon, which was a little surprising. While I was skilled at Deception, I wasn't sure I was good enough to fool those as experienced as the Council. And I knew I couldn't entirely fake the truthfulness of my statement on Maul's fate. Yet, they'd accepted my story, and we'd now moved on to discussing Maul and his possible connection to the Sith.
"Could it not have been a simple Dark Side Force user?"
I turned to Plo Koon to answer him. "By the time I encountered him, the Zabrak had already killed Master Drallig, and after seemingly toying with Padawan Keto was about to kill her as well." I paused and glanced down, to the chest piece that along with my greaves, pauldrons and single vambrace, I still wore as I spoke to the Council. "He would've killed me as well if not for the armour I'd chosen to wear." I knew the Council hadn't and wouldn't approve of me wearing armour, but it wasn't technically against the tenets of the Order to wear armour, and even if it had been, I'd still have worn it to this meeting. It helped, I hoped, reinforce that it was only because of it that I was able to stand before them today. "The speed he moved, his skill with the blade in a variety of forms, and his ability to react and counter everything I threw at him, are comparable to anything I've faced. Even you, Master Yoda, during our brief, and very one-sided, spar."
Yoda nodded, accepting and understanding my comparison.
"Yes, the recording you gave us certainly showed the speed and ferocity of the Zabrak," Even Piell replied, "and I, for one, am inclined to believe your opinion on him being a Sith. I will, however, wait until Padawan Keto is fully recovered and able to offer her opinion before reaching a position on the matter." He paused even as I saw a few of the other members of the Council nod in agreement. "I do, however, wish you had managed to recover the body and lightsaber so we might have examined them."
"My intent had been to wound and capture him, Master."
"Yes, we understand and believe you on that," Saesee Tiin responded. "And given the clear difficulty you encountered in the duel, not to mention having to be concerned about the condition of your friend," there was the faintest of hints in his tone that he felt Serra was perhaps too close to me, but I couldn't sense anything in the Force to confirm or deny that feeling, "we commend your restraint. Even if, perhaps, an attempt to end the duel quicker might've been more advantageous to you."
"In your place, after suffering the injury you did, many a young Jedi might struggle to restrain themselves," Windu added as he took over. "That you didn't speaks well of your temperament. Though it does leave the reason you came into battle, as if you were expecting trouble, in shall we say, less than traditional Jedi clothing open to discussion."
I lowered my head, accepting the slight rebuke before giving my reasoning. "Ever since becoming a Knight, I'd understood that I had limitations that, to this day, remain in place. Add into that… concerns I've held about a general feeling of danger growing somewhere in the galaxy, and I felt that, if I was to survive this danger, I needed a method to overcome my limitations. Knowing that Jedi in the past had worn armour for battle, I felt that was a way to go, and with connections to various political figures on Mandalore, I was able to secure an armour made of beskar that, barring one small mistake, enabled me to engage and defeat the Sith."
"I cannot fault your logic for seeking a temporary solution to what has been a long-term problem for you," Plo Koon offered as he leaned forward. "However, we are concerned by this continual choice you make to interact with Mandalorians." At this, Even Piell and Saesse Tinn nodded. "Particularly how close you seem to have become to a daughter of Duke Adonai Kryze. Given his other daughter is currently being groomed to become the Senator of the Mandalore sector and your connections to this world, and several important figures from it, there are suggestions, which we do not agree with, that you are becoming too political for a Jedi."
"I'm aware of that concern, Masters," I said, speaking to the entire Council. This point had been one I'd been preparing for even before landing on Naboo, and I already knew how to use it to my advantage. "Once I have a replacement," I gestured with my hand-less arm, "I plan to withdraw from events for a time, perhaps a year or so. I hope that by taking time away, not only will I finally overcome the hurdle in my development, but I distance myself from figures of importance in the Republic."
Silence fell over the chamber, and I felt the faintest of shifts in the Force. That meant, based on previous experiences, the council were speaking about my reasons telepathically, so I stood still, waiting for their response.
"Close to the new Chancellor, you are. A concern of this Council, that is not. Connections in the Senate, many in the Order maintain. Your youth, however, a concern is. Friends with Senators, Jedi Masters usually are. Close to one, rare for a younger Jedi it is. Doubly so, the Chancellor. On this, we trust you, however."
"On other matters, we retain our concern," Windu added, taking over from Yoda. "However, we approve of your plan to commune with the Force in isolation, and will withhold further comments until you return to the Temple after your sojourn."
I nodded in acceptance; glad they'd bought my reasoning for wanting time away. That said, I kept thoughts about a certain young boy far from the front of my mind. I needed to train him away from the eyes of the Jedi and Sith, to say nothing of needing time and space to see how the final evolution of my Interface altered things and adapting to that.
With time to consider the matter more, I'd chosen Natural Evolution. While it would result in lower peaks for my skills, and degradation of my Force Powers until I truly understood how to use them, the removal of any limit on what I could accomplish with the Force made it the logical choice. Not just for the threats Sidious, and potentially Plagueis as I'd not heard any mention of Hego Damask passing on over the Holonet, posed in the coming decade, but for – provided I defeated the Banite Sith – the Vong and whatever other horrors existed in this universe.
It would also, I felt, remove the issues I held with a lightsaber. That was something I needed gone as if I struggled against Maul, then I had no chance against anyone on the level of Windu, Sidious, Yoda, or Plagueis. All the technical skill in the galaxy wouldn't save me if I had to fight even one of that group; or any that I currently shared the chamber with.
"You are free to depart on your sojourn, though I would suggest waiting until after the Naboo celebrate their liberation," Windu added, drawing me from my thoughts about the future. "However, we may contact you if we have need of you, or require further information about events that happened here."
I bowed deeply, accepting their stance, and knowing that was my dismissal, turned and walked from the chamber. Outside Simvyl and Fenrir waited, the tuk'ata stretching as the doors to the chamber slid shut.
"How'd it go?"
"As expected," I replied as Fenrir moved closer and pushed his head into my arm. "They're pleased the Sith is defeated, unhappy about my armour and the manner in which I won, and accept my reasons for wanting to take time away," I added as I used my hand to scratch Fenrir under the chin.
"And they're okay with you taking a Padawan?"
I smirked. "They never asked about it, so I simply never brought it up." Simvyl frowned slightly but didn't challenge me on the matter. "They will learn at some point, and if they have an issue with it, then I'll ask for forgiveness."
"I see you're learning from politicians," Simvyl replied with a smile that revealed sharp teeth.
I shrugged in response as we began walking away from the chamber. As Windu had said, there was still the victory celebration to come this afternoon, but until then, and hopefully afterwards, I was free to do as I pleased. Though for now, that was heading back to Raven and resting. I might contact Bo to see how Anakin was doing as he was staying on with her and should be enjoying a tour of the Ne'tra Tal'ade. The vessel was still in orbit along with the two captured and still hyperspace-capable Lucrehulks, but all three would be departing at some point this evening or tomorrow. The Lokella had, bar a single CR70 Corvette, already left, wanting to return home and help with the recovery.
"HK sent a report while you were meeting the Council," Simvyl said as we walked, reminding me that the Council hadn't brought up HK. Either Qui-Gon had failed to mention him, or they simply didn't consider it an issue compared to my armour and other actions I'd taken. There was no way they weren't aware that the first of the Knights of the Old Republic series was out, so it was odd now that I thought about it, HK hadn't been mentioned. Of course, as HK had been out of sight since the battle, people might have semi-forgotten his presence. "He and the astromech had gained access to the target. After subduing a droid and the onboard defences, they've determined the vessel is named Scimitar. They've yet to access the flight controls, but HK suspects they'll be ready to do so within a day at most."
"Good. Once they've got full control of the vessel, we'll wait until after the celebrations to have it slip away. While I could have HK take it to Coruscant, I fear the Sith's influence extends to the highest levels of government. Otherwise, the Trade Federation wouldn't have become the power they are today. The longer it takes for knowledge of the Scimitar's fate to reach the Senate, the longer the Sith remain in the dark regarding where it is. Which, as I've already stated, is why I also don't want the Jedi Temple to be aware of the ship's existence."
What I'd love was if the ship had some way to hide from sensors. If it did, it should be possible to have it slip from the bay tonight, and head to a position far enough away that others wouldn't find it. However, that would only get it off Naboo. I still had to determine where I wanted the vessel stored, though I knew it wouldn't be in the Mandalore sector. That was far too obvious a location for it and would place it close to Maul if he found a way to escape his imprisonment before I was ready to deal with him.
Adonai and Torrhen had assured me that the prison they would secure Maul in was designed specifically to contain Force users. While it hadn't seen much use over the last few centuries, no Force user had ever survived an attempted escape. The list of those that had attempted escape was small and contained a Sith Lord and a few Jedi Masters, but as none had ever managed to break free, I trusted them to keep Maul on ice for the next few years.
"I understand your logic, and agree that the Senate and Temple could be tracked by the Zabrak's Master, but I feel we could bring the Jedi Council in on your plans. So long as they agreed to keep no record of this."
"While they accept that the Zabrak was a Sith, I don't think they'd be as cautious as I feel they'd need to be." I turned and smiled. "I know you have faith in the Order, but until I'm sure of how far the Sith's influence extends through Coruscant, I want to keep my cards close to my chest."
"Very well."
I was glad Simvyl trusted me on this, as he was the only sentient who knew about my plans for Maul and his vessel. Others only knew parts of the plan. Since Simvyl would be travelling with Anakin and me – due to his bond of loyalty – I considered him the best person to run my plans by. Which was why I was glad he was accepting of my intentions.
We fell into silence as we neared the main sections of the palace, not wanting anyone to overhear us. As we walked, we passed various members of the palace staff or Royal Guard. They either smiled or nodded in recognition and appreciation. While the official ceremony wasn't until later, it seemed in my absence that the story of my actions had spread throughout the populace.
"Master Jedi." I paused as I realised they were speaking to me. Turning, I saw a squad of four Senate guards approaching, their blue armour and long rifles making it easy to know who they were.
"Yes?"
"If you have time, the Chancellor wishes to speak with you."
I kept a slight smile on my face as the lead guard spoke. "Then lead on," I replied. While I'd expected he would want to speak with me, I'd hoped it could wait until after the ceremony. Unfortunately, it seemed I wasn't going to be that lucky.
Palpatine would've heard what happened from Padmé already, but he'd want further details. I expected he would prod for greater detail of my duel with Maul, though without making it obvious he was doing so. If I were in his place, I'd also begin factoring my actions here, not just in helping free Naboo but in gathering allies to do so.
Those allies had, from what I knew, avoided the Chancellor. The Mandalorians were staying on their vessels, while Validus and the other Lokella who remained were simply staying until the ceremony and would be distracted by events back home, so the only source of intel Palpatine would have was from Padmé, those like Panaka, and myself.
My ad-hoc alliance was already changing things, as not only were the Lokella wanting to hire Mando'ade trainers, but Padmé and Panaka were interested in doing so as well. While I doubted the Naboo would ever shift entirely from their peaceful ways, the fact they'd only survived the invasion due to the actions of the small security force, concerned and eager citizens, the Gungans, and outside help seemed to have convinced Padmé to increase the size and capacity of the Naboo security forces.
It only took us about a minute to reach a corridor where more of the Senate guards stood watch, but I was again glad Anakin wasn't with me. The longer I could go without Palpatine becoming aware of him, and sinking his way into the boy's trust with his silken words, the better it would be for everyone. Yet as we moved through the guards standing watch, I pushed thoughts of Anakin, the Mando'ade and any plans about the future from my mind. I didn't need Sidious sensing anything about them. As far as I or the Interface knew, Palpatine hadn't attempted to scan my thoughts, not even my surface ones, but I wasn't taking the chance he might pick up on a stray thought and discover something I didn't want him to.
"Your companions will have to remain here," the guard who'd addressed near the temporary Council chambers said as he and those with him turned to face us.
His tone was serious, almost threatening, and I struggled to not smirk dismissively at his tone. Even without an arm, I knew I could take them by myself. Fenrir must've sensed some of my amusement, as he stepped forward and growled. It wasn't a deep or threatening growl, just one daring the guards to do something. All four of them tensed, concerned that something was about to happen.
"Of course," I replied, placing my hand between Fenrir's ears, and giving him a scratch. "Try not to make a new chew toy," I said to the tuk'ata before stepping toward the door at the end of the corridor.
The guards that had escorted us remained outside with Simvyl and Fenrir as I entered the chamber. Two more guards noted my arrival and tensed slightly, thinking I was a problem – which given the armour I wore, made sense – before they saw the lightsaber at my hip. That eased their concerns, and I moved forward, quiet voices guiding me toward my destination.
Turning around a corner, I saw Palpatine sitting on one extremely well-decorated sofa that along with a partner sat around a table that likely cost north of a hundred thousand credits. As Palpatine spoke to an older man who sat on the other sofa, Sate Prestige, who was standing behind the Chancellor and had seen me approaching, dropped down and whispered to his master.
Palpatine turned then, a wide smile coming to his face as he saw me. "Cameron, my boy," he began as he stood. The other man turned as the Chancellor approached and I recognized him as Sio Bibble, the Governor of Naboo. "The hero of the hour," the Chancellor said as he reached me, extending an arm.
"I wouldn't go that far, Chancellor," I replied as I shook his hand. He surprised me though by pulling me into a hug and laughing gently, enjoying my confusion as he patted my back. Sio and Sate smiled at the sight though there I could sense Sate not liking something about the situation. Perhaps he had known of Maul and disliked that I'd removed one of Sidious' tools, or perhaps he simply disliked that I was slowly growing closer to the hidden Sith Lord and feared for his position.
"Nonsense," Palpatine said as he pulled back, breaking the impromptu hug. His hands slid down my arms as he continued. "Without your actions, your ability to find allies in her most desperate hour, I fear my home would've become another cog in the vile grinding machine that is the Trade Federation." His hands stopped on my upper arms, just above my elbows. "Queen Amidala swears by this, and having seen the warship your allies brought, and heard tales of the battles that raged, I find myself agreeing with her. Though it seems that you paid dearly for supporting us," he added, his eyes glancing toward my missing forearm.
"Sadly, yes," I responded, ignoring the phantom itching from fingers that were no longer there. "Though it was a low price to pay to ensure millions remained free of oppression."
He smiled even as I watched Sate slowly guide Sio away from the sofas. "If I might ask, how exactly did this happen?" he said as he turned, knowing what Sate was doing, and guided me toward the seats. "and is it in any way connected to the death of the Master Drallig?"
"It appears the Federation wasn't working alone," I replied slowly, knowing exactly how I expected this conversation to go, and having a handful of contingencies if it moved in certain ways. "There was a Dark Sider present when we arrived." Palpatine reacted, as expected, with surprise. "There is a possibility he might even have been a Sith…"
"A Sith?" Palpatine cut in, his acting superb. "I-I had thought them nothing more than a legend?" He asked. Even knowing he was lying; I couldn't find even the faintest hint that he didn't believe what he said. This man, and Plagueis, were masters of hiding themselves, of convincing others they were exactly who they pretended to be. Which, given his true name, made perfect sense for Palpatine. He was insidious in ways no one could ever conceive, never mind detect.
"That, along with confirming if the Zabrak was a Sith, I leave up to the Council," I replied with a small smile. "All I will say is that he was an incredible duellist, on par with any I've seen." Truthfully, I felt Windu, Yoda, and perhaps a handful of others might be able to defeat Maul, but saying this would stroke Sidious' ego as he had been the one, from what little I know, to train the Zabrak.
"High praise from such a young and accomplished Jedi."
"I would argue against accomplished," I said, countering the Chancellor's praise, "but I thank you for the compliment." His smile widened. "I'm sure that if you inquire, the Council will keep you abreast of their investigation. If the Sith truly have returned, then they are a threat to the Order and the Republic. However, I expect the investigation to be stalled until they can recover the Zabrak's body." I offered a sheepish smile. "When the time came to end the battle, after I lost part of my arm, I… I struck him down."
This was a different story than the one the Council had received, but I felt it was a risk worth taking. I'd already opened up to him about using the Dark Side against the Vong, so hinting at doing that against Maul, because of my injury, would ease some of his concerns about how I defeated Maul. It would, no doubt, increase his and Plagueis' interest in seeing if I could be turned, but since I was all but disappearing for the next year or so, I felt this was a way to remain close to the Chancellor without him questioning how I managed to defeat Maul and going looking for answers.
HK had already deleted the recordings of the bay housing the Scimitar, but that wouldn't stop people from talking about the vessel. From there it wouldn't take long for Palpatine's spies to learn that HK was connected to me and that I had Maul's vessel. Hearing that I'd taken the vessel, but hadn't handed it over to the Council would further make them feel I was questioning my position with the Order. Which I was, but not in the way the Sith would, I hoped, believe.
"Given the grievous wound you suffered, I'm sure few would fault you for striking the Zabrak down in anger," Palpatine said, a hand coming to rest on my shoulder. "Not even the Council can expect you to forget your emotions all the time."
"They'd prefer that I did, which is perhaps why, like with the Vong, I didn't mention how I felt when the Sith died," offered him a small, slightly weak smile. "I feel many in the Order, including some of the Council, continue to question me. Even though I'm not him, some see my ancestor whenever they look at me." That included, I felt, the Sith I was sitting with, though where the Jedi might see a concern, Sidious saw an opportunity.
"While I don't understand the Force as well as you, I can understand the concerns of the Council. You are a remarkably skilled and powerful young man, Cameron. It is only natural that others, ones who've held positions of power and influence within the Order, would fear your potential."
"I wouldn't say they fear me, Chancellor. Just that many distrust me, which given my tendency to find myself in conflicts, is understandable."
Palpatine gave my shoulder a squeeze of support. "I don't share that fear, Cameron. No, if not for you, my home, and millions of my fellow Naboo, would be all but enslaved." He gestured toward where Sate and Sio Bibble had gone. "Governor Bibble was just telling me more details of what happened here, and after speaking with him, Captain Panaka, and Queen Amidala, I know with certainty that I and my people owe you a debt we can never repay. Know that, for your actions here, and elsewhere to defend the Republic, you will always have my thanks. And my support."
I gave him a wide smile and nodded. While I wasn't planning to draw on that support, it was something I might have use of in the coming decade. The idea of using Palpatine to help me bring about his downfall had a delicious sense of irony about it. "And you, Chancellor, have my support to help guide the Republic to become what it needs to be."
"I'm grateful for your support," Palpatine said as he turned to the table. "I fear that I will struggle to enact the changes needed to make the Senate what the people of the Republic need it to be," he continued as he refilled one glass that sat there and then started prepping a new glass. "As you remarked before my election, there are many there who serve only their own self-interests or serve at the behest of external influences."
"Like the Trade Federation," I said as I took the glass he offered me.
"Yes," he said with a nod. "I swear to you and my people that I'll do all in my power to ensure Viceroy Gunray gets the justice he deserves for his heinous acts here, but I fear it will take me far longer than it should."
"If you have need of me, I'll do what I can to help, uncle."
He smiled widely, enjoying me using the familial term. "For that, I'm grateful, nephew." As he raised his glass in thanks, I knew he planned to use that connection, that friendship to spin how he had more influence on what had happened here to free Naboo than he truly did. That though, had nothing to do with being a Sith, and everything to do with being a career politician. "However, I feel you have already helped more than enough and paid dearly for it."
"Aye, there does seem to be a pattern developing here," I remarked with a dark chuckle after taking a sip of the fruity wine "First it was almost losing an eye, and now an arm." I paused and shook my head. "I'm not sure I can survive another wound."
"Will you return to the Temple to have a prosthetic limb attached?" His tone was sombre now the topic had shifted to my injury.
"I'm unsure of the Jedi's position on the matter, so I'll have to wait and see."
Palpatine frowned deeply. "That is simply unacceptable." He placed his glass down and turned. "Sate," he called and a moment later his aide appeared from behind a pillar as if he'd been spying on us while we talked. "Compile a list of the best companies and figures in the field of limb replacement."
"Th-there is no need for that," I said, acting as if I'd not expected him to make this offer even as Sate nodded at the order.
"But there is, Cameron," Palpatine said as he turned back to me. "In my opinion, and that of our young Queen, you are almost wholly responsible for Naboo being free. For that alone, I shall do everything in my power to ensure your injury is handled and treated by the very best in the Republic with no expense spared. To do otherwise would be unworthy of my position as a citizen of Naboo, Chancellor of the Republic and, though it is not by blood, your uncle." He smiled widely as he finished.
"I," I paused and licked my lips, acting as if uncertain of the offer. Which I was, though not because of the offer, but because of who was making it. I knew he might make this offer, but I was still uncertain about accepting it. "I wouldn't wish to impose on your duties as Chancellor. The Senate must be divided after the unexpected removal of Chancellor Valorum and your elevation to the position."
"It is, however, I insist that you are rewarded for your actions in gathering the force to correct a mistake made by the Senate," he replied, his tone firm and unwavering. "To me, regardless of if I was the Chancellor, a Senator or simply a concerned citizen, to do otherwise would undermine everything the Republic stands for."
"I cannot accept the offer from the Chancellor," I said, keeping going before he could argue, "but I can if it comes from my uncle."
He smiled widely and raised his glass again. As my glass chinked against his, I wondered how I was going to get out of this. Or at least turn it fully to my advantage. I'd been expecting the offer or a replacement, but not for him to seek out the best in the business for the limb. That meant I'd be hard-pressed to reject the offer, and certainly couldn't leave it in a random location.
That was something I was concerned about as the odds he'd place some form of tracker inside the limb were high. Now, I knew he'd spin it as simply wanting to keep track of me out of concern for my well-being, but that would allow the Sith to track where I went, which wasn't something I could allow.
Sipping my wine and keeping a smile on my face, I realised that there were ways I could use this to my advantage. I already planned for the replacement limb to be coated in beskar, so whatever he had designed I should, in theory, be able to either have it examined closely by Mando'ade engineers, or built from scratch by them. The latter would also allow me to ensure the OS in the limb was one I knew of and wouldn't, in theory, have any hidden features that might work against me.
Of course, there was the chance Palpatine wouldn't have done anything to the replacement limb, simply using the extreme quality and cost of it as a way to further ingratiate himself with me. For now, I'd just have to wait and see how this latest development played out.
"Now," Palpatine began, leaning back on the sofa, "perhaps you might enlighten me not just to how your battle with this Sith went, but how you managed to gather so many allies in such a short amount of time." He paused and looked around almost conspiratorially before leaning forward. "I'll admit that the reaction of Masters Yoda and Windu upon seeing the Mandalorian warship was one I shall treasure for some time."
I laughed at that, wishing I could've seen it as well. "Aye, that would've been something to see. Though I admit that I only learned of the Ne'tra Tal'ade's presence after the battle as she didn't arrive at the rendezvous before we developed our plans for reaching Naboo."
Palpatine settled in, getting ready for the story of how the battles went. As I began, I already knew a few details that I'd be holding back, though so long as he didn't prod too much, there wasn't that much I wanted to keep from the Sith Lord.
… …
… …
"And again, Cam, thank you," Padmé said as she smiled at me through the holo-display. "If not for you…"
"You and your people would've found a way to regain your freedom even without my assistance, Your Majesty," I replied, as Raven swept past the wreck of the Vuutun Palaa, the first scavenger vessels – Mando'ade controlled – already working to begin stripping the massive hulk for parts.
"Perhaps, but without your help, and of those you called to your side, the death toll would've been catastrophic," Padmé countered. "I…" she paused and looked away for a moment. "Naboo owes you a debt we can never repay."
"Nor will you ever have to."
She smiled warmly at my words. "I hope that is true, but if not, then you have only to contact myself or Chancellor Palpatine and Naboo will do what we can. Until then, please, be safe, and may the Force be with you, Master Jedi."
"And with you, Your Majesty," I replied with a nod. A second later, as the faintest hints of her emotions reached me through the Force, the channel closed.
"Where to now?"
I looked over at Simvyl, seeing a smile on his face.
"First, we've got to meet up with Bo. I've got a Padawan and son to collect. After that, I'll need to contact HK and arrange a rendezvous. Where though, I'm not yet sure. I need to find somewhere out of the way to store the Scimitar; perhaps even masking its presence from the remaining Sith."
Anakin had departed with Bo aboard the Ne'tra Gal early this morning, though they'd be waiting a system or two away for me to collect the boy. While he'd wanted to head down to the celebration yesterday, I'd not allowed it. He'd not been happy, but I'd promised to explain why once we met again, though I'd only be going into the fact that the Jedi Council wouldn't allow me to train him now that he was my son and not that I wanted to keep him hidden from the Sith Lord that remained on Naboo.
HK and R2 had managed to gain enough control of the Scimitar that, during the festivities last night, with me keeping Padmé, Palpatine and the Jedi Council as distracted as I could, they'd managed to slip from the bay under the Royal Palace. Luckily, the Scimitar possessed a cloaking device, so they'd been able to slip past the Naboo and Republic scans with ease. While that would help keep the ship hidden, I still needed a location to store it.
The other issue that remained unresolved was Serra. While she'd been released from the bacta tank, the High Council had taken her into seclusion. It was possible that they were only trying to help her recover from Master Drallig's death, but a part of me wondered if the move was also about keeping distance between her and me. There was no way the Council wasn't aware that she'd snuck away to join the forces I'd assembled, and that would be something she'd have to face the music about. The Council hadn't, when I'd spoken to them, mentioned that to me, but I was sure the matter was one they were considering. Along with a few others linked to me and my choice of allies.
"Perhaps we could head to Obroa-skai? That's where the Celebratus Archive is located."
I considered Simvyl's suggestion. I'd heard of the Archive, as it was listed as one of the twenty wonders of the galaxy, and had existed for over sixteen thousand years. It was claimed that the navigational charts there were more detailed than even those held by the Jedi, but since the Jedi wouldn't let anyone prove or disprove that, it was merely a rumour. Regardless if the claim was true or not, it was a possible place to head to search for files I'd rather not have the Order now I was looking at.
While there was a Jedi Praxeum on Obroa-skai, it only helped handle the insane amount of data added to the Archive – and likely routed anything unknown to the Jedi Temple's Archive – and wasn't a full training facility. That meant that even if I interacted with the Jedi there, it was unlikely they'd be anyone of importance.
Still, I'd do what I could to keep clear of them, lest they report my searches to the Jedi, and the Sith through whatever means they had for monitoring the Temple, would also learn of my searches. I already had a location for both hiding the Scimitar and evolving my Interface in mind, but I'd have to first see if the system had been discovered by now.
Still, as Naboo slowly fell away behind me, I couldn't help but smile.
Anakin was now my Padawan and son, though while the latter hadn't been planned I could see how it would be useful. With him kept from the Jedi and Sith sight, I had the chance to train him the way he was meant to be. I just had to first train myself to ensure I didn't fail him as Obi-Wan had.
Maul was defeated and secured, on his way to a Mando'ade prison designed specifically for restraining Force users. Eventually, I would visit and begin speaking with the Zabrak. Perhaps he could be turned to my cause, perhaps not, but it was an avenue worth pursuing. His vessel was now mine, though it would take time to access all its files, and even when R2 did, I half-expected them to be empty. Any decently trained and skilled assassin wouldn't keep detailed records of where they'd been. Still, there might be technology or hints on the Scimitar that I could use for either Raven or other starships, or that might lead to unexpected threads regarding the Sith I could pull on.
With Natural Evolution just around the corner, I'd soon have full access to my Force connection, for all the good and bad that would bring. Still, it would remove my limits with the Force, and with a year or two of training, I should be at a point where I could, at the very least, challenge Dooku in a duel. Taking on any member of the Council was out of the question as news of that would reach the Sith, but if I could, before the Clone Wars – or whatever they became here – started, then I'd feel I was as ready as I could be to fight those who stood in my way.
That, however, was for further down the road.
As Raven's hyperdrive engine drew power from her core, I focused on the present, and on the steps I had to take.
The galaxy had changed on Naboo, but even with my knowledge of how events had played out in the other timeline, I couldn't be sure what effect my presence had made. All I did know was that the drums of war were beginning to sound, and the storm that would soon sweep over the galaxy was slowly forming, slowly gathering, readying itself to unleash chaos on an unsuspecting Republic.
… …
… …
A/N: Yes, taking Maul prisoner, and then having the Mandalorians hold him for a year or two is a very dangerous choice for Cam to make. However, consider that, as of now, the timeline is all but broken. What Cam knows of later events, while still probable to generally happen, won't happen how they would've before. Nor does Cam know much of events that are to happen before war breaks out across the Republic.
With that in mind, holding Maul has the potential to be useful. Yes, it might not pan out, but Cam has little other options for determining the Sith plans, beyond joining them.
A/N: Cam's adopting of Anakin might seem blunt, given Shmi's just died, but Cam felt the Force shifting around him, and interpreted that as meaning it was the right choice to make.
A/N: This is also the end of Book 2. Book 3 (The Reforged Path) will begin next month.
...
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This chapter was released at least 3 weeks ago to my Patreons (with them seeing a draft version around 2 months ago) and on the story's Discord server (in GDoc form) about a week ago.
Links for both are at the end of the chapter.
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Yes, this chapter is far longer than normal, but that's so everything can be handled in one go.
The Phantom Menace 6
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... ...
I sat on one of a half-dozen medical beds inside a private ward of the royal palace of Naboo. The man examining my lower arm, or more accurately, where my elbow had once connected to it, ran a scanner over the burnt, sealed flesh. He wasn't, as Padmé first insisted, one of the Naboo doctors, but a fellow Mando'ade. I'd told the Queen that her people needed more help, and I knew the wound was already sealed and not infected; one odd upside of a wound coming from a lightsaber and not a vibroblade, which was why I had a Mando'ade medic giving me the once-over.
While I was glad to have survived Maul, and relieved that, in the end, the various tools I'd prepared for fighting him had worked, the fact I'd lost my forearm had to be some sort of sick joke by the Force or TPTB. I wasn't Anakin or Luke and wasn't set up as the Chosen One, yet I'd suffered the same injury as they had. The only difference was that I'd lost my left forearm whereas they'd both lost their right.
Still, from what I'd felt from Anakin, something had happened to him at the same time, so perhaps it was my connection to the true Chosen One that had resulted in me losing my forearm.
"The bacta has done its job," the medic, Mij Gilamar said, drawing me from thoughts about why I had to suffer this injury, "and there's no hint of infection. There is some damage done to the nerve endings, however, the wound was cauterised instantly by the lightsaber, saving you from any complications. Though that fact is also why the limb would be extremely difficult to restore." I nodded, understanding that issue, as while the wound was clean, Maul's lightsaber had burnt away around an inch of flesh, so if I had the hand reattached, my left arm would be fractionally shorter than my right.
"Small mercies," I muttered with a dark chuckle.
"Yes," Gilmar replied. "I can forward you a list of Mandalorian companies that specialise in replacement limbs so you can decide on what sort of replacement you wish to get."
"I didn't realise there were options." I was playing dumb as I knew Adonai's replacement leg had several after-market modifications, including – according to Bo – a built-in launcher with three rockets similar to those she used in her vambrace. What I wanted to learn about was what my options were regarding modifications for my replacement limb, and how easy it would be to hide those changes from detection by others.
"There's a large range, going from a thousand credits up to, I'm told, close to a million. The materials used in the cover and internal circuitry, along with hidden compartments of weapons. Something I'm told Alor Adonai has in his leg, though that's not something I can speak to. That said, from the other Mando'ade that I know with replacements, a hidden blaster is the most basic advantage taken from the mechanical limb." I nodded as he continued. "Though I suspect that those alterations won't be popular with either the Republic or the Jedi Order."
I chuckled and held up my left arm, displaying the missing limb. "If I'd have fought as a Jedi I'd have lost far more than just a forearm," I said with a dark chuckle.
"Fair enough," Gilamar replied with a smile. "Nor, I suspect, would you have reached out for warriors to march under your banner." While he was being friendly, there was something in his tone that had me pause.
"I wasn't trying to make a statement with the move." That was true, as while I was grateful so many had answered my call – be it because of loyalty to me, Adonai or Torrhen, or the promise of credits – I'd noticed that since Naboo was freed even Mando'ade who had held issues with my status as a Jedi seemed more tolerant of me. Not to the point that I didn't think it was still an issue, but to the extent many, if not most of the gathered Mando'ade saw me fully as one of their own. It hadn't reached a point where I'd caught suggestions I should become a leader of our people, but the hints – such as in Gilamar's tone – meant I knew I'd have to speak with Adonai, Torrhen, and others about how my actions might be misconstrued.
"I understand that, but to others, it could be seen as a statement of intent," Gilamar countered with a friendly smile. "Your status as an Alor, even one from a very minor clan, and your alliances with Houses Kryze and Ordo aside, for any Mando'ade to send out a call to arms, and have so many warriors respond, and unite under their banner, is something that others will take note of. Especially, at least to some, that you also found worthy allies to fight beside us in the Lokella." He chuckled softly. "To those already predisposed toward you, due to your heritage or verd'goten, these actions will resonate. To those who weren't, it will place your name upon their lips; either as a threat to their intentions or as someone they might have use for."
"I have no interest in trying to lead our people."
Gilamar leaned back, raising his palms defensively. "I never said you did, nor, as a Jedi, would I expect you to have it. However, to others, especially those with desires to lead our people – for better or worse – the mere chance you might is something they'll have to consider." He smiled as he stood. "Remember, that you are the first to defeat a Darjetii since before the Dral'Han; and that you did so as Mando'ade and not Jedi also affirms your stance as aligned with our people over the Jedi and Republic." He placed a hand on my right shoulder. "To many, even those with no wish to have the Clans unite, that, when combined with the number that fought under your banner, means something. Especially after another devastating war."
"Again, I don't plan to or want to lead our people. The fact I'm a Jedi as well means I simply can't." That said, I understood his thinking. It would be better, perhaps, if the Mandalorians united under the banner of someone else. Yes, I'd have to follow that person as Mando'ade myself, but having that sort of might as an ally may well be more useful than having it directly under my control. I expected it would also remove most of the issues with commanding a nation that, if the numbers I'd heard were right, numbered in the hundreds of millions, if not billions spread across the galaxy.
"That is something you will, perhaps, one day have to reconcile, as I did. Perhaps, even choose between the laws of the Republic and the Resol'nare. Know though that, as long as the Mando'ade and the Republic don't find themselves at war, I would be happy to consider you a friend."
"Vor entye Mij," I said, accepting the offer and extending my good arm.
He laughed gently as he grasped my forearm. "Ba'gedet'ye Cameron. Though it is I, and others, who should thank you." After that, we broke the clasp. "Now, I think I'll head to see if the local medics need any help. While there were few injuries among our people," he glanced behind me, to the bacta tank that supported Serra, "or the Lokella, the Naboo suffered greatly. As did the Gungans. I and the other medically trained Mando'ade have offered our services to help with the wounded, though Queen Amidala was insistent that you be checked first."
"Since you've finished then, I won't keep you." He gave me a final nod and smiled before leaving the ward. That left me alone in the place. Well, besides Serra, but she was in no condition to speak with me, and Fenrir who was resting at the base of the tank containing Serra, chewing on the remains of a battledroid that he'd had ever since the battle had ended. Fenrir had been there ever since Serra had been brought in and placed in the tank as if guarding her.
Fenrir had few marks on his skin, some from blasters and others from lacerations that didn't appear to have gone deep, but otherwise looked fine. A doctor had tried to scan him, but they'd scampered away when Fenrir had growled loudly at the unwanted attention.
When Gilamar had arrived, Bo and Naz had been with him, the pair pleased to see I was safe – bar the missing limb – and Bo had spent time checking on Serra as she floated in the tank. Bo had seemed off when she turned back from the tank, and Observe revealed she felt as if Serra's injuries – and the death of Master Drallig – were in some way her fault. I'd talk with her later about that, and hopefully clear the air, but before I could do so the pair had, at my insistence, left.
While the battle was won, Theed was in ruins and Padmé needed everyone she could get to search the rubble for survivors and bodies. Plus, if Bo remained here, having to keep seeing my lost arm and Serra's condition, I feared she might become depressed. Helping search for survivors would distract her for a while. At least until I could talk with her about what I feared had happened to Anakin. Still, with them and now Gilamar gone, I was left in my own thoughts, which centred around my friend and lover in the bacta tank.
The constant, steady beeping from the tank for her vitals filled the now silent room as the bacta worked to heal her myriad of physical wounds. Those she would recover from soon enough, but the mental wound of losing her Master – and the closest thing she had to a father – because of choices she made, was one that would take a year, or longer, to heal.
Not only did losing Drallig have major repercussions for Serra, but it would massively affect the Jedi Order. The High Council would want answers as to why he was even here, something Serra would have to face censure for, along with comments from other Padawans, and I would also be questioned for allowing my emotions to influence my choice to let her come along.
However, for all that, the biggest issue Serra was going to have with what happened here would be regarding my choice for Maul's fate. Yet, with what I knew was brewing now with Sidious as Chancellor – though I'd yet to have it confirmed – I needed insight into any plans Maul was privy to.
That could wait though, as I first had to figure out where to store him, and how, and then work to recover from our first battle, hopefully to surpass him so that when we fought again it was clear I was the better fighter. Otherwise, I doubt he'd ever consider speaking with me, never mind the more insane ideas I had for using him to help bring about the end of the Banite Sith.
However, thoughts about the future and what it would bring for me, Serra, and Maul were things I could consider over the next few days. As was heading to see Anakin and learn what had caused him to shout into the Force with such strength and pain. For now, with time alone to think, I turned my mind to the Interface, or more accurately, the messages that had come once the battle for Naboo was confirmed to be over. I'd already read them, but I still pulled them back up, wanting to go over them once again and consider my choices now that I'd finally reached Level 30.
Quest Completed!
The Phantom Menace [ƍ] [֍]
Objectives:
:a: Free Naboo from Trade Federation control before any treaty recognizing the occupation can be signed. [Yes]
:b: Ensure that Padme Naberrie survives the invasion. [Yes]
:c: Defeat Maul. [Yes - Captured]
:d: Ensure that Obi-Wan survives the invasion. [Yes]
:e: Ensure that Bo-Katan Kryze survives the invasion. [Yes]
:f: Ensure that Naz Vizsla survives the invasion. [Yes]
:g: Ensure that Serra Keto survives the invasion. [Yes]
:h: Ensure that at least one of Asta Ordo and Osto Ordo survive the invasion. [Yes - Both]
:i: Ensure that Validus and Ferox survive the invasion. [Yes]
:j: Ensure that more than 75% of those who fight in the battles survive the invasion. [Yes – 87%]
:k: Ensure that Cin Drallig survives the invasion. [No]
Rewards/Penalties:
:a: A massive increase in Reputation with any sentient living on Naboo.
Variable Reputation gains with any who oppose the Trade Federation.
Variable changes in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order, Galactic Senate, and the general populace of the Republic.
8000XP (+1600XP)
:b: 2 tests of friendship with Padme Naberrie are passed.
A massive increase in Reputation with Padme Naberrie.
A large increase in Reputation with Padme's family and closest friends.
2500XP (+500XP)
:c: Overall increases in reputation with Darth Sidious and Darth Plagueis.
A decrease in Reputation with Darth Maul.
5000XP (+1000XP)
:d: A Test of Friendship passed with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
A large increase in Reputation with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
A decent increase in Reputation with Qui-Gon Jinn.
1000XP (+200XP)
:e: A Test of Friendship passed with Bo-Katan Kryze.
A decent increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Kryze.
A small increase in Reputation with Naz Vizsla and Serra Keto.
800XP (+160XP)
:f: A Test of Friendship passed with Naz Vizsla.
A decent increase in Reputation with Naz Vizsla.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Vizsla.
A small increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze and Serra Keto.
800XP (+160XP)
:g: A Test of Friendship passed with Serra Keto.
A decent increase in Reputation with Serra Keto.
A decent increase in Reputation with Cin Drallig.
Variable small increases in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order.
A small decrease in Reputation with members of the Jedi High Council.
A small increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze and Naz Vizsla.
800XP (+160XP)
:h: Tests of Friendship passed with Asta Ordo and Osto Ordo.
A decent increase in Reputation with Torrhen Ordo and Alys Ordo.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Ordo.
800XP (+160XP)
:i: Tests of Friendship passed with Validus and Ferox.
A decent increase in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
A small increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker and Shmi Skywalker.
800XP (+160XP)
:j: Large increases in Reputation with everyone who fought in the battles to free Naboo.
1250XP (+250XP)
:k:
Decent decrease in Reputation with Serra Keto.
Variable decreases in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order.
A small decrease in Reputation with members of the Jedi High Council.
...
Quest Completed!
Changing Fate [Qui-Gon Jinn]
Objective:
:a: Prevent Qui-Gon's death at the hands of Darth Maul. [Yes]
Bonus: :b: Introduce Anakin Skywalker to Qui-Gon Jinn before the battles for Naboo. [No]
Rewards/Penalties:
:a: A decent increase in Reputation with Qui-Gon Jinn.
A small increase in Reputation with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
2000XP
:b: An almost zero chance that Anakin will be taken by Qui-Gon Jinn or Obi-Wan Kenobi as their Padawan.
…
The Phantom Menace [ƍ] [֍]
Objectives:
:a: Free Naboo from Trade Federation control before any treaty recognizing the occupation can be signed. [Yes]
:b: Ensure that Padme Naberrie survives the invasion. [Yes]
:c: Defeat Maul. [Yes - Captured]
:d: Ensure that Obi-Wan survives the invasion. [Yes]
:e: Ensure that Bo-Katan Kryze survives the invasion. [Yes]
:f: Ensure that Naz Vizsla survives the invasion. [Yes]
:g: Ensure that Serra Keto survives the invasion. [Yes]
:h: Ensure that at least one of Asta Ordo and Osto Ordo survive the invasion. [Yes - Both]
:i: Ensure that Validus and Ferox survive the invasion. [Yes]
:j: Ensure that more than 75% of those who fight in the battles survive the invasion. [Yes – 87%]
:k: Ensure that Cin Drallig survives the invasion. [No]
Rewards/Penalties:
:a: A massive increase in Reputation with any sentient living on Naboo.
Variable Reputation gains with any who oppose the Trade Federation.
Variable changes in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order, Galactic Senate, and the general populace of the Republic.
8000XP (+1600XP)
:b: 2 tests of friendship with Padme Naberrie are passed.
A massive increase in Reputation with Padme Naberrie.
A large increase in Reputation with Padme's family and closest friends.
2500XP (+500XP)
:c: Overall increases in reputation with Darth Sidious and Darth Plagueis.
A decrease in Reputation with Darth Maul.
5000XP (+1000XP)
:d: A Test of Friendship passed with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
A large increase in Reputation with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
A decent increase in Reputation with Qui-Gon Jinn.
1000XP (+200XP)
:e: A Test of Friendship passed with Bo-Katan Kryze.
A decent increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Kryze.
A small increase in Reputation with Naz Vizsla and Serra Keto.
800XP (+160XP)
:f: A Test of Friendship passed with Naz Vizsla.
A decent increase in Reputation with Naz Vizsla.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Vizsla.
A small increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze and Serra Keto.
800XP (+160XP)
:g: A Test of Friendship passed with Serra Keto.
A decent increase in Reputation with Serra Keto.
A decent increase in Reputation with Cin Drallig.
Variable small increases in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order.
A small decrease in Reputation with members of the Jedi High Council.
A small increase in Reputation with Bo-Katan Kryze and Naz Vizsla.
800XP (+160XP)
:h: Tests of Friendship passed with Asta Ordo and Osto Ordo.
A decent increase in Reputation with Torrhen Ordo and Alys Ordo.
A small increase in Reputation with Clan Ordo.
800XP (+160XP)
:i: Tests of Friendship passed with Validus and Ferox.
A decent increase in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
A small increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker and Shmi Skywalker.
800XP (+160XP)
:j: Large increases in Reputation with everyone who fought in the battles to free Naboo.
1250XP (+250XP)
:k:
Decent decrease in Reputation with Serra Keto.
Variable decreases in Reputation with members of the Jedi Order.
A small decrease in Reputation with members of the Jedi High Council.
...
Quest Completed!
Changing Fate [Qui-Gon Jinn]
Objective:
:a: Prevent Qui-Gon's death at the hands of Darth Maul. [Yes]
Bonus: :b: Introduce Anakin Skywalker to Qui-Gon Jinn before the battles for Naboo. [No]
Rewards/Penalties:
:a: A decent increase in Reputation with Qui-Gon Jinn.
A small increase in Reputation with Obi-Wan Kenobi.
2000XP
:b: An almost zero chance that Anakin will be taken by Qui-Gon Jinn or Obi-Wan Kenobi as their Padawan.
…
Level: 29 -> 30
FP: +650
PPP: +1
PP: +2
STAM: 43
SP: +6
SKP: + 41
...
CONGRATULATIONS!
You've made it to Level 30.
Well done on completing the training section of your new life and reaching the final evolution of the Interface!
This evolution of the Interface isn't like the previous evolution.
Here, the choice in how it evolves rests with the Player, though the choice is a binary one.
This choice doesn't have to be made instantly but must be completed before Level 31 is reached or the Interface will remain locked in its current configuration.
...
The choices for Interface Evolution are:
Player+
Natural Evolution
...
Player+
This is, for lack of a better term, a doubling-down on the current Player-inspired work of the Interface.
However, several important changes increase what the Player is capable of achieving with this evolution.
First, there would be an increase in the tiers of all Force Powers and Skills, allowing you to take any of them to an 8th tier. However, each new tier has skill requirements equal to 2.5x that of the previous level.
The growth rate the Player is capable of won't change, but these far larger level XP requirements will slow the development of any Force Power or Skill taken into the 7th and 8th tiers.
Once a Force Power of Skill reaches Level 100 of tier 8, then can only be improved beyond that with the purchase of a new ability: LEVEL BOOST.
This can be purchased with either a Perk Point or Player Power Point.
However, it can only be taken once every 10 levels from Level 30, and no matter how many times you take it, can only ever be applied once to a Force Power or Skill.
It grants either a 1 or 2 Tier increase to whichever Force Power or Skill it is applied to.
Perks will also be available to remove restrictions on Force Powers that the Player lacks a natural inclination toward.
However, as with LEVEL BOOST, the strength of the restriction can only be removed once every 10 levels starting from Level 30.
...
Natural Evolution
Skills will gain a new base maximum limit of Level 100 of Tier 7.
However, this evolution would, in essence, free the Force from the control of the Interface. At least when it comes to the Player and how they access it.
It would still work with the Interface, allowing the Player to use the Force in conjunction with their special abilities such as the Minimap, but the tracking of what level or tier a Force Ability is at, and the hard limits on what the Player can do with the Force would be, in general, removed.
One key caveat is that while this freeing of the Force would place the upper limits on what the Player can do with a Force Ability, all Force Powers would suffer some form of degradation.
This is due to how the Interface filters the Force for the Player versus how other Force-sensitive and trained sentients interact with the Force.
The Player will need to, to varying degrees, relearn how to use their Force Abilities and the growth rate in their Force Abilities will be determined by the strength of their connection to the Force.
Again though, the Player would be capable of doing things with the Force that, even with Player+, they would not. Perhaps, with concentrated training and effort, capable of feats that could reshape a planet, star system, or even the galaxy.
That, however, would depend entirely on the focus of the Player, their understanding of the Force, and their desire or determination to achieve it.
Note, that while Natural Evolution goes a different direction from Player+ the new ability LEVEL BOOST would still be available.
It would, however, only apply to the Player's Skills, with what it grants altered to reflect that.
Perks to grant natural inclinations toward certain rare Force Abilities would also remain.
...
NOTE
In simpler terms:
With the current Interface setup, the Player is limited to a base of Level 100 of Tier 6 of every Force Power and Skill.
With Player+ Force Powers and Skills get a new base of Level 100 of Tier 8.
Though there exists an ability, LEVEL BOOST, to lift each Force Power of Skill once to a higher Tier, to a maximum of Tier 10.
This would, for Force Powers with no usage of LEVEL BOOST, lift the Player's capacity to that of an average member of the Jedi High Council.
With Natural Evolution Skills get a new base of Level 100 of Tier 7.
With this version of LEVEL BOOST, any skill can be raised once, to either Tier 8 or Tier 9.
However, the Force is freed from Interface control, and based on the Player's current Force sensitivity, they are, potentially, capable of rivalling, and even surpassing, any mortal Force-user to ever live.
...
NOTE
With the evolution of the Interface and the choice The Player faces, another option becomes available.
If Player+ is taken, then either PLAYER's BODY or PLAYER's MIND may be cancelled, and the Perk Point returned to The Player.
If Natural Evolution is taken, then either PLAYER's BODY or PLAYER's MIND must be cancelled, and the Perk Point returned to The Player.
...
NEW ABILITY DESCRIPTION
LEVEL BOOST
With this Ability (be it purchased as a Perk or Player Power) The Player can lift the threshold of any Force Power (where applicable) or Skill by one or two tiers.
Each purchase has three applications. These can only be applied once to any Force Power (where applicable) or Skill, though it is possible to apply two at the same time, granting one Force Power (where applicable) or Skill a 2-tier increase.
This Ability can only be applied to a Force Power (where applicable) or Skill once, so choices have to be considered carefully.
...
You've made it to Level 30.
Well done on completing the training section of your new life and reaching the final evolution of the Interface!
This evolution of the Interface isn't like the previous evolution.
Here, the choice in how it evolves rests with the Player, though the choice is a binary one.
This choice doesn't have to be made instantly but must be completed before Level 31 is reached or the Interface will remain locked in its current configuration.
...
The choices for Interface Evolution are:
Player+
Natural Evolution
...
Player+
This is, for lack of a better term, a doubling-down on the current Player-inspired work of the Interface.
However, several important changes increase what the Player is capable of achieving with this evolution.
First, there would be an increase in the tiers of all Force Powers and Skills, allowing you to take any of them to an 8th tier. However, each new tier has skill requirements equal to 2.5x that of the previous level.
The growth rate the Player is capable of won't change, but these far larger level XP requirements will slow the development of any Force Power or Skill taken into the 7th and 8th tiers.
Once a Force Power of Skill reaches Level 100 of tier 8, then can only be improved beyond that with the purchase of a new ability: LEVEL BOOST.
This can be purchased with either a Perk Point or Player Power Point.
However, it can only be taken once every 10 levels from Level 30, and no matter how many times you take it, can only ever be applied once to a Force Power or Skill.
It grants either a 1 or 2 Tier increase to whichever Force Power or Skill it is applied to.
Perks will also be available to remove restrictions on Force Powers that the Player lacks a natural inclination toward.
However, as with LEVEL BOOST, the strength of the restriction can only be removed once every 10 levels starting from Level 30.
...
Natural Evolution
Skills will gain a new base maximum limit of Level 100 of Tier 7.
However, this evolution would, in essence, free the Force from the control of the Interface. At least when it comes to the Player and how they access it.
It would still work with the Interface, allowing the Player to use the Force in conjunction with their special abilities such as the Minimap, but the tracking of what level or tier a Force Ability is at, and the hard limits on what the Player can do with the Force would be, in general, removed.
One key caveat is that while this freeing of the Force would place the upper limits on what the Player can do with a Force Ability, all Force Powers would suffer some form of degradation.
This is due to how the Interface filters the Force for the Player versus how other Force-sensitive and trained sentients interact with the Force.
The Player will need to, to varying degrees, relearn how to use their Force Abilities and the growth rate in their Force Abilities will be determined by the strength of their connection to the Force.
Again though, the Player would be capable of doing things with the Force that, even with Player+, they would not. Perhaps, with concentrated training and effort, capable of feats that could reshape a planet, star system, or even the galaxy.
That, however, would depend entirely on the focus of the Player, their understanding of the Force, and their desire or determination to achieve it.
Note, that while Natural Evolution goes a different direction from Player+ the new ability LEVEL BOOST would still be available.
It would, however, only apply to the Player's Skills, with what it grants altered to reflect that.
Perks to grant natural inclinations toward certain rare Force Abilities would also remain.
...
NOTE
In simpler terms:
With the current Interface setup, the Player is limited to a base of Level 100 of Tier 6 of every Force Power and Skill.
With Player+ Force Powers and Skills get a new base of Level 100 of Tier 8.
Though there exists an ability, LEVEL BOOST, to lift each Force Power of Skill once to a higher Tier, to a maximum of Tier 10.
This would, for Force Powers with no usage of LEVEL BOOST, lift the Player's capacity to that of an average member of the Jedi High Council.
With Natural Evolution Skills get a new base of Level 100 of Tier 7.
With this version of LEVEL BOOST, any skill can be raised once, to either Tier 8 or Tier 9.
However, the Force is freed from Interface control, and based on the Player's current Force sensitivity, they are, potentially, capable of rivalling, and even surpassing, any mortal Force-user to ever live.
...
NOTE
With the evolution of the Interface and the choice The Player faces, another option becomes available.
If Player+ is taken, then either PLAYER's BODY or PLAYER's MIND may be cancelled, and the Perk Point returned to The Player.
If Natural Evolution is taken, then either PLAYER's BODY or PLAYER's MIND must be cancelled, and the Perk Point returned to The Player.
...
NEW ABILITY DESCRIPTION
LEVEL BOOST
With this Ability (be it purchased as a Perk or Player Power) The Player can lift the threshold of any Force Power (where applicable) or Skill by one or two tiers.
Each purchase has three applications. These can only be applied once to any Force Power (where applicable) or Skill, though it is possible to apply two at the same time, granting one Force Power (where applicable) or Skill a 2-tier increase.
This Ability can only be applied to a Force Power (where applicable) or Skill once, so choices have to be considered carefully.
...
As I'd seen with Maul, with the limits currently in place, I simply couldn't engage a Council member or higher – before leaving Maul with Osto to be taken from the battlefield, I'd used Observe on him to discover he was Level 36. I needed to improve, yet Player+ only took me to the level of a High Council member, which given how those who'd come with Windu had done against Sidious simply wasn't high enough to be capable of stopping his plans. And that was without considering my actions might've resulted in Plagueis' fate changing.
However, I also understood that I couldn't, and wouldn't, make the change now. The moment I took Natural Evolution if that was my final choice, then I'd lose Dark Side Masking, exposing the taint I no doubt had because of how often I'd drawn on the Dark Side. While that would cause massive problems with Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan currently on Naboo, more than likely members of the High Council and Palpatine would be arriving soon to handle Drallig's body and celebrate the liberation of the planet.
If I took Natural Evolution then I needed time away to learn to mask my Force presence, at least enough that none could sense anything different about me to the point they'd either try to imprison me (the Jedi) or recruit me (the Sith) or attempt to kill me (possibly both).
Now, Qui-Gon, and possibly Obi-Wan though given his limited Force Potential I wasn't sure, had likely sensed my flares of anger but I could easily play those off as concern for my friend. While a Jedi Knight, I was young, and still maturing physically, so emotional reactions were prone to occurring, especially for one who's come late to the Order. Appearing without the ability to mask any taint I might have would be another matter entirely. To say nothing of the other things I'd learnt from Ada's holocron ever since I'd first activated it on Zonama Sekot.
That would ruin everything I'd done up until now, and place my slowly developing plans for the future in danger, all but handing the galaxy to the Sith.
Pushing those concerns to one side for the moment, I pulled up my base stats, wondering how they'd changed because of reaching Level 30 and my injury.
Cameron Shan
Species: Human
Title: The Player
Age: 17
Level 30
HP: 253/253
(-7.5% for lost limb)
FP: 16022/16022
(-10% for Raven)
PP:60/60
XP [11874/40000]
STAM [1213/1213]
Hunger [67/100]
STR: 21 +
VIT: 22 +
AGI: 22 +
INT: 42 +
WIS: 32 +
CHA: 32 +
Luck: 10 + [+10]
SP: 19
SKP: 179
PerkP: 0
PPP: 1
Credits: 5492463
...
Species: Human
Title: The Player
Age: 17
Level 30
HP: 253/253
(-7.5% for lost limb)
FP: 16022/16022
(-10% for Raven)
PP:60/60
XP [11874/40000]
STAM [1213/1213]
Hunger [67/100]
STR: 21 +
VIT: 22 +
AGI: 22 +
INT: 42 +
WIS: 32 +
CHA: 32 +
Luck: 10 + [+10]
SP: 19
SKP: 179
PerkP: 0
PPP: 1
Credits: 5492463
...
Since there was no definitive reveal of how much combat XP I got, I couldn't tell how much I'd done, but I felt I'd not gained any XP from the space battle. The battles in Theed and on the grass plains had been connected to me via the Battlenet, so gaining a minute fraction for each droid, tank and transport from those battles made sense. If the space battle had been added in, then the XP gain would've been less as there were more people manning the various ships in the allied fleet engaging fewer droids when compared to those on Naboo.
I was slightly surprised that the Changing Fate [Qui-Gon] quest was complete as the objective was to ensure Maul didn't kill Qui-Gon, with nothing being stated clearly about that having to take place on Naboo. There was still a chance the quest could be retroactively failed if that occurred in the future, but if that happened then I'd cross that bridge when I came to it. While I wasn't overly close to Qui-Gon, bar us both being members of the loose – and rarely meeting – Coalition of Jedi trying to prepare for the darkness to come, as a fellow former Padawan of Dooku I felt a faint kinship toward him.
I dismissed my Stats page and those relating to the choice I had to make. Once everything regarding Naboo was over, and I was lightyears away from the Jedi and Sith, I'd see about making my choice. For now, my focus could return to the present.
I slipped from the bed, moving toward a small table nearby. There lay my beskad along with two lightsabers and the remains of two more. Like myself, Serra had lost a blade when fighting Maul, though for her it had been the shoto I'd helped her with. Most of the components hadn't been recovered, but the crystal had been found by Fenrir when He'd been helping Bo dig Serra out of the rubble, and like the two smaller ones from my main blade, it now rested on the table. My issue, however, was that one of my crystals was cracked, having been damaged when Maul destroyed the emitter.
Beside Serra's remaining blade was Master Drallig's, which Bo had placed there thinking Serra would want the connection to her former Master/father figure, which was a sentiment I agreed with. When she awoke and began to recover mentally, she'd have to decide what to do with the blade, though I half-expected her to start wielding it along with her blade, returning to dual-wielding two full-sized lightsabers.
I picked up the crystals and small krayt dragon pearl from my lightsaber, rolling them around in my palm as I considered how to handle rebuilding my blade. While I'd still go for a curved hilt as Makashi was the base of how I fought, I wanted to add more features. The ability to have it not short out when wet, or be able to alter the blade length were things I knew would be added, but I wasn't sure what other features I might add.
I knew that I wanted to add the Mantle of the Force crystal to the blade, and while the crystal was almost entirely aligned with me, having four crystals in a lightsaber was currently beyond what I could manage. Mechanics [Lightsabers] was at Professional:97, and I hoped that once I hit Master:1 I could add everything I wanted to my new blade, but only time would tell. I could manage with the shoto and beskad for now, and if I waited to rebuild my blade until Anakin had found a crystal, we could bond further over building our blades together.
That had my thoughts turn to the Chosen One, and I looked upward, wondering just what had happened to him. I could still, very faintly sense his pain, but it was just a background feeling, only able to reach me due to our bond and the strength of our force sensitivity. However, before I could consider once more what had happened to him, the door opened.
Turning I took a step back, a clearly emotional Sia-Lan Wezz bearing toward me.
"Hey," I said, though I couldn't get anything else out, nor was there a reply as she stormed past me to Serra's bacta tank.
I blinked, processing the flood of emotions rushing from my friend as she placed a hand on the tank. Sorrow and concern were the dominant emotions but a slowly growing, but powerful rage was present as well. That anger, I suspected, was directed at me, and I was fine with that. Sia-Lan was closer to Serra than me, and likely blamed me for Serra's injuries and Drallig's death; something I did as well.
"Rann," I said to the other Padawan who entered with Sia-Lan.
"Cameron," the older but lower-ranked Jedi replied. "We didn't know you were on the planet until we sensed you during the battle." His tone was calm, but I noted his mind was closed as if he didn't want to project his feelings outward. That fit with my previous interactions with him as his thoughts and feelings had always been distant and protected. Though from the way he stood, at a distance, arms crossed over his chest and slightly at an angle, it felt like he wasn't happy I was here. "Nor that Serra and Master Drallig were also present."
I opened my mouth to respond only to stop as Sia-Lan spun and marched toward me.
"Why was she here?!" The girl raged, a finger gesturing toward my face. "It's your fault that she's in that tank and Master Drallig is dead!" the finger jabbed closer, forcing me to lean back and avoid being poked in the eye.
"Padawan!" I snapped, not liking her behaviour. "Calm yourself. Now!" I used Force Persuasion as I spoke, entirely unimpressed with her behaviour. While we were roughly the same age, my rank carried weight, as did the fact that even without an arm or lightsaber I knew I could beat the shit out of both Padawans.
Normally, I wouldn't use the Force against another Jedi, but Sia-Lan's behaviour was unacceptable. No matter how right she was.
"Don't you dare tell me what to do!" She snarled back, the finger jabbing my chest as she lowered the hand. "youghd…"
Her words trailed off as I closed my fist, grasping her with the Force. Before she could get another sound out, or counter my grasp, I lifted her upward, bringing her to my eye level, which left her feet dangling below as I held her afloat via her robes.
"While we are, I hope, still friends, you are overstepping your bounds, Padawan," I said as calmly as I could, though my annoyance and irritation at her behaviour were still clear in my tone and body language. "I understand why you, why both of you," I added, glancing at Rann whose hand had drifted toward his lightsaber though he'd yet to grasp it, "are upset. But remember that you are a Jedi, and if I need to remind you of that fact again, you will regret my training."
With my piece said, and some of her anger lost by the shock of my actions, I let her go. The fall was short, as while she wasn't as tall as me, she wasn't that short, but I'd already turned away from the pair, moving toward the bacta tank. While my way to nullify her anger wasn't one most Jedi would do, I wasn't going to stand there and let her berate me for choices I, or Serra and Drallig, had made.
I placed a hand on the tank and sighed. I knew that, as a Jedi, I'd fucked up in letting Serra come along, and thus having Drallig come as well. However, as a Mandalorian, I'd been left with little choice. To dismiss an ally and friend when I'd called others to battle would've made me look weak and unworthy to gather the forces I had, never mind lead them into battle.
Turning back to the pair I saw that while Rann had relaxed, Sia-Lan's hand rested on her hilt, though she hadn't drawn the weapon yet. The narrow eyes that glared at me suggested it wouldn't take much to have her do so. As amusing as it would be to see her lose control, and then school her about the failure of doing so without proper training, I wasn't interested in that. Not when a stray move of a lightsaber could damage Serra's tank.
"Sia-Lan," Rann began, placing a hand on the elbow of the arm gripping Sia-Lan's lightsaber, "perhaps we should hear Knight Shan's reasoning before jumping to assumptions."
"I know what happened!" Sia-Lan snapped at Rann as she turned to him. That had him raising a single eyebrow. I was a little surprised when that, more than anything else, was what broke through her anger at Serra's condition. "Fine," she muttered, her shoulders slumping and the hand drifting away from her lightsaber, "but I doubt anything you say will change my mind."
I looked at her carefully, thoughts of reminding her of the Jedi Code and the concept of keeping an open mind drowned out by a need to smack her around the head for acting like a Force-damned child. "Understandable," I eventually said as I rejected both options, "but I again remind you of who and what you are." That drew a scoff as if she felt I was being hypocritical, which in a sense I was as I'd come to Naboo as more Mando'ade than Jedi. To say nothing of my tendency to ignore the Code. That said, any irritation I had with her behaviour I let go of, as staying annoyed at her was fucking waste of time, and would show that I could still act like a Jedi.
"To begin, Serra knew I was intending to come to Naboo to help with the situation. I consider both Queen Amidala and Senator Palpatine friends and felt the Force wanted me to help them. That said, I knew this battle would be dangerous, and when Serra first asked to come with me, while she was still inside the Temple, I told her to stay away."
I paused here, turning back and placing my remaining hand on the tank. "The Force, it seemed, had warned us both that if the other came to Naboo, we'd be in great danger. I didn't want her here anymore than she wanted me to go alone, but I pulled rank." My shoulders slumped as the tank continued to beep in time with her constant, but slow, heart rate. "However, Serra reached out to our common friends, and they arranged for her to leave the Temple." I didn't have to mention that those friends were Mandalorian. I was still in my armour, sans my helmet and the section I'd lost with my arm which suddenly itched, and given the warriors that had fought on Naboo, even a youngling could put two and two together. "When I discovered her at the meeting point for the allied fleet, I wanted to send her back; to order her as a Padawan to return to the Temple. She, however, convinced me to let her stay."
I turned back to the pair. While I could mention how she convinced me, by appealing to our status as Mando'ade, it would only make things worse, and drop Serra in deeper trouble with her friends and the rest of the Order. If she wanted to reveal that, it would be her choice to do so. I wasn't going to shift blame to her to save myself from rage and disappointment from others that I felt I deserved.
"Once we were planet-side, Master Drallig arrived soon after. How he slipped past the Federation's fleet I'm not sure, but he did. At that point, and after he'd spoken with his Padawan, there was little I could do to insist he not join the allied forces once he stated he would do so. He outranked me just as I outrank Serra or you. That said, during the battle, I assigned them what should've been a low-risk assignment: to find and rescue a group of Naboo who were about to be shipped off-world and sold into slavery." I sighed and looked down. "I'd hoped by doing that to keep them out of danger. The Force, however, had other ideas."
Silence fell over the room, Rann seemingly considering my words while Sia-Lan slowly calmed herself. I stood there patiently, ignoring as best I could the itching of my missing limb, waiting for their response.
Ever since the battle had ended, my mind had been replaying my choices. I should've pushed for Drallig and Serra to fight elsewhere on the planet. I should never have let them come to Theed, not when I knew Maul was there. In the end, however, I had, and now Serra was paying dearly for my mistake, though I swore on Drallig's memory that I'd not make that mistake ever again.
"Was it really a Sith?" Rann asked after perhaps a minute.
"Well, I didn't exactly stop and ask him if he was," I replied with a small smile which drew a chuckle from Rann. Sia-Lan seemed uninterested in my humour though. "By the time I reached him, he'd already killed Master Drallig and was about to dispatch Serra. I… I couldn't allow that, so I rushed in trying desperately to save her."
Another silence fell over the room, though this one was broken not by a question but by the doors to the medical centre opening and Qui-Gon walking in.
"Well, it seems I was beaten to meeting you, Cameron. I do hope that I'm not too late to hear of your battle with the Sith." He wore a smile that I suspected was meant to relax the tense atmosphere in the room, but there was a hint of, perhaps, apprehension, under it.
"You're sure it was a Sith, Master?" Rann asked, earning a small smile from the old Jedi.
"While I didn't engage him, I sensed his presence as he fought Master Drallig, Knight Shan, and Padawan Keto. I'm left with no doubt that the Zabrak was a Dark Sider, however until Padawan Keto recovers, the only proof we have of his status is Cameron's report."
"And that he defeated Master Drallig inside a few minutes," I added, wanting that point to not be forgotten. While I could understand them dismissing Maul as a Sith if he'd just fought me and Serra, Maul had dismantled Drallig in the time it took me to reach them. And there, again, I saw another mistake that I'd made and had made at times before. A flaw of not using the menagerie of powers at my disposal when they'd be most applicable.
"Yes, there is that," Qui-Gon agreed with a sigh, his shoulders drooping slightly. "While it is conceivable that a random Dark Sider, or even a failed Padawan that I'm unaware of, might be able to defeat a random Jedi Knight or Master, Master Drallig was the Order's Battlemaster and one of our most skilled duellists. That any but a trained Sith could defeat him is something I find doubtful."
Silence returned to the room as the Padawans contemplated Qui-Gon's words. As it stretched on, I considered a way that might help convince Qui-Gon and the Council that Maul was a Sith. I lifted my vambrace and went to access the controls only to stop as I moved my wounded arm over, forgetting the hand was missing.
I sighed loudly, annoyed at making that mistake, but knowing that I'd be making it for some time to come. Even after getting a replacement limb, I knew I'd suffer from phantom limb syndrome as I'd known a few former operators in my former life who'd had to deal with that.
"There is no shame in being wounded," Qui-Gon said, his hand giving my shoulder a gentle squeeze, gesturing to what Gilamar had done earlier. "The Zabrak defeated a Jedi Master and almost killed another Jedi. That you were able to defeat him is a testament to your skills; and the training of your Masters."
I nodded, accepting the praise, though it wasn't fully deserved. "I only won because of the beskar and the weapons in the vambrace," I said slowly, letting my regret seep into the Force and tone. "If I'd fought as a true Jedi, Serra and I would've shared Master Drallig's fate."
"Then it seems the Force has guided you to places where you could discover how you might survive the battle without you perhaps realising it." I looked at him, seeing the sort of wise, amused smile that I often saw from Fay. The kind that implied they knew something I didn't. "It was the Force that led you and Padawan Keto to Mandalore to train. There, like when working with Master Dooku to free those who would become the Lokella, you came into contact with others who'd be of use to you when Naboo was under threat. It also, at least with the Mandalorians, showed you another way to fight in ways not taught in the Temple. A way that, when the chits were down, allowed you to survive and defeat a Sith."
"Yes, Master," I said with a nod, accepting his words even if I didn't entirely believe them. While the Force may have played a part in my helping to establish the Lokella, going to Mandalore had been my choice. I'd wanted to head there and determine if they might be of use come the Clone Wars. Still, it was reassuring that, if nothing else, he didn't hold it against me for using non-Jedi – or less civilised as Obi-Wan famously said – methods to combat Maul.
"And I am relieved that I don't have to inform Master Dooku of your death. While it has been many, many years since I've faced it, I'd prefer to not face him once more when he is displeased."
I chuckled at that. "Aye, that's understandable," I said, well aware of the face Dooku had when annoyed, irritated, or unimpressed with someone, something, or a piece of news he disliked.
"Is he as scary as they say?"
Qui-Gon and I turned to Rann, who, realising what he'd just blurted out, brought a hand up to cover his mouth. The stuttering start of an apology began to slip through his fingers, but it died out when my earlier chuckle turned into laughter as I imagined how Dooku would react to the question. I heard a few quieter, though just as amused, chuckles slip from Qui-Gon before I got myself under control.
"Master Dooku isn't scary per se," I replied, "he's just… very strict about the high standards he expects. And while he expects that from everyone, for his Padawan the standards are considerably higher."
"A very diplomatic answer. One, I suspect, Master Fay would be proud of," Qui-Gon commented, to which I smiled in confirmation. "Now, while I'm glad you're alive and have recovered enough to joke about other matters, I must return this impromptu meeting to the Zabrak." He glanced at the bacta tank, the constant beeping of Serra's heartbeat bringing me a small amount of comfort. "The High Council is aware of what has occurred, and representatives are being dispatched to recover Master Drallig's body and speak with you directly. However, they, like myself, will no doubt wish to hear the details of your battle with the Zabrak."
"As expected, Master, and I believe I can help with that." In the original timeline, many of the Council had come to Naboo for Qui-Gon's funeral, and as Drallig was more important to the day-to-day operations of the Order, his death would have greater implications and importance.
I reached over to another table, this one holding my severed arm contained in a stasis jar. Turning it over with my remaining hand – and doing my best to ignore how awkward and painful doing this was – I accessed the still-working controls of that vambrace and ejected a datacard.
Carefully I passed it to Qui-Gon. "That's a recording from the armour's sensors up until the Sith lashed out after I struck him with poisoned darts," I explained as he took the datacard. "The poison wasn't designed to kill, simply render anything affected by it unable to move. That he was able to continue fighting afterwards was a testament to his skill, and I suspect how infuriated he was that I'd managed to drug him."
"Yes, I suspect that would anger many Dark Siders," Qui-Gon said as he moved over to a nearby console. There, after a minute or so of typing at the console, he activated a small holoprojector, and the image of Maul as I found him standing over Serra, ready to kill her emerged.
Seeing that again, my gaze drifted to Serra, and I had to control myself, lest my fury at what she'd endured resurfaced. A faint gasp of shock from Sia-Lan was accompanied by her residual anger toward me easing, though, after her earlier behaviour, I didn't care if we ever recovered our friendship.
The recording ran on, and we watched silently as my battle with Maul played out. Qui-Gon had slowed the file down slightly, though not by much as the blades were still moving rapidly around the screen. What I did notice was that Rann and Sai-Lan, even at the slower speed, were struggling to keep up with the display. The speed of the battle was still too much for them to handle.
Eventually, the recording stopped, cutting out after Maul had thrown me back, his rage at getting poisoned lashing out hard enough that the impact with the wall was a logical place to edit the recording. Now, the commanders of the allied army who had access to the Battlenet knew it had lasted slightly longer, but since all were Mando'ade and would have no interest in speaking on the matter to the Jedi – not that the Jedi knew they had the recording as well – it wasn't a deception I expected to be discovered.
One of Qui-Gon's eyebrows rose, mirroring an action Dooku used when he wanted an answer but wasn't going to directly ask the question. That made me smile even as I detailed what had happened after the recording shorted out.
"After recovering from the Zabrak's Force attack, I stood to find him slumped against a wall not far from where we'd just been fighting. My beskad had been thrown from my hand in my tumble, and at the time, I didn't know where it had gone. However, I could still sense my shoto and summoned it to me as I approached him. The Sith was down, his breathing steady but slow, the tranquiliser I'd shot him with having begun to overpower his body as the Force abandoned him."
"As is often the case for those who think the Dark Side offers power without cost."
"I thought he was down for good," I said, dismissing Qui-Gon's remark. "But he drew on his remaining strength, leapt to his feet, and charged at me." Pausing to ensure everyone was listening, I projected honesty about my words. "His attacks were slower than before. I sidestepped, wanting him alive, and drove my blade into his side. He snarled, then pushed forward, and was bisected just above the waist. He fell into the river and went over the falls."
"Did you try to recover his lightsaber?"
I cringed. "I admit that it slipped my mind as I watched the body disappear, though the last I saw it, it was still in his grasp." This was true, though the 'he' here wasn't Maul but Osto as he'd been holding the blade as the subdued Maul was taken away by the warriors in his squad.
Qui-Gon looked at me intently, as if sensing I was holding something back. I saw that Rann and Sia-Lan were also looking at me, but that was likely because they were struggling to process that I'd defeated the Sith who'd killed the Jedi Battlemaster. If Sia-Lan still wanted to blame me for Serra's injuries she could do so, though if she pushed about it again my patience would be even less than last time.
"It is unfortunate that the Sith – and after viewing your duel I have little doubt he was one – chose death over imprisonment, but it isn't unexpected," Qui-Gon said slowly, seemingly accepting my recounting of the end of the duel. "And your actions, made so soon after your injury, are entirely expected. However, I feel the Council may wish for greater detail about those final moments. Not just in how the Sith died, but regarding why he was on Naboo, and why you, if as I suspect, felt a danger here, you didn't ask the Council for support."
"I believe you said they wouldn't listen to you when you asked, Master," I said, recounting something he'd mentioned before we'd entered the system. "As for why he was here, I'd wager a good number of credits that he, and his Master as I feel he was the Apprentice, were, and possibly still are, involved in some way with the Trade Federation."
"Yes, the choice made by the Viceroy to blockade Naboo was rash, and invading downright reckless. Illogical even for one who places importance in credits over direct power." Qui-Gon paused and stroked his beard. "The Viceroy is secured in the palace. Obi-Wan, a squad of Naboo and Gungans and a unit of Mandalorians standing watch over him. When the time is right, he will be handed over to Republic security for questioning and trial."
"I suspect he might not make it there," I said slowly, seeing a way to cover my tracks if I was able to enact justice on Gunray. "If the Sith are involved, then the Master will want the Viceroy silenced before he reveals anything that might incriminate others."
"Yes, that is true. And it is something I already plan to mention to Master Yoda when he arrives," Qui-Gon replied with a smile. "I'll ensure your agreement with that is also mentioned." I nodded in thanks, pleased I wasn't being dismissed and would get some credit for the decision. While I doubted it would make any difference to how members of the Council saw me, it would help divert attention and blame from me if Gunray was removed from the board after leaving Naboo. Before that, I had to determine how, when, and where he would face justice for his actions. "Now, since you've been given the all-clear, perhaps you and the Padawans would be willing to help with the search for survivors?"
"I would Master, however, I first wish to collect Raven. During the fight, I sensed something shift in the Force, and I feel I need to investigate the matter quickly."
"This would be what brought about your moment of hesitation during the duel?" he glanced at my missing hand, making clear what he was referring to. I nodded in confirmation. "Hmm. I will speak with the Queen to arrange your departure. Though I suspect she and others will be disappointed to hear of it."
"I don't think I'll be gone long. Perhaps a week at most, and if I still can't find the source of the shift, I'll return so I'm here when the Council arrives."
"That would be advisable. I don't think Queen Amidala would be willing to hold the celebrations of victory without the one responsible for the forces that came to her planet's aid." His lips twitched. "You two may speak with Knight Shan when he returns," He continued, addressing the Padawans. "For now, our services are needed by the populace of this world."
Rann gave me a nod, which I returned. Sia-Lan stared at me, the fury she'd had earlier calmed slightly by, I suspected, seeing the duel I'd had with Maul. The trio then left the room and once the door was closed, I turned back to the bacta tank.
Placing my remaining hand on it, I sighed. "I'm sorry," I muttered, taking a moment to reach out for Serra's mind. I could sense it, though it was obscured; likely from the drugs flowing through her system that were keeping her sedated. I could sense her pain and anguish but knew there was little I could do to help with that currently.
Turning, I attached my shoto to my belt and then the beskad. Fenrir lifted his head, sensing we were leaving, and after he stood and stretched, he gave Serra a long look, one mirroring mine from moments earlier. Moving toward the door, I wondered how difficult it was going to be to fly Raven with only one hand. While we shared a connection and she could sense my intentions and react, I'd be slowed down in using the controls because of the missing limb.
I knew Anakin was still alive, but something had happened to him. What I'd felt wasn't a premonition, but a live reaction felt through the Force. Why it had to happen while I was engaging Maul only the Force could say, but it had.
Carrying my helmet under my remaining arm, I used the Force to open the door and walked out of the medical bay. Two guards stood outside, nodding as I exited; admiration and respect were easy to sense from them. As I walked away, I started playing around with ideas in my head. Gunray had to be removed before he was handed over to Palpatine, as that would simply allow the snivelling grub to return to Sidious' control. However, with the guard on him currently, it would take a bit of work to ensure the Neimoidian ended up dead without anyone being implicated.
The fact that I was contemplating the removal of Gunray by assassination - as that was what it would be - was something I'd taken a few hours to process. I could remember clearly that when I'd been captured by those who raped and abused children, including a fellow Jedi, I'd decided against executing the rapist. Yet now, less than a decade later, I was fine with ordering an assassination of an enemy that could trouble me in the future.
Pulling on my helmet, I opened a secure channel and contacted HK. If anyone knew how to remove Gunray without it being linked to me, it would be the droid. It was what Revan had constructed him for after all.
… …
… …
"Your ship is refuelled and ready for launch, Master Jedi."
I looked up and gave the technician who'd approached a smile. "Thanks." He turned and walked away, and I looked at Raven.
Finding her unharmed in the swamp had been a relief as this was the first time I'd parked her somewhere off the beaten track, and after settling in I'd flown her to the palace. Currently, she was resting in a small private hangar inside the cliff that the royal palace rested upon. The hangar was just large enough to let Raven enter, though the royal cruiser would've never fit, which was why it was usually docked in the hangars in Theed.
That said, the interesting fact was that I was in the second of two small bays, with the first being an unknown ship that had been discovered after Theed was freed. It hadn't taken me long to investigate the matter and discover that the vessel was Maul's and that it had already killed a group of technicians that had approached it before my return to the city.
Its presence raised a handful of issues as, while an impressive-looking vessel, I'd never seen or heard of it again in the knowledge I had of the future. No doubt it had come up in comics or novels, but I'd never read any, so I was at a loss here. Likely it had returned, slowly, to Sidious' control, but I wasn't willing to allow that to happen here.
While it had formidable defences – the video of a technician screaming as their body melted was one I wasn't going to forget, even if Eidetic Memory ensured that – I wanted it. The information inside would provide intel on the Sith plans. Intel that I might never get from Maul.
As such, I'd tasked HK with finding a way inside the vessel – whose name wasn't on the landing records nor the ship's hull – but already he'd run into a small issue. While a great combat and assassin droid, HK wasn't built for slicing into systems. That had, however, offered me an opportunity that I planned to take when I next spoke to Padmé.
HK would remain on Naboo while I returned to the ShaDo system to determine what had happened to Anakin. I'd tried contacting them via the Holonet, but the signal was down. While not an encouraging discovery, the fact neither he nor Dooku was dead – my quests for them and Force Bonds with them were still active – meant I wasn't panicking just yet about what had befallen the Lokella. Still, HK remaining here would also have him looking for ways to eliminate Gunray before representatives of the Republic arrived to take the Neimoidian.
HK's initial suggestions of simply vaporising the entire detention wing of the palace were shot down when I explained I needed it handled discreetly, with no links back to us. That had sparked a reaction in his optical receptors, and I suspected he was looking forward to that more than gaining entry to Maul's ship.
As I reached the Raven's ramp, I sensed two familiar presences and turning I saw Ferox lead Bo into the bay. While Bo wore her helmet, I could sense her concern, though it was drowned out by Ferox's for his newly-formed family.
"What's this about a problem with Anakin?" Ferox asked once he was closer, Fenrir growling at the Corellian's rapid approach and aggressive tone, though he refused to do anything more, content to laze around at the base of the ramp.
"During the battle, I sensed something happened to him," I replied. "I've tried to contact the station, but the signal's not getting through. Now, I know Anakin is alive, but I can't tell much more than that," I added, trying to calm his rapidly fraying nerves. "Because of that, I want you and Bo to come with me."
"The Mando'ade have gathered aboard our prize of war to celebrate."
"That can wait!" Ferox snapped at Bo, stepping toward her, and growling at her helmet. "The lives of my people, my family, matter more than any stupid celebration!"
Bo held her ground, and while she didn't audibly respond, I saw her fist clenching.
I moved forward, sliding my good arm between the pair. "Easy there," I said, moving the rest of my body between the pair. This had the potential to explode given both had fiery personalities, and that was the last thing I wanted to see. When it was clear that neither was going to add anything else, I turned my attention to Ferox.
"Ferox, Mandalorians always celebrate a victory, especially one of this magnitude. Something I know the Lokella do as well," he grunted at that and took a step back, turning in the process. That let me turn to Bo. "I'm not asking our people to delay the celebration, but tell me you wouldn't rush from a party if your family or friends were in potential danger?"
She nodded at that. "You're right, I wouldn't. Anakin and Shmi will always take priority over a victory celebration."
"I apologise for my aggressive behaviour," Ferox said, catching me off guard as he rarely apologised unless he had the issue beaten into him. The relationship with Shmi seemingly had smoothed his more unbalanced tendencies. "I am simply worried about my family."
Bo nodded, accepting the apology, and then turned to me. "How long will we be gone?"
"If I push Raven, and we don't run into any complications, perhaps a week, six days tops."
Bo nodded. "I'll inform my father and Alor Torrhen to delay festivities until then."
I frowned at hearing that as with the Ne'tra Tal'ade, Saak'ak, and Luuhan all controlled by them, and in orbit of Naboo, the longer they dallied here, the greater the chance they'd still be present when the Chancellor and High Council arrived. As much as I'd love to see their faces at the sight of a Mandalorian warship sitting peacefully in orbit of Naboo, it would be better for the ships to be gone. Then again, as Padmé had granted every warrior who'd fought to free Naboo permission to remain as long as they wished, and that so long as they weren't wanted for violating Republic law, every one of them - be they Mando'ade or Lokella - would have safe harbour in the Naboo system.
They would always be offered safe harbour – so long as they weren't being hunted by Republic security – there was no reason for the Mando'ade to leave early with their ships.
Now, the Vuutun Palaa was in orbit as well, however, she was little more than a wreck. Her engines had blown during the battle and one of the hangar arms had been breached just before they'd surrendered. From what I'd heard the Naboo were planning to have the vessel stripped for parts and sold to help with the rebuilding.
Personally, I'd have considered seeing what condition the power core and the rest of the ship were in as while it was a reminder of the invasion, as a station or defence platform it had some potential. However, I could understand why the Naboo wouldn't want a symbol of their planet's darkest moment remaining. That said, if I could, I hoped to convince Padmé to have an actual station developed that could help defend the planet, system, and nearby planets. It was unlikely to happen, but it was worth trying.
"They'll be fine with that?" I asked as Bo turned away, probably to open a channel to them through the Battlenet.
Bo stopped and looked at me as if I'd suddenly grown a second head. "Cam, you're the Akaan'lor of the battle. To celebrate without you, while appealing to many, would dishonour you, and those who fought under your banner."
I stared at her, wondering how much of that was true or not. Mandalorians enjoyed celebrating, or at least Bo did, so for her to suggest every warrior that had answered my call would simply wait for me sounded far-fetched, though I could see why she felt they would.
"Fine then. Contact them once we launch as I want us airborne inside five."
She nodded and moved toward the ramp. I looked at Ferox, and with a grunt, he followed the Mandalorian. As I moved toward Raven, Fenrir stood, sliding up to Bo, happy she would be joining us again. While I couldn't exactly speak with him, I knew the tuk'ata missed Bo, considering her a part of our pack. Truthfully, at any other time, I'd agree with the feeling, but my mind was still concerned for Serra, and I took the first step onto Raven's ramp, hoping she'd be awake by the time I returned, if not out the tank entirely.
"Cam!"
Turning, I saw Padmé entering the bay, her steps hurried enough that the guards with her were struggling to keep pace and continue to ensure the area they were entering was safe. Padmé wasn't in her royal garb, which was a relief as I found the clothing choices the Naboo had for formal occasions to be gaudy, if not pointless. I knew it was their tradition, but not all traditions made sense.
"Wh," she paused, taking a moment to regain her composure and breath. "Where are you going?"
"I need to check on something," I replied, amused at the worry I saw in her eyes. "When I fought the Sith I sensed a disturbance in the Force centred around a friend. Bo and Ferox are coming as they know this person as well."
"When will you come back?" There was a slight hint of urgency in her tone as if I was somehow important to the formal celebrations the Naboo were planning. I hoped that wouldn't be the case, but knowing my luck it would be.
"Five, maybe six days."
"Oh." Padmé relaxed at that. "OK then. I was just concerned you wouldn't be here for the celebration."
"Aye, Bo was worried about the same thing," I replied with a chuckle. "Didn't think you'd be joining the Mandalorian festivities," I added with a teasing smile.
"What?! No!" Padmé paused, realising she'd raised her voice higher than intended, and drawn the attention of several technicians in the bay. "There will be official celebrations for the liberation of the planet, the new alliance between the Naboo and the Gungans, and the election of a new Chancellor. One who will be coming here personally as his first official act." The last bit was spoken with a wide smile, which all but confirmed that this little detail of the timeline hadn't changed.
"Given your smile, I take it I know the new Chancellor?" I asked, matching her smile.
"Yes. Former Senator Palpatine was elected a few days before the battle," She replied, her smile widening as she believed this was a good thing for Naboo. "With him as Chancellor, I'm certain the Viceroy and the Federation will be forced to pay for their actions."
"I'd say losing three of their most valuable vessels along with the extent of their military might being exposed will cost them, though, I fear the Federation's sycophants in the Senate will work overtly and covertly to ensure the Viceroy and those with him escape with nothing more than a slap on the wrist."
Padmé held my gaze for a moment before sighing. "I… I fear you may be right. However, I'll reserve judgement until Chancellor Palpatine has had time to reshape the Senate into the voice of the people that it should be."
"I feel he will change the Senate, but I cannot say if that will be for the good of all," I said, adding a small seed of doubt about Palpatine's intentions to her thoughts. The speech she'd given before the battle, along with the help to free her world and people coming from those unaligned with the Republic had shown that she wasn't as ardent a supporter of the Republic as she had been in the other timeline, though I wasn't sure how much I could change her, and her planet's fate regarding the Republic.
Now, while I didn't want Naboo joining the CIS, or whatever they became here because of my actions altering plans that led to their creation, having Palpatine's homeworld, or at least its current leader and one the people would revere for her actions in liberating them, questioning some of his motives would, I hoped, lead to others to see through the blinkers the Sith Lord was placing over their eyes. All I had to do was ensure that I knew how to spin this approach once it got back to Palpatine, but I felt he'd subtly approve as it served his true intentions.
Padmé nodded, accepting my words, though her eyes soon fixed on my arm, the one missing a hand. "How is it?" She asked softly. Before I could reply, her eyes widened, and she brought her hands to her mouth. "I…"
I chuckled and lifted my good hand to cut off her apology. "It doesn't hurt, though I can still feel it. Phantom pains the doc said," I added with a chuckle. "I'll get a replacement limb when I can, and the galaxy will move on. For now, though, the disturbance in the Force takes priority. As it did when I knew I had to help you and your people." She nodded, though remained silent as if scared to make another faux pas. "There's nothing wrong with showing concern for a friend, Padmé," I added, placing my remaining hand on her shoulder. "Still, I'd rather questions about the limb came only from those I consider friends and not others who might gloat over the injury." The faces of Jon Savos and Master Belfour came to mind, and while I doubted either would say anything to my face, they and others who disliked or hated me would enjoy hearing I'd lost a limb in battle.
She nodded as her eyes met mine, a faint smile creeping back onto her face. There was a spark of something more than just concern in her eyes, and I slid my hand from her shoulder. She was only fourteen after all.
Though it all depended on Serra still wanting to pursue something with me after she recovered. For a while I expected she'd resent me for Drallig's death, which was understandable, but I hoped that, whatever became of our relationship, we'd remain friends. Serra was, and always would be, the first person in this life that I considered my friend and I'd do as much as I could to ensure that wasn't irrevocably damaged.
"I'll ensure Serra gets the best of care until you return."
And there was another reminder, however unintended it was, of Serra, my feelings toward her, and her condition that was heavily my fault.
"Thank you," I said with as natural a smile as I could manage. "And because I worry about your safety, and to ease your concern about my return, HK and Simvyl will remain behind to help ensure your safety." Currently, Simvyl was helping guard Gunray while HK was in the bay next door, which allowed me to segue into something I'd been planning to ask Padmé when I returned. "Actually, now that I think about it, HK has examined the vessel in Bay One, and has deduced he needs help accessing the ship's computer. While not what he was designed for, might I request that the R2 unit he knows be assigned to help him? I know the vessel will be turned over to the Republic and Jedi soon, but I want him to try and access it before then on the chance it might have information that could help ensure Gunray doesn't escape justice." I leaned closer, a smile widening as I spoke. "I feel, though he won't admit it, that HK misses T3, so a new companion might smooth some of his rougher edges."
Yes, I was manipulating her to get what I wanted. However, given R2's insane luck in the other timeline, the connection he'd formed with Anakin, the chaos of HK and R2 as a team, and whatever Maul's vessel contained, I had no issues with using Padmé in this way.
"I doubt HK would ever admit to that," Padmé replied with a small and gentle laugh, "but I agree with the idea that gaining access to that vessel might be of worth." She paused and looked at me. "As thanks for your services to Naboo, I'll have the R2 unit transferred to your ownership by the time you return."
"Yet another way to ensure I return, Your Majesty?" I asked jovially.
"Well, I can't have the Hero of Naboo absent for the victory celebrations," She replied with the same amusement. "May the Force be with you, Master Jedi. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Naboo and their current Queen will be."
I bowed, breaking eye contact as the spark of desire returned to her gaze. "And may the Force be with you and your people in the years ahead, Your Majesty."
I turned then and walked up the ramp into Raven.
Already I could feel the power racing through her skin, the engines slowly powering up as Bo worked to ensure Raven was ready to fly by the time I reached the cockpit. As the hatch closed, I put concerns about Serra, Padmé, my relationships, and everything else to one side. What mattered for now was Anakin, Dooku, and the Lokella.
Something bad awaited us in the ShaDo system, but I felt it wasn't anywhere near as bad as it could've been.
… …
… …
Raven slid from hyperspace, depositing us into the ShaDo system. Already I sensed her missing the exotic energies of faster-than-light travel, as if she was slowly becoming hooked on them, like an addict on spice. Or at least one of the less dangerous variants of spice as I never sensed she was becoming lost in the sensations and experiences of hyperspace, just that it seemed to excite her, making her more energetic and alive.
Thoughts on Raven's behaviour and reaction to hyperspace were driven from my thoughts as the initial sensor readings came in, confirming what I was seeing.
"The fuck?" I muttered as I scanned the debris of ruined vessels that littered the system. Now, it wasn't a massive number as the ships here were minute when compared to those around a Core or other well-developed world, but it was still a shock to see the wrecks of dozens, if not hundreds of vessels stretching from the hyperspace exit point toward Mtael's Gift and Gai.
"What happened?" that came from Ferox who sat in one of the spare seats in the cockpit behind me with Bo occupying the co-pilot's chair.
"Battle," Bo replied shortly. "A major one for the Lokella."
I bit back a sarcastic remark about stating the obvious, as this wasn't the time or place for it. Instead, as Raven slowly moved forward, I scanned the debris, noting which ships matched those I knew belonged to the Lokella and which didn't. The debris around us currently wasn't heavy, consisting of two gunships that had seemingly been overwhelmed when the attacking force had arrived, though as we neared the station, the amount and variety of debris increased.
Almost all of it around Mtael's Gift didn't match anything in Raven's logs, though one ship did. The markings on the hull that the scanners could see underneath blast marks bore a striking similarity to a vessel that had been on Tatooine when I'd gone there to meet Qui-Gon, Padmé and the others.
Before I could think on that further, a proximity alarm sounded and two battered, but still capable, CR70s slipped out from behind the wreckage of a large cargo hauler. With them came a flight of starfighters, mainly composed of Z-95 Headhunters.
Not wanting to get into a firefight, especially as Raven was unarmed, I threw open the comms. "This is Cameron Shan along with Ferox aboard the Raven. We request permission to approach and land on Mtael's Gift." While none of the approaching vessels had locked their weapons on us, I could sense their agitation and anger from here. That said, if any of them fired on Raven, I'd be having words with them; ones that they'd likely not enjoy as an annoyed Force user was not something many wanted to face.
Thankfully, before anyone could make such a mistake, the small holo-display in the cockpit flickered to life, revealing a Twi'lek that I couldn't immediately place. "Mtael," he began with a bow, "we are grateful that you and Commander Ferox have returned. However, the battle has ended and those responsible were killed, captured, or driven off."
"Yeah, I can see that," I snarked, drawing a snort of amusement from Bo. "I'll save questions until I've docked. Provided, of course, that I can?"
The Twi'lek blinked, and I thought I saw his lekku twitch, though that might just be a trick of the hologram as it flickered slightly. "Yes, Yes. I will inform the Council of your arrival." He turned as if to close the channel only to pause. "Many will be relieved that you and Commander Ferox have returned."
"Croz's twitchy," Ferox said once the channel closed, and the defence force started to change their vectors. "There's more that happened than just a space battle."
I stayed silent, as I already knew that. Anakin wouldn't have screamed into the Force so powerfully that I'd hear him from so far away for only a space battle. However, I could sense Ferox's growing fears about what might've happened and didn't want to add to them.
As Raven slipped toward the debris the corvettes and fighters had been hiding behind – which included a Valor-Class light cruiser built by TransGalMeg Industries – I reached out through the Force.
The first presence I sensed on the station was Dooku. The calm, almost cold centre he projected into the Force relaxed some of my fears even as he pushed back against my probe, letting me know he was in good health. I didn't try to speak with him telepathically, as I needed to keep my mind at least mainly focused on Raven. While I could pilot her easily enough with one hand, the increasing volume of debris along our flightpath meant I couldn't be too distracted.
Instead, I simply gave him a sense I was near and would soon be able to speak directly with him. That drew the expected cool acceptance, though there was a faint hint of concern as well. That was odd, though given the other Force presences I could sense on the station, I quickly understood why he was concerned.
Before I focused on the unexpected and unwanted one, I located Anakin. As normal, he was instinctively hiding from detection through the Force, but I was used to that and knew how to sense the faintest of shifts his natural attempts to hide caused in the Force. What helped to find him this time though was that his mind was a mess.
Anger, fear, disbelief, and despondency raged for control of him. He didn't react directly to my presence in the Force, but what he was feeling had me concerned about Shmi and her child. I kept my eyes forward, not wanting Ferox to catch my eye as his concern would only amplify if he felt I knew something he didn't.
That left me focusing on the third powerful Force presence I felt on Mtael's Gift, and wondering why Vosa was present.
Coming face-to-face with her was so far down my bucket list, that I suspected I'd have to go two systems over to find it. Yet, not only was she no longer on Gaia, as she had been ever since Dooku had started trying to rehabilitate her, but it felt as if she was unrestrained, though hopefully she wasn't armed with anything more than the Force.
My mind, as it often did when Vosa came up, returned to my time under her care, and the horrors I'd endured. My missing arm twitched, the pain of the lost limb merging with once more feeling the rage that had been brought forth by Vosa's machinations; suffering under her direction in an attempt to break and turn me.
I jerked when I felt a hand on my shoulder. Looking up I saw Bo there, a hand on my shoulder and a concerned expression on her face. Looking out of the viewport I saw we'd moved much closer to the station, so much so that I must've gotten lost, again, in reliving my experiences with the Bando Gora.
"You ok?"
"Yeah," I replied absently. "Just… When we get there I need you to remain calm," I said, turning back to her. Bo frowned so I kept going. "Vosa's there."
Her grip on my shoulder tightened, as did her jaw and her eyes narrowed as she looked toward the rapidly approaching and growing Mtael's Gift. The slightest of twitches crept onto her face and I felt I had to intervene. "Bo," I said softly, but in a clear tone that I knew she'd listen to.
Her gaze returned to me, and I felt a surge of desire and relief at the fire burning in her eyes. However, as much as that fire was one I wanted to sate, now wasn't the time nor place to do so. I needed her to remain calm once we landed, as while she was a good fighter – possibly becoming great with a few more years of experience – Vosa was several leagues beyond her.
"Fine," Bo said eventually, some of her fury fading away as she spoke through gritted teeth. "But if she puts a hair out of line, I'm going to blow it and the head attached to it off her shoulders and then jettison the body into the star."
I chuckled at the image, finding the idea of ending Vosa extremely appealing; even if what Bo suggested felt too quick and easy for what Vosa had put me through.
"That's all I can ask for," I said with a smile before turning my focus back to Raven and the controls as landing vectors came in from the station.
… …
… …
I stood in Raven's airlock waiting patiently for the ramp to descend. Outside were dozens of sentients, though three were closer to us than the others. Dooku wasn't with them, nor was Vosa who was close but not directly with him, or Anakin. While I'd have liked to speak directly with either of them upon arrival, given the chaos that had been seen outside the station – warships and fighters on high alert while a few transports slowly moved debris away from the station – I could understand if Dooku was busy helping the Lokella and Anakin was focused on whatever had greatly upset him.
Vosa not being present was a double relief, as not only would I not have to face her as soon as I arrived, but it removed the threat Bo might react to any off-hand remark the deranged bitch might make. Ever since realising that Vosa was on the station, I'd been dreading a run-in with her to the point that, once Raven had landed, I'd been reluctant to leave my chair. My remaining hand had gripped the controls tightly as Ferox had stormed from the cockpit.
With us being alone, Bo had come over and placed a hand on my shoulder for support. She'd not said anything, simply waiting for me to prepare myself and stand, but her presence and support had helped immensely. As had the silent promise I saw in her eyes that if Vosa stepped out of line, Bo would do everything she could to put that bitch down for good. It didn't, however, stop my missing hand with itching, nor with the nagging doubt I had that if I saw Vosa I'd be able to restrain myself from trying to kill her. Preferably, as painfully as possible.
As the hatch hissed and then opened, Ferox rushed forward. Fenrir growled at the disrespect, but I wasn't offended. Ferox was, understandably, worried about his family and if our positions were reversed, I'd have done the same.
Walking forward, the recycled atmosphere of the station filled my lungs, a faint hint of cleansing agent fresh in the air. That suggested there'd been a battle in the bay, and a quick look around confirmed it as blast marks dotted the walls, discolouring them.
As the landing area came into sight, I saw Ferox meeting with three other members of the Lokella Council. While the group was led by Baalta, the fact Maan Lonwin and Tweq Ruhn were missing – when both were high in the chain of command of the Lokella and Mtael's Gift – wasn't encouraging.
"What happened?" Ferox blurted out before Baalta could acknowledge my presence. "Where's Shmi?"
"Mtael, Ferox, we are grateful you have returned," Baalta said, trying to be diplomatic, yet in her tone, and within the Force, I could sense the pain and fear of the Lokella. In fact, it was so strong that the usual worship they had when I arrived was almost non-evident.
"Where is Shmi?" Ferox asked again, his voice positively feral, which drew a growl from Fenrir as he moved to my side. I went to place my hand on his head, only to stop as I realised he was on the side with the missing limb.
Baalta looked down and sighed. "I… It would be better if we took you to her." She then turned to a Rodian with her. "Take Commander Ferox to his wife." The Rodian did as asked, though as he stepped away Ferox came over, grabbed the alien's clothing and all but dragged him away.
"What happened here?" I asked once Ferox was out of earshot of us.
Baalta sighed again and shook her head. "It seems that not all who joined our cause did so because they believed in it. When the fleet answered your call, a signal was sent out. Not long after the Mtael had insisted that most of our forces return, another fleet arrived in the system, intent on forcing our people back into chains. Those who stayed behind fought valiantly, but by the time the Liberator and the rest of the fleet arrived, only two gunships remained to defend the station, which had already been boarded." Baalta paused and looked down at the deck. "While we wanted to honour the Mtael by providing him help as he had once done for us, in our haste we over-committed and many of our people died, though I'm led to believe that none were captured and re-enslaved."
I moved forward and placed my hand on Baalta's shoulders. "The future is uncertain, even to those of us who can use the Force."
She lifted her head, the faintest of smiles creeping onto her face. "Master Dooku said as much after the battle. I… If not for him and his apprentice, I fear the loss of life on the station would've been far worse." I nodded, choosing to not vocalise any thoughts about Vosa. Especially how she wasn't Dooku's apprentice. "He is currently in the station's command centre and awaits your presence."
I glanced over to the door that Ferox had raced through, the Lokella Council member being dragged along behind him. "What happened to the Skywalkers?"
"The boy, young Anakin, is fine. While he didn't see battle, he helped where he could." the smile on her face grew. "According to reports, he used the Force as you and Master Dooku showed him where he could and, at other times, seemed to know when and where the attackers would come from." The smile fell. "Shmi, however…" she shook her head, her lekku twitching while the montrals moved. "Many people suffered because of our haste to help."
"You did what you thought was right based on what information you had at the time. That is all anyone can do. To blame yourself in hindsight, if one doesn't learn from the mistakes, only leads to recrimination and doubt."
Baalta nodded, the smile slowly returning. "The Mtael is wise. As expected of a Jed… Your arm?!" she whispered as she saw the missing limb. "What happened?"
I lifted the arm, smiling as if I found it funny that this kept coming up even when it was hard to find anything amusing about losing my dominant hand. "While the battle with the Federation went easier than I'd expected, they had unexpected help. A Dark Sider, possibly even a Sith if that word means anything to you," judging by her non-reaction it didn't, "was there. While I was able to defeat him eventually, it came at a high cost."
Baalta's eyes widened as if she was struggling to understand what I'd just said. Her hand came out, gently touching my arm slightly above the elbow where I'd lost the forearm. "You… you paid this price to free others? To protect them from enslavement?"
"He did," Bo replied as I saw an amused smirk on her face, her helmet under her arm.
"You truly are the Mtael," Baalta said; a wide, proud smile coming to her face. "To pay this price for others shows that we were right to support you. While we will mourn our dead for some time, it will offer many some respite to know the Mtael continues to fight to protect others. To end the tyranny of slavers. And we will continue to stand with you, just as you do by arriving here so soon after your battle."
I considered heading to Anakin directly, though since Ferox was heading there already, I decided that speaking with Dooku and learning more about what happened here should come first. Yes, Anakin was in pain, and it sounded like Shmi – and possibly her child – was gone. While I wanted to comfort him, Ferox should, as his stepfather, be the first to have that opportunity.
"Is Dooku's… guest still present on the station?" I asked. I knew she was, as I could sense her twisted, deranged presence in the Force, but I wanted to hear from Baalta about why Vosa was here before I spoke to Dooku.
Baalta's face tensed, and her lekku seemed to vibrate. "Yes… she is currently staying in a small room near Master Dooku. He felt it was best if she remained close, but not too close, to him."
"An airlock would be better," Bo muttered, and I found myself disagreeing simply because, with her training, Vosa might be able to survive that long enough to make it to another airlock or a nearby hatch. Now, if we opened the airlock near the system's star and accelerated away before she could recover, I might consider it a fitting action to take.
"While many share your distaste for her Lady Bo-Katan, she fought beside Master Dooku during the attack. She saved many from the slavers when they boarded the station."
"You're sure they were slavers?" Bo asked as Fenrir growled, showing his dislike for those in that profession.
"Yes. While few of them survived, thanks to the actions of Master Dooku and others, we captured several of their boarding parties. Those that chose to surrender were quite forthcoming after Master Dooku spoke with them."
"Aye, I expect they were." While a Jedi, Dooku had no issue with doing what was needed to discover the truth, especially from sentients barely worthy of the name. It was honestly surprising he remained a Jedi for as long as he did in the other timeline given his opinion of most beings in the galaxy. "Although, perhaps we might discuss this as we walk," I added as I saw many in the bay were still watching us, and while I couldn't hear their voices – or at least wasn't going to bother using the Force to enhance my hearing – I could sense the growing curiosity, confusion, and even some anger all directed toward me. "Master Dooku isn't one to tolerate being made to wait."
Baalta chuckled. "Yes, that is indeed true." She turned and indicated toward a door leading from the bay, one heading in the opposite direction from where Ferox had gone. "While we respect him for his role in creating our people, he is cold, almost strict in a way that reminds many of their former enslavers. If not for his role, and his connection to you, Mtael, I feel many would fear his presence. Much as they do with his current apprentice."
"Master Dooku is… careful to a fault. It makes him, to those who don't know him, hard to read; almost to the point where one would question whether he has a heart."
"Yes. We on the Council, and among the first generation of Lokella, have always understood his importance to our cause. While I wished it hadn't happened, the attack has shown that to those who came to us later. If not for both his and his apprentice's presence on the station, we would have suffered far more grievously."
"Who hired the attackers?" Bo asked as we reached the door exiting the bay.
I was curious about that as well. While it was possible it was just a large slaving group, I felt that was unlikely. Even with most of the fleet gone, the concentrated forces left behind would've made the venture a risky one with the loss of slaver ships and personnel not able to be covered unless every Lokella was captured.
"The Hutts. Specifically, Decca." Baalta all but spat out that name, and I reached for my lightsaber, only to be reminded that it was gone, as was the hand that would normally wield it.
Decca had been the Hutt behind the slaving and mining operation in this system when Dooku and I had stumbled upon it. He'd held a grudge against the Lokella ever since and had been the one who sent the thugs after me during my verd'goten.
I ground my teeth; the face of the walking handbag that had shot me at my moment of triumph seared into my mind without the help of Eidetic Memory. Now, I knew that incident, and a few others involving Trandoshans had coloured my opinion of the species, to the point I wouldn't stop someone from wiping out the race, but a group that pleased their God by killing others wasn't one I considered high on any list to protect. Something the Wookies – among others – agreed with.
"While gathering your forces and striking back at Decca will be appealing, I must advise caution," I said slowly, keeping my feelings toward the giant slug out of my tone. "He deserves to pay for what he's done, but his mother is Gardulla. She is, even by Hutt standards, a remarkably influential being in the criminal underworld. And that's before we consider the Kajidic, Hutt Clan, that she leads. They are only rivalled, from what I know, by one other Hutt Clan for power, influence, and greed. Moving openly against Decca, Gardulla, or even the entire Kajidic would have the rest of the Hutt Clans allying to protect them. Not because they care about those two, but because it would be an affront to their entire system."
"We are aware of this. However, the need for retaliation is strong." Baalta's response was aggressive, almost challenging, and she seemed to understand this as she blinked in shock after she finished speaking.
"There's nothing wrong with being passionate," Bo said before I could tell Baalta she didn't need to apologise. "The trick is learning to focus that passion – that rage – properly to not get lost in your emotions and lose sight of the objective when facing your target. Also, you need to find targets that won't risk another major assault. Find weak points in your enemy's lines then strike them hard and fast; cripple their operations without endangering your warriors."
"Wise words, and ones I'll pass along to the Council," Baalta said as we stepped inside an elevator. That brought a few moments of silence as Baalta used a display inside the car. "A small security measure to ensure only those with permission can access the command levels," she said as we started ascending.
"A wise precaution," I said before turning to Bo. "With the war now over, might your father, Alor Torrhen, and other trustworthy warriors be interested in resuming the training program for the Lokella's warriors?"
Bo nodded. "Aye, I think they'd be interested."
"We would be grateful for any help you or others can offer," Baalta added with a smile; one that exposed the sharp teeth her species were known for. "The initial training programs put in place by your people are still used for training our warriors, but refresher and advanced courses wouldn't go amiss. Nor, perhaps, training in ship-to-ship operations."
Bo nodded, taking on Baalta's words and I knew she was sincere in her promise to pass on the suggestion to her father and Torrhen. Her people needed a focus and, while training a small group of freed slaves might not appeal to many, it was an honourable job to take. It would, if they chose to, allow the Mando'ade who came to see battle against the slavers; a foe deserving of extermination.
The Lokella were a small group, barely a power beyond their system, but with the right training, support, and targeted assaults, they could become a small regional power. One that, in theory, could check some of the Hutt influence in this section of the Outer Rim.
"What about the settlement on Gaia?" I asked, changing the topic.
"There was some bombardment, but no true damage was done. With the credits you've provided over the years, and what we've liberated from slavers and pirates, we purchased defences for the settlement. Those included a shield generator large and powerful enough to protect both the settlement and the mine from sustained bombardment from several cruisers for a few hours. After realising this, the slavers focused their firepower on the station intending to take it out before moving on the planet."
"I'm glad the credits allowed those simply looking to start their life anew to be protected, though I'd suggest a few surface-to-air cannons at a minimum as the settlement grows." The settlement, Hope, had grown a touch north of thirty-five thousand sentients when I'd last checked on it. The people there were, by and large, ones who simply wanted to live as peaceful a life as they could but had no interest in returning to the galaxy and Republic that abandoned them.
"I will pass along the suggestion, Mtael, though since the attack many who had chosen to not involve themselves in our struggle have changed their minds. It seems the idea of being re-enslaved has sparked a desire to fight for what they have and need to protect."
"A worthy reason to fight," Bo offered. I was thankful that was all she said, as I knew her feelings about those who wouldn't fight to defend what they had, and agreed with the sentiment. It was close to the ideals those called the New Mandalorians had followed. Thankfully, that group had all but been destroyed by the latest civil war; reduced to atoms. To the extent that even prominent supporters of the concept – like Satine Kryze – now saw the flaws in peace at all costs without the ability to defend it. "And it will increase your need for skilled trainers and weaponry."
"Yes, though we no longer need to rely solely on the generosity of the Mtael. Beyond the credits taken during freeing others who are enslaved, the phrik mine is now active enough that we can begin selling it."
"I'd suggest only doing so in small quantities and in a variety of different markets. The Republic, Jedi, and others will take note if a new, decent-sized phrik mine suddenly appears," I suggested, worried that selling the phrik too rapidly might draw unwanted attention. Especially from the Sith.
"We had already considered that, and as they are allies of yours, we were interested in seeing if the Mandalorians might be curious about purchasing the alloy. While I know many of your warriors use beskar, from my understanding, many don't. While phrik isn't comparable to beskar, in both cultural and practical significance, it has some similar properties; hence, as you would've observed on Naboo, why our warriors now wear it. As such, we'd be willing to pay any of your people who agree to train our warriors in either credits or phrik."
"I'll pass along the offer to my father and others," Bo answered, once more displaying, for her, unusual tact. I didn't think many, if any, Mando'ade would be interested in using phrik for their armour, but the fact Bo hadn't called Baalta out on that was a sign she was understanding, at least to a degree, the need for diplomacy. Something I was sure Adonai would be pleased with.
The elevator stopped, and when the doors opened I saw four guards, all in phrik armour, turn our way with weapons ready but not directly aimed at us. That was a new feature; one brought on by the recent attack. Once they saw it was us, they relaxed, though their blasters remained in hand.
Walking past the guards, we reached the door for the command centre quickly, which wasn't the one the Lokella had used initially. With the growth in the size of their people and forces and the handful of merchants that came to the system, they had needed more room. From what I'd been told, this was the former bridge of the Pius Dea cathedral ship, though most of the ostentatious decorations had been removed and sold for credits to both help the Lokella and rewire much of the station.
The large, recently installed bulkhead door to the command centre opened, and I saw two more guards there. They stood just as ready as those outside, though my focus quickly shifted to Dooku as he turned and looked our way. Vosa, thankfully, wasn't present, being located a level below.
"Master," I said once we came closer, "I'm relieved to see you alive and well." Several members of the command crew glanced my way. That was likely due to me using the term Master, though when they saw it was me, they returned to their duties. Well, all but two who seemed a little starstruck at seeing the Mtael.
"As I am for you, though it appears you didn't escape the battle unharmed," he replied, his eyes flickering down to my missing forearm.
"Sadly yes, but given the other option was death I consider it a fair exchange." I tried to be flippant about it, but I could tell that I failed to convey any hint that I was comfortable with what had happened. The smile I wore also wouldn't pass muster with someone who knew me as well as Dooku did. Plus, there was the fact he'd consider the loss of a limb a sign of weakness. While he'd never commented directly on the matter, I'd inferred he felt as much from the various discussions we'd had over the years.
"If that was the only other outcome, then I can accept your injury. However, I would prefer to speak further about what, or who caused you such a wound."
I smirked as my other hand slipped into a pouch on my belt. "I thought you might say that," I said as I pulled out a small datacard. "The recording from my armour. It begins from when I first encountered the Sith," a single eyebrow rose on Dooku's face, indicating how unexpected that reveal was, "as he was about to kill Padawan Keto having already dispatched Master Drallig."
Dooku's brow rose further. "I had sensed Cin's passing, but I was unaware he had been on Naboo when it happened."
"He came because of Padawan Keto," I explained as he took the datacard. "Though before you watch it, I'd like to hear about what happened here and then speak with Anakin."
"I expected that you would come for the boy," Dooku said as he slipped the datacard into his robes. He gestured toward another exit from the command centre. Like the one we'd entered through, this one was guarded, and after a nod accepting his suggestion, I fell into step at his side.
Bo came along as I expected, though I'd thought she'd have gone with Ferox to see Anakin. As much as she might protest it, she had a soft spot for the boy.
"During a training session with Komari, I sensed a shift in the Force warning of danger. I had planned to leave her on Gaia, however she said she felt the shift as well and wanted to help. I pondered the request for a short while before granting it, feeling it would be a good test of how far she has come in recovery from what the Bando Gora did to her." I bit my tongue, not wanting to mention that she had been the one who'd ordered me broken, not another. "We arrived on the station moments before a sufficiently large force exited hyperspace causing the beginnings of panic within the station. Neither I nor Komari have the inclination toward Battle Meditation that you possess, so I felt the best place for me was in the command centre. Komari followed along, though I had her assigned to a room nearby; the same one she has returned to now that the battle has finished."
"For that, I'm glad," I commented before taking a long, deep breath to push away the memories of what I'd endured under her attention.
"Understandably so, even before considering you fought a Sith on Naboo." There was no hint in his voice that he doubted my words, which was a nice reassurance after Qui-Gon and others not entirely trusting my words at first.
"The other Jetii needed to see the recording first before believing Cam." Bo's comment wasn't entirely accurate.
Dooku glanced at me as we reached an elevator, having passed another squad of guards in the short corridor that led to it.
"Master Jinn and his Padawan had been assigned by Chancellor Valorum to defuse the blockade of Naboo. They weren't successful."
"Quite." Dooku's tone was as close to amused as he'd ever come to be in public. While he accepted Bo around me, he didn't trust her to the degree I did. Then again, he didn't trust many sentients to begin with. I, his other former Padawans like Qui-Gon, and a handful of others might be ones he considered reliable, but the majority of beings were, in his eyes, unworthy of any role other than simply existing.
"Master Jinn accepted my words enough to agree with me that the Zabrak was a Sith before viewing the recording, though that helped to confirm his suspicions. His Padawan, and two others who were by chance on Naboo during the invasion, were less convinced without the recording."
"There is no chance where the Force is concerned, though their reluctance to accept the emergence of the Sith is understandable." He paused as the doors closed and he entered the floor we would be heading to. "Have you spoken to the Council regarding this?"
"No, Master, though they are due to arrive in about a week to collect Master Drallig's body. The new Chancellor, Sheev Palpatine," that drew an interested look from Dooku, "will be arriving with them to celebrate the liberation of Naboo. However, when I sensed Anakin's distress, I knew I had to come here first with Bo and Ferox coming along due to their connection to the boy and his mother."
"Indeed." There was a slight pause before Dooku resumed speaking. "Returning to events here, when I arrived at the command centre I discovered that the attackers, which I later learnt were hired by Decca the Hutt, had breached the station. Feeling I would be of more use there, I headed to the nearest landing bay. Komari accompanied me simply because I was unwilling to leave her behind on the small chance she might somehow betray my trust." I wished she had, as Dooku would've struck her down for the action, thinking her beyond redemption. "It was fortunate I allowed her to come. While I was engaged against a large enough group of attackers to require the majority of my attention, ones that were targeting a group of children which included the Skywalker boy, Komari slipped away. When I realised this, I pursued her, unsure of her motives. I didn't sense a hint of betrayal from her, yet she had disobeyed my commands."
As the elevator slowed, he continued. "When I found her, she was surrounded by bodies. A group of perhaps ten Lokella lay dead on the ground, killed by blaster fire. Nearby four Weequay lay, their wounds brought on by one trained in the force. Komari was there, knelt over one of the Lokella, the Force shifting around her and the woman on the floor. Once I was closer I understood the woman was Shmi Skywalker." He paused there, allowing a moment of remorse. "Shmi was gravely wounded, Komari rested her head on her lap. Komari was never skilled with Force Healing, yet I could sense her using the Force to try and save the life inside Shmi. I knew there was nothing I could do to help Shmi; such things are beyond my abilities, but seeing Komari work to save the child Shmi carried was unexpected." He paused again, meeting my gaze. "Even given that Shmi had been one of the few Lokella to have interacted with Komari, displaying a degree of patience with my former Padawan that would rival that of Master Yoda." That caught me off-guard as I didn't realise the Skywalkers had any interaction with Komari, though knowing how kind Shmi was, it didn't surprise me that she would be willing to help Komari if needed. "Just as Shmi passed, the last of her life given to protect her unborn child, the boy arrived." The doors hissed there, signalling we'd arrived at our level. "I believe that his anguished scream is what you sensed?"
"Yes, though the timing was less than ideal," I held up my missing forearm, the fingers on it itching again.
"Yes, that would've been most unhelpful when battling a Sith. However, the Force often acts in ways we fail to understand, or comprehend." He stepped forward, leading us into the corridor. "Even decades later I struggle to fully grasp certain moments the Force seemed to insist that I experience."
I considered responding, suggesting I was fine with what had happened, but the words died on my lips as we rounded the first corner and I saw what lay ahead of us.
We'd arrived at the largest medical centre on the station, yet the corridor outside it was lined with beds until the next junction perhaps a hundred metres away. Some of the beds had been brought here to handle the overflow, others temporary ones constructed in a rush. Every bed was occupied; many of them had people sitting and either talking to each other or keeping to themselves; bacta patches, bandages and the like showing the various injuries they'd suffered during the attack.
The fact they were still here days later, instead of inside the centre or returning to quarters to recuperate, was an indication of just how devastating the battle had been. As were the dozen or so medical staff moving through the corridor, checking on the patients.
I moved forward slowly, taking in the sight; a voice nagging me that what had happened here was my fault. I shouldn't have asked the Lokella for help on Naboo, and shouldn't have asked them to risk their fleet to help others in need.
"Mtael."
I stopped and looked down, seeing a young Twi'lek female looking up at me, reverence on her face. Her hand, the one not held against her chest, reached over her body. "You came," she said softly as I noted one of her lekku was bandaged, the tip of it no longer there.
Hesitantly I reached out, taking her hand into mine. As much as I wanted to comfort her, I didn't want my actions to turn the admiration on her face into devotion. While I accepted many of the Lokella felt that way about me, I never tried to encourage it, nor use it to my advantage. At least not intentionally.
As my fingers grasped her hand, her eyes saw my other arm and a gasp slipped from her lips. Her eyes returned to my face, and I already knew the question forming on her lips.
"Where were you?!" The angry, snapped question took my attention from the Twi'lek to an enraged Human. The man stalked toward me, pushing past others on their bed. "Where the kriff were you while we were dying?" He raged, anger burning in his eyes and fuelling his movement. "Why did you call our ships away?" That question was accompanied by the thrusting of his hand toward me.
Behind and around him, others turned, wondering what the commotion was. While some shared his rage as they saw me, and some displaced the respect the Twi'lek granted, most were confused as to why the man was so enraged at me.
I could understand the man's rage and the pain he felt. I understood the loss of a loved one as the image of a red-skinned Togruta was broadcast into the Force so loudly that I felt they'd sense it on Coruscant. Yet, for all that anger, his behaviour here, pushing past others far more grievously injured, was unacceptable.
However, before I could answer him, Bo pushed past me, one hand floating over a blaster pistol. "Don't your osikyr dare, you shabuir!" Her snarled, venomous response had the man stopping in his tracks, though the rage in his gaze never wavered. "Cam never asked your fleet to leave!" Bo added, taking another step toward the man. "Osik, he ordered them back when we saw how many had come, and if not for that you'd not be standing there to shabyr shout at him!" she continued to close on the man, her hand grasping the pistol though she didn't draw it. "And on top of freeing another world from slavery; besting a Darjetii to do so!"
"Bo, that's enough," I said, placing my remaining hand on her shoulder even as the Togruta blinked, confused at the venom in Bo's tone. I was too, but I saw it as Bo simply defending me from what she saw as baseless accusations. "Oriam is just angry; at the world, at the slavers, the Hutts and losing the one he loved in the battle." Oriam blinked; shock at me knowing why he was angry - thank you Observe - pushing back his rage.
Bo grunted, but she allowed me to gently ease her to the side so I could pass. "Oriam," I began as I came face to face with the man, "while I don't know the full details of what everyone else here endured, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked the council for help, not even to free the citizens of another world that were invaded and bound for slavery." As I spoke, I lifted my other arm, the one missing the forearm, using the injury to show I'd suffered as well. "The safety of the Lokella matters greatly to me. Certainly more so than asking them to forgo the defences of this station or the planet below to answer my wishes." Behind him I saw most were watching us, listening to my words. "I never expected the Council to offer the majority of the fleet, never wanted them to. Just because to many, though not all, I am a figure of importance doesn't mean my wishes and my needs supersede those of your people. Something I explained to the fleet that came to help when I demanded most of it return to this station."
I watched Oriam as I spoke, noting the anger slowly fading into the background. It didn't disappear, nor should it, but it pulled back enough that when he spoke again, there was little hint of it in his voice. "Why," he paused and licked his lips. "Why did we have to help a world of the Republic? They did nothing to help us!"
"No, they didn't. Nor did the Senate, whose new Chancellor hails from Naboo; the planet we helped to free. I, however, won't stand by and do nothing. Not if it led to innocents being enslaved and abandoned by those sworn to protect them. The Trade Federation, the Hutts, and others like them, have run roughshod over the Outer Rim for centuries, doing whatever they pleased. The voices of those they hurt, those they enslave – be it officially or with contracts so one-sided they might as well be – have been ignored by those in the corridors of power; many only concerning themselves with personal power and wealth."
"Yet I knew I couldn't help the Naboo, couldn't make a stand against oppression, be it of slavers or corporations, alone. So I reached out to the Lokella and the Mandalorians." Given their history, having them help to free the oppressed was an amusing turn of events, but it would also, I hoped, help rehabilitate their image with some. "I'm sorry that my request cost you, cost all of you," I added as I looked past Oriam and took in the sentients in the corridor. "But I won't stand by and do nothing because those who should've helped the Naboo, who should've helped you, did nothing."
I stopped there, taking stock of my words while Oriam considered them. It wasn't lost on me that my words might sound like something a Separatist would say, but I suspected that for many who joined the CIS, their issues with the Republic were genuine. However, their cause was only a front used by the Sith to shatter the Republic and the Jedi and bring everything under the control of a Sith-led empire.
If I'd seen myself say that back when I'd been inserted into this galaxy, I'd have wondered what had changed. Yes, Sidious had used the Clone Wars to gain control of the galaxy, but I believed in the concept of the Republic and the GAR. Yet, after seeing how the Republic worked – or in many cases, didn't – I could no longer see myself standing with the GAR against whatever the CIS became in this timeline. Not if it was, as in the other timeline, controlled and corrupted by the corporations before they were turned on by the true puppet masters.
The issue was that, unless something changed drastically, I only had maybe ten years before galactic war broke out. Yet, before I could begin laying true foundations for what was to come, I had to sort out several critical issues. With myself, with Anakin, and with others.
Putting those thoughts to the side again, I placed my hand on Oriam's arm. "I'm sorry that you lost someone you cared for deeply, I truly am. But I cannot change the past, nor will I apologise for the choices I made that led to your loss save for wishing I'd been clearer about only wanting a small section of the Lokella Force to aid me. However, no one; not you, or me, or the most powerful Jedi to have ever lived can know for certain the repercussions of any action we take. Nor how that action can alter events across the galaxy." I removed my hand from his arm and stepped back. "If you and others wish to hate me for what happened here, then I understand and wouldn't blame you. I'm not a dictator, nor do I ever wish to become one. That said, I will continue to do what I feel, in my heart, and in the Force, is best for not just myself but the galaxy as a whole."
Having said my piece, I moved to one side and slipped past him before he could reply. I was interested in hearing his thoughts, and those of other members of the Lokella. However, I wasn't here now for them. That was a cruel thought while they were in pain, but it was the hard truth and I'd be an arrogant, deluded fool if I ignored it.
The doors to the medical centre slid open as I approached, even as those in the corridor continued, like Oriam, to consider my words. The sickly-sweet smell of bacta – one I'd grown used to after defeating Maul – grew stronger as I entered the centre.
Beds lined the walls, all occupied. Bacta patches, larger than those used outside, covered many of the sentients lying on the beds. The other beds held sentients whose eyes made clear their injuries were mental more than physical. Nurses and doctors moved around, the signs of tiredness and weariness easy to see in their movements.
Dooku and Bo were at my side as the doors closed behind us. My eyes searched the room, though I didn't see Anakin. Reaching out with Detection, I sensed Anakin in a small room near the back of the centre. Inside were two others. Ferox and one I didn't know.
I moved toward the room, ignoring the looks from those present. Like outside before my impromptu speech, the faces that watched me ranged from adulation to disgust, however, I wasn't interacting with any of them. I wasn't here for them.
The door to the small, backroom slid open with an audible hiss. Inside I saw Ferox and Anakin, the boy had his head against the Corellian's side, one of Ferox's arms around the boy, as they sat near a bed. Something was on the bed; the source of the third presence I'd felt in the Force. Yet before I could approach close, Anakin shifted, sliding from Ferox's side, and turned.
"Cam!" My name came out in a mixture of relief, shock, and fear. Yet before I could process his emotions fully, I'd dropped to a knee as he rushed toward me.
His arms grasped around my neck as mine went around his back, and a moment later, tears flowed from his eyes as he sobbed into my shoulder. With my remaining hand, I gently patted his back, letting him release his pain. As he did that, I lifted my head and looked at Ferox.
His eyes, like Anakin's, were red, though in his arms I saw a small bundle of blankets. I knew instantly that this was the child Shmi had been carrying, though before I could ask its name, or even use Observe to determine if it had any true Force Potential, Anakin lifted his head from my shoulder, drawing my attention.
"Mom died," he managed to get out between sobs, his face wet and his eyes bloodshot.
"I know," I replied, offering him a small, sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry."
My hand came around and up, intending to wipe away his tears, only for me to stop as I realised I'd once again used the arm with the missing limb.
"Your Hand!" Anakin blurted out before I could lower the arm enough he might not see the wound. "What happened?"
"He fought a Darjetii," Bo replied, drawing Anakin's attention to her and saving me from having to explain what happened without revealing it was his scream that had distracted me.
Dooku clarified. There was nothing in his voice to hint at anything else, but I sensed a faint ripple in the Force suggesting he knew more than he was letting on. "However, Cameron sensed your pain, and as soon as he was able, came to visit," my former Master added, not letting me dwell on what he might be holding back.
Anakin's gaze returned to me, his eyes widening at Dooku's words, and I offered him a smile. "I felt your pain through the Force and knew I had to come," I explained as I brought my other arm around and wiped away some of his tears. I wasn't going to mention when I'd sensed his pain, or what it'd led to, for a good, long while. Knowing Anakin, he'd blame himself for it and never fully forgive himself which wasn't something I wanted. When he was older, I'd probably tell him the full truth, but by then he'd have moved on from the event enough it wouldn't affect him psychologically.
In truth, the mistake was mine. I'd enjoyed the fight with Maul far too much and granted the Zabrak too much control over how it went and where we fought. I should've gone to the tools in my armour sooner and used them more. If I had, I might've kept my hand. However, as I was aware, hindsight was a bitch, so I wasn't going to dwell on the mistake, only learn from it going forward.
"Mum's dead," he repeated as my hand came away from his face.
"I know," I answered again. My fingers brushed back the hair on his forehead that had stuck there when he'd buried his head in my shoulder.
I wanted to help him, to take his mind off events, but I wasn't sure how. I'd already promised to take him as my Padawan, but making that official now felt wrong; cheap even. And disrespected Shmi. Around us, I could faintly feel the Force shifting as if trying to nudge me toward an action it wanted. However, as was often the case, I wasn't attuned to its intent as strongly as most other Jedi. Yet, as my fingers lifted away from Anakin's forehead, I caught sight of my vambrace, of the beskar it was made of, and an idea took root in my mind.
"Anakin," I said slowly, sorting out rapidly if this was the right idea. "I want you to know that I'll still take you as my Padawan. However, I know you're not ready for that. You need to grieve for your mother. That said, I have… an idea that I think you might like." Anakin's head tilted to one side, his curiosity shining through his grief. I looked up at Ferox. "Were you and Shmi married?" I asked. It was a touch callous to ask that now, but for the idea I had, I needed to be sure of Anakin's relationship with the Corellian.
"No," Ferox replied gently, the bundle in his arms held securely against his chest. "W.. we'd agreed to wait until after Lia's birth before making it official. We… we had hoped you might be there when we married, given your role in bringing us together."
I nodded at that, unsure what to say to him to apologise for not having considered that when I'd taken Anakin to Mandalore before the invasion of Naboo. It was nice to also have a name for Anakin's sister – one that, amusingly, was close to what his daughter had been named in another timeline. However, my curiosity about Lia Skywalker would have to wait until later. "Then, with your permission, I'd like to adopt Anakin."
"I thought Jedi couldn't have families," Anakin blurted out before Ferox could answer my request.
"While that isn't entirely accurate," Dooku replied as I was reminded of Ki-Adi-Mundi, "I believe Cameron isn't interested in making you his son in a common, Republic sense."
I turned to my former Master, curious to his thoughts on the plan brewing in my mind. The slightest, barely perceptible movement of his head gave me his blessing, though I knew he'd want to hear my reasoning for this choice at a later date. Bo, on the other hand, was trying and failing to keep a proud smile from spreading over her face.
Turning back to Anakin, I smiled gently. "A Jedi isn't normally allowed to have a family. I, however, am far from what most would consider a normal Jedi." Bo snorted out a laugh that she tried to hide behind a cough. "Nor am I only a Jedi. I am Cameron Shan, Alor – that means Chief – of Clan Shan of the Mando'ade. If you want I cou…"
"Yes!"
Anakin's response cut me off from finishing my question as his eyes radiated joy at the idea of becoming Mandalorian. The pain was still there, but for this moment at least, it was replaced by other feelings.
"Ni kar'tayl gai sa'ad, Anakin." He blinked at my words, clearly not understanding them. rather amusingly, he looked up at Bo for an explanation.
"That means you are now, by the laws of our people, Anakin Skywalker, son of Cameron Shan," She said, amusement easy to detect in her voice.
Ankin offered a weak laugh, any excitement at his change in status lost under the sorrow he felt over his mother's death. I held him close, letting the mixture of emotions wash over him while around us the others stood.
Later I'd speak with Dooku about how this development would change the Master-Padawan relationship I'd have with Anakin. I also knew that I'd have to keep this development hidden from the Jedi Council, and by extension, the Sith. However, given I planned to take some time, perhaps a year or two, away to train Anakin while continuing to build a base of support for the wars to come, that shouldn't be a major hurdle.
Eventually, and thankfully before I needed to call on the Force to counter the lack of fresh oxygen entering my lungs, Anakin eased his grip. As he slid back, a wide, happy smile dominated his face. "Wait," he muttered as his eyes drifted down. "Does that mean I get armour like yours and Bo's?"
"One day, maybe," I replied with a chuckle as I ran my hand through his hair. Given his changed mood, he didn't react to the action. "However, that won't be for a good while yet, and not until after you've completed your verd'goten." He gulped at hearing that, memories of the stories of my and Bo's hunts coming to mind. "First though, I'd like to meet your sister."
"Okay," he said, turning he grabbed my hand and dragged me forward. I stood as I moved, approaching Ferox who leaned forward slightly to grant me a sight of the babe in his arms. She looked much like any other newborn, though I swore I saw the same spark of curiosity in her eyes that I often saw in Anakin's gaze. "Lia, I'd like you to meet Cameron Shan, my new father."
I blinked as Anakin said that, marvelling at how right it felt to hear him call me father. I hadn't considered the idea of having children for a long, long time. Certainly not until the wars against the Sith were over. Yet, standing here with Anakin, meeting his half-sister – who Observe confirmed had little potential with the Force – I knew I'd made the right decision.
Yes, when it was discovered, it would place an even larger target on our backs, but that, I was discovering, happened naturally the more active I was in the galaxy. With events that were still to come, regardless of whether they happened as they did in the other timeline or not, I'd rather have Anakin trained and ready to fight than risk leaving him exposed to the chaos to come.
… …
… …
Later that day, as the station's chronometer ticked toward midnight, I was almost ready to leave Mtael's Gift. Anakin had transferred his belongings to Raven not long after I'd adopted him, taking a room between mine and Bo's. Currently, he was off saying farewell – for now – to Ferox, Lia, and his friends on the station. Many of the Lokella were sad to see him go, but as it was an open secret that I'd intended to make him a Jedi, most were accepting of the change.
Bo found the idea of the adoption amusing, teasing me regularly about it, even mentioning that she'd had the idea of adopting the boy first. When I'd shot back at that saying she still could, and we could co-parent Anakin, she'd laughed so hard she'd not been able to reply for nearly a minute. While she liked the boy, she continued to claim she had no interest in having children – be they through adoption or birth – and was happy to be the fun-loving, gun-toting aunt. Though when she'd spent time holding Lia, I noticed a look in her eye that suggested she wasn't as against the idea of children as she claimed. That, however, was a discussion for, at best, several years down the road.
Ferox, for obvious reasons, would be staying on the station. Not only did he have a new-born daughter to raise, but the Lokella needed his leadership. With a child to care for, I hoped he'd temper his more aggressive approaches to life. He had, though, given me a datacard to pass to Validus – who was back on Naboo, containing information on the attack and a private message between the pair.
Before I departed, and with Anakin still off speaking to his friends, I'd found the time to speak again with Dooku. After adopting Anakin, we'd not had much time to speak, yet as I approached him on the balcony that overlooked the bay containing Raven, I knew he'd have examined the recording of my battle with Maul.
"Master," I said as I neared though he'd already been turning before I spoke.
"Cameron, I won't keep you long," he replied as I approached. "I only wish to speak with you about your duel with the Zabrak, and pass along an unexpected revelation from Komari." I tensed at the mention of the bitch, but relaxed a moment later. "Knowing your continual disinterest in meeting with her, I felt relaying the message to you would be preferable."
"My thanks, Master," I said as I reached his side, my hand coming out to grip the balcony's railing and looking down at the Raven as Lokella technicians moved around her under Bo's watchful direction. "While I have grown and changed since my time with her and the Bando Gora, I know I'm not in any condition to meet with her again."
That was, as Dooku knew, a massive understatement. Everything I'd endured at the hands of Vosa and the Bando Gora was, because of Eidetic Memory, fresh and clear whenever I thought about it. That made releasing the feelings I held toward her, and about my time with her, into the Force as a Jedi was meant to do, be extremely difficult to manage. If not downright impossible, which was why I chose to push the anger and rage that time, and other moments in my life, down deep inside. It was something that would, if not for anything else, keep me from ever being a 'good and proper' Jedi. Though given I'd never really been a proper Jedi, it was perhaps not a major issue.
"Quite." Dooku's response was succinct, to the point, and oddly amusing. "According to Komari, she fought the Zabrak at some point while you were under her care." I grimaced at referring to my time with the Bando Gora like that, but I understood Dooku was being diplomatic about the ordeal. "It seems that the Bando Gora were involved in a plot with the Zabrak to kill someone I believe you are familiar with. Hego Damask."
I blinked at hearing that. "Huh." The word slipped from my lips as I processed what I'd just learned. "That wasn't something I've heard him mention, though if the Sith were involved, then it was likely only tangentially as otherwise the Muun would've died. I'll have to see what I can learn about this, subtly of course."
Dropping a nugget like that could, if Plagueis was still alive, cause friction between him and Sidious. It hadn't been a direct attack by the Apprentice on the Master – which spoke to how powerful Plagueis was – but it was an interesting development to learn of, nonetheless.
What I didn't know though was if, in the other timeline, that was the event that enabled Sidious to kill and replace his Master, or just an early attempt that failed there as it had here. Plagueis must've died not long after Naboo, as I felt there was little chance the Muun would've stayed in the shadows while his Apprentice was Chancellor, so I'd know soon if my actions, unintentional as they were, had fucked up this timeline enough that Plagueis survived. If he had, then things would be a million times harder as for all of Sidious' power – taking down three Council members almost instantly being a prime example – Plagueis would be on another level. Perhaps beyond even Yoda and Windu together.
That was a frightening thought and meant my plans for training Anakin would have to be accelerated.
"Indeed. Though I would be cautious of whom you reveal this to. To most outside the Council, Komari is missing and presumed dead. The reveal of this information, if it reached the ear of the Zabrak's Master, would have him investigating us, and those around us intensely. That could endanger many, if not all, of the plans we are contemplating."
"The Sith might also seek to take Vosa, replacing the Zabrak," I added, which was something Sidious would be working on now. Dooku was, I was all but certain, off the table as Darth Tyrannus, but the Sith would have backup plans upon backup plans. So much so that I feared little I did would stop them from reaching a point where they could implement Order 66.
"Indeed."
"Thank you for this, Master," I said after nearly a minute of silent contemplation. "Also, can you offer my… thanks to her? While, in the grand scheme of things, it's likely this information is unimportant, it is another small thread in our investigations of what the Sith are planning. With it, we might be able to find moments between where she encountered the Zabrak and Naboo that may have been influenced by the Sith."
"I shall pass along your words, though I'm unsure of how she will take them." he paused as if considering something. "She retains an interest in you, often wondering what latest event you have found yourself involved in. That interest has only increased with your defeat of the Sith, though I fear it has also increased the interest the Sith may have toward you, and potentially the boy."
"I had feared that Master, and have some plans to limit our exposure for the next year or so. If the Force allows me the freedom to avoid incidents."
Dooku grunted, understanding the joke. "Like you, I believe the Zabrak is only the apprentice. While his form is impeccable, he was intent on defeating you with the lightsaber only. A true master of the Force, be they Jedi or Sith, wouldn't allow themselves to be so limited. If the Master focuses on you, I am concerned you will be unable to escape their machinations."
"On that, we agree, Master. And while I take the time to train Anakin, I feel I now know how to overcome my deficiencies with the Force. While I'd have preferred the clarity to have occurred before losing my hand, I'm glad it has finally come." OK, the clarity came from reaching level 30, but Dooku wouldn't, and couldn't, understand that.
I took a step back and bowed to him. "May the Force be with you, Master."
"And with you, Cameron, and your new Padawan. I sense you will both need it for what is to come."
I nodded, understanding the final warning he gave, and then turned. While I was curious about his opinions of my fight with Maul, I already knew the critiques he'd offer as they'd been the same ones he'd been giving for the last few years. By the time I met Dooku again, if all went as planned, then I'd have overcome those issues, and at the very least, I hoped I'd be able to push him into taking actions during a spar that he'd not normally wish to.
Before then though, I had to return to Naboo. I couldn't avoid meeting the High Council, or the Sith Lord that was the new Chancellor of the Republic.
… …
… …
I had Raven turn, banking her under and around one of the arms of the Saak'ak before she then swooped over the arm.
"Woo-hoo!" Anakin called out as Raven turned almost on a credit-chit to face the entrance to the hangar. That let me see what was parked there and I whistled at the sight of the Royal Naboo Cruiser.
"Damn! Padmé's going to be pissed," I muttered as Raven moved into the bay and the damage to the royal cruiser became apparent.
The superstructure was still intact, and the engines still mounted, yet the hull was peppered with holes, scorch marks, and other forms of damage including what appeared to be the arm of a Vulture droid wedged through where the cockpit was. Sections of the inner workings were exposed in several places, with the panel R2 and the other droids had exited through during the cruiser's escape from Naboo having been blown off.
"It served its purpose," Bo remarked from the co-pilot's seat as Raven flew past the royal cruiser. "I'm sure the Queen is fine with the damage given it helped free her people. But, if she does have it rebuilt, please insist that she adds some shabyr weaponry."
"I'll pass that along," I said with a chuckle as Raven turned, planning to set her down between the royal cruiser and the assortment of vessels that filled this bay, along with the next one.
"Oh!" Anakin called out, his arm thrust between Bo and me. "That's a D-17 Patrol craft! I've always wanted to see inside one! And that's a…"
"Anakin," I cut in before his enthusiasm for the collection of vessels overwhelmed him, "When we arrive I need you to not start fiddling with other people's belongings. The Lokella allowed it because they trusted you. Here, while the Mando'ade trust me, none know you're my ad. As much as Bo would no doubt enjoy me settling any grievances that are brought up, I'd rather not waste my time doing so."
"Okay," he said, much quieter than before, and pulled his arm back.
"If you're good, I'm sure my father and Alor Torrhen would be willing to let you visit the Ne'tra Tal'ade, ad'ika," Bo offered, using the Mando'a term for child or little one, which oddly, was close to Anakin's name.
"Really?" Anakin asked, not even attempting to hide his hope. Somehow, the idea of getting to see the inside of a Mandalorian dreadnought was lifting his excitement to new, untold levels. While I was a little concerned about it, I was letting it go as it kept him distracted from crying over his mother. Something he'd done each night since we'd left the ShaDo system.
"Yes. As Cam's ad, you're now an ally of my Clan and Clan Ordo." From the corner of my eye, I caught the smile on Bo's face as she talked to Anakin, once more showing her feelings toward the boy. "If not for Cam, the Ne'tra Tal'ade might've been returned to dock without seeing battle. Since it is here, and because of everything, I feel it won't take much to convince them to allow you a tour of one of our older, but powerful, warships." She leaned closer. "Perhaps, if you're really good, it might even be possible for you to fire the turbolasers at a nearby asteroid," she added in a conspiratorial tone.
"Woo-Hoo!" I winced at Anakin's volume as he was right next to my seat. "Come on Fenrir!"
As Raven reported touching down on the Lucrehulk's deck, I turned just in time to see a bemused tuk'ata follow the boy out of the cockpit. "Are you trying to spoil him?" I asked Bo as I turned to her, even as, with just one hand, I powered down Raven's systems.
"Maybe, but I'm also encouraging his shereshoy," she replied as she stood. Shereshoy was a uniquely Mando'a word that, as close as it could be translated, meant 'lust for life' in Basic. While I didn't fully understand it, I knew that term only covered part of what shereshoy truly meant. It did, though, remind me of the saying 'seize the day' from Earth. "And to show him that our ways are better than those of the Jetii."
"I remind you that I'm a Jedi," I countered as I stood.
That drew a snort of amusement from her. "Even you know you're not a good one." She took a step toward me, entering my personal space. "You fought and defeated a Darjetii as Mando'ade, not Jetii." Standing on her tiptoes, her lips moved toward my ear. "And a very emuur'la one at that," she added before nibbling gently on my ear.
I rolled my eyes as she pulled back, well aware and used to her flirting. Though I'd admit that if not for Anakin, his trouble sleeping each night, and the fact his room was next to mine, then I'd have struggled to not give in to Bo's temptations. Even with thoughts of Serra still fresh in my thoughts.
Before we'd docked with the Saak'ak, I'd contacted Theed for an update on her condition. Padmé had informed me personally that while she was still in the bacta tank, her doctors assured her that my fellow Jedi would be out of the tank before the celebrations. Padmé was also glad I'd returned as the Chancellor and Jedi Council were due to arrive tomorrow. From the way she spoke of the festivities, I suspected – and dreaded – that she planned for me to be front and centre in them.
"Come on," I said to Bo, once more ignoring her flirting. "If we don't get out there quickly enough, I fear what sort of chaos Anakin might get into."
"Knowing his buir, a lot," Bo added as she fell into step at my side as we left the cockpit.
It took about a minute to make our way through Raven and reach the exit hatch. As we entered the airlock, the sound of the ramp deploying was heard, but attention was on Anakin and the way he was struggling to not bounce from foot to foot. I could sense his excitement, along with Fenrir's amusement, as he waited to see new vessels. "Anakin," I said, drawing his attention, "remember what I said."
"Yes, sir." He wasn't calling me father, which was a relief as I wasn't sure I was ready to hear that, but I'd made it clear he didn't have to address me as Master. For former slaves that term had negative, and likely painful, connotations. In time, I'd explain how to the Jedi it was meant as one of respect, but given he wouldn't be around any Jedi bar myself and Dooku when we stopped in the ShaDo system, that wouldn't be an issue.
I took the lead once the airlock hissed open, and looking around, made note of the various ships in the hangar. To say they were an eclectic collection would be like saying Kashyyyk had big trees. There was little to no uniformity in the ships in the bay, showing how each Mando'ade was free to select a vessel that suited them. While that allowed them great freedom, it also made it hard for others to track Mandalorians based on starship types. However, it did feed into the idea that they wouldn't be unified, at least not without a strong, powerful Mand'alor to control them.
Around the bay, Federation droids moved, though these were the unarmed, cargo-type droids a ship like the Saak'ak was meant to have and not the various battledroids that it had carried to Naboo. Since there was no cargo in the bay, at least as far as I could see, the droids were likely helping with the maintenance of the various ships here.
From what I'd learnt speaking to Asta Ordo when we'd approached for docking, the remaining battledroids and Vulture droids were being stored in the port arm, along with any surviving crew from the three Lucrehulks. Well, bar the senior figures who were, unfortunately for me, held in Theed. Hopefully, HK had discovered a way to remove Gunray while I'd been gone, but if not, I'd have to try another approach to ensure he never reached a Republic jail. There was no way I was allowing Sidious to keep that piece on the board.
Once on the deck, my focus shifted to an approaching group of Mando'ade. None wore their helmets, instead, like Bo, they carried them under an arm, but I'd know each of them even if they wore the helmets. I watched them all as they came closer, though I held Osto's gaze a touch longer until he gave a subtle nod. That meant Maul was secured aboard either this ship or more likely the Ne'tra Tal'ade ready for transport to a secure Mandalorian facility designed to house and contain Force users.
I wasn't sure what my plans would be with him, but I knew he'd be of some use. The Force had been clear in that as I'd stood over him, considering my options as the sedative designed for bull rancors that I'd shot him with rendered him unconscious. In the end, I'd used the Force-suppression cuffs I held in my Inventory to secure him, and then had Osto and his squad withdraw from the city with the Zabrak. I knew I'd have to talk with Adonai, Torrhen, and the handful of others who knew about Maul, regarding what to do with the Sith, but that could wait for a few days. Though I did know I needed him out of sigh, preferably out of the system, before Palpatine arrived.
"Alor Cameron, it's good to see you again," Adonai said as he led the greeting party. He extended an arm, thankfully for my remaining hand.
"You as well, Alor Adonai," I replied as I grasped his forearm. "Though I had shab'an idea you and Alor Torrhen would turn up with a shabyr dreadnought," I added with a smile. That drew laughter from everyone within range to catch my words. "Not that I'm complaining, mind you."
"We wanted it active for the civil war, but by the time the last upgrades were installed and checked, the war was over," Torrhen replied as I grasped his forearm while Adonai hugged his daughter, much to her annoyance. "The vessel had been powered down since then and we feared we'd have wasted the credits on improving her. Of course, that was when your call to arms came in and we felt it would be a waste to not deploy the Ne'tra Tal'ade into combat once again."
"Given the smoking hulk floating nearby, I'd say it more than lived up to design," I remarked as I greeted Asta and Ordo in turn. "And while I'm sure the Naboo are grateful for the extra firepower, I can't imagine how the Chancellor and Jedi Council will react when they arrive tomorrow."
"Aye, we're looking forward to that," Asta commented with a grin matched by the others. "It will be nice to show the Tsad Droten that Mandalore isn't the feeble backwater they believe."
"We had considered removing the Ne'tra Tal'ade to avoid an incident, but I was outvoted on the matter," Adonai added, though the smile he wore made clear he wasn't offended or upset to lose that vote. "Given reports of her travel would've reached Coruscant already, there was little point in attempting to hide her existence."
"Besides, your Queen granted every warrior and vessel that fought to free her world safe passage in their system, and a port in the storm if needed," Osto added. "So long as it's not to hide from Tsad Droten law or the Jetii."
"I'm sure the new Chancellor is going to love that," I commented with a grin, doing my best to ignore the teasing Osto used regarding my friendship with Padmé. Bar Adonai and Bo, though I couldn't see her face to confirm it, none understood what I was implying. "Until a few weeks ago, he was the Senator for the Chommell sector, being born on Naboo."
That had the group laughing in delight, which was what I expected. Having the homeworld of the Chancellor of the Republic – or Tsad Droten in Mando'a – grant Mando'ade safe passage and protection would place him in an awkward position if he ever had to censor the Mandalorian sector. Not that most Mando'ade would listen to the Republic, but it would be an interesting dilemma for Palpatine to handle.
"You mean that we didn't just save a Tsad Droten world, but the home of their new leader?" Asta asked between chuckles. My nod of confirmation only had her and the others laughing harder. "Shab elek!" She exclaimed, punching the air in delight.
As the group and those nearby heard and passed on my information, I realised that none had remarked on my missing limb. They'd all seen it, the glances impossible to hide, but none seemed concerned about it. It had been a regular thing that others asked about, but the Mando'ade here just accepted it. Now, Bo had already told me that would be the case, using her father's artificial leg as an example of how being wounded in battle wasn't something to look down upon, so long as the battle had been a worthy one, which defeating a Sith certainly qualified as. Still, seeing the lack of reaction to the wound in person was a nice experience.
As the laughter died down, Adonai's eyes drifted to those with me and Bo. "While I expected Fenrir, I hadn't expected the ad'ika to be with you," he said, looking at Anakin.
I turned and called the boy forward, placing my hand on his shoulder once he was in front of me. "Anakin, I'm sure you remember Duke Adonai."
"Hello sir," Anakin said, getting a smile from the older Mando'ade.
"To the rest, may I present Anakin Skywalker, my ad."
That statement caught everyone off guard, and they blinked as they stared at either me or Anakin. Adonai glanced at Bo, seeking confirmation, and when he returned his gaze to me I assumed she'd given it.
"M-my mother died when we were attacked by slavers hired by the Hutts," Anakin said, and I didn't need the Force to sense the shift in tone that fell over the hangar. Not just with the group in front of us, but with others nearby who were watching. "Cam was already going to make me his Padawan, but when he offered to make me Mandalorian as well, I accepted."
Adonai stepped forward, and after dropping to a knee, placed his hand on Anakin's free shoulder. "Su cuy'gar Anakin Skywalker of Clan Shan," he said softly. "While you were not born Mando'ade, you are now one of us. Aliit ori'shya tal'din."
"Family is more than blood," I explained as Anakin turned and looked up at me, he turned back and smiled at Adonai as I saw the others nod in agreement.
"Vur entye."
I chuckled at Anakin's attempt to use Mando'a. While he didn't know much, Bo had enjoyed, among other things, teaching him phrases along with telling the history of our people. So much so that Anakin was already listing ideas for his verd'goten. While I was against a sarlacc or a krayt dragon, I could see him taking on a Rancor: It would be a nice homage to what Luke did in the other timeline. That, however, was something I'd have to meditate on when he was almost thirteen.
"It's vor entye," Adonai corrected, "and ba'gedet'ye ad'ika." He squeezed Anakin's shoulder before looking up at me. "Have you taught him the remembrance chant?"
"Bo did," I replied. It had been something she did not long after I'd adopted Anakin. While she'd used it nightly ever since joining me – back at the start of the last Mandalorian civil war – I'd not joined her until our return from the ShaDo system. While I'd lost my grandfather and mother, I barely knew either of them or felt little connection to the pair. However, with Anakin now using it as well, I'd joined in and added my mother's name, letting him see that everyone suffered. I'd also explained that Jedi mourned the loss of friends like any would, however, we were expected to release our feelings into the Force. Knowing the boy, I knew he'd not do that, which was why the Mandalorian chant was something I joined in with.
"Good," Adonai said, looking at his daughter for a moment before returning his attention to Anakin. "Ni su'cuyi, gar kyr'adyc, ni partayli, gar darasuum. Urin Kryze, Sellena Kryze."
"Korkie Kryze," said Bo, adding the name of her dead nephew.
"Gregar Ordo."
"Ane Keldorn."
"Ressa Shan," I added, just as I'd done for the last few nights.
"Shmi Skywalker," Anakin said after me, and I gently patted his shoulder. This was the first time he'd not seized up when saying his mother's name. He still mourned deeply for her – that I knew without using the Force – but this was the next step in his recovery from that traumatic event. Since the chant was helping him deal with his grief, I planned to continue it after we left Naboo, and I began his training.
Other voices joined in, adding the names of loved ones lost over the years. While that would help Anakin see that he wasn't alone, that he was a part of something greater than himself, as the names continued to be added, my mind shifted to other things.
As far as I knew, HK and R2 were still working to gain entry to Maul's vessel. I'd contacted HK through a secured channel, wondering how they were doing. He'd been insulted that I was concerned for him as if the idea a starship could destroy him was in some way more demeaning than letting a meatbag do so. That said, he was impressed by the security on Maul's vessel. I wasn't yet convinced of where I wanted that ship stored, but I had a few ideas. I had to get the hyperspace coordinates of the systems without the Jedi or Sith learning of my intentions which would require me to head to somewhere other than the Temple for the information I required.
"Now, ad'ika, know that you aren't alone," Adonai said, bringing my thoughts back to the hangar bay. Adonai stood then. "All suffer loss, be it of family, friends, or limbs," he added, patting his leg, the one with the artificial limb. Given how freely he moved on it, it would be easy to forget, but given the rumours of weapons built into the thing, that might be what he hoped. "However, a warrior doesn't wallow in their loss. We mourn what has been taken, we remember those we love, and in the name of those no longer with us, we keep pushing forward. Oya Manda!"
"Oya Manda!" The chant was repeated by me and others in the bay.
"Oya Manda!" Anakin added a moment later, earning a nod of approval from Adonai as the man ruffled the young boy's hair.
"Good. We'll make Mando'ade out of you." His gaze then took in me, Bo and Fenrir. "Now, all of you, come. The warriors grow restless. We have delayed the celebration of our victory far too long waiting on the War Leader's return." He moved forward and clapped an arm on my shoulder. "First a dragon, then duelling for the fate of a planet, and now defeating a Darjetii," he said with a wide smile. "The blood of a true warrior runs thick in your veins."
"To be fair, I don't go looking for trouble," I replied with a chuckle and smile, "that said, I don't deny that I do enjoy the battles."
Adonai laughed loudly at that, as did others in the hangar. "Oya!" he shouted, others joining in a second or so later.
"And many say he's not Mando'ade." The partially whispered comment came from Osto and widened the smiles worn by his parents.
Adonai turned, pulling me with him. Anakin fell into step at my side as our group merged with Adonai's and we headed into the Saak'ak. Tonight, and probably into the morning, we'd celebrate. Food, drink, song, dance and other forms of entertainment would be partaken, and until I returned to Naboo's surface, thoughts of facing the Jedi and Sith would be pushed from my thoughts.
… …
… …
(Bo-Katan POV)
Bo-Katan moved to the free seat next to Cam's son – and that was something that continued to make her chuckle -- with a wide smile on her face and a large, just-refilled mug of ne'tra gal in her hand. "Enjoying yourself ad'ika?" She asked once seated next to the boy, enjoying the fact his name was so close to the Mando'a term for 'little one'.
The boy smiled back at her; his face rosy as he nursed the single cup of ale he'd been allowed. "Yes," Anakin replied, "but I don't know what you're chanting, or what the dancing means."
She laughed and leaned closer, placing an arm – the one not holding her mug – around the boy's shoulders. She had no interest in children of her own – be they adopted or naturally born – but she liked this ad'ika. Not only was he, according to Cam, going to one day be very powerful with the Force but he was intrigued by her culture. Well, now his culture as well since Cam had adopted him.
The other thing about Anakin was, much like Cam, Bo-Katan sensed there was something special about the boy. He was jate'kara; touched by luck and had a destiny. One that, again like Cam, Bo-Katan felt a need to help shape and follow. The pair were drawn to each other, and while she felt for Anakin that he'd lost his mother, she was glad Cam had made him Mando'ade, or at least an adiik of their people.
Once the celebrations here were over, she knew Cam planned to take time away to begin Anakin's training, but he had promised her that it wouldn't just be Jetii training; that he'd begin teaching the boy what he could about the ways of the Mando'ade. Bo-Katan had, in return, promised that if he needed help with that training, or ever found himself needing an ally, she'd do what she could to help. And to Bo-Katan, this felt like one of those moments.
"Then let me teach you," She said as the group on the floor, which was most of the warriors in the chamber, restarted the Dha Werda.
"Taung sa rang broka Mando'ade ka'rta."
"The ash of the Taung beats strong within the Mandalorians' hearts," She said, translating the Mando'a into Basic. As they chanted, the warriors, led by Cam, Osto Ordo and Vonte Tervho – the generals of the ground offensive – pounded their fists against their armoured chests, setting the beat of the chant. Now, Cam wasn't able to set the beat properly, his missing limb ensuring that, but Bo-Katan knew none saw that as an insult. Cam had fought and defeated a warrior of great power and skill – one that had defeated the Jetii responsible for training all others in their ways of combat – becoming the first Mando'ade in centuries, possibly even since the Dral'Han, to defeat a Darjetii in single combat. That made his injury a mark of honour and victory, something even those who only came for the credits respected.
"Dha Werda Verda a'den tratu."
"We are the rage of The Warriors of the Shadow." As she continued her translation, Bo-Katan felt her smile grow wider as Anakin started trying, and failing, to copy the beat the warriors were pounding out. It pleased her that the boy was already becoming one with their ways, drawn in by the camaraderie the chant – and others like it – inspired in all Mando'ade.
"Manda'yaim kandosii adu."
"The first noble sons of Mandalore."
With this line, the warriors turned to their right, catching the ad'ika off guard, and continued the beat by bashing their fists against the armour of the warrior next to them.
"Duum motir ca'tra nau tracinya."
"Let all those who stand before us light the night sky in flame."
She felt Anakin wince, taken aback at the ferocity of the fists that crashed against the armour of another warrior, understanding that they weren't pulling their blows. That striking with anything but close to full fury would insult those chanting with them.
"Gra'tua cuun hett su dralshy'a."
"Our vengeance burns brighter still." The warriors jumped and spun to their left as Bo-Katan continued her translation. The hall echoed with the sounds of armour being pounded, every blow from the assembled warriors timed to perfection, making the deck vibrate with the ferocity and certainty of their blows. Almost as if the ship understood it was now part of their culture, that it served their cause.
"I was told a Jedi shouldn't seek vengeance."
Anakin's sudden statement stopped Bo-Katan from translating the next line as she looked down at the adiik. "You're not Jetii," she scoffed, "you are Mando'ade. Vengeance isn't something to be feared; it's something we use to power through our actions. To steel our thoughts during the darkest days of a cause." She pulled him closer, hugging him against her armour. "One day, when you're older, wiser, and better prepared, you will face the one responsible for your mother's death." Bo-Katan felt a pang at never being able to do that to the hut'uun who'd killed her mother and younger brother, though she knew her father had made sure of that. "When that day comes, don't let the desire for vengeance cloud your mind. Instead, temper it, control it, like the warriors are doing with this chant, into something infinitely more powerful. Use it to steady your mind, to guide your hand, but remain the one in control."
The ad'ika fell silent at that, and Bo-Katan sat with him, not bothering to translate the next few lines of the Dha Werda for him. The pain of losing a mother was one she understood well, and was perhaps part of why she'd thrown herself into teaching him what she could as they'd returned to the Naboo system; as if she wanted to be there for her ba'ad as her father had been there for her.
"I miss her."
The words were barely audible over the chanting that reverberated around the hall, but Bo-Katan caught them as she'd been watching Anakin closely. She shook him gently with her arm, keeping him closer to her side. "We all miss those we've lost," she said as the second verse of the Dha Werda began, the warriors had returned to pound their fists against their own armour for the moment. "However, we don't cry for their loss. We celebrate their life and their accomplishments. We honour them by continuing to live, by using what they taught us to fight each day as we carry their memories with us through battle and life."
Those were, she realised after saying them, the exact words her father had said to her after her mother had died. That had Bo-Katan blinking, wondering why, in this moment, that memory, those words came so easily to her thoughts, and if they'd been passed down through her family whenever someone lost a loved one.
"I want to kill the Hutts for taking her from me."
"Aye," she replied, loosening her hug, "I'm sure you do, but you're not ready yet." he turned and looked up at her, his eyes reddened by tears shed for his mother. Using the hand holding her mug, she gently pushed back a lock of his hair that had matted against his forehead as she hugged him. "Soon your father will begin your training, to start your journey toward being a great warrior, a true Mando'ade. The journey will be long, difficult, and dangerous. There may be moments where you feel you can't go on. That it's too arduous. In those moments remember your mother, your sister, your father, and everyone that cares for and wants you to succeed. Let those memories, and your father, mould you, train you, in the ways of the Jetii and the Mando'ade so that, when you're finally ready to stand beside us as a fellow warrior, you're something greater than either." She smiled. "On that day, when you ride into battle against the ones responsible for your mother's death, Cam will ride at your side. As will I and others."
Anakin's face had slowly shifted as she spoke as if he was engraving the words onto his heart. By the time she finished, a smile had returned to his face. "I'll be the best Jedi ever!" he said with certainty. "The best Mandalorian ever!"
Bo-Katan laughed, and almost attempted to ruffle his hair with the hand holding her mug. "I know you will be," she said as she chuckled at nearly drenching him in ne'tra gal. Yet, deep down, she knew that like Cam, Anakin would face a choice. The paths chosen by the Jetii and the Mando'ade were, at their cores, simply incompatible.
Cam knew this and warred within himself over it, yet he continued to try and keep to both. Bo-Katan knew it wouldn't, and couldn't last. Cam was Mando'ade – the joy and delight on his face as he neared the end of the Dha Werda with their fellow warrior made that clear – and in time, Cam would see where his path lay. As would Anakin.
Bo-Katan didn't know when that day would come, but when Clan Shan truly embraced their destiny, their jate'kara, the galaxy would tremble at their feet. And she, Manda willing, would be there at their side, revelling in the battles it brought forth.
… …
… …
(Cam's POV)
"Certain, you are, that a Sith this Zabrak was?"
"Yes Master Yoda," I replied as I stood in the centre of a small, secured chamber inside the Royal Palace in Theed. Almost the entire Council had come to Naboo for Drallig's funeral, which had taken place this morning; the morning after the Council and Chancellor Palpatine had arrived on Naboo.
While Drallig hadn't played a major role in helping free Naboo, to the Naboo and some Gungans it still mattered. As such, his body – at least part of it – had lain in rest for many to view and pay their respects to. I suspected that to many it was a reminder that even though it had been the Mandalorians and Lokella that had been the main source of the support for Naboo, the Jedi and the Republic hadn't entirely abandoned them.
Beside Drallig's body were the remains of a unit of Lokella and Mando'ade that had fallen fighting to free Theed. The Lokella had drawn an unfortunate short straw and encountered a group of heavily armed mercenaries who'd been guarding a group of Naboo. The same group I'd originally asked Drallig and Serra to free. Without the help of the Jedi, the Lokella had suffered badly, but those they'd fought against had died and not a single Naboo was killed or shipped off-world.
The Mando'ade had encountered a squadron of tanks moving to support one of the main battles in Theed. The pair had destroyed all eight tanks and their accompanying droids, but as both had used durasteel armour, they'd succumbed to their wounds before others could reach them.
All the fallen off-world warriors were granted honorary citizenship of Naboo by Padmé in a ceremony, and along with the Naboo and Gungans who'd died fighting to free the planet, would be forever remembered as Heroes of Naboo.
Not long after Drallig's funeral, as expected, I'd been summoned to speak with the Council regarding Drallig's death and events that happened in the lead-up to and during the battles for Naboo. The meeting had begun with them watching the recording I'd provided Qui-Gon of my duel with Maul, ending as it did, before I stood to supposedly kill him unintentionally.
They'd asked about what happened after the recording ended, accepting the reason for the failure. It seemed that they also believed me when I told them the story I'd told to Qui-Gon, which was a little surprising. While I was skilled at Deception, I wasn't sure I was good enough to fool those as experienced as the Council. And I knew I couldn't entirely fake the truthfulness of my statement on Maul's fate. Yet, they'd accepted my story, and we'd now moved on to discussing Maul and his possible connection to the Sith.
"Could it not have been a simple Dark Side Force user?"
I turned to Plo Koon to answer him. "By the time I encountered him, the Zabrak had already killed Master Drallig, and after seemingly toying with Padawan Keto was about to kill her as well." I paused and glanced down, to the chest piece that along with my greaves, pauldrons and single vambrace, I still wore as I spoke to the Council. "He would've killed me as well if not for the armour I'd chosen to wear." I knew the Council hadn't and wouldn't approve of me wearing armour, but it wasn't technically against the tenets of the Order to wear armour, and even if it had been, I'd still have worn it to this meeting. It helped, I hoped, reinforce that it was only because of it that I was able to stand before them today. "The speed he moved, his skill with the blade in a variety of forms, and his ability to react and counter everything I threw at him, are comparable to anything I've faced. Even you, Master Yoda, during our brief, and very one-sided, spar."
Yoda nodded, accepting and understanding my comparison.
"Yes, the recording you gave us certainly showed the speed and ferocity of the Zabrak," Even Piell replied, "and I, for one, am inclined to believe your opinion on him being a Sith. I will, however, wait until Padawan Keto is fully recovered and able to offer her opinion before reaching a position on the matter." He paused even as I saw a few of the other members of the Council nod in agreement. "I do, however, wish you had managed to recover the body and lightsaber so we might have examined them."
"My intent had been to wound and capture him, Master."
"Yes, we understand and believe you on that," Saesee Tiin responded. "And given the clear difficulty you encountered in the duel, not to mention having to be concerned about the condition of your friend," there was the faintest of hints in his tone that he felt Serra was perhaps too close to me, but I couldn't sense anything in the Force to confirm or deny that feeling, "we commend your restraint. Even if, perhaps, an attempt to end the duel quicker might've been more advantageous to you."
"In your place, after suffering the injury you did, many a young Jedi might struggle to restrain themselves," Windu added as he took over. "That you didn't speaks well of your temperament. Though it does leave the reason you came into battle, as if you were expecting trouble, in shall we say, less than traditional Jedi clothing open to discussion."
I lowered my head, accepting the slight rebuke before giving my reasoning. "Ever since becoming a Knight, I'd understood that I had limitations that, to this day, remain in place. Add into that… concerns I've held about a general feeling of danger growing somewhere in the galaxy, and I felt that, if I was to survive this danger, I needed a method to overcome my limitations. Knowing that Jedi in the past had worn armour for battle, I felt that was a way to go, and with connections to various political figures on Mandalore, I was able to secure an armour made of beskar that, barring one small mistake, enabled me to engage and defeat the Sith."
"I cannot fault your logic for seeking a temporary solution to what has been a long-term problem for you," Plo Koon offered as he leaned forward. "However, we are concerned by this continual choice you make to interact with Mandalorians." At this, Even Piell and Saesse Tinn nodded. "Particularly how close you seem to have become to a daughter of Duke Adonai Kryze. Given his other daughter is currently being groomed to become the Senator of the Mandalore sector and your connections to this world, and several important figures from it, there are suggestions, which we do not agree with, that you are becoming too political for a Jedi."
"I'm aware of that concern, Masters," I said, speaking to the entire Council. This point had been one I'd been preparing for even before landing on Naboo, and I already knew how to use it to my advantage. "Once I have a replacement," I gestured with my hand-less arm, "I plan to withdraw from events for a time, perhaps a year or so. I hope that by taking time away, not only will I finally overcome the hurdle in my development, but I distance myself from figures of importance in the Republic."
Silence fell over the chamber, and I felt the faintest of shifts in the Force. That meant, based on previous experiences, the council were speaking about my reasons telepathically, so I stood still, waiting for their response.
"Close to the new Chancellor, you are. A concern of this Council, that is not. Connections in the Senate, many in the Order maintain. Your youth, however, a concern is. Friends with Senators, Jedi Masters usually are. Close to one, rare for a younger Jedi it is. Doubly so, the Chancellor. On this, we trust you, however."
"On other matters, we retain our concern," Windu added, taking over from Yoda. "However, we approve of your plan to commune with the Force in isolation, and will withhold further comments until you return to the Temple after your sojourn."
I nodded in acceptance; glad they'd bought my reasoning for wanting time away. That said, I kept thoughts about a certain young boy far from the front of my mind. I needed to train him away from the eyes of the Jedi and Sith, to say nothing of needing time and space to see how the final evolution of my Interface altered things and adapting to that.
With time to consider the matter more, I'd chosen Natural Evolution. While it would result in lower peaks for my skills, and degradation of my Force Powers until I truly understood how to use them, the removal of any limit on what I could accomplish with the Force made it the logical choice. Not just for the threats Sidious, and potentially Plagueis as I'd not heard any mention of Hego Damask passing on over the Holonet, posed in the coming decade, but for – provided I defeated the Banite Sith – the Vong and whatever other horrors existed in this universe.
It would also, I felt, remove the issues I held with a lightsaber. That was something I needed gone as if I struggled against Maul, then I had no chance against anyone on the level of Windu, Sidious, Yoda, or Plagueis. All the technical skill in the galaxy wouldn't save me if I had to fight even one of that group; or any that I currently shared the chamber with.
"You are free to depart on your sojourn, though I would suggest waiting until after the Naboo celebrate their liberation," Windu added, drawing me from my thoughts about the future. "However, we may contact you if we have need of you, or require further information about events that happened here."
I bowed deeply, accepting their stance, and knowing that was my dismissal, turned and walked from the chamber. Outside Simvyl and Fenrir waited, the tuk'ata stretching as the doors to the chamber slid shut.
"How'd it go?"
"As expected," I replied as Fenrir moved closer and pushed his head into my arm. "They're pleased the Sith is defeated, unhappy about my armour and the manner in which I won, and accept my reasons for wanting to take time away," I added as I used my hand to scratch Fenrir under the chin.
"And they're okay with you taking a Padawan?"
I smirked. "They never asked about it, so I simply never brought it up." Simvyl frowned slightly but didn't challenge me on the matter. "They will learn at some point, and if they have an issue with it, then I'll ask for forgiveness."
"I see you're learning from politicians," Simvyl replied with a smile that revealed sharp teeth.
I shrugged in response as we began walking away from the chamber. As Windu had said, there was still the victory celebration to come this afternoon, but until then, and hopefully afterwards, I was free to do as I pleased. Though for now, that was heading back to Raven and resting. I might contact Bo to see how Anakin was doing as he was staying on with her and should be enjoying a tour of the Ne'tra Tal'ade. The vessel was still in orbit along with the two captured and still hyperspace-capable Lucrehulks, but all three would be departing at some point this evening or tomorrow. The Lokella had, bar a single CR70 Corvette, already left, wanting to return home and help with the recovery.
"HK sent a report while you were meeting the Council," Simvyl said as we walked, reminding me that the Council hadn't brought up HK. Either Qui-Gon had failed to mention him, or they simply didn't consider it an issue compared to my armour and other actions I'd taken. There was no way they weren't aware that the first of the Knights of the Old Republic series was out, so it was odd now that I thought about it, HK hadn't been mentioned. Of course, as HK had been out of sight since the battle, people might have semi-forgotten his presence. "He and the astromech had gained access to the target. After subduing a droid and the onboard defences, they've determined the vessel is named Scimitar. They've yet to access the flight controls, but HK suspects they'll be ready to do so within a day at most."
"Good. Once they've got full control of the vessel, we'll wait until after the celebrations to have it slip away. While I could have HK take it to Coruscant, I fear the Sith's influence extends to the highest levels of government. Otherwise, the Trade Federation wouldn't have become the power they are today. The longer it takes for knowledge of the Scimitar's fate to reach the Senate, the longer the Sith remain in the dark regarding where it is. Which, as I've already stated, is why I also don't want the Jedi Temple to be aware of the ship's existence."
What I'd love was if the ship had some way to hide from sensors. If it did, it should be possible to have it slip from the bay tonight, and head to a position far enough away that others wouldn't find it. However, that would only get it off Naboo. I still had to determine where I wanted the vessel stored, though I knew it wouldn't be in the Mandalore sector. That was far too obvious a location for it and would place it close to Maul if he found a way to escape his imprisonment before I was ready to deal with him.
Adonai and Torrhen had assured me that the prison they would secure Maul in was designed specifically to contain Force users. While it hadn't seen much use over the last few centuries, no Force user had ever survived an attempted escape. The list of those that had attempted escape was small and contained a Sith Lord and a few Jedi Masters, but as none had ever managed to break free, I trusted them to keep Maul on ice for the next few years.
"I understand your logic, and agree that the Senate and Temple could be tracked by the Zabrak's Master, but I feel we could bring the Jedi Council in on your plans. So long as they agreed to keep no record of this."
"While they accept that the Zabrak was a Sith, I don't think they'd be as cautious as I feel they'd need to be." I turned and smiled. "I know you have faith in the Order, but until I'm sure of how far the Sith's influence extends through Coruscant, I want to keep my cards close to my chest."
"Very well."
I was glad Simvyl trusted me on this, as he was the only sentient who knew about my plans for Maul and his vessel. Others only knew parts of the plan. Since Simvyl would be travelling with Anakin and me – due to his bond of loyalty – I considered him the best person to run my plans by. Which was why I was glad he was accepting of my intentions.
We fell into silence as we neared the main sections of the palace, not wanting anyone to overhear us. As we walked, we passed various members of the palace staff or Royal Guard. They either smiled or nodded in recognition and appreciation. While the official ceremony wasn't until later, it seemed in my absence that the story of my actions had spread throughout the populace.
"Master Jedi." I paused as I realised they were speaking to me. Turning, I saw a squad of four Senate guards approaching, their blue armour and long rifles making it easy to know who they were.
"Yes?"
"If you have time, the Chancellor wishes to speak with you."
I kept a slight smile on my face as the lead guard spoke. "Then lead on," I replied. While I'd expected he would want to speak with me, I'd hoped it could wait until after the ceremony. Unfortunately, it seemed I wasn't going to be that lucky.
Palpatine would've heard what happened from Padmé already, but he'd want further details. I expected he would prod for greater detail of my duel with Maul, though without making it obvious he was doing so. If I were in his place, I'd also begin factoring my actions here, not just in helping free Naboo but in gathering allies to do so.
Those allies had, from what I knew, avoided the Chancellor. The Mandalorians were staying on their vessels, while Validus and the other Lokella who remained were simply staying until the ceremony and would be distracted by events back home, so the only source of intel Palpatine would have was from Padmé, those like Panaka, and myself.
My ad-hoc alliance was already changing things, as not only were the Lokella wanting to hire Mando'ade trainers, but Padmé and Panaka were interested in doing so as well. While I doubted the Naboo would ever shift entirely from their peaceful ways, the fact they'd only survived the invasion due to the actions of the small security force, concerned and eager citizens, the Gungans, and outside help seemed to have convinced Padmé to increase the size and capacity of the Naboo security forces.
It only took us about a minute to reach a corridor where more of the Senate guards stood watch, but I was again glad Anakin wasn't with me. The longer I could go without Palpatine becoming aware of him, and sinking his way into the boy's trust with his silken words, the better it would be for everyone. Yet as we moved through the guards standing watch, I pushed thoughts of Anakin, the Mando'ade and any plans about the future from my mind. I didn't need Sidious sensing anything about them. As far as I or the Interface knew, Palpatine hadn't attempted to scan my thoughts, not even my surface ones, but I wasn't taking the chance he might pick up on a stray thought and discover something I didn't want him to.
"Your companions will have to remain here," the guard who'd addressed near the temporary Council chambers said as he and those with him turned to face us.
His tone was serious, almost threatening, and I struggled to not smirk dismissively at his tone. Even without an arm, I knew I could take them by myself. Fenrir must've sensed some of my amusement, as he stepped forward and growled. It wasn't a deep or threatening growl, just one daring the guards to do something. All four of them tensed, concerned that something was about to happen.
"Of course," I replied, placing my hand between Fenrir's ears, and giving him a scratch. "Try not to make a new chew toy," I said to the tuk'ata before stepping toward the door at the end of the corridor.
The guards that had escorted us remained outside with Simvyl and Fenrir as I entered the chamber. Two more guards noted my arrival and tensed slightly, thinking I was a problem – which given the armour I wore, made sense – before they saw the lightsaber at my hip. That eased their concerns, and I moved forward, quiet voices guiding me toward my destination.
Turning around a corner, I saw Palpatine sitting on one extremely well-decorated sofa that along with a partner sat around a table that likely cost north of a hundred thousand credits. As Palpatine spoke to an older man who sat on the other sofa, Sate Prestige, who was standing behind the Chancellor and had seen me approaching, dropped down and whispered to his master.
Palpatine turned then, a wide smile coming to his face as he saw me. "Cameron, my boy," he began as he stood. The other man turned as the Chancellor approached and I recognized him as Sio Bibble, the Governor of Naboo. "The hero of the hour," the Chancellor said as he reached me, extending an arm.
"I wouldn't go that far, Chancellor," I replied as I shook his hand. He surprised me though by pulling me into a hug and laughing gently, enjoying my confusion as he patted my back. Sio and Sate smiled at the sight though there I could sense Sate not liking something about the situation. Perhaps he had known of Maul and disliked that I'd removed one of Sidious' tools, or perhaps he simply disliked that I was slowly growing closer to the hidden Sith Lord and feared for his position.
"Nonsense," Palpatine said as he pulled back, breaking the impromptu hug. His hands slid down my arms as he continued. "Without your actions, your ability to find allies in her most desperate hour, I fear my home would've become another cog in the vile grinding machine that is the Trade Federation." His hands stopped on my upper arms, just above my elbows. "Queen Amidala swears by this, and having seen the warship your allies brought, and heard tales of the battles that raged, I find myself agreeing with her. Though it seems that you paid dearly for supporting us," he added, his eyes glancing toward my missing forearm.
"Sadly, yes," I responded, ignoring the phantom itching from fingers that were no longer there. "Though it was a low price to pay to ensure millions remained free of oppression."
He smiled even as I watched Sate slowly guide Sio away from the sofas. "If I might ask, how exactly did this happen?" he said as he turned, knowing what Sate was doing, and guided me toward the seats. "and is it in any way connected to the death of the Master Drallig?"
"It appears the Federation wasn't working alone," I replied slowly, knowing exactly how I expected this conversation to go, and having a handful of contingencies if it moved in certain ways. "There was a Dark Sider present when we arrived." Palpatine reacted, as expected, with surprise. "There is a possibility he might even have been a Sith…"
"A Sith?" Palpatine cut in, his acting superb. "I-I had thought them nothing more than a legend?" He asked. Even knowing he was lying; I couldn't find even the faintest hint that he didn't believe what he said. This man, and Plagueis, were masters of hiding themselves, of convincing others they were exactly who they pretended to be. Which, given his true name, made perfect sense for Palpatine. He was insidious in ways no one could ever conceive, never mind detect.
"That, along with confirming if the Zabrak was a Sith, I leave up to the Council," I replied with a small smile. "All I will say is that he was an incredible duellist, on par with any I've seen." Truthfully, I felt Windu, Yoda, and perhaps a handful of others might be able to defeat Maul, but saying this would stroke Sidious' ego as he had been the one, from what little I know, to train the Zabrak.
"High praise from such a young and accomplished Jedi."
"I would argue against accomplished," I said, countering the Chancellor's praise, "but I thank you for the compliment." His smile widened. "I'm sure that if you inquire, the Council will keep you abreast of their investigation. If the Sith truly have returned, then they are a threat to the Order and the Republic. However, I expect the investigation to be stalled until they can recover the Zabrak's body." I offered a sheepish smile. "When the time came to end the battle, after I lost part of my arm, I… I struck him down."
This was a different story than the one the Council had received, but I felt it was a risk worth taking. I'd already opened up to him about using the Dark Side against the Vong, so hinting at doing that against Maul, because of my injury, would ease some of his concerns about how I defeated Maul. It would, no doubt, increase his and Plagueis' interest in seeing if I could be turned, but since I was all but disappearing for the next year or so, I felt this was a way to remain close to the Chancellor without him questioning how I managed to defeat Maul and going looking for answers.
HK had already deleted the recordings of the bay housing the Scimitar, but that wouldn't stop people from talking about the vessel. From there it wouldn't take long for Palpatine's spies to learn that HK was connected to me and that I had Maul's vessel. Hearing that I'd taken the vessel, but hadn't handed it over to the Council would further make them feel I was questioning my position with the Order. Which I was, but not in the way the Sith would, I hoped, believe.
"Given the grievous wound you suffered, I'm sure few would fault you for striking the Zabrak down in anger," Palpatine said, a hand coming to rest on my shoulder. "Not even the Council can expect you to forget your emotions all the time."
"They'd prefer that I did, which is perhaps why, like with the Vong, I didn't mention how I felt when the Sith died," offered him a small, slightly weak smile. "I feel many in the Order, including some of the Council, continue to question me. Even though I'm not him, some see my ancestor whenever they look at me." That included, I felt, the Sith I was sitting with, though where the Jedi might see a concern, Sidious saw an opportunity.
"While I don't understand the Force as well as you, I can understand the concerns of the Council. You are a remarkably skilled and powerful young man, Cameron. It is only natural that others, ones who've held positions of power and influence within the Order, would fear your potential."
"I wouldn't say they fear me, Chancellor. Just that many distrust me, which given my tendency to find myself in conflicts, is understandable."
Palpatine gave my shoulder a squeeze of support. "I don't share that fear, Cameron. No, if not for you, my home, and millions of my fellow Naboo, would be all but enslaved." He gestured toward where Sate and Sio Bibble had gone. "Governor Bibble was just telling me more details of what happened here, and after speaking with him, Captain Panaka, and Queen Amidala, I know with certainty that I and my people owe you a debt we can never repay. Know that, for your actions here, and elsewhere to defend the Republic, you will always have my thanks. And my support."
I gave him a wide smile and nodded. While I wasn't planning to draw on that support, it was something I might have use of in the coming decade. The idea of using Palpatine to help me bring about his downfall had a delicious sense of irony about it. "And you, Chancellor, have my support to help guide the Republic to become what it needs to be."
"I'm grateful for your support," Palpatine said as he turned to the table. "I fear that I will struggle to enact the changes needed to make the Senate what the people of the Republic need it to be," he continued as he refilled one glass that sat there and then started prepping a new glass. "As you remarked before my election, there are many there who serve only their own self-interests or serve at the behest of external influences."
"Like the Trade Federation," I said as I took the glass he offered me.
"Yes," he said with a nod. "I swear to you and my people that I'll do all in my power to ensure Viceroy Gunray gets the justice he deserves for his heinous acts here, but I fear it will take me far longer than it should."
"If you have need of me, I'll do what I can to help, uncle."
He smiled widely, enjoying me using the familial term. "For that, I'm grateful, nephew." As he raised his glass in thanks, I knew he planned to use that connection, that friendship to spin how he had more influence on what had happened here to free Naboo than he truly did. That though, had nothing to do with being a Sith, and everything to do with being a career politician. "However, I feel you have already helped more than enough and paid dearly for it."
"Aye, there does seem to be a pattern developing here," I remarked with a dark chuckle after taking a sip of the fruity wine "First it was almost losing an eye, and now an arm." I paused and shook my head. "I'm not sure I can survive another wound."
"Will you return to the Temple to have a prosthetic limb attached?" His tone was sombre now the topic had shifted to my injury.
"I'm unsure of the Jedi's position on the matter, so I'll have to wait and see."
Palpatine frowned deeply. "That is simply unacceptable." He placed his glass down and turned. "Sate," he called and a moment later his aide appeared from behind a pillar as if he'd been spying on us while we talked. "Compile a list of the best companies and figures in the field of limb replacement."
"Th-there is no need for that," I said, acting as if I'd not expected him to make this offer even as Sate nodded at the order.
"But there is, Cameron," Palpatine said as he turned back to me. "In my opinion, and that of our young Queen, you are almost wholly responsible for Naboo being free. For that alone, I shall do everything in my power to ensure your injury is handled and treated by the very best in the Republic with no expense spared. To do otherwise would be unworthy of my position as a citizen of Naboo, Chancellor of the Republic and, though it is not by blood, your uncle." He smiled widely as he finished.
"I," I paused and licked my lips, acting as if uncertain of the offer. Which I was, though not because of the offer, but because of who was making it. I knew he might make this offer, but I was still uncertain about accepting it. "I wouldn't wish to impose on your duties as Chancellor. The Senate must be divided after the unexpected removal of Chancellor Valorum and your elevation to the position."
"It is, however, I insist that you are rewarded for your actions in gathering the force to correct a mistake made by the Senate," he replied, his tone firm and unwavering. "To me, regardless of if I was the Chancellor, a Senator or simply a concerned citizen, to do otherwise would undermine everything the Republic stands for."
"I cannot accept the offer from the Chancellor," I said, keeping going before he could argue, "but I can if it comes from my uncle."
He smiled widely and raised his glass again. As my glass chinked against his, I wondered how I was going to get out of this. Or at least turn it fully to my advantage. I'd been expecting the offer or a replacement, but not for him to seek out the best in the business for the limb. That meant I'd be hard-pressed to reject the offer, and certainly couldn't leave it in a random location.
That was something I was concerned about as the odds he'd place some form of tracker inside the limb were high. Now, I knew he'd spin it as simply wanting to keep track of me out of concern for my well-being, but that would allow the Sith to track where I went, which wasn't something I could allow.
Sipping my wine and keeping a smile on my face, I realised that there were ways I could use this to my advantage. I already planned for the replacement limb to be coated in beskar, so whatever he had designed I should, in theory, be able to either have it examined closely by Mando'ade engineers, or built from scratch by them. The latter would also allow me to ensure the OS in the limb was one I knew of and wouldn't, in theory, have any hidden features that might work against me.
Of course, there was the chance Palpatine wouldn't have done anything to the replacement limb, simply using the extreme quality and cost of it as a way to further ingratiate himself with me. For now, I'd just have to wait and see how this latest development played out.
"Now," Palpatine began, leaning back on the sofa, "perhaps you might enlighten me not just to how your battle with this Sith went, but how you managed to gather so many allies in such a short amount of time." He paused and looked around almost conspiratorially before leaning forward. "I'll admit that the reaction of Masters Yoda and Windu upon seeing the Mandalorian warship was one I shall treasure for some time."
I laughed at that, wishing I could've seen it as well. "Aye, that would've been something to see. Though I admit that I only learned of the Ne'tra Tal'ade's presence after the battle as she didn't arrive at the rendezvous before we developed our plans for reaching Naboo."
Palpatine settled in, getting ready for the story of how the battles went. As I began, I already knew a few details that I'd be holding back, though so long as he didn't prod too much, there wasn't that much I wanted to keep from the Sith Lord.
… …
… …
"And again, Cam, thank you," Padmé said as she smiled at me through the holo-display. "If not for you…"
"You and your people would've found a way to regain your freedom even without my assistance, Your Majesty," I replied, as Raven swept past the wreck of the Vuutun Palaa, the first scavenger vessels – Mando'ade controlled – already working to begin stripping the massive hulk for parts.
"Perhaps, but without your help, and of those you called to your side, the death toll would've been catastrophic," Padmé countered. "I…" she paused and looked away for a moment. "Naboo owes you a debt we can never repay."
"Nor will you ever have to."
She smiled warmly at my words. "I hope that is true, but if not, then you have only to contact myself or Chancellor Palpatine and Naboo will do what we can. Until then, please, be safe, and may the Force be with you, Master Jedi."
"And with you, Your Majesty," I replied with a nod. A second later, as the faintest hints of her emotions reached me through the Force, the channel closed.
"Where to now?"
I looked over at Simvyl, seeing a smile on his face.
"First, we've got to meet up with Bo. I've got a Padawan and son to collect. After that, I'll need to contact HK and arrange a rendezvous. Where though, I'm not yet sure. I need to find somewhere out of the way to store the Scimitar; perhaps even masking its presence from the remaining Sith."
Anakin had departed with Bo aboard the Ne'tra Gal early this morning, though they'd be waiting a system or two away for me to collect the boy. While he'd wanted to head down to the celebration yesterday, I'd not allowed it. He'd not been happy, but I'd promised to explain why once we met again, though I'd only be going into the fact that the Jedi Council wouldn't allow me to train him now that he was my son and not that I wanted to keep him hidden from the Sith Lord that remained on Naboo.
HK and R2 had managed to gain enough control of the Scimitar that, during the festivities last night, with me keeping Padmé, Palpatine and the Jedi Council as distracted as I could, they'd managed to slip from the bay under the Royal Palace. Luckily, the Scimitar possessed a cloaking device, so they'd been able to slip past the Naboo and Republic scans with ease. While that would help keep the ship hidden, I still needed a location to store it.
The other issue that remained unresolved was Serra. While she'd been released from the bacta tank, the High Council had taken her into seclusion. It was possible that they were only trying to help her recover from Master Drallig's death, but a part of me wondered if the move was also about keeping distance between her and me. There was no way the Council wasn't aware that she'd snuck away to join the forces I'd assembled, and that would be something she'd have to face the music about. The Council hadn't, when I'd spoken to them, mentioned that to me, but I was sure the matter was one they were considering. Along with a few others linked to me and my choice of allies.
"Perhaps we could head to Obroa-skai? That's where the Celebratus Archive is located."
I considered Simvyl's suggestion. I'd heard of the Archive, as it was listed as one of the twenty wonders of the galaxy, and had existed for over sixteen thousand years. It was claimed that the navigational charts there were more detailed than even those held by the Jedi, but since the Jedi wouldn't let anyone prove or disprove that, it was merely a rumour. Regardless if the claim was true or not, it was a possible place to head to search for files I'd rather not have the Order now I was looking at.
While there was a Jedi Praxeum on Obroa-skai, it only helped handle the insane amount of data added to the Archive – and likely routed anything unknown to the Jedi Temple's Archive – and wasn't a full training facility. That meant that even if I interacted with the Jedi there, it was unlikely they'd be anyone of importance.
Still, I'd do what I could to keep clear of them, lest they report my searches to the Jedi, and the Sith through whatever means they had for monitoring the Temple, would also learn of my searches. I already had a location for both hiding the Scimitar and evolving my Interface in mind, but I'd have to first see if the system had been discovered by now.
Still, as Naboo slowly fell away behind me, I couldn't help but smile.
Anakin was now my Padawan and son, though while the latter hadn't been planned I could see how it would be useful. With him kept from the Jedi and Sith sight, I had the chance to train him the way he was meant to be. I just had to first train myself to ensure I didn't fail him as Obi-Wan had.
Maul was defeated and secured, on his way to a Mando'ade prison designed specifically for restraining Force users. Eventually, I would visit and begin speaking with the Zabrak. Perhaps he could be turned to my cause, perhaps not, but it was an avenue worth pursuing. His vessel was now mine, though it would take time to access all its files, and even when R2 did, I half-expected them to be empty. Any decently trained and skilled assassin wouldn't keep detailed records of where they'd been. Still, there might be technology or hints on the Scimitar that I could use for either Raven or other starships, or that might lead to unexpected threads regarding the Sith I could pull on.
With Natural Evolution just around the corner, I'd soon have full access to my Force connection, for all the good and bad that would bring. Still, it would remove my limits with the Force, and with a year or two of training, I should be at a point where I could, at the very least, challenge Dooku in a duel. Taking on any member of the Council was out of the question as news of that would reach the Sith, but if I could, before the Clone Wars – or whatever they became here – started, then I'd feel I was as ready as I could be to fight those who stood in my way.
That, however, was for further down the road.
As Raven's hyperdrive engine drew power from her core, I focused on the present, and on the steps I had to take.
The galaxy had changed on Naboo, but even with my knowledge of how events had played out in the other timeline, I couldn't be sure what effect my presence had made. All I did know was that the drums of war were beginning to sound, and the storm that would soon sweep over the galaxy was slowly forming, slowly gathering, readying itself to unleash chaos on an unsuspecting Republic.
… …
… …
A/N: Yes, taking Maul prisoner, and then having the Mandalorians hold him for a year or two is a very dangerous choice for Cam to make. However, consider that, as of now, the timeline is all but broken. What Cam knows of later events, while still probable to generally happen, won't happen how they would've before. Nor does Cam know much of events that are to happen before war breaks out across the Republic.
With that in mind, holding Maul has the potential to be useful. Yes, it might not pan out, but Cam has little other options for determining the Sith plans, beyond joining them.
A/N: Cam's adopting of Anakin might seem blunt, given Shmi's just died, but Cam felt the Force shifting around him, and interpreted that as meaning it was the right choice to make.
A/N: This is also the end of Book 2. Book 3 (The Reforged Path) will begin next month.
...
This story is crossposted on Fanfiction.net, Archive of our Own, and Royal Road.
You can find me (and the backroom team who help with this) on Discord at:
For this series: Heart of the Force
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Regardless if you join the discord or support my writing, I hope you enjoy the story and suggestions, valid criticisms, and ideas are always welcome.
And of course;
May the Force be with you. Always.
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Dragonslayer Ornstein
Dragon layer extraordinaire.
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Wooooo! Best fic updates and there is so much going on, thank you very much for all the effort you put into this wonderful collection of words.
cagedmania
Your first time is always over so quickly, isn't it?
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One of the best and most interesting Star Wars fanfiction stories, Keep up the good work dude. 
AgentWho007
Getting sticky.
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Thanks for the chapter.
I wonder if he is going to end up like Jedi Master Atris, that is to say his fall is going to be silent and unnoticed untill it is too late.
And maybe have an epic fight against Anakin, where at the end when he is about to kill him there is a convenient mirror that he looks at and realize what monster he become. And leaves for seclusion for a much needed introspection.
Which is why I hope he lose gamer mind. Either now or in the future. Simply so there would be a much harsher consequences for his actions.
Since sometimes it feels like he is a tourist telling a native how they know more about their country/culture then them, I can't help it, it really feels like it sometimes. But good story either way.
I wonder if he is going to end up like Jedi Master Atris, that is to say his fall is going to be silent and unnoticed untill it is too late.
And maybe have an epic fight against Anakin, where at the end when he is about to kill him there is a convenient mirror that he looks at and realize what monster he become. And leaves for seclusion for a much needed introspection.
Which is why I hope he lose gamer mind. Either now or in the future. Simply so there would be a much harsher consequences for his actions.
Since sometimes it feels like he is a tourist telling a native how they know more about their country/culture then them, I can't help it, it really feels like it sometimes. But good story either way.
ClassHole
I trust you know where the happy button is?
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Lots of interesting stuff in this chapter.... its a real shame Shmi had to die... I kind of like stories that let her live. I'm glad the Lokella didn't take it too hard on the chin though... seems like they'll recover.
I was surprised when you talked about the sheer power and danger of Plageuis in combat..... whats that based on? I've never seen anything that says he was a master of combat... I've never even read anything about him using a lightsaber.... to me he always seemed more an intellectual type, a Force Scientist and Schemer of Politics. I mean.... Sheev just walked in and shanked him in his sleep.... thats a pretty pathetic way to go out, not exactly a master warriors death.
I was expecting the system to evolve again, but I'm honestly confused... how can the option he picked limit his skills, but also he can reach heights unimaginable as well... that seems counter-intuitive. I did get a chuckle out of you pretending he was struggling with which of the two options to pick lol you've been trying to remove the Gamer from this Gamer story for years now haha... point being, I wasn't in suspense wonder just what he'd evetually choose lol
I was surprised when you talked about the sheer power and danger of Plageuis in combat..... whats that based on? I've never seen anything that says he was a master of combat... I've never even read anything about him using a lightsaber.... to me he always seemed more an intellectual type, a Force Scientist and Schemer of Politics. I mean.... Sheev just walked in and shanked him in his sleep.... thats a pretty pathetic way to go out, not exactly a master warriors death.
I was expecting the system to evolve again, but I'm honestly confused... how can the option he picked limit his skills, but also he can reach heights unimaginable as well... that seems counter-intuitive. I did get a chuckle out of you pretending he was struggling with which of the two options to pick lol you've been trying to remove the Gamer from this Gamer story for years now haha... point being, I wasn't in suspense wonder just what he'd evetually choose lol
LuciferBael
Mand'alor Te Talyc
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Did you not read the Plaguies novel? Plaguies as a combatant is capital D Dangerous
Lord vivec
Know what you're doing yet?
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His novel does a good job of showing how dangerous he is with a saber, but his most dangerous power imo are his illusions which even palpatine could not overcome.
also he did not simply die on his sleep, once palpatine became chancellor they were celebrating and high on victory and palpatine was making him drink alcohol in vast quantities and finally went for the kill with force lightning damaging the mask he had for breathing.
ClassHole
I trust you know where the happy button is?
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Ahh, yeah I'm hit and miss on the novels, never read that one. I figured bare minimum his Force Powers would make a fight tough, but I guess he had some saber skills too. Makes sense I guess.... someone had to turn Sheev into the Jedi Blender that he was.
Grimmouse197
Experienced.
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Here is my guess is that Cam is going to be hunted by the witches for killing her adopted son.
LuciferBael
Mand'alor Te Talyc
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LuciferBael
Mand'alor Te Talyc
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I know, dont know why though, were drawing mostly legends, Talzin ksnt even here most likely and Maul is from Iradonia not Dathomir
LuciferBael
Mand'alor Te Talyc
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Yes and that was one of the most robotic and forced thing in that book with no Luceno love made to accommodate Filonis shit, Mauls backstory was different before Filoni got his grubby mitts involved
IEU097
Making the rounds.
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You killed off Satine and Obi-wan's son? That was...bold...
Lord vivec
Know what you're doing yet?
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Thats not their son.....
IEU097
Making the rounds.
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Ah, you're right. I've never watched the Clone Wars, and all the FFs I've read have him as their secret son. And yet, even without having ever read FFs or Legends novels, I knew who the Vong were.
Book 3 Intro
USSExplorer
Doing what's necessary, even if it causes chaos
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We are but a day or so away from Book 3: The Reforge Path.
To prepare you for that, enjoy an opening crawl.
To prepare you for that, enjoy an opening crawl.
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oscar e Sampedro Lopez
Versed in the lewd.
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Nice video
3.01 Evolution and Adaption
USSExplorer
Doing what's necessary, even if it causes chaos
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And so begins Book 3 The Reforged Path.
If you look a few posts up you'll find an opening crawl for the Book.
A/N: Thanks to those helping me write and plan out this story and checking it for continuality and logical errors.
This chapter was released at the beginning of the month to those who support my writing (with every level above tier 1 having seen a draft version, and the highest level seeing the redrafted form, around 2 months ago), and then about 2 weeks ago to those on the story's Discord server. Or at least those who are sufficiently active enough to have the required rank to see early bird releases.
Links for supporting my writing, or joining the Discord server, are at the end of the chapter.
The situation had evolved since those early days, most notably because he was now my Padawan—a fact unbeknownst to the Council. The primary change in his training regimen was his use of a blinded helmet, forcing him to depend on his other senses to navigate the intricacies of the combat form. Demonstrating proficiency under these conditions was his gateway to training in the two Mandalorian martial Arts, Beskar'pel and Beskar'rev. The former was based on mobility and was generally used by children and adults of smaller physical builds. The latter was based on strength and was generally the form used by males.
Typically, a Padawan wouldn't be introduced to a non-Jedi style of combat until their teenage years. However, Anakin was an exceptional case, which is why he was undertaking this exercise as a form of Moving Meditation, or Alchaka, as Fay and the Jedi formally referred to it. My decision to have Anakin engage in this particular exercise was driven by a need to help him divert his attention from his mother's death—his grief was palpable, even without the aid of the Force. This need became especially pressing after Dooku shared a story with me just before the invasion of Naboo.
My old Master had sought Anakin out for a training session that the boy hadn't arrived for when he was meant to. He had found Anakin in one of the hangar bays on Mtael's Gift. However, instead of instantly berating the boy for missing a session, Dooku had watched Anakin as the boy disassembled, cleaned, and then reassembled various blaster rifles belonging to the Lokella. In and of itself, that wasn't surprising, as Anakin, like his mother, had a knack for technology and often improved it in slight ways others might miss.
Dooku had paused as he'd sensed the Force moving around Anakin, being drawn upon by the boy as he concentrated on nothing but his work. My Master had asked the boy about this later, to which Anakin had been surprised as he'd not actively drawn on the Force, instead saying he simply found it relaxing to do simple tasks like cleaning blasters repetitively.
That was, in essence, what Alchaka was, which was why, only a day after leaving the Naboo system, I'd already altered his training schedule to include the advanced form of meditation. And it seemed, as he pushed through one velocity and flowed gracefully into the next, that it had been the right call.
While I'd been on Naboo dealing with the Jedi Council, Palpatine, and other matters, Bo had begun teaching Anakin the basics of Beskar'pel and had been insistent that I continue my son's training. Instead of doing that right away, I was trying to find a balance in his training. While most would be, for now, centred around Jedi techniques, I allowed some time so Anakin could begin his Mando'ade training.
Bo hadn't been overly pleased with that but accepted that An'ika – her nickname for the boy that meant Little Ani – was mine to train and that he needed training as both Jedi and Mando'ade. Her need to give him a nickname, along with an insistence to be kept in the loop regarding his training and our adventures let me tease her about having a soft spot for the boy. Though when I'd suggested that she might like a child of her own, she'd denied it and demanded a spar to settle the matter.
As with every other spar we'd had since Zonama Sekot, that had ended with us sparring in more personal ways after I'd proven my dominance once more. Though the sounds she made in the personal section of the spar made it clear she didn't mind losing to me or letting me dominate her.
I was broken from thoughts of Bo, and the smile that thinking about her brought on when I spotted a mistake. "Stop," I said as I pushed off the wall. Anakin did so, and turned my way, though he remembered to keep the visor that restricted his vision in place. "Your arm should be slightly higher," I explained, my hands moving the offending limb to the correct position, feeling the rapid beating of his heart from over an hour of the exercise. "This allows you to flow easier into the next element of the velocity."
With his arm in the correct position and my words heard, I stepped back.
"C-can. I. Stop?" He asked, taking long, deep breaths between each word.
"You can still talk, correct?" I asked, a wicked smile creeping onto my face. He couldn't see that, but he did nod in affirmation. "Then you've not finished the exercise." A faint groan slipped from his lips as his shoulders slumped. "Be mindful of your stance. Now, resume."
He did as I said, and continued from where he stopped as I continued to move back.
I turned before the door opened, and saw Simvyl in the doorframe. He waited until I'd approached, taking soft, quiet steps, before speaking. "You're sure you're not pushing him too hard?"
"This is nothing compared to what Master Dooku and others subjected me to," I replied in a hushed tone, careful not to distract Anakin. "Besides ensuring his mind isn't preoccupied with thoughts of his mother, Anakin is special—far more than others perceive me to be. He has a pivotal role in the impending darkness, and I am determined not to fail in my duty to prepare him for what lies ahead."
My eyes never left the boy as I spoke, and I watched as he moved fluidly, cleanly now I'd fixed the slight mistake, through the velocity. As I'd said to Simvyl, Anakin was important, but the first reason – that of distracting Anakin – was my primary reason for pushing him so much this early on.
Done correctly, Alchaka required complete focus and mentally and physically drained a practitioner. The practitioner emerged from the meditation refreshed with their mind cleared of distractions. Now, I'd not truly experienced that, as the Interface prevented me from truly sinking into the Force, but others had seemed that way while working through various forms of Alchaka, and I hoped it would do the same for Anakin, though it would only be a temporary measure.
We were on our way to the ShaDo system to attend the funeral of several members of the Lokella, with our focus being on Shmi. However, before we could initiate the last leg of the journey, we'd stopped for a refuel. The short voyage here had seen Anakin distracted by his feelings toward his mother. I'd pushed him hard in his training, though until we'd started using Alchaka there'd been little success in distracting his thoughts.
I had considered taking him to find a lightsaber crystal, but I dismissed the idea quickly. The logical place to go was Ilum, and that required clearance from the Council; something I wished to avoid. There were other worlds to find a crystal on, and I had several in my Inventory, but I also felt it was better to wait for such an important moment in his training until he'd moved past the death of his mother.
"The engineers report we're fully fuelled and cleared to depart whenever you wish," Simvyl said, revealing the reason for his arrival, though he could simply have called over the intercom, or to my vambrace which I still wore. "The local officials have a desire to ensure we were serviced quickly and leave with haste."
I chuckled at that, sensing his confusion and concern regarding the situation. "Most officials, be they from a Core world or one deep in the Outer Rim, like to keep the Order happy. For some, it might be because they respect the Order, but I think for most it's to get us away from whatever they're involved in that they wish to remain hidden. Regardless, I'm not going to turn down preferential, and essentially free, service."
"While I wasn't with the Rangers long, I'm enjoying the faster service, though if we didn't have other business to attend to, I feel we should stay and see just why the locals want you gone quickly."
"I have little interest in sticking my nose in everyone's business-" Simvyl snorted, suggesting he didn't believe me, "-but I agree that, if time allowed, at least a cursory exploration of the station might be interesting. However, we do have other matters to handle," I added as I watched Anakin continue his moving meditation. "Keep an eye on him and let him stop when it's clear he can't go further. However, make sure either you or Fenrir are with him." The tuk'ata was, from what I could sense, lazing around the central area – likely resting on one of the sofas after pushing many, if not all, of the cushions off it.
Simvyl nodded, accepting my instructions, and I turned and slipped past him, leaving the training area. While he was a capable pilot, Raven was prickly about who she allowed to fly her. The only people other than me and Simvyl that she allowed to pilot her were Fay and Bo. Fay, because she shared a bond with Raven – though it would be some time before my former Master would get the chance to sit in Raven's cockpit as she was still searching for Tython – and Bo because she was close to me and had spent a lot of time on Raven. That said, like with Simvyl, Raven disliked allowing Bo to do anything but the simplest of actions.
As my hand ran along a wall, Raven reacted by having the lights around my fingertips blink and pulse in soothing patterns. I wondered how the bond I shared with her – and others – would change after the Interface had evolved and the Force was freed from being filtered by it.
… …
… …
"I miss her."
"I know," I replied as I walked with Anakin back to Raven. It was a few hours after the cremation service for Shmi and some others had taken place, and we'd just come from the wake. While it had been a sombre affair, the fact that the Lokella chose to celebrate the lives of those lost, and not mourn them had, I felt, helped Anakin greatly.
While we'd left Naboo after Validus and the Lokella, who had chosen not to stay for the celebrations, we'd arrived before them, even when considering we'd stopped for a refuel in the Core. That had given Anakin about a day to spend with Ferox and his sister, Lia Skywalker.
The ceremony itself had been a quiet affair, the bodies burned in groups though separately so those who wished to spread the ashes of a loved one could do so. As the bodies burnt, Baalta had read a eulogy for them all, talking about how they may have lived and been born slaves, but they had died free. She spoke of how their souls had returned to the Great Spirit, which I assumed was a Togrutan name for the Afterlife or the Force. Those words, and the promise that so long as everyone at the ceremony remembered them, then those who had perished would never truly die.
This was further assured by the names being added to a large display the Lokella had crafted not long after they'd won their freedom. The display, which took up almost an entire wall, dominated the bay in which I'd fought and defeated Girk Saxon. The mural that had been painted there remained, but now in front of it was a statue - one made of marble - showing a variety of races fighting against an unseen threat.
That statue replaced the previous one of my battle with Girk - which had been moved down to Gaia - and dominated the bay that had been converted into a memorial for all who had fallen in defence of freedom. After the most recent attack, every new name had been added, each getting a small plaque to mark their passing, and commemorate their live and death.
Baalta's words, the plaque for his mother, spending time with his sister, and the remembrance wake had eased some of Anakin's pain, and I felt he'd begun the journey to accepting and moving on from Shmi's death. Though I knew it would be some time before he was able to not dwell on his feelings regarding her death, or showing anger toward those who'd taken her from him.
Before the ceremony, Baalta had inquired whether I would speak, but I declined. Although I played a significant role for many of the Lokella, I wasn't personally close to any of the deceased, including Shmi. Moreover, while the original Lokella members held me in high esteem, I was aware that the later arrivals attributed some blame to me for the unfortunate events—a sentiment I understood and accepted. I hoped this might moderate the excessive reverence held by the group's longstanding members towards me.
During the wake, Anakin spent considerable time with Lia while I engaged in conversation with Ferox. Despite Lia lacking the potential to fully harness the Force—her capabilities being roughly equivalent to Bo's—she remained Anakin's sister. I had no intention of depriving him of time with his mother's last remaining connection.
As we sat in reflective silence, occasionally interrupted when someone approached to offer their condolences, Ferox shared his decision to step back from combat operations. With a daughter to raise, he planned to dedicate his time to training the Lokella warriors. However, he made it clear that he would rejoin the front lines when the moment arrived to confront Decca. This was in line with my expectations, and I assured him that, barring a galactic conflict, Anakin and I would stand with him in the fight against Decca and those complicit in orchestrating the attack on the Lokella.
I'd not commented on the fact that, with Anakin by my side, I'd also be stepping back from battle for a few years. Mainly because I knew that, regardless of my personal goals, The Force would have plans for me. As might TPTB, though I hoped both would allow me time to train Anakin so that when the time came to take him into battle, he was ready for it. He might be a child now, but I knew that within a decade he'd be involved in war, so the more battles he saw between now and then, the more prepared he'd be for the chaos and carnage of warfare.
What I had promised Ferox was that, when we could, we'd return to the system so Lia could know her brother. I was sure the Council, if they learnt of this, would blow a gasket, and claim it was infringing Anakin's training as a Jedi, but given what fate awaited the Order – something I wasn't sure I could truly stop – and that I'd adopted Anakin as my son, they'd have other things to concern themselves with. It also depended on when they learnt about Anakin, as I had zero intent of going anywhere near Coruscant in the next few years.
The other side was that no matter who trained him, Anakin was the sort of person to seek out, make, and protect his friends and family. While many Jedi would have issues with that, and it was how Sidious wormed his way into the boy's confidence, I didn't. Force, I would probably strengthen it as it was a 'flaw' that I also held. Plus, I'd accepted recently that I'd never be a good Jedi; at least not how the council and many of the Order would define one.
I was drawn from my thoughts as we entered the small hangar housing Raven, and I sensed a familiar presence nearby – along with one I'd rather not face again. "Go on," I said to Anakin, letting go of his hand and gently pushing him toward Raven. "I need to speak with someone before we leave."
Anakin looked up at me, confusion in his eyes, though that faded as I sensed him reaching out through the Force. A moment later, his gaze shifted behind me, toward the entrance where I knew Dooku was approaching. After returning his gaze to me, he nodded, wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his robes, and then walked toward our home.
Once he was on board, I turned and headed toward the door, my hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of my beskad as it swung open to reveal Dooku and Vosa. The former leader of the Bando Gora, responsible for the suffering I had endured at their hands, stood a step behind Dooku. Her hands were clasped in front of her—likely at Dooku's instruction—and her gaze was cast downward. However, this did little to quell the surge of fury that overwhelmed me upon seeing her for the first time since my escape from the Bando Gora.
The temptation to use the Force to drag her across the bay, to me, and crush her throat with my bare hands was overwhelming. A thousand other methods of making her pay for the agony she had inflicted upon me flashed through my mind. I could hear the faint, unmistakable whispers of the Dark Side, promising the power to achieve everything I desired—and to inflict even greater suffering on her and anyone else who had wronged me. It urged me to shatter their minds, bodies, and souls for having the audacity to harm me. Only when they fully comprehended the gravity of their mistake would I grant them the mercy of death. Yet, such mercy would be neither swift nor clean.
I closed my eyes, inhaled deeply, and pushed those desires, those thoughts as far away as I could. If I was a good Jedi, I'd let them go, but I couldn't, and not just because of Eidetic Memory but because they were mine and I refused to let them go. Thus, I did all I could to silence those voices, and those requests, and push them back into the small, isolated section of mind where they dwelled.
When I opened my eyes, I saw Dooku had approached, and thankfully Vosa had remained near the door, though there was an odd look in her eyes. Putting that aside, I bowed as Dooku came closer. "Master."
"Cameron, I hope this is a respectable time for a conversation. I had avoided you and your Padawan earlier to not intrude on his period of personal reflection." His voice carried a slight tone, but its cause was unclear to me.
"Anakin has returned to Raven," I replied, which elicited a small nod from Dooku. "We're planning to leave shortly."
"How is the boy?" Dooku inquired.
"He's managing as well as could be expected," I responded. I gestured towards a path leading away from Raven and Vosa, and Dooku agreed with a slight nod. "He's grieving for his mother, and I've been trying to find activities and training exercises that will both challenge him and help distract his thoughts as much as possible."
"A wise decision. While he, like you, possesses great potential, he is more prone to forming deep connections with those around him, to the extent that I fear he might prioritize their lives over his own, regardless of the situation."
"That's a concern I share, Master," I said with a smirk. Although Dooku hadn't spent much time around Anakin, he had seen enough to identify what was, in Jedi terms, the boy's most concerning issue. "The saving grace is that Anakin has a way of getting along with most people, even if it sometimes means going to great lengths to help them."
"A noble trait that many Jedi share. However, his propensity to form bonds and place those he trusts above his own well-being is something you'll need to monitor closely during his training. I sense that the loss of his mother has inflicted a deep wound within him. One that, if not properly addressed, could fester and lead him down paths we'd both prefer he avoid." He paused as we reached the bay's wall, an area devoid of workers as they had chosen to find other tasks upon our approach. "I assume this concern influenced your decision to adopt him?"
"I know it's not the usual Jedi way..."
"Something you have never been, nor shall you ever be," Dooku interjected.
"...but it felt like the right decision," I concluded, choosing to overlook Dooku's soft, almost teasing remark.
"Yes, I was there and sensed the shift in the Force when you made your decision. Because of that, and a feeling that it was the correct one, I chose not to question it at the time. With space to meditate on the matter, I can see why you feel it was the correct choice, and how it might help the boy. However, I caution you to be mindful that the bond you share with Anakin doesn't draw out your shared tendencies to find yourselves in dangerous situations."
"I'm aware of that concern, Master. I hoped that having someone to train and protect might temper my more… rambunctious tendencies."
"One can only hope." The response was dry and entirely devoid of emotion. Yet, I ended up chuckling at it and his delivery. "I won't ask you of your plans, as that is between you, Anakin, and the Force, but I hope that all we've spoken of, ever since you first became my Padawan, remain in your thoughts as you train the boy and yourself into the beings I believe you both should be."
"They will, Master, and thank you for all the advice you've given. Even the parts that, at the time, I failed to understand, or am still working to decipher."
Dooku gave a nod, indicating the matter was settled. He then turned and looked toward where he'd just come from, and where Vosa still stood, her eyes watching us – watching me – intently. "I am aware of your opinions on Komari, and that you feel unready to face her given what you endured. However, she was adamant to see you and Anakin depart." My brow rose at hearing of her interest in Anakin, and my remaining hand went to my beskad. "When she met you, as… shall we say, unbalanced as she was, she saw something in you. The same spark that I and Master Fay saw. Since the death of Shmi Skywalker, Komari has become convinced that the same spark of potential resides in the boy. She has even spoken of seeing… glimpses, visions perhaps, of you and him when you're both older. As much as it pains you to hear this, those glimpses align with those we, Masters Sifo-Dyas and Nilas, and others have glimpsed."
"That is concerning," I muttered, feeling the need to remove Vosa from the board growing stronger, regardless of Dooku's opinion on the matter.
"Yes, it might well appear that way. I, however, sense it might also present an opportunity." He held up a hand, stopping me from commenting. "Before you concern yourself, I'm not suggesting you allow Komari to accompany you." If he had, I'd have made sure she was jettisoned into space once we were far enough away from the station that she couldn't somehow return. "Since she glimpsed Anakin's potential, Komari has gained a new, seemingly controllable, focus. It is almost as if she feels she might have some role to play in what is to come, to work toward bringing about what she'd seen in her visions."
"That," I paused, taking a moment to collect my thoughts before I said something I couldn't take back. "I will trust your judgement in the matter, Master. However, I have grave reservations about allowing her anywhere near myself or Anakin."
At first, I'd wanted to dismiss the idea entirely, but then I remembered my intentions regarding Maul. Even if he only became a source of information on Sith activities, he could be of use, and there was a chance – however small – that Vosa might also have some use. That didn't mean I was willing to listen to them now, however, nor might I ever be. But as I'd said, I was willing to trust Dooku on the matter. He had hoped to turn Vosa into something of use, so if this was what allowed him to achieve that, then I wasn't going to deny him the chance.
"I expected you would. However, it was something that you needed to be made aware of. In addition, you should also know that, as Shmi Skywalker was one of the few Lokella to offer Komari kindness without sympathy or dismissal, Komari had an interest in protecting her during the battle. Because she failed, Komari now sees that interest transfer to Shmi Skywalker's children; with a greater focus on Anakin because of his Force potential."
I kept my gaze on Dooku, not wanting to let my eyes drift toward the deranged bitch that stood far to my left. "I… I cannot stop you from trying to redeem her, Master, nor have I ever tried to do so. That said, I know that I'm far from ready to face her, let alone allow her near my… near Anakin. However, I know that, if he wishes to speak to her whenever we return, I won't deny him the opportunity. Though I will insist that you remain present for any such meeting."
"I admit, that is a far more considerate response than I expected. A sign of maturity coming from having a Padawan, I suspect." The corners of his lips twitched, suggesting he found the fact I wasn't rushing to judgement amusing. "That you are willing to at least consider allowing her the chance to speak, and that you can stomach being in her presence – even if it is at some distance – is a sign you are slowly recovering from your ordeal. That, perhaps, is something I am more grateful for than your acceptance of Komari's wishes." He looked behind me, toward Raven. "Have you given any consideration to where you will take your Padawan to begin his training?"
"I have, though I have several errands to run first," I raised my arm, the one missing a forearm, ignoring the phantom pain that came whenever I thought about the limb. "And even then, I can't say with certainty where we will head."
I could've told him my plans, or at least the general ideas of it, but I felt better not doing so. It was unlikely the Council or the Sith would try and force that information from him, but if either wanted to know where I was and couldn't locate me, Dooku and Fay would be their first port of call. With Fay somewhere in the Deep Core, Dooku would be their primary source, thus it was better to simply not give him any information.
"That is often what the Force wishes; regardless of how it can often leave us searching to determine the purpose for our movements," Dooku said, unaware of the momentary consideration I'd given to revealing my plans to him. He stepped forward and after giving me a look over, nodded. "While you have far to go in your training, you have travelled a great distance already, and I am proud of my role in helping shape you into the man you are slowly becoming. Wherever you go, may the Force be with you, Cameron."
"And with you, Master," I replied, smiling.
With that, we turned and walked to our separate destinations. I could've continued talking with him, as there were things I might enjoy discussing, but Anakin was waiting for me on Raven, and the longer I dallied outside, the greater the chance he might emerge and seek to speak with Vosa. Until I was ready for that, or for her to be in my presence, that would be something I'd be avoiding.
… …
… …
"Will there be anything else, Master Jedi?"
"No, that will be all. Thank you for your help," I replied to the Rodian custodian who had guided me to this private terminal room. I settled into the seat in front of the terminal.
"Very well. I will head over and keep an eye on your Padawan and pilot." I waved almost dismissively at the Rodian as I examined the terminal in front of me. It was modelled on the ones in the Temple—or perhaps they were modelled on it—so figuring out how to use it wasn't a problem.
Currently, I was in the Celebratus Archive on Obroa-Skai, a place widely regarded as the foremost library in the Republic…at least outside of the Jedi Temple or the Senate library, though having enjoyed exploring the Archives' public displays – and some of the private ones – with Anakin for a few hours, I wondered if perhaps Coruscant was overplaying the importance of the facilities on the Republic capital.
The Archive had hundreds of relics, many of which were Jedi or Sith in origin – though several of the ones I'd Observed had been mislabelled as Jedi when they were Sith, or vice versa – and there appeared to be more here than in the Temple. However, I did wonder if perhaps many of the more interesting relics and the like, both here and in the Temple, were restricted to Jedi Masters.
Those mislabelled artefacts and a few others had been added to a datapad I kept stored in my Inventory in case the chance to research and examine them later was ever possible. This was the same datapad that held, among other things, the hyperspace routes to Dromund Kaas and other Sith worlds that I'd taken from the nav-computer during my trip forward in time.
It was still odd to me that, during the fight with the Sith Acolyte, the only part of the controls that had been damaged was the Hyperspace regulator, which was what regulated temporal control while in hyperspace. Or that such a small, seemingly insignificant part of the system was vitally important. Still, the fault – or design if the Force and TPTB had been involved – had given me coordinates to worlds that, in this day and age, were either lost or restricted, though I couldn't be sure of which was the case as the details of those worlds were restricted to even Jedi Knights by the Council.
I planned to return to the worlds of the former Sith Empire, the same one my many-times grand-niece had helped defeat, within the next five to ten years, and not just because failure to complete the quest linked to Dromund Kaas would result in Sidious growing even stronger. While the technology there was undoubtedly old, given it had been thousands of years since that Empire ruled half the galaxy, I had a feeling that information there was lost to the wider galaxy. Perhaps even to the Jedi and Sith.
Activating the terminal, I confirmed that whatever I searched for would be destroyed when I logged out. The Custodian had assured me of that, saying that absolute privacy was assured for those the Custodians deemed worthy of using a private terminal. But even seeing the evidence of that on the terminal, I had to wonder if that was the case. Computers, even with their memories wiped, could still, in theory, have the data recovered if no one reused the sections that had previously stored information, which was why I had plans to ensure most of my searches wouldn't be linked back to me.
Reaching out with Detection, I quickly sensed Anakin. He was with Simvyl back in the public areas of the Archive. We'd spent a few hours exploring the Archives before I'd left to carry out my research, and the boy was enjoying the information at his fingertips. Hopefully, Simvyl and the Custodian would ensure my ad didn't get into any trouble.
Returning my focus to the room I was in, even as I carried out my first search – looking up information on Onderon – I probed my more immediate surroundings, determining the locations of anyone else within a few hundred metres of me. Based on the floorplan that I'd seen, and what was added to the minimap as I was escorted to this room, it appeared there were several floors of private terminals. Most were empty, but the fact there were so many was something that would be useful.
Using Force Sight, I examined the power and data lines in the room and the walls around me. As promised, there wasn't anything that stood as a recording or monitoring device, meaning I was truly alone in the room. Save, perhaps, if someone was monitoring my searches and how long I spent on any given file.
After browsing the records on Onderon I closed the file and powered down the terminal. I then turned it back on and confirmed that, at least publicly, the search history was gone. I reopened the files on Onderon and resumed skimming them even as I downloaded everything there to a datapad I'd entered the room with.
While that was happening, I pulled up the data on Ossus, before standing and stretching my legs. Or at least it appeared as if that was what I was doing. What I was really doing was planning out my next few steps and ensuring that there were no motion sensors in the room.
When nothing caught the attention of Force Sight, I knew I was clear to proceed with my plans. Sitting back down, I browsed the files on Ossus, the location of the Jedi Temple before it was moved to Coruscant when the surface of Ossus was seemingly destroyed in the Great Sith War; something that happened before Revan.
Nothing there was particularly interesting, save that the world wasn't as destroyed as had been believed, though any plans to go there were shelved as it was monitored closely by the Republic and Jedi. Many had tried, and failed, to locate Jedi relics. Still, it was another world that, if I could do so without attracting attention, I'd like to explore.
As the data on Ossus was downloaded to the datapad, I opened files on Kashyyyk, though once they were displaying, I moved toward the wall to my left, and after confirming the room next to mine was empty, Phased through the wall. There I found another terminal, this one turning on when I sat in the chair.
At this new terminal, I began the first of my true searches, looking up everything available on Dagobah; my first choice of where to store the Scimitar. The world had managed to hide Yoda from Sidious and Vader for decades, so it was a logical place to consider when seeking a place to store a vessel with strong Dark Side connections. Yoda might not have been using the Force while in exile, but it had hidden him from the searching tendrils of the Emperor. The Scimitar would, in theory, be similarly well hidden from any efforts by the Sith to locate it. At least until I was ready to devote time to searching the vessel's databanks and capabilities.
Dagobah, it seemed, wasn't a world naturally strong in the Force – like Ossus or Ruusan – but the survey team had claimed it was teeming with life. So much so that it was odd the planet wasn't ecologically unbalanced. That abundance of life must've been what Yoda used to hide, and while not perfectly what I was after, it certainly made the world a good candidate. However, it wasn't the only world I was going to consider or search for from this terminal, and after transferring the data about Dagobah to a pad – not the one given to me by the Custodian, but an empty one that had come from my Inventory – I searched for Yavin IV.
I already knew that Yavin IV had been a base for Exar Kun during the Great Sith War – something I'd discovered by accident while a Padawan and randomly searching the Jedi Archives – but discovering that the world had been cleansed in fire by the Jedi was unexpected. The Jedi records said merely that Kun's bases had been destroyed, but the Celebratus Archive stated the Jedi and Republic had scorched the planet.
The planet had recovered in the millennia since, but it was an interesting thing to note and meant that the Dral'Han wasn't the first, or I suspected last, time that the Jedi had gone to such extremes.
As before, I chuckled when I read about Revan's connection to the world, during the time of the reconstituted Sith Empire. The reference to him being called 'Reborn' was odd, and as I read deeper into it, accessing files I'd not been able to view at the Temple, I sighed in annoyance. "That… that ruins so much," I muttered as I shook my head.
Learning that Revan had a connection to a Sith Emperor – the same one who'd led the Sith Empire several hundred years later during Satele's era – and that this Emperor, who seemingly had different names and bodies, was the reason for Revan's fall was upsetting. It made much of the reasons Revan turned for, which I'd referenced in my Knights of the Old Republic series, seem meaningless, if not downright wrong.
I'd believed Revan had turned to protect the Republic, to strengthen it against a greater threat. That the threat turned out to be the Sith Empire led by this Tenebrae, was fine. Yet here it was stated that he hadn't done so initially, only changing tack after breaking free of whatever whammy Tenebrae had unleashed on Revan and Malak's minds. According to this file, that was believed to be the reason Malak turned on Revan, but I wasn't so sure, as there were a lot of details missing, and several gaping holes left in the logic and reasoning of these reports.
"Kind of wish you'd show up and explain all this," I said to the empty room, half-hoping he'd appear, but knowing that that was a fool's hope. Force, since the cave on Ilum he'd not appeared again, but that was about what I expected from a Force Ghost.
Since I had time, and since this Sith Empire and their emperor came up in my family's history more than I'd expected, I opened the files on them and began reading. There was a lot about this particular Sith empire, which given it had lasted for several centuries, and at one point had controlled Coruscant, wasn't a surprise. Most other Sith empires lasted nowhere near as long, save the chaos brought on by the New Sith Wars, though there, the Sith had united and fractured several times over the millennia.
This Sith Empire had been united from its formation to fall, with most of that time spent under the rule of Tenebrae, at least until his apparent defeat though the files hinted at him reappearing as Emperor of another group – The Eternal Empire – as another person. Force, as another species. That was odd and interesting, and wanting to read on this further, I pulled an empty datapad from my Inventory and then attached it to the terminal.
The files I'd be downloading would take time, so I slipped through the wall returning to my assigned terminal. After spending a minute browsing the files on Kashyyyk, downloading them to a datapad I'd entered the room with, I opened the files relating to Coruscant and covered everything about it from its history and evolution, to what it was now and every rule, no matter how seemingly insignificant. That was then set to download into the datapad here, and while I didn't expect to ever need the information, I wasn't going to turn down the chance to borrow every record I could think of.
That was why, as the download began, I stood and reached out with the Force. Sensing the room below was empty, I Phased again, dropping through the floor to another terminal. At this terminal, which again activated when I touched it and was without monitoring, I began searches with orders to download the data to another datapad, for various worlds that, for various reasons, I'd not examined carefully at the Temple.
Mandalore, Kamino, Ruusan, and a half-dozen worlds that I'd known of before arriving in this galaxy, or had come across at the Temple but avoided delving too deeply into their history and lore for fear of drawing the Council's attention. The data on each world I listed in my search was added to the download queue for another datapad, one that already contained the hyperspace coordinates for Kamino, Korriban, and a dozen other worlds that had been freely available to anyone willing to pay a few credits for them. That, like many of the datapads I was using today, was stored in my Inventory so that no one else could ever know what I knew or planned.
Reaching out with Detection, I located those in the terminal rooms and outside. So far, no one was heading toward the first room I'd shifted to for some unsanctioned downloading, but I knew it was only a matter of time until a Custodian came to see what was going on.
Because of that, I located a nearby terminal room that was occupied, though I didn't Teleport directly there, instead arriving in an empty one next to it. I stumbled as the Teleport faded, having misjudged the floor, and appeared around half a metre above it.
Once I was ready, I walked toward the wall and Phased partially through. Using Observe on the Twi'lek sitting there, I confirmed they were nobody of consequence with negligible Force Potential. I then, while remaining in the wall, used the Force to stun them before entering the room. Taking note of what they were browsing, I lifted them from their seat and accessed the terminal.
With this terminal, I began searching for various Force sects that existed outside the control and close monitoring of the Jedi. Once Natural Evolution was taken, I'd need to relearn how to use certain Force Powers that I was reluctant to lose. Combining that with a curiosity about what else the Force could do, what I might teach Anakin, and the potential to learn abilities that neither the Jedi nor the Sith focused on, meant that this was one search I wanted to not be linked to me, and why a patsy was selected.
The first of the sects to appear was Dathomir, though I blinked as I read the entry to the file regarding the planet and its witches. Unlike what I'd remembered, the planet wasn't composed solely of a tribe of Dark Side-aligned witches, nor was it a red, seemingly dead world. The Nightsisters did exist, and their part of the world appeared barren, but there were multiple tribes on the planet. While that drew my attention, the planet was removed from my list of places to visit due to the various tribes all considering males little more than slaves and breeding stock.
Even if I wasn't planning to visit the planet, the files might be of use, and I had them downloaded to another datapad – once more, pulled from my Inventory – while I began searching for other sects. While I knew of a few from random searches in the Temple, there were more listed here than I'd expected, so I programmed the terminal to download everything it had on each of the sects and the worlds where they were based.
After checking the Twi'lek was still stunned, I Teleported back to my initial room, confirmed the terminal was still downloading, changed the display to another section of a file on Telos, and then Phased through the wall. The terminal there had finished downloading my research to that datapad, and I slipped the device into my Inventory before returning to my initial room and then Phasing through the floor. The terminal in the third room was still running and had time to go, I figured I'd head to another room.
Teleporting back to the room with the Twi'lek, I Phased through three walls, and at the terminal in this last room, or so I hoped, I pulled up another list of worlds. These had come from HK's memory banks and were worlds he knew of that I didn't, nor had considered. This list included Lehon, the home system of the Rakata, and the location of the Star Forge. The system was restricted, something I'd learnt in the Temple, but here I could at least determine details about it along with rough directions to the system.
There were also other worlds, including a few I'd come across when skimming Revan's file earlier that had been prominently displayed. Once again, I set the terminal to download the files for those worlds and sectors to the datapad before Teleporting back to the second room.
The terminal there was finished, and after collecting the datapad and sliding it into my Inventory, I returned to my assigned room. Once more, I spent time browsing the details of the world currently there – that being Nal Hutta – and sat down. The other downloads would take time, and it was better to remain where I was for now.
I could've easily carried out all these searches on this terminal, but not trusting that the records would be properly expunged, and not wanting to leave an obvious trail of breadcrumbs, I'd devised the plan for using multiple terminals. The fact each was inside a secured private room only made it easier for me to carry out my research at seemingly random terminals.
Sensing movement toward the second and fifth terminals I'd accessed, I Teleported to each, removed the datacard – each having completed their downloads – turned off the terminals, and Teleported to the fourth room. There, the Twi'lek was still unconscious though the download was nearing its end.
Once it was completed, I returned the screen to the one it had been on when I'd Stunned the Twi'lek, placed him back in the seat and then Phased into the wall. Just before I left, I used the Force to wake the Twi'lek and then departed.
Once back in my assigned terminal room, I sat down in the chair and allowed myself a smile. From what I could tell, everything had gone as I'd intended and my research, or at least the initial stages of it, was completed. However, not wanting to seem uninterested in the room after requesting one, I sat back and began reading the file currently being downloaded.
That was data about the Empress Teta system, where Serra's family were figures of importance. I had little interest in the system or her family, but harmless searching was precisely what I wanted it to look like I was doing. The various datapads with my true research were now stored safely inside my Inventory for review later.
It was possible that, from browsing those files I might require further data from the Archive, but if that was the case I knew I could gain it without having to ask for a private terminal. Or even enter the Archive officially. Teleport was now in the Savant range, which granted me a range of six kilometres. While that wasn't a large enough range to enter these rooms from outside the building – this place was a marvel stretching over ten kilometres wide though most of the more impressive artefacts, relics, and all the private terminals were located centrally – it would only take a double usage of the power to get here and back.
As such, while I wouldn't be spending too long on the planet, I did plan to delay my departure a few days; at least until I'd managed to browse most of what I'd downloaded. There was enough here, including a Jedi enclave that I was planning to avoid, to keep Anakin busy during the day. At least when I wasn't training him.
Now, I might be acting paranoid, but after Naboo, I knew the Jedi and Sith would be carefully monitoring me; the latter pair more than the former group. Palpatine and Damask would be attempting to track my movements and plans, as I felt they hadn't expected me to gather the force that I did to liberate Naboo. They wouldn't want to make such a mistake again, which was why I was doing my research the way I was.
Now yes, they could, through official and unofficial channels, potentially gain access to everything I'd downloaded today, perhaps everything that was downloaded from every terminal. However, by spreading the research out, and using the Twi'lek as a patsy for some of the work, I should at the very least, delay them from knowing my intentions. Haran, if they only used the data from my terminal, it would lead them on wild goose chases.
With time to kill before I was due to meet Anakin and Simvyl, I took one of the datapads from the Inventory and returned to a topic that had caught my interest earlier, placing another down so I could enter notes of anything else I might want to search for in relation to what I was about to read: the history of the Eternal Empire, their founding Emperor, Valkorion, and their role in the war fought between the Sith and Jedi during Satele's lifetime.
… …
… …
I watched Anakin as he swung the low-powered shoto lightsaber and suppressed a sigh. "Be mindful of your balance," I commented, even as I used my beskad to tap his blade downward. The movement caused him to stumble forward, showing he had over-extended in the attack, leaving himself exposed to an elementary counter. "When you attack, always be mindful not to overcommit. It will often leave you exposed to a quick counter by a skilled opponent."
Anakin grumbled, his annoyance easy to sense, as he reset his position. The velocity he was working through was an early one for Form 1, and I had already shown him before. That he was struggling with it wasn't a surprise, though, as he had only started using a lightsaber for the velocities in the last few weeks. He attacked again, and this time when my beskad blocked his swing downward, he retained his balance; his blade and arms remained closer to his body.
"Better," I said as I took a step back. "Again." As he repeated the move, I began walking around him. "While Shii-Cho is the first, and in many ways, the simplest form a traditional Force User will learn, it's not without its strengths. The Form is based around blade work and thus teaches the importance of good footwork and balance, something that carries over into every other Form you'll learn. However, as you're aware, its nature as the first Form means that not only does every lightsaber wielder know it, but they can also exploit the various issues the Form has because its base lies in weapons fundamentally different from a lightsaber. Now, that isn't to say that a skilled practitioner can't overcome those limitations, and the more advanced velocities of the Form help in that regard as well. However, it will be some time before you learn those velocities or those of other Forms."
I'd given this speech, in differing forms, to Anakin several times over the years, though now he was my Padawan and Ad, their meaning and importance grew. He was now my responsibility and knowing what was to come, I wasn't going to be lax in my training, even if that meant pushing him further and faster than he might otherwise be.
In the other timeline, Anakin had used a Djem-So base, and I felt that would still be the case with him in this timeline, but I wasn't going to assume. Before he reached the point of creating a personal style – in about four or five years I hoped – he'd have solid bases in every one of the six base Forms, their variants, and anything else I trained him in. From there, the choice of style would be his alone, though I'd continue to nurture and guide its development to overcome any flaws I saw within it. And, if the worst happened, know how to overcome him.
A beep from the intercom in the training area drew my attention and I moved toward it. Anakin would continue as he knew to not stop unless told to do so; the times he had in our first week together ensured he understood the consequences of assuming. "Yes?" I said as I answered the call.
"They're here," Simvyl responded from the cockpit.
I resisted the urge to say 'finally'. We'd been in orbit of Dagobah for three days now, waiting for HK and R2 to arrive with the Scimitar and I was beginning to fear they'd gotten into trouble. Or more accurately, HK had incited trouble to amuse himself. "I'll be there shortly," I said before closing the channel and turning to Anakin. While he'd not stopped, he had slowed his movements. "You, however, will remain here training."
"But I want to see HK and R2," he half-whined, though credit where credit was due, he didn't stop.
"I'm aware you do, but life, and the Force, rarely give us what we want, when we want it. Now continue your training." I walked toward the door, not letting him get in a reply, and exited the training area. "And you'll train every day as I instructed until I return," I added before the door closed behind me.
Anakin knew I'd be spending a few days on the planet, though like the others he thought I'd be meditating. Through the Force, as I quickly neared the central area of the ship, I sensed his disappointment and annoyance. However, he didn't dwell on them, which was a good sign.
Passing through the central area, I spotted Fenrir lazing – as usual – on one of the sofas. He lifted his head as I passed, allowing me to give him a quick scratch, but stayed there as I passed. Entering the cockpit, through the viewport I saw the faint, but growing, sight of an approaching vessel, though my attention ended up on the holo-display.
"Query: Might I ask why you chose this pitiful, empty planet to meet, Master?" Even as a small, blue hologram, HK retained his snark and presence.
"Because it's such a pitiful and empty planet, in a sense," I replied as I slipped into the pilot's seat, the chair shifting to welcome me and deepen the connection I shared with Raven. "That vessel, I feel, is important. However, I don't have the time to devote to learning its secrets currently, nor do I wish to lose the pleasure of your and R2's company by assigning you to handle the investigation. And although I could give it to the Jedi," a flicker of HK's visual receptors suggested his thoughts on the matter, "I fear they'd waste the potential the Scimitar contains, or somehow mess it up so badly the vessel ends up back with the Sith."
"Observation: Given what I've discovered about this era's Jedi, I believe you are correct in that assessment, Master. Hypothesis: I would speculate that this vessel returning to the Sith is the more likely outcome."
"Aye," I replied with a chuckle. "Dagobah is, for all intents and purposes, an empty world that no one cares about. It's full of organic life, but few if any ever venture here and it's unknown or ignored by the overwhelming majority of the galaxy, like millions of others. With the system being slightly isolated, that lowers the chance anyone would come here for any reason, making it an ideal place to store the vessel until I have time to examine it fully and repurpose it. Potentially even finding someone I'd trust to fly it for me."
I did hope that Maul might be that person, but I knew the chances of that were extremely low. He'd not have any sentimental attachment to the Scimitar, but if he could, by some miracle, be persuaded to ally with me, then returning his ship would be a good way to secure his support, if not begin to earn his trust. That, however, was a pipe dream for years down the road.
"Analysis: A logical decision, Master. However, I feel there may be better locations where this vessel could be stored. Addendum: It has many enhancements that few other ships would possess. Certainly, more than the flying meat sack you choose, Master."
The lights in the cockpit flared as random, furious patterns flicked and rushed around making clear Raven disliked the comment. It was hardly a surprise though as HK had made similar comments before, but had at least respected Raven for her speed, though he put that down to her mechanical components and me. He wouldn't, however, limit his dislike of her lack of weapons, which was something I agreed with. The issue was her organic frame made it difficult, if not impossible, to add anything without risking damage to her.
The Mandalorian mechanics that had examined Raven before Naboo had agreed with my assessment, though they, like HK, felt cutting through Raven's flesh was necessary. All of them failed to understand that Raven was alive and connected to me in ways they'd never comprehend. That said, I was hoping to find someone capable of crafting a method to add weaponry, even if it was just simple laser cannons, ion weaponry, or missiles, that wouldn't hurt Raven. The issue was finding someone skilled enough to do so, and trustworthy enough to allow them that sort of access to her.
"You and R2 can debrief me on the Scimitar's special features soon," I said as my hand moved over the controls, gently easing Raven closer to the formerly Sith vessel. "Once we're closer I'll come aboard for a tour." With that, I closed the channel and spoke to Simvyl. "As planned, I'll be heading down to the surface with the droids. I don't know what's down there, but between the three of us, I doubt it'll be a challenge. Even as damaged as I am," I added, mocking my injury. "Regardless, I need the privacy, and my presence in the Force should be camouflaged enough in a place where it's so abundant to allow me to meditate on my plans."
"Should I monitor Anakin's training?"
"Yeah. He knows what he needs to do, and how long he has to practise, but like any child, he'll be easily distracted. Something Fenrir will encourage as his boredom grows."
"I suggest you speak with Fenrir before you leave," Simvyl suggested as Raven pulled alongside the Scimitar, and I programmed the docking tube to extend once we were aligned.
"Aye, I'll do that."
Standing, I walked back to the central area and found the tuk'ata still lounging around. He lifted his head when I approached this time as if sensing I wished to speak with him. "I'm going to be gone for a few days and need you to keep an eye on Anakin and Simvyl," I said as I scratched him under the chin, drawing a content growl from him. "Just don't distract Anakin while he trains, and when I've finished I'll let you have some time to see what you can hunt on the planet."
A snort was his way of agreeing, the promise of a hunt helping him accept being stuck onboard Raven for a few more days. With that done, I turned and walked toward the docking ramp. This time I'd be using the docking tube, which was the first time it had been needed since I'd bonded with Raven.
As I neared the docking ramp, I grew curious about what features Maul's vessel contained, and what information the droids had drawn from its databanks. While most would be protected, I hoped some of it could be deciphered to allow me an insight into not only where the vessel had been, but what Sidious' plans were.
… …
"Observation: I find this world reprehensible, Master. It is covered only in flawed, chaotic, organic life." R2 let out a series of low, drawn-out beeps and whistles that I knew meant he agreed. "Addendum: The astromech agrees."
"Yes, I'm aware of that," I replied with a smirk as I moved forward slowly, taking care of my footing. With only one hand to use, I had to ensure my footing was secure before taking each step. "However, for what I need to do, this is exactly what I require," I added, glancing back toward the droids, though my gaze travelled beyond them; toward the mountain range we'd been hiking away from for about an hour.
Well, it was as close to a mountain range as existed near the swamps that covered around half of the planet. The rest of the world was covered by jungles, bayous, or cold bogs with the only difference between the various climates being temperature. For the scans we'd taken in orbit, while the planet had little in the way of lakes or seas, the majority of the land was damp.
Not wanting to store the Scimitar in a swamp, and risk it suffering the same fate as Luke's X-Wing did before Yoda freed it, I'd piloted Maul's vessel down toward one of the few points of higher elevation. Closer scans had revealed some caverns, and while none were initially ideal, one had been discovered that was closer to the size we needed.
Thankfully the cave had been easy enough to enlarge so the Scimitar could slide inside – though it was a tight fit – and the cave wasn't like the one Luke had entered near Yoda's hut. Not that I had any clue where that was on the planet, nor was I interested in discovering it.
Before the Scimitar was placed inside the enlarged cavern, the datacore had been copied to three isolated datapads. Each of those had their ability to connect to nearby networks or the Holonet disabled on the off chance that accessing the data the ship stored resulted in an automated distress signal to Sidious. Those datapads were added to a new slot in my Inventory, and while I still had room if I stored the various datapads in a small sack to take up a single slot in my Inventory, I had enough room to not yet need to do that. Even after Bo had insisted I load up my Inventory on supplies that I and Anakin might need; be that for combat or survival.
The various droids on the Sith vessel had been disabled and scanned as well, and while I had little interest in interrogation or security droids – not with HK around – the probe droids piqued my interest. When time allowed, I planned to stop off somewhere and acquire several models of the small, fast-moving droids. I wasn't sure if I'd have much need for them, at least not after Natural Evolution, but it was better to have them just in case. Plus, I suspected Anakin would enjoy taking a few apart, seeing how they worked, and determining ways to improve them.
HK had pointed out the main droid onboard the Scimitar before we'd descended, even commenting that it was a worthy opponent, and maybe even a useful ally if its programming could be altered. I'd look into that in later years, but for now, it was depowered like the other droids, and as an added protective measure, disassembled and stored in different locations aboard the vessel with the head inside a secured crate that would only open when a very long code was entered into it. Or if someone used a lightsaber or similar device to slice the crate open.
The cave had been sealed first with some larger boulders I'd lifted into place with the Force before HK had used his blasters on a different setting to melt the stones at their edges, all but fusing the cave shut. Over time, the local fauna would grow and cover the clearly sealed cave and hide the location from any that might venture to the planet, and Simvyl had used Raven to lock our coordinates so when I, or someone I sent, came to retrieve the Sith vessel I'd know where to look without having to rely on the Force.
"Query: How long will this process take?"
"I don't know, which is why you and R2 will guard me while I meditate," I replied as I used my beskad to cut a branch that was blocking our path. I could've used my shoto lightsaber but had decided against it. While the plants would grow back, there was always the slim chance that someone would come here and recognise the distinctive way a lightsaber cut and burnt a target. "You're free to eliminate any threats that approach," I continued as I saw that beyond the cut branch was a downed tree; one that I'd not be able to climb over with only one hand. "That said, I'd prefer if you didn't kill everything on the planet while I commune with the Force," I added as I used the Force to jump onto the downed tree before turning back to the droids.
"Clarification: What percentage of extermination would be acceptable, Master?" As HK asked that, I used the Force to lift R2, the astromech beeping worriedly as I did so.
"Any that approach after a warning shot are fair game, but I don't want to awake to find the earth scorched around us." As I set the rules I set R2 down on the other side of the tree. At the same time, HK leapt, the servos in his legs granting him the power to leap clear over the downed tree and me. "However, if your scanners detect a large group of creatures approaching, establish a perimeter with a five-hundred-metre radius minimum around me. Once I awake, if all goes well, I'll have Simvyl land Raven and then you and Fenrir can go hunting if you'd like."
I leapt down from the tree, my boots squelching into the mud, which made me grimace. While I detested sand because of events on Tatooine, my dislike of swamps went back to my former life and every training or active operation that had taken place in swamps, jungles, and the like. Dagobah would be useful for hiding the Scimitar and taking Natural Evolution, but I'd be happy when we left.
"Musing: While the tuk'ata is a quadrupedal meatbag, it is efficient at tracking and removing targets. Addendum: Though I would prefer if you would allow me to burn the world clean of offending organic life, Master."
"Oh, I know that," I said with a chuckle. "But the idea is to hide the Sith vessel on this world, not draw attention to the planet by having it be vastly different from Republic records by letting you be happy."
"Objection: I am a droid, Master, and as such superior to any organic and not ruled by emotions. For which I am eternally grateful." That drew another chuckle from me, though I chose not to teasingly respond that while he might be a droid, he was built by an organic.
My focus turned to the world around us. I'd had Detection on since we'd landed and had been using Sense Force ever since we'd entered the swamp proper to find an area particularly strong in the Living Force. At the same time, I wondered if the Force itself might be trying to guide me. While I couldn't fully interact with it due to the Interface, I suspected the Force wanted the blocks between us removed as well, though I did wonder if its reasoning – if it was capable of such a thing – would be the same as mine.
That concern that after Natural Evolution I'd be open to the Force guiding me places was one that had grown the closer I'd come to Dagobah, but I knew what I was doing was the right choice. The Force had hinted to others that I, alongside Anakin, had a role to play in changing the fate of the galaxy, but I assured myself that I wouldn't become like most Jedi in allowing the Force to blindly guide me toward what it desired. Nor that I'd become like a Sith and bend it to my will. Plus, there was also the fact that if I took Player+ I'd never be able to take on high-level Council members, never mind people like Sidious, Yoda, and Windu.
… …
"You remember your orders?" I said as I settled onto a section of dry ground. That I'd found even that was a small miracle and after a few hours of trekking I'd taken it and sat down upon it in a standard meditation position.
"Mockery: No, Master, I don't. the thirteen previous times you've made clear our orders since you boarded the Scimitar were insufficient for either myself or the astromech." R2 beeped and whistled in amusement at HK's response. While not yet as snarky as he'd become in the other timeline, or even close to HK, the hints of the personality that developed over a decade were there already. Given I had no plans to wipe his memory regularly, as I wouldn't with HK, that made it even more likely he'd develop the expected personality. Not wiping a droid could be a security risk, but given HK and R2 were my personal droids, and the former was skilled in killing everything from a Jawa up to a Jedi, and the latter would learn how to defend himself and be upgraded over the next few years, I felt little concern at the idea someone might learn something I didn't want them to from the droids.
"Very well. I hope you can obey them and not reduce this world to molten rock while I commune with the Force."
After getting the final word, I closed my eyes and accessed the Interface, specifically the notice regarding the upgrade for the Interface and then selected Natural Evolution.
Player's Body might seem the less useful of the two in dire circumstances, but it had more obvious and useful everyday bonuses. Beyond the increased Stamina Regeneration it offered, and the fact it meant I didn't actively sweat – something several people had commented on and, if the Power was removed, they would notice – it was because of Player's Body that I was alerted when I was wounded, and was able to push on when anyone without the Power might not be able to do so. Something I'd, unfortunately, seen in a dire situation when I'd lost my forearm to Maul as without the Power, I felt I'd have gone into shock over the injury, and thus lost my duel to the Zabrak.
That was what I'd expected, as I'd had to sleep off the last upgrade to the Interface, though there I'd not had the choice of how to evolve it. That this one would take longer was entirely logical. Unlike the last one, which seemed to just unlock and adapt a few of the various sections of the Interface, Natural Evolution was going to entirely remove what was in my opinion the most critical part of its function: its regulation of and control of my Force connection.
While things like this, and many of the more technical elements of the Interface, had me still questioning if I was truly sentient, and not just a puppet for some higher power to control and manipulate, I knew there was little I could do about that. Thus, I pressed Yes and took a deep breath as the text shifted around.
… …
I slumped forward, jolted awake, and blinked. My eyes scanned around, quickly finding HK and R2 standing not far away; HK's blaster was held comfortably in his grasp as he and R2 watched the area. My mouth opened to call out, to let them know I was awake, only for the sound to die in my throat.
Instead, a gasp slipped from me as my mind was submerged by… everything.
The world around me was alive, and while I'd known that before, now I could feel it, sense it, experience it. My hands came to the side of my skull as my mind was flooded with the voices(?) of everything around me, of the connection between the sparks of life – be they big or small, flora or fauna, and of every possible kind – held with the Force. And now with me.
Before I'd been able to faintly sense them through the Interface and the Force, but with the former gone, my mind was experiencing the true depth and scale of what an open connection to the Force brought. It was glorious and incredible. Even though I had known that my connection to the Force was muted in comparison to other Jedi or Sith, I had thought that I still understood what it meant to be connected, at least on an academic level.
I had no idea. It was as if I had been calling myself a painter and learning all of the best brush-strokes and techniques, but without being able to actually see any of it. Or as if I had been a musician who thought himself world-class, without realising that he was tone-deaf.
I could feel everything around me as if it was me. The rhythmic pulsing of life from a hundred million creatures, some so small I'd need a microscope to see them, some longer than Raven, was rushing into my mind, overwhelming my defences as I struggled not to become swept away by this rising tide of near-sensory overload.
They were there, I knew that, yet even though the memories of my lessons on the Force over the last decade were still present, whenever I tried to focus on one, the Force seemed to push it aside. Almost as if it wanted to take me over, to become one with me. To make me a part of it.
Somewhere to my left, I felt the exhilaration of moving in for the kill, and panic as I understood something was about to die. My head snapped to that side, wanting to understand where the sensations, the feelings, were coming from.
Instead of finding something to use as a lifeline, I found my thoughts surging outward in a hundred, possibly a thousand different directions. I could feel the wind race over feathers, even as I slid through the mud, my tongue flicking out to find food. I jumped high, clearing something in my way, and then crashed into the water at the same time I experienced my legs, all six of them, moving in sync as I worked with others to rip apart something. I pushed through something thick, almost solid, yet it felt as if I was built to do so. Every memory, every experience happened concurrently as I grasped my skull with my hand.
Rolling to one side, I dry heaved, the sensations slowly drowning me even as I understood I needed this to stop. I needed to regain control before I lost myself in the sensations I was experiencing through the Force.
The ground near me shook, and opening my eyes I saw HK standing over me. I knew he was speaking, and could make out the distinctive, sardonic tone of his vocal actuator, yet the words were lost in the chaotic symphony that was assaulting my senses. Yet, for all that I knew I needed this to stop, I wasn't sure how to do so. I was unable to bring forth the memories of closing myself from the Force to draw on the teachings.
A gasp rushed from me as I felt another presence crash against me within the Force. Yet this one was different and familiar. Locking onto it, using it as a lifeline, I understood in an instant that it was Anakin; the boy reaching out from orbit to help.
His attempt was rushed, unfocused, and unrefined, but incredibly powerful. Even as I used his presence to stabilise myself, I understood that this was what Anakin was. A storm slowly forming on the horizon, one that if unchecked, could bring about untold chaos and damage. Yet, as I slowly felt my mind return to some semblance of control, I saw a way to harness the Force storm that was Anakin. As if with the Interface no longer blocking my connection, I understood what I could help Anakin become, what I could mould him into.
That, however, would have to wait for later. For now, I needed control, and with my thoughts slowly returning to me, with my mind no longer being pulled in a myriad of directions and ways, I knew what I had to do. "E-enough," I growled through clenched teeth even as I sensed other presences with Anakin's; those of Raven and Fenrir.
The word had barely emerged from me before I felt everything dull down. Everything I'd been sensing and experiencing lessened, from the animals whose worlds I'd seen glimpses of through their eyes, the life flowing through the various fauna of the world, and even the lifelines that Anakin, Raven, and Fenrir had thrown me, slipped away. The Force, or at least my connection to it, was blunted and dulled once more and I sighed in relief as my mind was my own again.
I stayed where I was, looking up at the dull, overcast sky of Dagobah and taking long, slow, deep breaths, letting my body recover from what I'd just experienced. I'd known that removing the Interface from my connection with the Force was going to make things different, but what I'd just experienced… words failed to fully describe what it felt like to truly be connected to the Force. However, before I allowed that connection to resume as it should, I needed to train myself to limit the inflow of sensations. For now, the Force would remain distant while I locked myself off from it; held behind the barrier I'd managed to erect after Anakin's lifeline.
"Query: Master? Are you well?"
I turned to look up at the assassin droid, my heart rate returning to normal. "I," even saying the short word hurt and I gulped hard, trying to soothe my throat. I didn't think I'd been exposed to the full brunt of the Force for long, but perhaps it had been longer and more stressful than I'd realised. Not trusting my words for now, I nodded in response and using my arms, eased myself up to a seated position.
Once there, I saw the small flask I'd placed down before meditating, and after popping the cap, took a long but slow sip, soothing the rawness of my throat. "I'm fine, HK," I said once I felt ready to speak again. My voice was hoarse but at least it didn't hurt to speak. "It's just that when I emerged from my meditation, something had changed."
His optical receptors dulled, making clear he was curious or concerned, though the beeping from R2 was only the latter. HK was built to detect lies, so he'd know I wasn't being entirely truthful, but he also wouldn't push unless he felt it was important. Though that ability to sense falsehoods was one I planned to exploit heavily in the coming years, as if I could reach the point where I could convince HK that I truly believed the Republic was run by Ewoks – or something equally as insane – it would do wonders for my Charisma-based social skills, especially Deception. "I think I've overcome the block in my connection to the Force, but I can't say for sure."
"Analysis: I do hope you have done so, Master. While you are skilled, you lack the… flair one would expect of a Jedi. Especially for one descended from the Creator. Addendum: In many ways, the small meatbag designer has a better understanding of how to use the Force in non-mechanical ways than you do."
"Aye, he does. And thanks, I think," I replied slowly. The flask had been placed down while he spoke, and I'd moved around to begin to stand. "How long was I meditating?" I asked once back on my feet.
"Answer: Three days, twelve hours, Master."
"Bit longer than I expected but okay." As I spoke, I stretched my arms, mimicking what I should be doing but that, thanks to Player's Body, I didn't truly have to do so. At least not on a physical level. Three and a half days was around the mid-point of the time the Interface had said it would take to upgrade itself and free the Force from its filtering. "How much of the local fauna and flora have you reduced to atoms?"
"Statement: Not nearly as much as I would have preferred, Master. Most creatures kept their distance after a warning shot. A handful of the larger, more aggressive species failed to heed the caution, and I was most efficient in ensuring they learnt the error of their ways." R2 rocked from side to side and beeped wildly, the volume making me wince. "Amendment: The astromech also drove off several creatures, Master. Though he failed to ensure those creatures were removed permanently."
I chuckled at that and placed a hand on the assassin droid's shoulder. "Not everyone, be they organic or droid, can be as efficient as you, HK. Otherwise, the galaxy would be a far emptier and less enjoyable place."
"Affirmative: Yes, Master." HK looked past me and then R2 before continuing. "Assessment: While I would miss the chance to regularly remove meatbags, I believe those that remained would be a higher quality target. Perhaps sufficiently higher than the less regular combat would be acceptable. Addendum: I am, however, unsure if I would find the longer durations between combat tolerable."
"Speaking for myself, I wouldn't. I'd grow bored as shab with nothing to do."
Before HK could reply, my vambrace beeped. My arm came over instinctively to open the channel, only for me to pause when I saw the missing forearm. Sighing at making that mistake again, and wondering how long it would be until I could get a replacement limb – and if that might remove the phantom pains – I reached into my belt with my hand and pulled out a commlink. "Yes?" I said as I used the commlink, barely able to restrain my annoyance at myself for making the mistake again.
"Well, your response suggests you're at least awake," Simvyl replied, and while I'd limited my connection to nothing more than a trickle, I could faintly sense his amusement. "Anakin, Raven, and Fenrir all reacted badly about twenty minutes ago. Once I'd gotten them calmed down, or at least as much as I could, Anakin told me you were in trouble. Though before then, I'd not been able to stop Raven from descending no matter how much I tried to counter her behaviour."
I laughed softly at the idea my ship had disobeyed orders in an attempt to help. That was exactly the sort of thing I and Anakin would do, so it seemed more of my personality had merged with her than I'd realised. "Something did, and while it was a personal issue and might cause me problems in the short-term, in the long-term I feel it's the first step in overcoming several of my issues. As for Raven, it's fine. She, like Anakin and Fenrir, share a connection to me through the Force and would've sensed my confusion when I awoke." I looked up, knowing instinctively where Raven was, yet through the thick, grey fog that hung over this area of the planet – and possibly most of the surface – I couldn't see her. Before I'd had to actively think about using Detection to be certain where she or others were, but now, even with my connection to the Force restricted by choice, I knew with certainty where she was. Along with Anakin and Fenrir. "Should we remain here, or is there a clearing we should move toward?" I asked, pushing aside any thought of marvelling at the change in how the Force now worked, and how incredible it felt to simply know something without having to consider it.
"One moment," Simvyl said before the channel went silent for about half a minute. "There's a large enough clearing about five klicks southwest of your location. Sending coordinates now."
My vambrace beeped, confirming reception of the data. It then, on programming, displayed our location and our destination. "Got it. See you there. Oh, and tell Anakin I'm fine, and thanks." With that, I closed the channel and slipped the commlink back into its pouch. Simvyl would be confused about the thanks, but Anakin would understand, and it should reassure him that I was fine. Or as fine as I was going to be until I gained a handle on how to properly use and interact with the Force.
"Come on," I said to the droids. "While it shouldn't take us long to reach the RV, the sooner we leave, the sooner we can get off this world." I took a step before pausing and giving HK a wide smile. "If anything gets too close, feel free to respond without a need for a warning shot."
"Affirmative: That is most agreeable, Master. I have grown tired of having to warn such primitive meatbags about their purpose. Musing: I wonder if I might use some of my more advanced armaments. I was unable to use many upon Naboo due to your instructions to avoid civilian casualties and protection of the meatbag ruler."
"Again, so long as you don't level the area we're in, or risk giving way that we've been here, feel free to enjoy yourself."
"Exclamation: Oh, I will, Master, I will."
R2 gave out a long, low, sad beep and I reached over, patting his dome. "It's ok. I'm sure Anakin and HK can suggest modifications so you're better able to defend yourself and assist HK in future." R2 beeped happily at that.
"Agreement: Oh yes, Master. I have many ideas on how to enhance an astromech." I laughed at R2's reaction to HK's comment as it seemed the astromech was suddenly fearful of what the assassin had planned. Keeping the amusing thought in mind, I resumed walking, plotting out the quickest path to the rendezvous location.
As we walked, I started running through the change that had occurred. There were notices about the change flashing in the bottom corner of my vision, but I decided to leave them for a moment, focusing on how it felt as if things had changed. It was clear that with the Interface gone, I'd been blasted by the full, unfiltered connection with the Force that had held, which placed me in a unique position.
Everyone else in the galaxy was born with their connection unfiltered, be they someone with barely any connection right up to beings like Yoda, Sidious, and Anakin. They'd learnt before they could even understand what they were to accept and harness that connection. Sharing a connection with the Force was natural to everything in the galaxy, be they sentient, fauna or flora. Well, except for any race like the Vong, though they seemed to come from beyond the galaxy so perhaps that was why they weren't connected to the Force.
I, however, didn't have that natural, had always been there, connection with the Force. Or at least, I'd not had it until less than thirty minutes ago. That meant I was going to have to learn to process and accept this change, and while it would take time – something I'd expected by my research on Force sects I could visit with Anakin over the next few years – it might allow me a unique perspective and ability.
When we'd shown the Force suppression room aboard Mtael's Gift several years ago, Fay and Dooku had both reacted badly to the sudden suppression of their connections. Dooku had been unbalanced and unnerved – though he hid it well. Fay, however, had reacted as if having a limb torn from her body. Given she'd spent centuries relying on the Force, being in tune with it and having it help her slow her ageing – or so I assumed – the sudden loss of that connection had drawn a major reaction from her.
With me now being able to experience what the Force truly was, or at least have a proper connection to it, I could see how losing that connection would affect those with high Force sensitivity. I couldn't comprehend Fay's pain that day, and I hoped I never did, but I had an idea of what she'd have experienced. The difference was that I knew how to think and work without the Force, and thanks to Eidetic Memory would never forget it. In theory, if I was ever exposed to a field like that about the Lokella station again, then I'd be able to handle the sudden loss of what would feel like part of my soul. Or I would, I hoped, once I'd learnt to control and temper my connection, so it didn't overwhelm me.
I shivered as I realised that, and that with the filter provided by the Interface gone, being fully exposed to the Force – or at least the Living Force on Dagobah – I'd come very close to ending up comatose. It was only through the actions of Anakin, something I had to believe he either knew instinctively or the Force guided him to do, that I didn't and was able to retain just enough control to limit my connection to the Force.
Without knowing or understanding how, he'd reached out from orbit, to help. That spoke not just to how strong his connection was, but how deep my connection to the Force could become – or close to it anyway as I didn't have quite as high a Force Potential as him – how easily the Force came to him, and how strong, after only a few years of limited contact, that our bond had become. And it made me wonder how I'd react when I next saw Serra, as for everyone else that I would encounter, she was the one who I had the deepest connection with and was strong in the Force. However, my focus for now was on Anakin. The level of power he had to, without knowing what he was truly doing, reach out across thousands of kilometres to help me was frightening and possibly terrifying.
Now, differing species and sentients had differing definitions of what terrible meant, but even allowing for that Anakin had the potential for amazing things. Before this, I'd known he was powerful, both from what Observe revealed and from sources before my emergence into this universe, but knowing of it and experiencing it first-hand were two entirely different things. I had my first true glimpse of what he, and possibly I, could do, and the sort of power he held, and could potentially wield… I understood so much more clearly why Sidious was so interested in Anakin. Why the boy was the Chosen One.
While the gap between our midi-chlorian counts was small, at least compared to that of myself and many others, I felt the gap between us, and what we might be able to accomplish could be greater than any I might have with sentients like Yoda or Sidious. The difference there was, at least for now, those two and others like them – such as Fay, Dooku, and Plagueis – was that they had decades or centuries of training and experience to draw upon. All I could do was train Anakin to be what he should be, and at the same time learn from him how to fully understand, accept, and use the Force so that both of us could surpass everyone that had come before.
That realisation brought forth a rush of excitement, along with a hint of terror, as I understood that I had to ensure Anakin was ready for what awaited us. I also had to ensure I was ready as well, though I felt reasonably confident that I could regain my Force abilities over the next few years; training Anakin was going to push me to do so lest I fail him and by extension doom the galaxy to the rule of the Sith.
That was why I'd gone to the Celebratus Archive on Obroa-Skai before engaging the upgrade, not only to find this world but for the locations of possible Force sects and other groups that might be able to help with our training. Knowing now that I'd have to work almost from the ground up to rebuild my abilities, and ensure Anakin was trained, I'd re-examine the sects and determine which order to attend them in. All I'd need was time to do so, and while I felt I'd have that for a few years, I couldn't spend too long with the training otherwise I'd be out of the loop preparing for the wars to come.
"Query: Master, are you perhaps using the Force to ensure we are undisturbed?" I paused at HK's question and turned back to face him, curious what he was saying. "Observation: While we've only travelled one point-zero-two kilometres, the creatures nearby have all chosen to withdraw or remain further away since you awoke. Extrapolation: It appears as if they're afraid of approaching. Theory: Perhaps the change you spoke of has in some way affected the local fauna, persuading them to withdraw. Conjecture: It might also explain the marginal decrease in temperature of zero-point-three-one degrees that has occurred since you ended your meditation."
"I don't thin…" my words trailed off mid-sentence as I understood HK was onto something. "Um, yeah, that might be because of me," I said, changing tack as I worked out what the temperature change and the reason for the local animals withdrawing was.
Without the Interface, I'd lost Dark Side Masking, which meant my ability to hide my, for lack of a better word, taint from everything and everybody. While there were no other Force users around to sense it – at least bar Anakin though he was currently nearby – the beasts of Dagobah would. From what King Adas had spoken of, those strong in the Force and with some experience in bending it to their will could generate a dangerous aura. One that not only persuaded others to stay away but could alter the environment around them.
From what HK was saying, that was what was occurring, but I wasn't doing it consciously, and even with my connection to the Force heavily muted, enough of my power was radiating outward that it was having a marginal effect on the local area.
Closing my eyes, I searched inward, seeking out the Force that flowed through me. Adas had spoken of how to drop out or nullify this ability to project power, but I'd not taken it on fully back then; the Interface simply applied what he was teaching to the Force Powers of Dark Side Masking and Force Suppression. Now, with that all gone, I had to learn to use the ability properly, which with Eidetic Memory ensuring I remembered everything I'd ever seen, heard, or been taught, the lessons were quickly back at the forefront of my thoughts.
The ability to shield and cloak oneself from detection by others in the Force was something I felt Anakin – and possibly Palpatine – could do so naturally that if one didn't know the truth, or had a way to sense Force Potential as easily as I did, then they'd never realise how powerful the person they were speaking with could potentially be. I suspected with the Sith it was a taught ability, one that had evolved from lessons Adas and others had created back when the Sith were a species and not a Force sect as both Sidious and Plagueis could stand before Jedi High Council members and give no hint of the power they wielded.
Listening to Adas' words in my mind, I slowed my breathing, focusing ever deeper inward. Eventually, I felt what I was looking for: The point where it seemed as if I and the Force connected. This wasn't just a single point, but all and none of me as the Force was in everything, yet with the lessons from Adas, Dooku, and a few others to draw on, and knowing the strongest hint of the Force would be centred around my bond to Anakin, I was able to find what I needed.
The connections to the Force, and through it, others, were still there, but as I'd intended earlier, they'd dullened. I wasn't, however, fully cut off from the Force as I could faintly sense Anakin, Raven, Fenrir, and others, though bar the first three everything was far weaker, as they were far more distant or lacked the connection through the Force I shared with that trio. It was around the edges of those dullened connections that I found what I was looking for. I could sense my Force presence slipping out at those edges and permeating with the Living Force around me.
Knowing I was far from skilled enough to entirely shut off the seepage of my taint, I instead focused on dulling my connection to the Force further, though I tried my best to ensure that the link I held with Anakin wasn't affected. I didn't need him or others worrying that something else had happened to me. Concentrating on the Force as it flowed through me, the words Fay had used once to describe the sensation, I slowly sealed off the leakage of my taint into the Force around me. If another trained Force user appeared, they'd be able to sense the taint, but I hoped what I was doing would be enough to end the subtle effect I was having on my surroundings.
As the taint was slowly contained, I sensed a subtle shift through the Force. Though she was perhaps half a galaxy away, I sensed Serra and how her feelings had changed fractionally. That slight sensation was enough for my focus to jump to my bond with her, to the connection we shared that linked us through the Force. She should, from what I knew, be back at the Temple, and while I didn't know who would continue her training, Yoda had promised me that not only would a Jedi Master finish her training, but that she'd get help to deal with the emotions brought forth by Drallig's death.
Part of me longed to speak to her, to reach out through the Force and ease her burden or speak to her, but I knew I couldn't do that currently. Fear that my action would reveal the Dark Side within me to her and others, and that without understanding what I was doing I'd somehow hurt her, stopped me from doing so. Still, as gently as I could, I sent comforting thoughts to her.
While I wasn't going to return to Coruscant any time soon, as I felt her notice my lingering feelings and react, I knew I'd contact her before I left with Anakin to train him and refocus myself after the change in my connection with the Force. The issue was that just talking to her over the Holonet felt wrong, cheap even. As if I was doing her and the memory of Drallig a disservice by not speaking with her in person. However, I didn't want to step back on the Republic capital, never mind enter the Jedi Temple. Not while Anakin was with me.
I could, in theory, drop him with Bo for a week or so, but until I had a handle on the changes I'd undergone, going anywhere near the Jedi or Sith was off the table. That left me with communication through the Force. As Serra's happiness at knowing I was safe, along with confusion and curiosity – suggesting she sensed the change in my Force connection – and some fear travelled to me through the Force, I smiled. Knowing she was as well, or at least as well as she could be, was a relief, though I did note that even at the great distance between us, her feelings came through stronger and clearer. Another little hint at just what the Interface had been restricting.
"Observation: It appears whatever you are doing is working, Master. The local ambient temperature has risen by zero-point-two-seven degrees." That wasn't quite all the way back, but it was close enough for me to be satisfied.
"Hopefully that means you'll get some target practice before we're picked up," I replied as I opened my eyes and took in the dull, damp swamp around us. Nothing appeared different, but I knew I wasn't yet in tune with the Force and myself enough that I'd be able to sense anything amiss.
"Assurance: My accuracy is within acceptable levels, Master. However, one can never be too lax in ensuring quality is maintained."
"Just don't burn down the planet while we're still on it."
"Indignation: I would never do such a thing, Master! Unlike some so-called battledroids, I'm not as clumsily built or fundamentally flawed as to commit such a mistake. Appeasement: I would only burn a world under your orders, Master."
"While I don't want that today, I won't deny there are a few worlds that I wouldn't mind seeing scorched clean," I replied as I resumed walking toward the rendezvous location. "For now, you'll have to restrict yourself to whatever fails to understand that we, not it, are the apex predators of this world."
"Exclamation: I look forward to doing so, Master."
R2 gave out a long, worried beep as he shook slightly from side to side. "Don't worry," I said, stopping and placing my hand on his dome, "if anything somehow gets past HK, I'll ensure it doesn't get to you. You're far too useful to allow some giant snake or reptile to swallow or use as a chew toy. And once we're away from here, HK and Anakin can suggest modifications so the next time we come here you can be as effective as HK in achieving dominance over the locals."
A series of loud, happy beeps erupted from the astromech, which made me laugh. By the time of the Clone Wars, in the other timeline, Anakin had ensured R2 was far beyond a regular astromech. With HK and I here to help, when war finally erupted in this galaxy, R2 would be a match for almost anything the Trade Federation, The Republic, or anyone else could deploy.
Once my laughter had died down, I turned my attention to the notices from the Interface. While I could keep an eye out for local beasts that might be a problem, I felt that would restrict HK's fun and after spending three and a half days watching me meditate in this swamp, he deserved the chance to blow off some steam.
That was what I'd expected, though the display of a percentage for Force Exhaustion was going to be useful in prolonged combat while the boost in STAMINA wasn't something to sniff at. I was sure Bo, Naz and others wouldn't complain about the increase, and that was before I learned how to properly use the Force to refresh and enhance myself. Being susceptible to the Force was a fear I'd had before choosing Natural Evolution, but given I needed the higher potential power levels for what was to come, I'd have to be cautious about how that went.
Waving away the notification of changes, I opened the next notice waiting for me, discovering it came from TPTB.
Unlike the previous message, this one was unexpected. At least regarding the free Perk Point. I'd expected something from TPTB, but they rarely if ever offered gifts, but I wasn't going to complain about it. While Perks weren't as powerful – or broken depending on how I was feeling on a given day – they were powerful and potentially offered me advantages few if any other sentient could achieve.
While I was curious about what new Perks were available to me, with 2 Player Power Points, seeing what was on offer there was my first port of call.
My eyes were drawn instantly to the only one I'd not seen before or been altered to appearing: Reveal the Hidden. As I read its description, it instantly went to near the top of the pile for selections, though I wasn't going to make any decision until I'd gone through the Perks list as well.
For simpler quests, such as training ones – though I'd not taken many over the last year or so as I'd focused on preparing for Naboo over random training of specific Skills or Force Powers – this wasn't a major thing. I'd already determined what the three or four bonus objectives were from having taken and completed – or not – so many training quests previously.
For other quests, such as Tremors of the Ancient Sith Empire, the Changing Fate quests, and quests linked to Bo, Pre Vizsla, Maul and others, it would be a major boon. Knowing what the additional targets were would, I suspect, change how I approached the quests, but it might also grant me insight into what I might have to do to complete the quests.
I wasn't sure how, if at all, it would affect The Promise of the Fallen quest given to me by Revan, as that quest didn't fit into the categories of quests Reveal the Hidden covered. If it didn't reveal anything there, then so be it, but there was a chance I was wrong on this.
Not wanting to dwell on one particular Player Power, I turned my attention to Level Boost, as along with Reveal the Hidden, it was the most likely Player Power to be taken. After reading the description, that feeling was only reinforced.
I'd already known what Level Boost was going to be, but getting the full details made it clear that I'd be taking it. I wasn't yet sure which Skills I'd use it on, but I suspected I'd use it to lift one skill two tiers and then keep the last point back for consideration later.
The other Player Powers, bar Upgraded Minimap Mark 2, were the same as before. Upgraded Minimap Mark 2 extended the ability of the Minimap to locate hidden passageways and alcoves to places hidden by either the Force or other advanced methods. That was interesting, but given what was offered by Level Boost and Reveal the Hidden, it was unlikely I'd be taking it this time.
Before I made sure of my choices, I had to example the Perks available, and after dismissing the Player Powers that was what I examined.
Again, the list was a mix of old and new offerings. Level Boost was, as had been stated after the upgrade to Natural Evolution had been applied, listed as a Perk as well. That was much like Heart of the Force, but for that, I'd needed to spend one Perk Point and one Player Power Point to bring the increase in Force Potential to a level close, but not quite at, Anakin's. Overall, there was a larger percentage of new Perks than new Player Powers and curious about them, I worked my way through their descriptions.
Enhanced Regeneration Mark2 was a simple improvement on Enhanced Regeneration Mark1. It lifted the base regeneration for PP, STAMINA, and Force Regeneration – which was no longer tracked but I felt fed into Force Exhaustion – from two times to four times the base regeneration rates. Having the ability to delay Force Exhaustion, and then recover from it quicker was certainly appealing, but nothing ground-breaking.
Overdrive was something unexpected. It would, when activated, allow me to draw on more of the Force, however, that worked, to the extent I could push beyond the limits of Force Exhaustion. The downside of the perk was that for each minute it was active while I was Force Exhausted, I would damage my body. Any damage taken because of the perk would be immune to accelerated healing, be that from the Force or something like bacta, outside of permanent injury caused by the perk.
The ability to have a way to push far beyond my limits with the Force was interesting, and when fighting against someone on the level of the High Council or a Sith Lord, might well be useful. Though it would be, I hoped, a long time before I had to confront anyone on that level. Additionally, the perk had a time limit of an hour, and if it was active for that long, then without immediate attention, I would die from the damage taken.
It was certainly a perk to consider for the future, but as of now, was not one I was giving any serious consideration to taking. The same couldn't be said of Mind Abilities Affinity.
That perk was if I was reading the description correctly, something beyond a simple ability to use mental Force abilities. It would grant me a natural understanding of how to use the various Force powers that affected the minds of others, most of which, when I went by the old Interface listings, were Dark Side aligned. Since those powers were dangerous to use without proper training, the perk would be a massive boon, though I wasn't the sort of person inclined to manipulate the minds of others. At least not at present, and hopefully never would be.
Stellar Ace was another I'd not expected to see or had considered as possible. This perk would grant me double XP for any skill related to flying or piloting a machine. It didn't matter if the skill applied to starships in space, fighters in atmosphere, or vessels inside a liquid such as water, the XP gains would be doubled. The downside of the perk was that it would half my XP gain for any skill involved in riding a living beast. Since that wasn't something I'd done much, if at all, since emerging into this universe, it wasn't anything more than a minor inconvenience to the perk.
What did stand out about Stellar Ace, was that, if taken and then Level Boost was applied to piloting, I could, in theory, find it easier to match some of the better pilots in the Jedi Order. I didn't think I'd ever reach the level of Saesee Tiin, to say nothing of what Anakin was capable of, but it was an intriguing perk to consider. The same could be said of the Acclimatisation perks. Or at least Shatterpoint Acclimatisation.
Each Acclimatisation perk granted me the equivalent of a natural inclination toward using those powers: Force Healing, Psychometry, and Shatterpoint. It didn't, however, grant an affinity toward them, nor the ability to use the power on an almost instinctual level, such as what Master Windu was said to have with Shatterpoint.
What was interesting was that, from ten levels after taking an Acclimatisation perk, an Affinity perk would be available for it, and a further ten levels from there could offer a Naturalization perk for the power and all sub-forms of it. A further perk, which wasn't detailed or explained, would then come into play twenty more levels later that would make me one of only a handful of beings to ever truly understand the Force ability in question.
While that would be a very long road to travel, it did mean that, in theory, if I reached level 60, I could be as natural at Shatterpoint as someone like Windu. Of course, the chances of me reaching Level 60 were slim at best.
After going over the list of perks, and reviewing the older ones to see if they had changed, I found myself wondering why there weren't any for my more unusual or rare Force Powers like Phase, Teleport, and Inanimate Conversion.
Not having to spend Perk Points for affinities for powers like Phase and Teleport was a relief, and the TPTB were right that I used them semi-regularly. Losing access to Inanimate Conversion was annoying as I'd hoped, at least before learning about and selecting Natural Evolution, that I could get the power to a point where I could create beskar by simply willing it. That dream was dead, though the pathway to it and other powers was there if I so chose.
Adas had spoken on the benefits of Force alchemy, and from the few records I'd found on him, it was said the axe he used in combat had been enhanced with the Force, so perhaps that was something to pursue at a later date. Oddly though, having to work to recover and reuse that power, and possibly Restore as it might fall under the same category, felt a better choice. Having to earn the right to manipulate objects at the atomic level was something that should be earned, and not simply gained for fun. Plus, as much as it now felt like a mistake, I'd stopped focusing on Inanimate Conversion in the lead-up to the invasion of Naboo.
That, however, was a matter for another time, as was making a final choice on which Perk to take, though I would admit I was leaning toward Shatterpoint Acclimatisation simply because, even at a low level, that power had game-changing potential.
Dismissing the Perks list, I saw that, in the time I'd been splitting my focus between the Player Powers and Perks and hiking, we'd almost reached our destination. I looked up as I felt the approach of a familiar and powerful presence grow stronger.
As I gazed upward, I saw Raven slip through the low-lying clouds and felt her relief at finally being able to sense me optically. Yet, my focus wasn't on that, but on how alive and vibrant she felt. I stopped walking, to avoid stumbling as I felt her relief flood my mind, and a wide smile spread over my face. I'd known that I shared a connection with Raven because of how she'd been created and my actions in saving her when Zonoma Sekot had left, but this was the first time I'd truly felt it and it was an incredible sensation.
Raven was, in a large way, a part of me, and the joy radiating from her had an almost familial sensation to it. While her thoughts weren't clear like those of a sentient, I understood her feelings with ease. Closing my eyes, I reached out through the faint opening to the wider Force that I retained, and let her know I was well and pleased to see her again.
I gasped as an almost overwhelming surge of delight came back. After recovering from the blast, I understood that she was happy not just because I was safe, but because the bond between us was stronger and more instinctual. Lifting my hand, I reached out through the Force – widening my connection to it fractionally – and truly sensed Raven for the first time.
Power flowed through her in ways that while I understood on a technical level, I'd not truly experienced in a metaphysical way. Even a few kilometres from her, I could sense how alive she was, how the power from her core flowed through her organic circuits to the various components – be they mechanical or organic – that composed her frame. How a slight shift in one section of her body shifted the flow of energy toward her anti-gravity generators to help her turn as she descended.
The feeling of the cool, damp air of Dagobah brushing over her skin, and how she enjoyed the moisture and newness of it, was easy to pick up on. As was how she saw the various airborne life on the planet, and how all of them avoided her; understanding that she was beyond them in ways they didn't fully comprehend. Yet under the pleasure of the new experience of the planet, and her joy that I was safe and soon to be reunited with her, the desire to surge between planets, to dance among the stars shone brightly. Raven was born to fly in space, and soon she would return to what she did best, and she couldn't wait to do so.
My smile widened as I opened my eyes, and took in Raven once again. Before this change, I'd known that if Raven had died, I'd have been hurt. Now, however, I understood that if something happened to her I'd burn the cosmos to make those who hurt her, who dared threaten my daughter – which in many ways she was – learn the error of their ways. Raven was something unique, something special that had to be nurtured, treasured, protected, and encouraged to grow. Deep in my soul, I knew that there was little I wouldn't do to protect her from others. A feeling I knew she held for me.
Watching happily, I observed the way she turned in the air, her engines shifting thrusts to ensure when she landed she was facing me. While Simvyl was at her helm, Raven was the one doing the flying. The landing struts, a mixture – like much of her – of organic and mechanical – slipped from her underbelly. The spots they'd emerged from were invisible before their emergence as they blended perfectly into her skin.
As I resumed my approach, I felt her change the flow of power through her frame, reducing thrust to the engines, and she touched down with a grace comparable to any dancer I'd ever seen. The ground gently sunk, accepting her presence without breaking, and as I nodded to Simvyl in the cockpit, I sensed before I heard her ramp descending.
Before it had reached the ground, two figures – one small, the other larger, and longer – emerged from the gap. I shuddered, experiencing Fenrir's delight as he bounded toward me. A delight that his pack wasn't damaged, that his family was safe pushing aside the desire to race off and assert his position as the apex predator of this new world.
"Fenrir!" I called out as I was knocked over by the giant tuk'ata, his tongue lathering my face. "Off!"
He didn't listen, continuing to lick my face and chest as his relief that I was well, and delight flowed around us. Rolling to the side to save myself, I laughed loudly at his behaviour, and at fully feeling the connection I held with him. While I didn't have the same natural connection to Fenrir that I held to Raven, I'd known the tuk'ata longer and he'd been a part of my family, or my pack, for several years.
Even as I enjoyed the increased connection, my remaining hand tried desperately to push him back. Though given his massive bulk – his shoulder stood at my neck, and I felt he still had growing to go – even with two hands I'd struggled to restrain him when he was this happy. Thankfully, after it felt as if he'd drenched every inch of my upper body in drool, he pulled back. My arm came up, wiping at my face just enough to clear my sight, though before I could growl at Fenrir, I was knocked over again.
"CAM!" I winced as Anakin, unintentionally shouted into my ear. A gasp slipped from me as his arms tightened around my neck, though the reaction also came from how powerful Anakin's relief was.
If it had been a river, I'd have drowned in the depth and strength of his presence, and even with my connection to the Force muted, because of our physical contact, I was unable to restrict the onslaught of emotions rushing forth from the boy. From my son.
The same joy and delight, mixed with relief, that Raven and Fenrir had radiated came from Anakin, though under it all, pushed down in the hopes I'd not sense it, I discovered fear. Pushing toward it even as I wrapped my arm around his back, I was assaulted by the source of that fear.
I'd known since Shmi had died, that Anakin had latched onto me, but until now I'd not realised how important I'd become to him. I was, thanks to the adoption, his father – though he saw me more as an older brother and mentor, which I was fine with – and alongside Lia, the only people that mattered to him. With Shmi's death having been so recent when I'd awoken in panic, his fear that he'd lose me had been what had driven him to reach out for my mind.
That decision had saved me, and holding him close, I understood just how powerful Anakin could be, and would be once I finished training him. Yet, under all that, I felt a tiny sliver of terror. Anakin's need, his desire, to help and protect those he cared for was what Sidious had exploited to turn him into Vader. While I'd known it was there, and could easily recall Dooku's words about the danger that Anakin would bring out that concerning tendency of mine to risk it all to help those I cared for, it was only now, with the Force unfiltered and Anakin in my arm, that I felt I fully comprehend just how powerful, and dangerous our shared need to help could be.
However, even though that was an issue, it was one for later. The more pressing one was that, with Anakin hugging me, and Fenrir and Raven close by, I was struggling to limit the emotional overflow coming from them. knowing I had to if I wanted to keep going, to say nothing of entering Raven, I closed my eyes and once more looked inward.
There I felt for the Force again, finding the connection I held with it, and the muffle I'd placed on everything bar the bonds I shared with others. Drawing on my lessons with Fay and others, I slowly followed those instructions to dampen the emotional feedback I was experiencing. I didn't want to entirely shut down the connection I held with others, but I had to dampen the sensations from them that I was experiencing.
It took time, though I couldn't say how much, but slowly I felt the emotional tidal waves coming from the trio lessen; the strength of their feelings sliding back to more manageable levels. Once I felt I'd dulled my connection to the point that I wasn't at risk of being disorientated by sharp, intense bursts of feelings, I opened my eyes and then slowly patted Anakin's head.
"I'm alright. There's no need to worry, An'ika." The word Bo had used to describe Anakin slipping easily from me. As I said it, I swore I felt a gentle, distant shift in the Force. As if it was reacting to my use of the word and, I thought, approving. "I'm here and I'm not going anywhere."
Anakin didn't pull back instantly, but after a short time he did, and I saw his face. His eyes were red, and I was sure his tears had mingled with Fenrir's drool as he'd hugged me. "I… I thought I'd lost you. L-like mum." His voice all but died out as he finished, but given he was still all but lying on my chest, it carried to my ears easily.
I lifted my hand from his back and brought it around. Since my fingers were cleanish – Fenrir's drool ending up on the back of Anakin's shirt – I gently wiped his eyes, clearing the tears and drool that had gotten stuck there when he'd hugged me. "I'm fine. I just… for a while now I've been having issues with the Force. As if I've had a block on what I can and should be able to do. During the fight with the Zabrak, just before it ended, I had an epiphany and understood what was wrong. However, to fix the issue I needed a quiet world that was strong in the Force where I could meditate without distraction. When I awoke, the barrier that I'd been experiencing was gone; however, the change caught me unawares, At least until you, Raven, and Fenrir reached out to help."
Anakin blinked; his eyes widening and a frown forming as if he understood something. "That's why you seem different," He muttered.
That comment had me frowning, though it was less that he could sense the change in me, but that he might sense the taint from my usage of the Dark Side over the years. "In what way?" I asked carefully, wondering if I could use him to gauge when I'd recovered the full ability to mask my presence – be it just the Dark Side, or the full breadth of my Force connection – from others.
His frown deepened. "I'm not sure," he began slowly, his face twisting as he thought on the matter, and I struggled to not chuckle at his expression. "It's like, before, even when you were nearby, it felt as if you were, I dunno, distant. What was there was powerful but in a good way. Now though," he paused, his eyes searching mine for something. "It's like I'm standing on a beach on Gaia, looking at an ocean." A flicker of a smile came to his face, as it always did when he thought of seeing oceans. "It's massive, stretching further than I can see but… there's clouds in the distance. A storm brewing maybe. And under the surface… there's something there. Something dangerous." He paused and his eyes widened again. "Not that, uh, you're, um, dangerous. It's, ah, like…"
I lifted my hand to stop his rambling, and as I chuckled at the attempt to pull back his words, ruffled his hair. "It's okay. I get what you're trying to say," I said with a smile, my concern that he could sense the darkness in me easing. Yes, it was still there, but it was distant and indistinct. That I could work with; at least until I fully learnt how to hide the rage buried deep inside. "As I said, I've overcome the block I felt I had. One that, as you and others have noted, kept me distant in the Force. While I've defeated that block, it seems I need to work on tempering my control." I looked around as if searching for something, before leaning forward. "The less others know of what you and I can do, and how I've changed, the less they'll ask about us and the more we can do without anyone watching," I added quietly, in a conspiratorial way that I knew would appeal to Anakin.
"Okay, I think."
I chuckled at Anakin's confusion, which I could see all over his face and sense in the Force. "I'm not sure you do," I said, my hand still ruffling his hair, "but I'll teach you." He nodded at that, and my smile grew as I removed my hand from his head. "Now, I think it's time we consider leaving this world," I added, and he slipped off my chest.
"C-cam," he began as I slowly moved to stand. I looked at him as I shifted to my knees, sensing the fear inside grow stronger. However, as I began to stand, the fear became clearer to sense, and I understood it wasn't centred on the change he could sense in me, but was a more generalised thing. "Idontwanttobeweak."
I blinked, processing what he'd said, and once I had, looked down at him. "What do you mean by weak?" My question was said softly, and while I hadn't expected that statement from him, I had a suspicion of why he'd said it.
He held my gaze for a moment before looking down at the ground. Finding a loose stone, he kicked it, sending it hurtling into a nearby bog. "I… I'm weak. I, I couldn't s-save my m-mu," he said quietly, unwilling, or unable to meet my eyes. "I… I n-need to be st-stronger."
I knelt and placed my hand on his shoulder, and when he finally decided to look at me, I spoke. "Everything dies, Anakin. That's the way of the universe." His shoulders slumped, not liking what I was saying. "However, that doesn't mean we should just roll over and accept our fate; accept that death is coming for us. If we want to do anything or have anything, in this universe, we have to be willing to fight for it, to fight to defend it. No matter what anyone says, be they a Jedi, a politician, or some random sentient you meet on some unimportant planet in the middle of nowhere, everyone seeks to be stronger. However, for those of us able to draw upon and use the Force, we must be careful with how we channel that and other desires. The Force grants us the ability to do wondrous things, but it can also be used to do terrible things. The key is in deciding how and when we wield the Force. Do we use it for personal gain, to enrich and empower ourselves? Or do we use it to protect others, to help them grow strong enough they can defend themselves and those they care about?"
"I don't want to be weak," he repeated, seemingly not getting what I was trying to say.
My hand came to his chin and lifted it so I could meet his eyes. "You're not weak, Anakin. Your mother's death wasn't because you were weak, nor are you in any way responsible for it. The fault, if it lies with anyone, should lie with me as…"
"It's not your fault!" Anakin jumped in aggressively, the Force reacting to the massive, enraged burst of anger. "Me and Mum would've still been slaves if not for you!" I blinked, struggling to comprehend the power behind the voice. While he wasn't doing it intentionally, I could feel the Force in him shifting. As if a storm of unimaginable strength was forming not far from me. Yet, for all I could feel at the beginning, the first true inklings of what that storm might bring, I knew it wasn't ready to be unleashed; that it could still be tempered and focused.
"That is a possibility," I said to Anakin, ignoring the sensations in the Force as best I could. "However, what is certain is that, in my desire to help others, I made a mistake. One that, in the end, cost the lives of many including your mother. I thought," I continued before he could cut me off again, "that because they'd grown strong enough to protect themselves, the Lokella could help protect others. My mistake, and it was one, was not considering how important I am to many of their people. Because of that, they overcommitted to help, and left themselves vulnerable to an attack."
"That wasn't your fault!" Anakin shot back, the brewing storm I felt in the Force slowly shifting around as if changing directions. "It was the Hutts who attacked us! I want them dead!"
I stayed quiet, wanting to see if a moment of silence might settle the rapidly growing fury that radiated from Anakin. Everything about his rage was, in my opinion, justified. The Hutts, specifically Decca, had chosen to attack the Lokella when they were distracted, to strike back at losing control over those he had no right to consider his property. Yet, once more, it wasn't the cause of Anakin's rage, but the raw power that surged from the boy that caught me off guard and, as much as I knew it was wrong, impressed me.
Even now, as a nine-year-old boy, Anakin was powerful, but he was a wild beast, unable or unwilling to harness, to focus that power. He needed to refine and direct it while gaining the disciple to be the one in control, otherwise, it was easy to see what would become of him. Even with his connection to Palpatine unformed, if left as he was, it wouldn't take much to turn Anakin into Vader. Though the Vader I could see in the darkest elements of the growing storm wasn't the cold, calculated one I knew, but instead a wild, untamed monster.
In the corners of my mind, I heard whispers. Faint at first, but growing stronger as Anakin continued to rage. They were louder than before, though because I'd dampened my connection to the Force they should've been weaker, yet it wasn't hard to hear their words, the offer the Dark Side was giving. All I had to do was harness Anakin's rage, to focus it toward my goals, and when combined with my power the galaxy would cower under our weight. If I moulded him to use that anger, to harness it while remaining in control, he would become a dragon of death: He would wield a power few, if any, in the galaxy could stand against.
I blinked, realising the voices in my head, the whispers of the Dark Side were distracting me, tempting me more than I needed. The loss of the Interface now meant those offers of power would be stronger, and while I'd felt muting myself to the Force would hide them, it seemed they were even stronger and louder than before. Looking at Anakin, under the rage toward the Hutts, I saw a faint hint of fear, though I knew it wasn't for himself. No, this fear was for me. Almost as if he had some inkling of understanding of what dwelled within him.
"I know you want them dead, Anakin," I said slowly, being careful of my words. "Yet, while the Jedi would tell you to simply let go of your anger, and your feelings toward your mother, I won't. Nor will I tell you to give in to that anger as a Sith might. What I will do is promise you that, with time and dedication, you can learn to control that rage, to control yourself." That, I could admit, was a bit hypocritical as I struggled with that, but I also knew I had to learn this lesson, so what better reason to have to do so than to protect and help my son? "That day, however, is far from today."
"How long will it take?" He asked; firmness in his voice and certainty in his stance.
"I don't know, but when you've finally learnt to control yourself; when I, HK, Simvyl, Bo and others have finished training you, then know that all of us will stand with you. We will be with you when it's time for you to show the galaxy that the small, scared former slave is gone, and his place stands a warrior ready to do what he must."
Anakin blinked as I spoke, his anger shifting away, though not disappearing. "Isn't that what a Jedi's meant to be?"
"No, it's not," I replied with a chuckle. "At least according to many of the senior members of the Order. However, to me it is what a Jedi should be, what everyone should strive to be. Then again, I'm far from what most of the Order would consider a good Jedi." Fenrir growled in amusement and even though he was further away, I heard Simvyl's snort of agreement.
"Commentary: The Creator wasn't considered a good Jedi in his time, Master, nor would he be seen as one now. However, I believe he would consider you a true Jedi. Musing: Perhaps that is why he so enjoyed educating other Jedi on their inaccurate views."
I bit my tongue, not wanting to comment on the fact that Revan likely carried out those education sessions while a Sith Lord. Still, it was amusing to hear HK believe that Revan would consider me a true Jedi. He had been both Jedi and Sith and while I hoped that wouldn't be my fate, I would accept the compliment HK was offering on his creator's behalf.
Imagining how others in the Order would respond if they ever heard that comment from HK was something I'd enjoy thinking about, though I had no intention of ever sharing it with them. Bo, perhaps, might like to hear it though, as would Naz and a handful of others.
I saw that Anakin was smiling, seemingly happy with HK's remark. He'd read the first of my Knights of the Old Republic series and had asked me questions about Revan and his fate. I'd answered them as best I could without spoiling the story or putting the wrong ideas in the boy's head, but I'd avoided spoiling the surprise that was due to appear in the second book, Shadow of the Sith: that the hero of the story, the one working to save the Republic, was Revan.
Padmé, Serra, and others had asked me for spoilers about the stories as well, but I'd refused to ruin the surprise, and when the book dropped – which should be early next year – I knew I'd been getting a lot of calls about the reveal. Hopefully not from the Jedi Council or the Sith, but I expected Dooku at least to reach out.
I stood, planning to walk toward Raven only to stop as I remembered a promise I'd made. "HK, Fenrir," I said to the assassin and war beast, "we'll be leaving soon, but until then feel free to go hunting. Just don't go too far."
Fenrir howled in delight and raced away, seeking out the first challenger to his position at the top of the food chain. "Affirmative: Yes, Master. I will not take too long. Exclamation: I shall, however, enjoy removing as many detestable bestial meatbags as I can."
I laughed as he turned and raced away in the general direction of Fenrir. While the droid disliked organics, he was impressed with Fenrir's combat efficiency, considering him a useful, if not ideal, combat partner.
Once the droid was a decent distance away, I turned back to Anakin and clasped his shoulder. "Now, while we wait for those two to have their fun, perhaps we might begin your training in earnest?"
"Okay," the boy replied with a wide smile, and we moved toward Raven, R2 at our heels.
As we walked, I opened a new notice, one that had appeared while I'd been speaking with Anakin.
While the title of the quest and its description were unexpected, and a little concerning, given what I'd said to Anakin, the objectives made sense. And it would be the first of many quests I suspected that revolved around preparing Anakin for the future, and all the chaos it would bring. What was interesting was how the quest spoke of a galactic war without directly calling it the Clone Wars. That suggested that my actions had already altered the course of the galaxy and that the war wouldn't be fought by the same factions as in the other timeline.
However, before accepting it, I wanted to see where Anakin stood and used Observe on him.
Everything there was about what I'd expected, though seeing his loyalty to me was already beyond that of the Lokella was a little surprising. That there was no mention of the Jedi or Republic in his loyalties was fine, though I wondered where Bo and the Mandalorians ranked in his loyalty scale. Sadly, the Interface only ever provided the top three choices for Affiliation Loyalty; at least where they were over 50%.
Still, the targets for the Te Ad's Skira quests were achievable. Or at least the two of them were. Eight levels of growth wasn't going to be too hard to manage, not when both Anakin and I were focused on making him better and stronger. Therefore, the first objective of the quest wasn't a major issue. Ensuring Decca died before the outbreak of galactic war would also, I felt, be achievable, which left only the one to ensure Anakin was the one to remove the Hutt as a challenge.
On the overall balance, it was a worthwhile quest to take, but as it wasn't time-limited for me to accept, I wasn't going to accept it now. After the mistakes I'd made early on, which I'd paid for with the death of Master Micah Giiett and his linked quest, I'd learnt my lesson.
"Give them an hour to hunt before calling them back," I said to Simvyl as I reached the ramp. He nodded accepting my order as I headed into Raven with Anakin and R2.
Even without taking the quest, I'd be training Anakin to be capable of taking on a Jedi Master before galactic war erupted. The only questions that ran through my head were, with the changes I'd brought forth already, and those I'd cause with training Anakin, what sort of chaos would be unleashed, and how they would affect the galaxy as a whole.
All I could do was work to ensure that whatever happened, it helped with my overall goal of ensuring I didn't die when the Republic fell, and Sidious assumed control of what remained. Preferably without letting the Empire be born as anything more than a state bound to fail before it even emerged.
… …
… …
A/N: Before anyone decides to suggest it, Cam has not been nerfed. While he will have to retrain himself to use the Force, his potential is fully unlocked and, with time, he'll become capable of doing what is needed to not only survive, but potentially defeat the oncoming storm of the Banite Sith and their Grand Plan.
... ...
For that are interested, the possible Perks and Player Powers Can had to choose from at level 30.
Level 30 Perks Descriptions
Level 30 Player Power Descriptions
This story is crossposted on Fanfiction.net, Archive of our Own, and Royal Road.
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May the Force be with you. Always.
If you look a few posts up you'll find an opening crawl for the Book.
A/N: Thanks to those helping me write and plan out this story and checking it for continuality and logical errors.
This chapter was released at the beginning of the month to those who support my writing (with every level above tier 1 having seen a draft version, and the highest level seeing the redrafted form, around 2 months ago), and then about 2 weeks ago to those on the story's Discord server. Or at least those who are sufficiently active enough to have the required rank to see early bird releases.
Links for supporting my writing, or joining the Discord server, are at the end of the chapter.
3.01 Evolution and Adaption
... ...
I stood in silence, leaning against a wall in the training room aboard the Raven. Originally one of the ship's two sizable cargo holds, Bo had swiftly transformed it into a training space, a modification I chose to keep. At the moment, my role was merely that of an observer. In the centre of the room, Anakin was diligently practising a series of basic Jedi combat techniques that I had taught him sporadically over the past few years.... ...
The situation had evolved since those early days, most notably because he was now my Padawan—a fact unbeknownst to the Council. The primary change in his training regimen was his use of a blinded helmet, forcing him to depend on his other senses to navigate the intricacies of the combat form. Demonstrating proficiency under these conditions was his gateway to training in the two Mandalorian martial Arts, Beskar'pel and Beskar'rev. The former was based on mobility and was generally used by children and adults of smaller physical builds. The latter was based on strength and was generally the form used by males.
Typically, a Padawan wouldn't be introduced to a non-Jedi style of combat until their teenage years. However, Anakin was an exceptional case, which is why he was undertaking this exercise as a form of Moving Meditation, or Alchaka, as Fay and the Jedi formally referred to it. My decision to have Anakin engage in this particular exercise was driven by a need to help him divert his attention from his mother's death—his grief was palpable, even without the aid of the Force. This need became especially pressing after Dooku shared a story with me just before the invasion of Naboo.
My old Master had sought Anakin out for a training session that the boy hadn't arrived for when he was meant to. He had found Anakin in one of the hangar bays on Mtael's Gift. However, instead of instantly berating the boy for missing a session, Dooku had watched Anakin as the boy disassembled, cleaned, and then reassembled various blaster rifles belonging to the Lokella. In and of itself, that wasn't surprising, as Anakin, like his mother, had a knack for technology and often improved it in slight ways others might miss.
Dooku had paused as he'd sensed the Force moving around Anakin, being drawn upon by the boy as he concentrated on nothing but his work. My Master had asked the boy about this later, to which Anakin had been surprised as he'd not actively drawn on the Force, instead saying he simply found it relaxing to do simple tasks like cleaning blasters repetitively.
That was, in essence, what Alchaka was, which was why, only a day after leaving the Naboo system, I'd already altered his training schedule to include the advanced form of meditation. And it seemed, as he pushed through one velocity and flowed gracefully into the next, that it had been the right call.
While I'd been on Naboo dealing with the Jedi Council, Palpatine, and other matters, Bo had begun teaching Anakin the basics of Beskar'pel and had been insistent that I continue my son's training. Instead of doing that right away, I was trying to find a balance in his training. While most would be, for now, centred around Jedi techniques, I allowed some time so Anakin could begin his Mando'ade training.
Bo hadn't been overly pleased with that but accepted that An'ika – her nickname for the boy that meant Little Ani – was mine to train and that he needed training as both Jedi and Mando'ade. Her need to give him a nickname, along with an insistence to be kept in the loop regarding his training and our adventures let me tease her about having a soft spot for the boy. Though when I'd suggested that she might like a child of her own, she'd denied it and demanded a spar to settle the matter.
As with every other spar we'd had since Zonama Sekot, that had ended with us sparring in more personal ways after I'd proven my dominance once more. Though the sounds she made in the personal section of the spar made it clear she didn't mind losing to me or letting me dominate her.
I was broken from thoughts of Bo, and the smile that thinking about her brought on when I spotted a mistake. "Stop," I said as I pushed off the wall. Anakin did so, and turned my way, though he remembered to keep the visor that restricted his vision in place. "Your arm should be slightly higher," I explained, my hands moving the offending limb to the correct position, feeling the rapid beating of his heart from over an hour of the exercise. "This allows you to flow easier into the next element of the velocity."
With his arm in the correct position and my words heard, I stepped back.
"C-can. I. Stop?" He asked, taking long, deep breaths between each word.
"You can still talk, correct?" I asked, a wicked smile creeping onto my face. He couldn't see that, but he did nod in affirmation. "Then you've not finished the exercise." A faint groan slipped from his lips as his shoulders slumped. "Be mindful of your stance. Now, resume."
He did as I said, and continued from where he stopped as I continued to move back.
I turned before the door opened, and saw Simvyl in the doorframe. He waited until I'd approached, taking soft, quiet steps, before speaking. "You're sure you're not pushing him too hard?"
"This is nothing compared to what Master Dooku and others subjected me to," I replied in a hushed tone, careful not to distract Anakin. "Besides ensuring his mind isn't preoccupied with thoughts of his mother, Anakin is special—far more than others perceive me to be. He has a pivotal role in the impending darkness, and I am determined not to fail in my duty to prepare him for what lies ahead."
My eyes never left the boy as I spoke, and I watched as he moved fluidly, cleanly now I'd fixed the slight mistake, through the velocity. As I'd said to Simvyl, Anakin was important, but the first reason – that of distracting Anakin – was my primary reason for pushing him so much this early on.
Done correctly, Alchaka required complete focus and mentally and physically drained a practitioner. The practitioner emerged from the meditation refreshed with their mind cleared of distractions. Now, I'd not truly experienced that, as the Interface prevented me from truly sinking into the Force, but others had seemed that way while working through various forms of Alchaka, and I hoped it would do the same for Anakin, though it would only be a temporary measure.
We were on our way to the ShaDo system to attend the funeral of several members of the Lokella, with our focus being on Shmi. However, before we could initiate the last leg of the journey, we'd stopped for a refuel. The short voyage here had seen Anakin distracted by his feelings toward his mother. I'd pushed him hard in his training, though until we'd started using Alchaka there'd been little success in distracting his thoughts.
I had considered taking him to find a lightsaber crystal, but I dismissed the idea quickly. The logical place to go was Ilum, and that required clearance from the Council; something I wished to avoid. There were other worlds to find a crystal on, and I had several in my Inventory, but I also felt it was better to wait for such an important moment in his training until he'd moved past the death of his mother.
"The engineers report we're fully fuelled and cleared to depart whenever you wish," Simvyl said, revealing the reason for his arrival, though he could simply have called over the intercom, or to my vambrace which I still wore. "The local officials have a desire to ensure we were serviced quickly and leave with haste."
I chuckled at that, sensing his confusion and concern regarding the situation. "Most officials, be they from a Core world or one deep in the Outer Rim, like to keep the Order happy. For some, it might be because they respect the Order, but I think for most it's to get us away from whatever they're involved in that they wish to remain hidden. Regardless, I'm not going to turn down preferential, and essentially free, service."
"While I wasn't with the Rangers long, I'm enjoying the faster service, though if we didn't have other business to attend to, I feel we should stay and see just why the locals want you gone quickly."
"I have little interest in sticking my nose in everyone's business-" Simvyl snorted, suggesting he didn't believe me, "-but I agree that, if time allowed, at least a cursory exploration of the station might be interesting. However, we do have other matters to handle," I added as I watched Anakin continue his moving meditation. "Keep an eye on him and let him stop when it's clear he can't go further. However, make sure either you or Fenrir are with him." The tuk'ata was, from what I could sense, lazing around the central area – likely resting on one of the sofas after pushing many, if not all, of the cushions off it.
Simvyl nodded, accepting my instructions, and I turned and slipped past him, leaving the training area. While he was a capable pilot, Raven was prickly about who she allowed to fly her. The only people other than me and Simvyl that she allowed to pilot her were Fay and Bo. Fay, because she shared a bond with Raven – though it would be some time before my former Master would get the chance to sit in Raven's cockpit as she was still searching for Tython – and Bo because she was close to me and had spent a lot of time on Raven. That said, like with Simvyl, Raven disliked allowing Bo to do anything but the simplest of actions.
As my hand ran along a wall, Raven reacted by having the lights around my fingertips blink and pulse in soothing patterns. I wondered how the bond I shared with her – and others – would change after the Interface had evolved and the Force was freed from being filtered by it.
… …
… …
"I miss her."
"I know," I replied as I walked with Anakin back to Raven. It was a few hours after the cremation service for Shmi and some others had taken place, and we'd just come from the wake. While it had been a sombre affair, the fact that the Lokella chose to celebrate the lives of those lost, and not mourn them had, I felt, helped Anakin greatly.
While we'd left Naboo after Validus and the Lokella, who had chosen not to stay for the celebrations, we'd arrived before them, even when considering we'd stopped for a refuel in the Core. That had given Anakin about a day to spend with Ferox and his sister, Lia Skywalker.
The ceremony itself had been a quiet affair, the bodies burned in groups though separately so those who wished to spread the ashes of a loved one could do so. As the bodies burnt, Baalta had read a eulogy for them all, talking about how they may have lived and been born slaves, but they had died free. She spoke of how their souls had returned to the Great Spirit, which I assumed was a Togrutan name for the Afterlife or the Force. Those words, and the promise that so long as everyone at the ceremony remembered them, then those who had perished would never truly die.
This was further assured by the names being added to a large display the Lokella had crafted not long after they'd won their freedom. The display, which took up almost an entire wall, dominated the bay in which I'd fought and defeated Girk Saxon. The mural that had been painted there remained, but now in front of it was a statue - one made of marble - showing a variety of races fighting against an unseen threat.
That statue replaced the previous one of my battle with Girk - which had been moved down to Gaia - and dominated the bay that had been converted into a memorial for all who had fallen in defence of freedom. After the most recent attack, every new name had been added, each getting a small plaque to mark their passing, and commemorate their live and death.
Baalta's words, the plaque for his mother, spending time with his sister, and the remembrance wake had eased some of Anakin's pain, and I felt he'd begun the journey to accepting and moving on from Shmi's death. Though I knew it would be some time before he was able to not dwell on his feelings regarding her death, or showing anger toward those who'd taken her from him.
Before the ceremony, Baalta had inquired whether I would speak, but I declined. Although I played a significant role for many of the Lokella, I wasn't personally close to any of the deceased, including Shmi. Moreover, while the original Lokella members held me in high esteem, I was aware that the later arrivals attributed some blame to me for the unfortunate events—a sentiment I understood and accepted. I hoped this might moderate the excessive reverence held by the group's longstanding members towards me.
During the wake, Anakin spent considerable time with Lia while I engaged in conversation with Ferox. Despite Lia lacking the potential to fully harness the Force—her capabilities being roughly equivalent to Bo's—she remained Anakin's sister. I had no intention of depriving him of time with his mother's last remaining connection.
As we sat in reflective silence, occasionally interrupted when someone approached to offer their condolences, Ferox shared his decision to step back from combat operations. With a daughter to raise, he planned to dedicate his time to training the Lokella warriors. However, he made it clear that he would rejoin the front lines when the moment arrived to confront Decca. This was in line with my expectations, and I assured him that, barring a galactic conflict, Anakin and I would stand with him in the fight against Decca and those complicit in orchestrating the attack on the Lokella.
I'd not commented on the fact that, with Anakin by my side, I'd also be stepping back from battle for a few years. Mainly because I knew that, regardless of my personal goals, The Force would have plans for me. As might TPTB, though I hoped both would allow me time to train Anakin so that when the time came to take him into battle, he was ready for it. He might be a child now, but I knew that within a decade he'd be involved in war, so the more battles he saw between now and then, the more prepared he'd be for the chaos and carnage of warfare.
What I had promised Ferox was that, when we could, we'd return to the system so Lia could know her brother. I was sure the Council, if they learnt of this, would blow a gasket, and claim it was infringing Anakin's training as a Jedi, but given what fate awaited the Order – something I wasn't sure I could truly stop – and that I'd adopted Anakin as my son, they'd have other things to concern themselves with. It also depended on when they learnt about Anakin, as I had zero intent of going anywhere near Coruscant in the next few years.
The other side was that no matter who trained him, Anakin was the sort of person to seek out, make, and protect his friends and family. While many Jedi would have issues with that, and it was how Sidious wormed his way into the boy's confidence, I didn't. Force, I would probably strengthen it as it was a 'flaw' that I also held. Plus, I'd accepted recently that I'd never be a good Jedi; at least not how the council and many of the Order would define one.
I was drawn from my thoughts as we entered the small hangar housing Raven, and I sensed a familiar presence nearby – along with one I'd rather not face again. "Go on," I said to Anakin, letting go of his hand and gently pushing him toward Raven. "I need to speak with someone before we leave."
Anakin looked up at me, confusion in his eyes, though that faded as I sensed him reaching out through the Force. A moment later, his gaze shifted behind me, toward the entrance where I knew Dooku was approaching. After returning his gaze to me, he nodded, wiped his eyes with the sleeve of his robes, and then walked toward our home.
Once he was on board, I turned and headed toward the door, my hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of my beskad as it swung open to reveal Dooku and Vosa. The former leader of the Bando Gora, responsible for the suffering I had endured at their hands, stood a step behind Dooku. Her hands were clasped in front of her—likely at Dooku's instruction—and her gaze was cast downward. However, this did little to quell the surge of fury that overwhelmed me upon seeing her for the first time since my escape from the Bando Gora.
The temptation to use the Force to drag her across the bay, to me, and crush her throat with my bare hands was overwhelming. A thousand other methods of making her pay for the agony she had inflicted upon me flashed through my mind. I could hear the faint, unmistakable whispers of the Dark Side, promising the power to achieve everything I desired—and to inflict even greater suffering on her and anyone else who had wronged me. It urged me to shatter their minds, bodies, and souls for having the audacity to harm me. Only when they fully comprehended the gravity of their mistake would I grant them the mercy of death. Yet, such mercy would be neither swift nor clean.
I closed my eyes, inhaled deeply, and pushed those desires, those thoughts as far away as I could. If I was a good Jedi, I'd let them go, but I couldn't, and not just because of Eidetic Memory but because they were mine and I refused to let them go. Thus, I did all I could to silence those voices, and those requests, and push them back into the small, isolated section of mind where they dwelled.
When I opened my eyes, I saw Dooku had approached, and thankfully Vosa had remained near the door, though there was an odd look in her eyes. Putting that aside, I bowed as Dooku came closer. "Master."
"Cameron, I hope this is a respectable time for a conversation. I had avoided you and your Padawan earlier to not intrude on his period of personal reflection." His voice carried a slight tone, but its cause was unclear to me.
"Anakin has returned to Raven," I replied, which elicited a small nod from Dooku. "We're planning to leave shortly."
"How is the boy?" Dooku inquired.
"He's managing as well as could be expected," I responded. I gestured towards a path leading away from Raven and Vosa, and Dooku agreed with a slight nod. "He's grieving for his mother, and I've been trying to find activities and training exercises that will both challenge him and help distract his thoughts as much as possible."
"A wise decision. While he, like you, possesses great potential, he is more prone to forming deep connections with those around him, to the extent that I fear he might prioritize their lives over his own, regardless of the situation."
"That's a concern I share, Master," I said with a smirk. Although Dooku hadn't spent much time around Anakin, he had seen enough to identify what was, in Jedi terms, the boy's most concerning issue. "The saving grace is that Anakin has a way of getting along with most people, even if it sometimes means going to great lengths to help them."
"A noble trait that many Jedi share. However, his propensity to form bonds and place those he trusts above his own well-being is something you'll need to monitor closely during his training. I sense that the loss of his mother has inflicted a deep wound within him. One that, if not properly addressed, could fester and lead him down paths we'd both prefer he avoid." He paused as we reached the bay's wall, an area devoid of workers as they had chosen to find other tasks upon our approach. "I assume this concern influenced your decision to adopt him?"
"I know it's not the usual Jedi way..."
"Something you have never been, nor shall you ever be," Dooku interjected.
"...but it felt like the right decision," I concluded, choosing to overlook Dooku's soft, almost teasing remark.
"Yes, I was there and sensed the shift in the Force when you made your decision. Because of that, and a feeling that it was the correct one, I chose not to question it at the time. With space to meditate on the matter, I can see why you feel it was the correct choice, and how it might help the boy. However, I caution you to be mindful that the bond you share with Anakin doesn't draw out your shared tendencies to find yourselves in dangerous situations."
"I'm aware of that concern, Master. I hoped that having someone to train and protect might temper my more… rambunctious tendencies."
"One can only hope." The response was dry and entirely devoid of emotion. Yet, I ended up chuckling at it and his delivery. "I won't ask you of your plans, as that is between you, Anakin, and the Force, but I hope that all we've spoken of, ever since you first became my Padawan, remain in your thoughts as you train the boy and yourself into the beings I believe you both should be."
"They will, Master, and thank you for all the advice you've given. Even the parts that, at the time, I failed to understand, or am still working to decipher."
Dooku gave a nod, indicating the matter was settled. He then turned and looked toward where he'd just come from, and where Vosa still stood, her eyes watching us – watching me – intently. "I am aware of your opinions on Komari, and that you feel unready to face her given what you endured. However, she was adamant to see you and Anakin depart." My brow rose at hearing of her interest in Anakin, and my remaining hand went to my beskad. "When she met you, as… shall we say, unbalanced as she was, she saw something in you. The same spark that I and Master Fay saw. Since the death of Shmi Skywalker, Komari has become convinced that the same spark of potential resides in the boy. She has even spoken of seeing… glimpses, visions perhaps, of you and him when you're both older. As much as it pains you to hear this, those glimpses align with those we, Masters Sifo-Dyas and Nilas, and others have glimpsed."
"That is concerning," I muttered, feeling the need to remove Vosa from the board growing stronger, regardless of Dooku's opinion on the matter.
"Yes, it might well appear that way. I, however, sense it might also present an opportunity." He held up a hand, stopping me from commenting. "Before you concern yourself, I'm not suggesting you allow Komari to accompany you." If he had, I'd have made sure she was jettisoned into space once we were far enough away from the station that she couldn't somehow return. "Since she glimpsed Anakin's potential, Komari has gained a new, seemingly controllable, focus. It is almost as if she feels she might have some role to play in what is to come, to work toward bringing about what she'd seen in her visions."
"That," I paused, taking a moment to collect my thoughts before I said something I couldn't take back. "I will trust your judgement in the matter, Master. However, I have grave reservations about allowing her anywhere near myself or Anakin."
At first, I'd wanted to dismiss the idea entirely, but then I remembered my intentions regarding Maul. Even if he only became a source of information on Sith activities, he could be of use, and there was a chance – however small – that Vosa might also have some use. That didn't mean I was willing to listen to them now, however, nor might I ever be. But as I'd said, I was willing to trust Dooku on the matter. He had hoped to turn Vosa into something of use, so if this was what allowed him to achieve that, then I wasn't going to deny him the chance.
"I expected you would. However, it was something that you needed to be made aware of. In addition, you should also know that, as Shmi Skywalker was one of the few Lokella to offer Komari kindness without sympathy or dismissal, Komari had an interest in protecting her during the battle. Because she failed, Komari now sees that interest transfer to Shmi Skywalker's children; with a greater focus on Anakin because of his Force potential."
I kept my gaze on Dooku, not wanting to let my eyes drift toward the deranged bitch that stood far to my left. "I… I cannot stop you from trying to redeem her, Master, nor have I ever tried to do so. That said, I know that I'm far from ready to face her, let alone allow her near my… near Anakin. However, I know that, if he wishes to speak to her whenever we return, I won't deny him the opportunity. Though I will insist that you remain present for any such meeting."
"I admit, that is a far more considerate response than I expected. A sign of maturity coming from having a Padawan, I suspect." The corners of his lips twitched, suggesting he found the fact I wasn't rushing to judgement amusing. "That you are willing to at least consider allowing her the chance to speak, and that you can stomach being in her presence – even if it is at some distance – is a sign you are slowly recovering from your ordeal. That, perhaps, is something I am more grateful for than your acceptance of Komari's wishes." He looked behind me, toward Raven. "Have you given any consideration to where you will take your Padawan to begin his training?"
"I have, though I have several errands to run first," I raised my arm, the one missing a forearm, ignoring the phantom pain that came whenever I thought about the limb. "And even then, I can't say with certainty where we will head."
I could've told him my plans, or at least the general ideas of it, but I felt better not doing so. It was unlikely the Council or the Sith would try and force that information from him, but if either wanted to know where I was and couldn't locate me, Dooku and Fay would be their first port of call. With Fay somewhere in the Deep Core, Dooku would be their primary source, thus it was better to simply not give him any information.
"That is often what the Force wishes; regardless of how it can often leave us searching to determine the purpose for our movements," Dooku said, unaware of the momentary consideration I'd given to revealing my plans to him. He stepped forward and after giving me a look over, nodded. "While you have far to go in your training, you have travelled a great distance already, and I am proud of my role in helping shape you into the man you are slowly becoming. Wherever you go, may the Force be with you, Cameron."
"And with you, Master," I replied, smiling.
With that, we turned and walked to our separate destinations. I could've continued talking with him, as there were things I might enjoy discussing, but Anakin was waiting for me on Raven, and the longer I dallied outside, the greater the chance he might emerge and seek to speak with Vosa. Until I was ready for that, or for her to be in my presence, that would be something I'd be avoiding.
… …
… …
"Will there be anything else, Master Jedi?"
"No, that will be all. Thank you for your help," I replied to the Rodian custodian who had guided me to this private terminal room. I settled into the seat in front of the terminal.
"Very well. I will head over and keep an eye on your Padawan and pilot." I waved almost dismissively at the Rodian as I examined the terminal in front of me. It was modelled on the ones in the Temple—or perhaps they were modelled on it—so figuring out how to use it wasn't a problem.
Currently, I was in the Celebratus Archive on Obroa-Skai, a place widely regarded as the foremost library in the Republic…at least outside of the Jedi Temple or the Senate library, though having enjoyed exploring the Archives' public displays – and some of the private ones – with Anakin for a few hours, I wondered if perhaps Coruscant was overplaying the importance of the facilities on the Republic capital.
The Archive had hundreds of relics, many of which were Jedi or Sith in origin – though several of the ones I'd Observed had been mislabelled as Jedi when they were Sith, or vice versa – and there appeared to be more here than in the Temple. However, I did wonder if perhaps many of the more interesting relics and the like, both here and in the Temple, were restricted to Jedi Masters.
Those mislabelled artefacts and a few others had been added to a datapad I kept stored in my Inventory in case the chance to research and examine them later was ever possible. This was the same datapad that held, among other things, the hyperspace routes to Dromund Kaas and other Sith worlds that I'd taken from the nav-computer during my trip forward in time.
It was still odd to me that, during the fight with the Sith Acolyte, the only part of the controls that had been damaged was the Hyperspace regulator, which was what regulated temporal control while in hyperspace. Or that such a small, seemingly insignificant part of the system was vitally important. Still, the fault – or design if the Force and TPTB had been involved – had given me coordinates to worlds that, in this day and age, were either lost or restricted, though I couldn't be sure of which was the case as the details of those worlds were restricted to even Jedi Knights by the Council.
I planned to return to the worlds of the former Sith Empire, the same one my many-times grand-niece had helped defeat, within the next five to ten years, and not just because failure to complete the quest linked to Dromund Kaas would result in Sidious growing even stronger. While the technology there was undoubtedly old, given it had been thousands of years since that Empire ruled half the galaxy, I had a feeling that information there was lost to the wider galaxy. Perhaps even to the Jedi and Sith.
Activating the terminal, I confirmed that whatever I searched for would be destroyed when I logged out. The Custodian had assured me of that, saying that absolute privacy was assured for those the Custodians deemed worthy of using a private terminal. But even seeing the evidence of that on the terminal, I had to wonder if that was the case. Computers, even with their memories wiped, could still, in theory, have the data recovered if no one reused the sections that had previously stored information, which was why I had plans to ensure most of my searches wouldn't be linked back to me.
Reaching out with Detection, I quickly sensed Anakin. He was with Simvyl back in the public areas of the Archive. We'd spent a few hours exploring the Archives before I'd left to carry out my research, and the boy was enjoying the information at his fingertips. Hopefully, Simvyl and the Custodian would ensure my ad didn't get into any trouble.
Returning my focus to the room I was in, even as I carried out my first search – looking up information on Onderon – I probed my more immediate surroundings, determining the locations of anyone else within a few hundred metres of me. Based on the floorplan that I'd seen, and what was added to the minimap as I was escorted to this room, it appeared there were several floors of private terminals. Most were empty, but the fact there were so many was something that would be useful.
Using Force Sight, I examined the power and data lines in the room and the walls around me. As promised, there wasn't anything that stood as a recording or monitoring device, meaning I was truly alone in the room. Save, perhaps, if someone was monitoring my searches and how long I spent on any given file.
After browsing the records on Onderon I closed the file and powered down the terminal. I then turned it back on and confirmed that, at least publicly, the search history was gone. I reopened the files on Onderon and resumed skimming them even as I downloaded everything there to a datapad I'd entered the room with.
While that was happening, I pulled up the data on Ossus, before standing and stretching my legs. Or at least it appeared as if that was what I was doing. What I was really doing was planning out my next few steps and ensuring that there were no motion sensors in the room.
When nothing caught the attention of Force Sight, I knew I was clear to proceed with my plans. Sitting back down, I browsed the files on Ossus, the location of the Jedi Temple before it was moved to Coruscant when the surface of Ossus was seemingly destroyed in the Great Sith War; something that happened before Revan.
Nothing there was particularly interesting, save that the world wasn't as destroyed as had been believed, though any plans to go there were shelved as it was monitored closely by the Republic and Jedi. Many had tried, and failed, to locate Jedi relics. Still, it was another world that, if I could do so without attracting attention, I'd like to explore.
As the data on Ossus was downloaded to the datapad, I opened files on Kashyyyk, though once they were displaying, I moved toward the wall to my left, and after confirming the room next to mine was empty, Phased through the wall. There I found another terminal, this one turning on when I sat in the chair.
At this new terminal, I began the first of my true searches, looking up everything available on Dagobah; my first choice of where to store the Scimitar. The world had managed to hide Yoda from Sidious and Vader for decades, so it was a logical place to consider when seeking a place to store a vessel with strong Dark Side connections. Yoda might not have been using the Force while in exile, but it had hidden him from the searching tendrils of the Emperor. The Scimitar would, in theory, be similarly well hidden from any efforts by the Sith to locate it. At least until I was ready to devote time to searching the vessel's databanks and capabilities.
Dagobah, it seemed, wasn't a world naturally strong in the Force – like Ossus or Ruusan – but the survey team had claimed it was teeming with life. So much so that it was odd the planet wasn't ecologically unbalanced. That abundance of life must've been what Yoda used to hide, and while not perfectly what I was after, it certainly made the world a good candidate. However, it wasn't the only world I was going to consider or search for from this terminal, and after transferring the data about Dagobah to a pad – not the one given to me by the Custodian, but an empty one that had come from my Inventory – I searched for Yavin IV.
I already knew that Yavin IV had been a base for Exar Kun during the Great Sith War – something I'd discovered by accident while a Padawan and randomly searching the Jedi Archives – but discovering that the world had been cleansed in fire by the Jedi was unexpected. The Jedi records said merely that Kun's bases had been destroyed, but the Celebratus Archive stated the Jedi and Republic had scorched the planet.
The planet had recovered in the millennia since, but it was an interesting thing to note and meant that the Dral'Han wasn't the first, or I suspected last, time that the Jedi had gone to such extremes.
As before, I chuckled when I read about Revan's connection to the world, during the time of the reconstituted Sith Empire. The reference to him being called 'Reborn' was odd, and as I read deeper into it, accessing files I'd not been able to view at the Temple, I sighed in annoyance. "That… that ruins so much," I muttered as I shook my head.
Learning that Revan had a connection to a Sith Emperor – the same one who'd led the Sith Empire several hundred years later during Satele's era – and that this Emperor, who seemingly had different names and bodies, was the reason for Revan's fall was upsetting. It made much of the reasons Revan turned for, which I'd referenced in my Knights of the Old Republic series, seem meaningless, if not downright wrong.
I'd believed Revan had turned to protect the Republic, to strengthen it against a greater threat. That the threat turned out to be the Sith Empire led by this Tenebrae, was fine. Yet here it was stated that he hadn't done so initially, only changing tack after breaking free of whatever whammy Tenebrae had unleashed on Revan and Malak's minds. According to this file, that was believed to be the reason Malak turned on Revan, but I wasn't so sure, as there were a lot of details missing, and several gaping holes left in the logic and reasoning of these reports.
"Kind of wish you'd show up and explain all this," I said to the empty room, half-hoping he'd appear, but knowing that that was a fool's hope. Force, since the cave on Ilum he'd not appeared again, but that was about what I expected from a Force Ghost.
Since I had time, and since this Sith Empire and their emperor came up in my family's history more than I'd expected, I opened the files on them and began reading. There was a lot about this particular Sith empire, which given it had lasted for several centuries, and at one point had controlled Coruscant, wasn't a surprise. Most other Sith empires lasted nowhere near as long, save the chaos brought on by the New Sith Wars, though there, the Sith had united and fractured several times over the millennia.
This Sith Empire had been united from its formation to fall, with most of that time spent under the rule of Tenebrae, at least until his apparent defeat though the files hinted at him reappearing as Emperor of another group – The Eternal Empire – as another person. Force, as another species. That was odd and interesting, and wanting to read on this further, I pulled an empty datapad from my Inventory and then attached it to the terminal.
The files I'd be downloading would take time, so I slipped through the wall returning to my assigned terminal. After spending a minute browsing the files on Kashyyyk, downloading them to a datapad I'd entered the room with, I opened the files relating to Coruscant and covered everything about it from its history and evolution, to what it was now and every rule, no matter how seemingly insignificant. That was then set to download into the datapad here, and while I didn't expect to ever need the information, I wasn't going to turn down the chance to borrow every record I could think of.
That was why, as the download began, I stood and reached out with the Force. Sensing the room below was empty, I Phased again, dropping through the floor to another terminal. At this terminal, which again activated when I touched it and was without monitoring, I began searches with orders to download the data to another datapad, for various worlds that, for various reasons, I'd not examined carefully at the Temple.
Mandalore, Kamino, Ruusan, and a half-dozen worlds that I'd known of before arriving in this galaxy, or had come across at the Temple but avoided delving too deeply into their history and lore for fear of drawing the Council's attention. The data on each world I listed in my search was added to the download queue for another datapad, one that already contained the hyperspace coordinates for Kamino, Korriban, and a dozen other worlds that had been freely available to anyone willing to pay a few credits for them. That, like many of the datapads I was using today, was stored in my Inventory so that no one else could ever know what I knew or planned.
Reaching out with Detection, I located those in the terminal rooms and outside. So far, no one was heading toward the first room I'd shifted to for some unsanctioned downloading, but I knew it was only a matter of time until a Custodian came to see what was going on.
Because of that, I located a nearby terminal room that was occupied, though I didn't Teleport directly there, instead arriving in an empty one next to it. I stumbled as the Teleport faded, having misjudged the floor, and appeared around half a metre above it.
Once I was ready, I walked toward the wall and Phased partially through. Using Observe on the Twi'lek sitting there, I confirmed they were nobody of consequence with negligible Force Potential. I then, while remaining in the wall, used the Force to stun them before entering the room. Taking note of what they were browsing, I lifted them from their seat and accessed the terminal.
With this terminal, I began searching for various Force sects that existed outside the control and close monitoring of the Jedi. Once Natural Evolution was taken, I'd need to relearn how to use certain Force Powers that I was reluctant to lose. Combining that with a curiosity about what else the Force could do, what I might teach Anakin, and the potential to learn abilities that neither the Jedi nor the Sith focused on, meant that this was one search I wanted to not be linked to me, and why a patsy was selected.
The first of the sects to appear was Dathomir, though I blinked as I read the entry to the file regarding the planet and its witches. Unlike what I'd remembered, the planet wasn't composed solely of a tribe of Dark Side-aligned witches, nor was it a red, seemingly dead world. The Nightsisters did exist, and their part of the world appeared barren, but there were multiple tribes on the planet. While that drew my attention, the planet was removed from my list of places to visit due to the various tribes all considering males little more than slaves and breeding stock.
Even if I wasn't planning to visit the planet, the files might be of use, and I had them downloaded to another datapad – once more, pulled from my Inventory – while I began searching for other sects. While I knew of a few from random searches in the Temple, there were more listed here than I'd expected, so I programmed the terminal to download everything it had on each of the sects and the worlds where they were based.
After checking the Twi'lek was still stunned, I Teleported back to my initial room, confirmed the terminal was still downloading, changed the display to another section of a file on Telos, and then Phased through the wall. The terminal there had finished downloading my research to that datapad, and I slipped the device into my Inventory before returning to my initial room and then Phasing through the floor. The terminal in the third room was still running and had time to go, I figured I'd head to another room.
Teleporting back to the room with the Twi'lek, I Phased through three walls, and at the terminal in this last room, or so I hoped, I pulled up another list of worlds. These had come from HK's memory banks and were worlds he knew of that I didn't, nor had considered. This list included Lehon, the home system of the Rakata, and the location of the Star Forge. The system was restricted, something I'd learnt in the Temple, but here I could at least determine details about it along with rough directions to the system.
There were also other worlds, including a few I'd come across when skimming Revan's file earlier that had been prominently displayed. Once again, I set the terminal to download the files for those worlds and sectors to the datapad before Teleporting back to the second room.
The terminal there was finished, and after collecting the datapad and sliding it into my Inventory, I returned to my assigned room. Once more, I spent time browsing the details of the world currently there – that being Nal Hutta – and sat down. The other downloads would take time, and it was better to remain where I was for now.
I could've easily carried out all these searches on this terminal, but not trusting that the records would be properly expunged, and not wanting to leave an obvious trail of breadcrumbs, I'd devised the plan for using multiple terminals. The fact each was inside a secured private room only made it easier for me to carry out my research at seemingly random terminals.
Sensing movement toward the second and fifth terminals I'd accessed, I Teleported to each, removed the datacard – each having completed their downloads – turned off the terminals, and Teleported to the fourth room. There, the Twi'lek was still unconscious though the download was nearing its end.
Once it was completed, I returned the screen to the one it had been on when I'd Stunned the Twi'lek, placed him back in the seat and then Phased into the wall. Just before I left, I used the Force to wake the Twi'lek and then departed.
Once back in my assigned terminal room, I sat down in the chair and allowed myself a smile. From what I could tell, everything had gone as I'd intended and my research, or at least the initial stages of it, was completed. However, not wanting to seem uninterested in the room after requesting one, I sat back and began reading the file currently being downloaded.
That was data about the Empress Teta system, where Serra's family were figures of importance. I had little interest in the system or her family, but harmless searching was precisely what I wanted it to look like I was doing. The various datapads with my true research were now stored safely inside my Inventory for review later.
It was possible that, from browsing those files I might require further data from the Archive, but if that was the case I knew I could gain it without having to ask for a private terminal. Or even enter the Archive officially. Teleport was now in the Savant range, which granted me a range of six kilometres. While that wasn't a large enough range to enter these rooms from outside the building – this place was a marvel stretching over ten kilometres wide though most of the more impressive artefacts, relics, and all the private terminals were located centrally – it would only take a double usage of the power to get here and back.
As such, while I wouldn't be spending too long on the planet, I did plan to delay my departure a few days; at least until I'd managed to browse most of what I'd downloaded. There was enough here, including a Jedi enclave that I was planning to avoid, to keep Anakin busy during the day. At least when I wasn't training him.
Now, I might be acting paranoid, but after Naboo, I knew the Jedi and Sith would be carefully monitoring me; the latter pair more than the former group. Palpatine and Damask would be attempting to track my movements and plans, as I felt they hadn't expected me to gather the force that I did to liberate Naboo. They wouldn't want to make such a mistake again, which was why I was doing my research the way I was.
Now yes, they could, through official and unofficial channels, potentially gain access to everything I'd downloaded today, perhaps everything that was downloaded from every terminal. However, by spreading the research out, and using the Twi'lek as a patsy for some of the work, I should at the very least, delay them from knowing my intentions. Haran, if they only used the data from my terminal, it would lead them on wild goose chases.
With time to kill before I was due to meet Anakin and Simvyl, I took one of the datapads from the Inventory and returned to a topic that had caught my interest earlier, placing another down so I could enter notes of anything else I might want to search for in relation to what I was about to read: the history of the Eternal Empire, their founding Emperor, Valkorion, and their role in the war fought between the Sith and Jedi during Satele's lifetime.
… …
… …
I watched Anakin as he swung the low-powered shoto lightsaber and suppressed a sigh. "Be mindful of your balance," I commented, even as I used my beskad to tap his blade downward. The movement caused him to stumble forward, showing he had over-extended in the attack, leaving himself exposed to an elementary counter. "When you attack, always be mindful not to overcommit. It will often leave you exposed to a quick counter by a skilled opponent."
Anakin grumbled, his annoyance easy to sense, as he reset his position. The velocity he was working through was an early one for Form 1, and I had already shown him before. That he was struggling with it wasn't a surprise, though, as he had only started using a lightsaber for the velocities in the last few weeks. He attacked again, and this time when my beskad blocked his swing downward, he retained his balance; his blade and arms remained closer to his body.
"Better," I said as I took a step back. "Again." As he repeated the move, I began walking around him. "While Shii-Cho is the first, and in many ways, the simplest form a traditional Force User will learn, it's not without its strengths. The Form is based around blade work and thus teaches the importance of good footwork and balance, something that carries over into every other Form you'll learn. However, as you're aware, its nature as the first Form means that not only does every lightsaber wielder know it, but they can also exploit the various issues the Form has because its base lies in weapons fundamentally different from a lightsaber. Now, that isn't to say that a skilled practitioner can't overcome those limitations, and the more advanced velocities of the Form help in that regard as well. However, it will be some time before you learn those velocities or those of other Forms."
I'd given this speech, in differing forms, to Anakin several times over the years, though now he was my Padawan and Ad, their meaning and importance grew. He was now my responsibility and knowing what was to come, I wasn't going to be lax in my training, even if that meant pushing him further and faster than he might otherwise be.
In the other timeline, Anakin had used a Djem-So base, and I felt that would still be the case with him in this timeline, but I wasn't going to assume. Before he reached the point of creating a personal style – in about four or five years I hoped – he'd have solid bases in every one of the six base Forms, their variants, and anything else I trained him in. From there, the choice of style would be his alone, though I'd continue to nurture and guide its development to overcome any flaws I saw within it. And, if the worst happened, know how to overcome him.
A beep from the intercom in the training area drew my attention and I moved toward it. Anakin would continue as he knew to not stop unless told to do so; the times he had in our first week together ensured he understood the consequences of assuming. "Yes?" I said as I answered the call.
"They're here," Simvyl responded from the cockpit.
I resisted the urge to say 'finally'. We'd been in orbit of Dagobah for three days now, waiting for HK and R2 to arrive with the Scimitar and I was beginning to fear they'd gotten into trouble. Or more accurately, HK had incited trouble to amuse himself. "I'll be there shortly," I said before closing the channel and turning to Anakin. While he'd not stopped, he had slowed his movements. "You, however, will remain here training."
"But I want to see HK and R2," he half-whined, though credit where credit was due, he didn't stop.
"I'm aware you do, but life, and the Force, rarely give us what we want, when we want it. Now continue your training." I walked toward the door, not letting him get in a reply, and exited the training area. "And you'll train every day as I instructed until I return," I added before the door closed behind me.
Anakin knew I'd be spending a few days on the planet, though like the others he thought I'd be meditating. Through the Force, as I quickly neared the central area of the ship, I sensed his disappointment and annoyance. However, he didn't dwell on them, which was a good sign.
Passing through the central area, I spotted Fenrir lazing – as usual – on one of the sofas. He lifted his head as I passed, allowing me to give him a quick scratch, but stayed there as I passed. Entering the cockpit, through the viewport I saw the faint, but growing, sight of an approaching vessel, though my attention ended up on the holo-display.
"Query: Might I ask why you chose this pitiful, empty planet to meet, Master?" Even as a small, blue hologram, HK retained his snark and presence.
"Because it's such a pitiful and empty planet, in a sense," I replied as I slipped into the pilot's seat, the chair shifting to welcome me and deepen the connection I shared with Raven. "That vessel, I feel, is important. However, I don't have the time to devote to learning its secrets currently, nor do I wish to lose the pleasure of your and R2's company by assigning you to handle the investigation. And although I could give it to the Jedi," a flicker of HK's visual receptors suggested his thoughts on the matter, "I fear they'd waste the potential the Scimitar contains, or somehow mess it up so badly the vessel ends up back with the Sith."
"Observation: Given what I've discovered about this era's Jedi, I believe you are correct in that assessment, Master. Hypothesis: I would speculate that this vessel returning to the Sith is the more likely outcome."
"Aye," I replied with a chuckle. "Dagobah is, for all intents and purposes, an empty world that no one cares about. It's full of organic life, but few if any ever venture here and it's unknown or ignored by the overwhelming majority of the galaxy, like millions of others. With the system being slightly isolated, that lowers the chance anyone would come here for any reason, making it an ideal place to store the vessel until I have time to examine it fully and repurpose it. Potentially even finding someone I'd trust to fly it for me."
I did hope that Maul might be that person, but I knew the chances of that were extremely low. He'd not have any sentimental attachment to the Scimitar, but if he could, by some miracle, be persuaded to ally with me, then returning his ship would be a good way to secure his support, if not begin to earn his trust. That, however, was a pipe dream for years down the road.
"Analysis: A logical decision, Master. However, I feel there may be better locations where this vessel could be stored. Addendum: It has many enhancements that few other ships would possess. Certainly, more than the flying meat sack you choose, Master."
The lights in the cockpit flared as random, furious patterns flicked and rushed around making clear Raven disliked the comment. It was hardly a surprise though as HK had made similar comments before, but had at least respected Raven for her speed, though he put that down to her mechanical components and me. He wouldn't, however, limit his dislike of her lack of weapons, which was something I agreed with. The issue was her organic frame made it difficult, if not impossible, to add anything without risking damage to her.
The Mandalorian mechanics that had examined Raven before Naboo had agreed with my assessment, though they, like HK, felt cutting through Raven's flesh was necessary. All of them failed to understand that Raven was alive and connected to me in ways they'd never comprehend. That said, I was hoping to find someone capable of crafting a method to add weaponry, even if it was just simple laser cannons, ion weaponry, or missiles, that wouldn't hurt Raven. The issue was finding someone skilled enough to do so, and trustworthy enough to allow them that sort of access to her.
"You and R2 can debrief me on the Scimitar's special features soon," I said as my hand moved over the controls, gently easing Raven closer to the formerly Sith vessel. "Once we're closer I'll come aboard for a tour." With that, I closed the channel and spoke to Simvyl. "As planned, I'll be heading down to the surface with the droids. I don't know what's down there, but between the three of us, I doubt it'll be a challenge. Even as damaged as I am," I added, mocking my injury. "Regardless, I need the privacy, and my presence in the Force should be camouflaged enough in a place where it's so abundant to allow me to meditate on my plans."
"Should I monitor Anakin's training?"
"Yeah. He knows what he needs to do, and how long he has to practise, but like any child, he'll be easily distracted. Something Fenrir will encourage as his boredom grows."
"I suggest you speak with Fenrir before you leave," Simvyl suggested as Raven pulled alongside the Scimitar, and I programmed the docking tube to extend once we were aligned.
"Aye, I'll do that."
Standing, I walked back to the central area and found the tuk'ata still lounging around. He lifted his head when I approached this time as if sensing I wished to speak with him. "I'm going to be gone for a few days and need you to keep an eye on Anakin and Simvyl," I said as I scratched him under the chin, drawing a content growl from him. "Just don't distract Anakin while he trains, and when I've finished I'll let you have some time to see what you can hunt on the planet."
A snort was his way of agreeing, the promise of a hunt helping him accept being stuck onboard Raven for a few more days. With that done, I turned and walked toward the docking ramp. This time I'd be using the docking tube, which was the first time it had been needed since I'd bonded with Raven.
As I neared the docking ramp, I grew curious about what features Maul's vessel contained, and what information the droids had drawn from its databanks. While most would be protected, I hoped some of it could be deciphered to allow me an insight into not only where the vessel had been, but what Sidious' plans were.
… …
"Observation: I find this world reprehensible, Master. It is covered only in flawed, chaotic, organic life." R2 let out a series of low, drawn-out beeps and whistles that I knew meant he agreed. "Addendum: The astromech agrees."
"Yes, I'm aware of that," I replied with a smirk as I moved forward slowly, taking care of my footing. With only one hand to use, I had to ensure my footing was secure before taking each step. "However, for what I need to do, this is exactly what I require," I added, glancing back toward the droids, though my gaze travelled beyond them; toward the mountain range we'd been hiking away from for about an hour.
Well, it was as close to a mountain range as existed near the swamps that covered around half of the planet. The rest of the world was covered by jungles, bayous, or cold bogs with the only difference between the various climates being temperature. For the scans we'd taken in orbit, while the planet had little in the way of lakes or seas, the majority of the land was damp.
Not wanting to store the Scimitar in a swamp, and risk it suffering the same fate as Luke's X-Wing did before Yoda freed it, I'd piloted Maul's vessel down toward one of the few points of higher elevation. Closer scans had revealed some caverns, and while none were initially ideal, one had been discovered that was closer to the size we needed.
Thankfully the cave had been easy enough to enlarge so the Scimitar could slide inside – though it was a tight fit – and the cave wasn't like the one Luke had entered near Yoda's hut. Not that I had any clue where that was on the planet, nor was I interested in discovering it.
Before the Scimitar was placed inside the enlarged cavern, the datacore had been copied to three isolated datapads. Each of those had their ability to connect to nearby networks or the Holonet disabled on the off chance that accessing the data the ship stored resulted in an automated distress signal to Sidious. Those datapads were added to a new slot in my Inventory, and while I still had room if I stored the various datapads in a small sack to take up a single slot in my Inventory, I had enough room to not yet need to do that. Even after Bo had insisted I load up my Inventory on supplies that I and Anakin might need; be that for combat or survival.
The various droids on the Sith vessel had been disabled and scanned as well, and while I had little interest in interrogation or security droids – not with HK around – the probe droids piqued my interest. When time allowed, I planned to stop off somewhere and acquire several models of the small, fast-moving droids. I wasn't sure if I'd have much need for them, at least not after Natural Evolution, but it was better to have them just in case. Plus, I suspected Anakin would enjoy taking a few apart, seeing how they worked, and determining ways to improve them.
HK had pointed out the main droid onboard the Scimitar before we'd descended, even commenting that it was a worthy opponent, and maybe even a useful ally if its programming could be altered. I'd look into that in later years, but for now, it was depowered like the other droids, and as an added protective measure, disassembled and stored in different locations aboard the vessel with the head inside a secured crate that would only open when a very long code was entered into it. Or if someone used a lightsaber or similar device to slice the crate open.
The cave had been sealed first with some larger boulders I'd lifted into place with the Force before HK had used his blasters on a different setting to melt the stones at their edges, all but fusing the cave shut. Over time, the local fauna would grow and cover the clearly sealed cave and hide the location from any that might venture to the planet, and Simvyl had used Raven to lock our coordinates so when I, or someone I sent, came to retrieve the Sith vessel I'd know where to look without having to rely on the Force.
"Query: How long will this process take?"
"I don't know, which is why you and R2 will guard me while I meditate," I replied as I used my beskad to cut a branch that was blocking our path. I could've used my shoto lightsaber but had decided against it. While the plants would grow back, there was always the slim chance that someone would come here and recognise the distinctive way a lightsaber cut and burnt a target. "You're free to eliminate any threats that approach," I continued as I saw that beyond the cut branch was a downed tree; one that I'd not be able to climb over with only one hand. "That said, I'd prefer if you didn't kill everything on the planet while I commune with the Force," I added as I used the Force to jump onto the downed tree before turning back to the droids.
"Clarification: What percentage of extermination would be acceptable, Master?" As HK asked that, I used the Force to lift R2, the astromech beeping worriedly as I did so.
"Any that approach after a warning shot are fair game, but I don't want to awake to find the earth scorched around us." As I set the rules I set R2 down on the other side of the tree. At the same time, HK leapt, the servos in his legs granting him the power to leap clear over the downed tree and me. "However, if your scanners detect a large group of creatures approaching, establish a perimeter with a five-hundred-metre radius minimum around me. Once I awake, if all goes well, I'll have Simvyl land Raven and then you and Fenrir can go hunting if you'd like."
I leapt down from the tree, my boots squelching into the mud, which made me grimace. While I detested sand because of events on Tatooine, my dislike of swamps went back to my former life and every training or active operation that had taken place in swamps, jungles, and the like. Dagobah would be useful for hiding the Scimitar and taking Natural Evolution, but I'd be happy when we left.
"Musing: While the tuk'ata is a quadrupedal meatbag, it is efficient at tracking and removing targets. Addendum: Though I would prefer if you would allow me to burn the world clean of offending organic life, Master."
"Oh, I know that," I said with a chuckle. "But the idea is to hide the Sith vessel on this world, not draw attention to the planet by having it be vastly different from Republic records by letting you be happy."
"Objection: I am a droid, Master, and as such superior to any organic and not ruled by emotions. For which I am eternally grateful." That drew another chuckle from me, though I chose not to teasingly respond that while he might be a droid, he was built by an organic.
My focus turned to the world around us. I'd had Detection on since we'd landed and had been using Sense Force ever since we'd entered the swamp proper to find an area particularly strong in the Living Force. At the same time, I wondered if the Force itself might be trying to guide me. While I couldn't fully interact with it due to the Interface, I suspected the Force wanted the blocks between us removed as well, though I did wonder if its reasoning – if it was capable of such a thing – would be the same as mine.
That concern that after Natural Evolution I'd be open to the Force guiding me places was one that had grown the closer I'd come to Dagobah, but I knew what I was doing was the right choice. The Force had hinted to others that I, alongside Anakin, had a role to play in changing the fate of the galaxy, but I assured myself that I wouldn't become like most Jedi in allowing the Force to blindly guide me toward what it desired. Nor that I'd become like a Sith and bend it to my will. Plus, there was also the fact that if I took Player+ I'd never be able to take on high-level Council members, never mind people like Sidious, Yoda, and Windu.
… …
"You remember your orders?" I said as I settled onto a section of dry ground. That I'd found even that was a small miracle and after a few hours of trekking I'd taken it and sat down upon it in a standard meditation position.
"Mockery: No, Master, I don't. the thirteen previous times you've made clear our orders since you boarded the Scimitar were insufficient for either myself or the astromech." R2 beeped and whistled in amusement at HK's response. While not yet as snarky as he'd become in the other timeline, or even close to HK, the hints of the personality that developed over a decade were there already. Given I had no plans to wipe his memory regularly, as I wouldn't with HK, that made it even more likely he'd develop the expected personality. Not wiping a droid could be a security risk, but given HK and R2 were my personal droids, and the former was skilled in killing everything from a Jawa up to a Jedi, and the latter would learn how to defend himself and be upgraded over the next few years, I felt little concern at the idea someone might learn something I didn't want them to from the droids.
"Very well. I hope you can obey them and not reduce this world to molten rock while I commune with the Force."
After getting the final word, I closed my eyes and accessed the Interface, specifically the notice regarding the upgrade for the Interface and then selected Natural Evolution.
WARNING!
The Interface will be offline while the chosen upgrade is applied.
As this evolution of the Interface will involve considerable alterations to the Interface, and by extension the Player, you will be placed into what appears to be a coma or deep meditation.
How this appears depends on the Player's position and location while the upgrade is applied.
...
Upgrade chosen: Natural Evolution
This upgrade will render the Player unable to interact with anything around them for a period of between 75 and 150 standard hours.
The variance in time is dependent on the Player's level, age, and the various levels of their Force Powers.
...
ERROR!
By selecting Natural Evolution, either Player's Mind or Player's Body MUST be removed, and the cost refunded.
The selection has not been made.
Which Player Power do you wish to be refunded?
Player's Mind/Player's Body?
...
I'd known that choice was coming as it'd been in the description, but I'd not expected it in an error message as I'd not been asked for my choice beforehand. I chose Player's Mind, as while it was a useful Power, it could be interfered with, or even overridden, when in a place strong in the Force. Since I felt I'd be heading to at least a handful of such locations in the near to middle future, and the fact that its other abilities were mimicked by true Force Abilities, I felt it was the better choice to be refunded for. While I would miss the clear-mindedness the Power brought on, so far I'd never changed a decision I'd made after reviewing it with the Power active and I felt it was the more logical Player Power to lose.The Interface will be offline while the chosen upgrade is applied.
As this evolution of the Interface will involve considerable alterations to the Interface, and by extension the Player, you will be placed into what appears to be a coma or deep meditation.
How this appears depends on the Player's position and location while the upgrade is applied.
...
Upgrade chosen: Natural Evolution
This upgrade will render the Player unable to interact with anything around them for a period of between 75 and 150 standard hours.
The variance in time is dependent on the Player's level, age, and the various levels of their Force Powers.
...
ERROR!
By selecting Natural Evolution, either Player's Mind or Player's Body MUST be removed, and the cost refunded.
The selection has not been made.
Which Player Power do you wish to be refunded?
Player's Mind/Player's Body?
...
Player's Body might seem the less useful of the two in dire circumstances, but it had more obvious and useful everyday bonuses. Beyond the increased Stamina Regeneration it offered, and the fact it meant I didn't actively sweat – something several people had commented on and, if the Power was removed, they would notice – it was because of Player's Body that I was alerted when I was wounded, and was able to push on when anyone without the Power might not be able to do so. Something I'd, unfortunately, seen in a dire situation when I'd lost my forearm to Maul as without the Power, I felt I'd have gone into shock over the injury, and thus lost my duel to the Zabrak.
Player's Mind selected.
A Player Power Point will be refunded to the Player once the upgrade has been completed.
...
Do you wish to begin the upgrade now?
Yes/No?
…
WARNING!
Once 'Yes' is selected, the upgrade will commence after a short countdown.
This countdown cannot be stopped, so the Player must be sure and be resting comfortably before confirming the upgrade.
...
A Player Power Point will be refunded to the Player once the upgrade has been completed.
...
Do you wish to begin the upgrade now?
Yes/No?
…
WARNING!
Once 'Yes' is selected, the upgrade will commence after a short countdown.
This countdown cannot be stopped, so the Player must be sure and be resting comfortably before confirming the upgrade.
...
That was what I'd expected, as I'd had to sleep off the last upgrade to the Interface, though there I'd not had the choice of how to evolve it. That this one would take longer was entirely logical. Unlike the last one, which seemed to just unlock and adapt a few of the various sections of the Interface, Natural Evolution was going to entirely remove what was in my opinion the most critical part of its function: its regulation of and control of my Force connection.
While things like this, and many of the more technical elements of the Interface, had me still questioning if I was truly sentient, and not just a puppet for some higher power to control and manipulate, I knew there was little I could do about that. Thus, I pressed Yes and took a deep breath as the text shifted around.
Upgrade to the Interface confirmed.
The process will begin in:
5
.
4
.
3
.
2
.
1
.
… …The process will begin in:
5
.
4
.
3
.
2
.
1
.
… …
I slumped forward, jolted awake, and blinked. My eyes scanned around, quickly finding HK and R2 standing not far away; HK's blaster was held comfortably in his grasp as he and R2 watched the area. My mouth opened to call out, to let them know I was awake, only for the sound to die in my throat.
Instead, a gasp slipped from me as my mind was submerged by… everything.
The world around me was alive, and while I'd known that before, now I could feel it, sense it, experience it. My hands came to the side of my skull as my mind was flooded with the voices(?) of everything around me, of the connection between the sparks of life – be they big or small, flora or fauna, and of every possible kind – held with the Force. And now with me.
Before I'd been able to faintly sense them through the Interface and the Force, but with the former gone, my mind was experiencing the true depth and scale of what an open connection to the Force brought. It was glorious and incredible. Even though I had known that my connection to the Force was muted in comparison to other Jedi or Sith, I had thought that I still understood what it meant to be connected, at least on an academic level.
I had no idea. It was as if I had been calling myself a painter and learning all of the best brush-strokes and techniques, but without being able to actually see any of it. Or as if I had been a musician who thought himself world-class, without realising that he was tone-deaf.
I could feel everything around me as if it was me. The rhythmic pulsing of life from a hundred million creatures, some so small I'd need a microscope to see them, some longer than Raven, was rushing into my mind, overwhelming my defences as I struggled not to become swept away by this rising tide of near-sensory overload.
They were there, I knew that, yet even though the memories of my lessons on the Force over the last decade were still present, whenever I tried to focus on one, the Force seemed to push it aside. Almost as if it wanted to take me over, to become one with me. To make me a part of it.
Somewhere to my left, I felt the exhilaration of moving in for the kill, and panic as I understood something was about to die. My head snapped to that side, wanting to understand where the sensations, the feelings, were coming from.
Instead of finding something to use as a lifeline, I found my thoughts surging outward in a hundred, possibly a thousand different directions. I could feel the wind race over feathers, even as I slid through the mud, my tongue flicking out to find food. I jumped high, clearing something in my way, and then crashed into the water at the same time I experienced my legs, all six of them, moving in sync as I worked with others to rip apart something. I pushed through something thick, almost solid, yet it felt as if I was built to do so. Every memory, every experience happened concurrently as I grasped my skull with my hand.
Rolling to one side, I dry heaved, the sensations slowly drowning me even as I understood I needed this to stop. I needed to regain control before I lost myself in the sensations I was experiencing through the Force.
The ground near me shook, and opening my eyes I saw HK standing over me. I knew he was speaking, and could make out the distinctive, sardonic tone of his vocal actuator, yet the words were lost in the chaotic symphony that was assaulting my senses. Yet, for all that I knew I needed this to stop, I wasn't sure how to do so. I was unable to bring forth the memories of closing myself from the Force to draw on the teachings.
A gasp rushed from me as I felt another presence crash against me within the Force. Yet this one was different and familiar. Locking onto it, using it as a lifeline, I understood in an instant that it was Anakin; the boy reaching out from orbit to help.
His attempt was rushed, unfocused, and unrefined, but incredibly powerful. Even as I used his presence to stabilise myself, I understood that this was what Anakin was. A storm slowly forming on the horizon, one that if unchecked, could bring about untold chaos and damage. Yet, as I slowly felt my mind return to some semblance of control, I saw a way to harness the Force storm that was Anakin. As if with the Interface no longer blocking my connection, I understood what I could help Anakin become, what I could mould him into.
That, however, would have to wait for later. For now, I needed control, and with my thoughts slowly returning to me, with my mind no longer being pulled in a myriad of directions and ways, I knew what I had to do. "E-enough," I growled through clenched teeth even as I sensed other presences with Anakin's; those of Raven and Fenrir.
The word had barely emerged from me before I felt everything dull down. Everything I'd been sensing and experiencing lessened, from the animals whose worlds I'd seen glimpses of through their eyes, the life flowing through the various fauna of the world, and even the lifelines that Anakin, Raven, and Fenrir had thrown me, slipped away. The Force, or at least my connection to it, was blunted and dulled once more and I sighed in relief as my mind was my own again.
I stayed where I was, looking up at the dull, overcast sky of Dagobah and taking long, slow, deep breaths, letting my body recover from what I'd just experienced. I'd known that removing the Interface from my connection with the Force was going to make things different, but what I'd just experienced… words failed to fully describe what it felt like to truly be connected to the Force. However, before I allowed that connection to resume as it should, I needed to train myself to limit the inflow of sensations. For now, the Force would remain distant while I locked myself off from it; held behind the barrier I'd managed to erect after Anakin's lifeline.
"Query: Master? Are you well?"
I turned to look up at the assassin droid, my heart rate returning to normal. "I," even saying the short word hurt and I gulped hard, trying to soothe my throat. I didn't think I'd been exposed to the full brunt of the Force for long, but perhaps it had been longer and more stressful than I'd realised. Not trusting my words for now, I nodded in response and using my arms, eased myself up to a seated position.
Once there, I saw the small flask I'd placed down before meditating, and after popping the cap, took a long but slow sip, soothing the rawness of my throat. "I'm fine, HK," I said once I felt ready to speak again. My voice was hoarse but at least it didn't hurt to speak. "It's just that when I emerged from my meditation, something had changed."
His optical receptors dulled, making clear he was curious or concerned, though the beeping from R2 was only the latter. HK was built to detect lies, so he'd know I wasn't being entirely truthful, but he also wouldn't push unless he felt it was important. Though that ability to sense falsehoods was one I planned to exploit heavily in the coming years, as if I could reach the point where I could convince HK that I truly believed the Republic was run by Ewoks – or something equally as insane – it would do wonders for my Charisma-based social skills, especially Deception. "I think I've overcome the block in my connection to the Force, but I can't say for sure."
"Analysis: I do hope you have done so, Master. While you are skilled, you lack the… flair one would expect of a Jedi. Especially for one descended from the Creator. Addendum: In many ways, the small meatbag designer has a better understanding of how to use the Force in non-mechanical ways than you do."
"Aye, he does. And thanks, I think," I replied slowly. The flask had been placed down while he spoke, and I'd moved around to begin to stand. "How long was I meditating?" I asked once back on my feet.
"Answer: Three days, twelve hours, Master."
"Bit longer than I expected but okay." As I spoke, I stretched my arms, mimicking what I should be doing but that, thanks to Player's Body, I didn't truly have to do so. At least not on a physical level. Three and a half days was around the mid-point of the time the Interface had said it would take to upgrade itself and free the Force from its filtering. "How much of the local fauna and flora have you reduced to atoms?"
"Statement: Not nearly as much as I would have preferred, Master. Most creatures kept their distance after a warning shot. A handful of the larger, more aggressive species failed to heed the caution, and I was most efficient in ensuring they learnt the error of their ways." R2 rocked from side to side and beeped wildly, the volume making me wince. "Amendment: The astromech also drove off several creatures, Master. Though he failed to ensure those creatures were removed permanently."
I chuckled at that and placed a hand on the assassin droid's shoulder. "Not everyone, be they organic or droid, can be as efficient as you, HK. Otherwise, the galaxy would be a far emptier and less enjoyable place."
"Affirmative: Yes, Master." HK looked past me and then R2 before continuing. "Assessment: While I would miss the chance to regularly remove meatbags, I believe those that remained would be a higher quality target. Perhaps sufficiently higher than the less regular combat would be acceptable. Addendum: I am, however, unsure if I would find the longer durations between combat tolerable."
"Speaking for myself, I wouldn't. I'd grow bored as shab with nothing to do."
Before HK could reply, my vambrace beeped. My arm came over instinctively to open the channel, only for me to pause when I saw the missing forearm. Sighing at making that mistake again, and wondering how long it would be until I could get a replacement limb – and if that might remove the phantom pains – I reached into my belt with my hand and pulled out a commlink. "Yes?" I said as I used the commlink, barely able to restrain my annoyance at myself for making the mistake again.
"Well, your response suggests you're at least awake," Simvyl replied, and while I'd limited my connection to nothing more than a trickle, I could faintly sense his amusement. "Anakin, Raven, and Fenrir all reacted badly about twenty minutes ago. Once I'd gotten them calmed down, or at least as much as I could, Anakin told me you were in trouble. Though before then, I'd not been able to stop Raven from descending no matter how much I tried to counter her behaviour."
I laughed softly at the idea my ship had disobeyed orders in an attempt to help. That was exactly the sort of thing I and Anakin would do, so it seemed more of my personality had merged with her than I'd realised. "Something did, and while it was a personal issue and might cause me problems in the short-term, in the long-term I feel it's the first step in overcoming several of my issues. As for Raven, it's fine. She, like Anakin and Fenrir, share a connection to me through the Force and would've sensed my confusion when I awoke." I looked up, knowing instinctively where Raven was, yet through the thick, grey fog that hung over this area of the planet – and possibly most of the surface – I couldn't see her. Before I'd had to actively think about using Detection to be certain where she or others were, but now, even with my connection to the Force restricted by choice, I knew with certainty where she was. Along with Anakin and Fenrir. "Should we remain here, or is there a clearing we should move toward?" I asked, pushing aside any thought of marvelling at the change in how the Force now worked, and how incredible it felt to simply know something without having to consider it.
"One moment," Simvyl said before the channel went silent for about half a minute. "There's a large enough clearing about five klicks southwest of your location. Sending coordinates now."
My vambrace beeped, confirming reception of the data. It then, on programming, displayed our location and our destination. "Got it. See you there. Oh, and tell Anakin I'm fine, and thanks." With that, I closed the channel and slipped the commlink back into its pouch. Simvyl would be confused about the thanks, but Anakin would understand, and it should reassure him that I was fine. Or as fine as I was going to be until I gained a handle on how to properly use and interact with the Force.
"Come on," I said to the droids. "While it shouldn't take us long to reach the RV, the sooner we leave, the sooner we can get off this world." I took a step before pausing and giving HK a wide smile. "If anything gets too close, feel free to respond without a need for a warning shot."
"Affirmative: That is most agreeable, Master. I have grown tired of having to warn such primitive meatbags about their purpose. Musing: I wonder if I might use some of my more advanced armaments. I was unable to use many upon Naboo due to your instructions to avoid civilian casualties and protection of the meatbag ruler."
"Again, so long as you don't level the area we're in, or risk giving way that we've been here, feel free to enjoy yourself."
"Exclamation: Oh, I will, Master, I will."
R2 gave out a long, low, sad beep and I reached over, patting his dome. "It's ok. I'm sure Anakin and HK can suggest modifications so you're better able to defend yourself and assist HK in future." R2 beeped happily at that.
"Agreement: Oh yes, Master. I have many ideas on how to enhance an astromech." I laughed at R2's reaction to HK's comment as it seemed the astromech was suddenly fearful of what the assassin had planned. Keeping the amusing thought in mind, I resumed walking, plotting out the quickest path to the rendezvous location.
As we walked, I started running through the change that had occurred. There were notices about the change flashing in the bottom corner of my vision, but I decided to leave them for a moment, focusing on how it felt as if things had changed. It was clear that with the Interface gone, I'd been blasted by the full, unfiltered connection with the Force that had held, which placed me in a unique position.
Everyone else in the galaxy was born with their connection unfiltered, be they someone with barely any connection right up to beings like Yoda, Sidious, and Anakin. They'd learnt before they could even understand what they were to accept and harness that connection. Sharing a connection with the Force was natural to everything in the galaxy, be they sentient, fauna or flora. Well, except for any race like the Vong, though they seemed to come from beyond the galaxy so perhaps that was why they weren't connected to the Force.
I, however, didn't have that natural, had always been there, connection with the Force. Or at least, I'd not had it until less than thirty minutes ago. That meant I was going to have to learn to process and accept this change, and while it would take time – something I'd expected by my research on Force sects I could visit with Anakin over the next few years – it might allow me a unique perspective and ability.
When we'd shown the Force suppression room aboard Mtael's Gift several years ago, Fay and Dooku had both reacted badly to the sudden suppression of their connections. Dooku had been unbalanced and unnerved – though he hid it well. Fay, however, had reacted as if having a limb torn from her body. Given she'd spent centuries relying on the Force, being in tune with it and having it help her slow her ageing – or so I assumed – the sudden loss of that connection had drawn a major reaction from her.
With me now being able to experience what the Force truly was, or at least have a proper connection to it, I could see how losing that connection would affect those with high Force sensitivity. I couldn't comprehend Fay's pain that day, and I hoped I never did, but I had an idea of what she'd have experienced. The difference was that I knew how to think and work without the Force, and thanks to Eidetic Memory would never forget it. In theory, if I was ever exposed to a field like that about the Lokella station again, then I'd be able to handle the sudden loss of what would feel like part of my soul. Or I would, I hoped, once I'd learnt to control and temper my connection, so it didn't overwhelm me.
I shivered as I realised that, and that with the filter provided by the Interface gone, being fully exposed to the Force – or at least the Living Force on Dagobah – I'd come very close to ending up comatose. It was only through the actions of Anakin, something I had to believe he either knew instinctively or the Force guided him to do, that I didn't and was able to retain just enough control to limit my connection to the Force.
Without knowing or understanding how, he'd reached out from orbit, to help. That spoke not just to how strong his connection was, but how deep my connection to the Force could become – or close to it anyway as I didn't have quite as high a Force Potential as him – how easily the Force came to him, and how strong, after only a few years of limited contact, that our bond had become. And it made me wonder how I'd react when I next saw Serra, as for everyone else that I would encounter, she was the one who I had the deepest connection with and was strong in the Force. However, my focus for now was on Anakin. The level of power he had to, without knowing what he was truly doing, reach out across thousands of kilometres to help me was frightening and possibly terrifying.
Now, differing species and sentients had differing definitions of what terrible meant, but even allowing for that Anakin had the potential for amazing things. Before this, I'd known he was powerful, both from what Observe revealed and from sources before my emergence into this universe, but knowing of it and experiencing it first-hand were two entirely different things. I had my first true glimpse of what he, and possibly I, could do, and the sort of power he held, and could potentially wield… I understood so much more clearly why Sidious was so interested in Anakin. Why the boy was the Chosen One.
While the gap between our midi-chlorian counts was small, at least compared to that of myself and many others, I felt the gap between us, and what we might be able to accomplish could be greater than any I might have with sentients like Yoda or Sidious. The difference there was, at least for now, those two and others like them – such as Fay, Dooku, and Plagueis – was that they had decades or centuries of training and experience to draw upon. All I could do was train Anakin to be what he should be, and at the same time learn from him how to fully understand, accept, and use the Force so that both of us could surpass everyone that had come before.
That realisation brought forth a rush of excitement, along with a hint of terror, as I understood that I had to ensure Anakin was ready for what awaited us. I also had to ensure I was ready as well, though I felt reasonably confident that I could regain my Force abilities over the next few years; training Anakin was going to push me to do so lest I fail him and by extension doom the galaxy to the rule of the Sith.
That was why I'd gone to the Celebratus Archive on Obroa-Skai before engaging the upgrade, not only to find this world but for the locations of possible Force sects and other groups that might be able to help with our training. Knowing now that I'd have to work almost from the ground up to rebuild my abilities, and ensure Anakin was trained, I'd re-examine the sects and determine which order to attend them in. All I'd need was time to do so, and while I felt I'd have that for a few years, I couldn't spend too long with the training otherwise I'd be out of the loop preparing for the wars to come.
"Query: Master, are you perhaps using the Force to ensure we are undisturbed?" I paused at HK's question and turned back to face him, curious what he was saying. "Observation: While we've only travelled one point-zero-two kilometres, the creatures nearby have all chosen to withdraw or remain further away since you awoke. Extrapolation: It appears as if they're afraid of approaching. Theory: Perhaps the change you spoke of has in some way affected the local fauna, persuading them to withdraw. Conjecture: It might also explain the marginal decrease in temperature of zero-point-three-one degrees that has occurred since you ended your meditation."
"I don't thin…" my words trailed off mid-sentence as I understood HK was onto something. "Um, yeah, that might be because of me," I said, changing tack as I worked out what the temperature change and the reason for the local animals withdrawing was.
Without the Interface, I'd lost Dark Side Masking, which meant my ability to hide my, for lack of a better word, taint from everything and everybody. While there were no other Force users around to sense it – at least bar Anakin though he was currently nearby – the beasts of Dagobah would. From what King Adas had spoken of, those strong in the Force and with some experience in bending it to their will could generate a dangerous aura. One that not only persuaded others to stay away but could alter the environment around them.
From what HK was saying, that was what was occurring, but I wasn't doing it consciously, and even with my connection to the Force heavily muted, enough of my power was radiating outward that it was having a marginal effect on the local area.
Closing my eyes, I searched inward, seeking out the Force that flowed through me. Adas had spoken of how to drop out or nullify this ability to project power, but I'd not taken it on fully back then; the Interface simply applied what he was teaching to the Force Powers of Dark Side Masking and Force Suppression. Now, with that all gone, I had to learn to use the ability properly, which with Eidetic Memory ensuring I remembered everything I'd ever seen, heard, or been taught, the lessons were quickly back at the forefront of my thoughts.
The ability to shield and cloak oneself from detection by others in the Force was something I felt Anakin – and possibly Palpatine – could do so naturally that if one didn't know the truth, or had a way to sense Force Potential as easily as I did, then they'd never realise how powerful the person they were speaking with could potentially be. I suspected with the Sith it was a taught ability, one that had evolved from lessons Adas and others had created back when the Sith were a species and not a Force sect as both Sidious and Plagueis could stand before Jedi High Council members and give no hint of the power they wielded.
Listening to Adas' words in my mind, I slowed my breathing, focusing ever deeper inward. Eventually, I felt what I was looking for: The point where it seemed as if I and the Force connected. This wasn't just a single point, but all and none of me as the Force was in everything, yet with the lessons from Adas, Dooku, and a few others to draw on, and knowing the strongest hint of the Force would be centred around my bond to Anakin, I was able to find what I needed.
The connections to the Force, and through it, others, were still there, but as I'd intended earlier, they'd dullened. I wasn't, however, fully cut off from the Force as I could faintly sense Anakin, Raven, Fenrir, and others, though bar the first three everything was far weaker, as they were far more distant or lacked the connection through the Force I shared with that trio. It was around the edges of those dullened connections that I found what I was looking for. I could sense my Force presence slipping out at those edges and permeating with the Living Force around me.
Knowing I was far from skilled enough to entirely shut off the seepage of my taint, I instead focused on dulling my connection to the Force further, though I tried my best to ensure that the link I held with Anakin wasn't affected. I didn't need him or others worrying that something else had happened to me. Concentrating on the Force as it flowed through me, the words Fay had used once to describe the sensation, I slowly sealed off the leakage of my taint into the Force around me. If another trained Force user appeared, they'd be able to sense the taint, but I hoped what I was doing would be enough to end the subtle effect I was having on my surroundings.
As the taint was slowly contained, I sensed a subtle shift through the Force. Though she was perhaps half a galaxy away, I sensed Serra and how her feelings had changed fractionally. That slight sensation was enough for my focus to jump to my bond with her, to the connection we shared that linked us through the Force. She should, from what I knew, be back at the Temple, and while I didn't know who would continue her training, Yoda had promised me that not only would a Jedi Master finish her training, but that she'd get help to deal with the emotions brought forth by Drallig's death.
Part of me longed to speak to her, to reach out through the Force and ease her burden or speak to her, but I knew I couldn't do that currently. Fear that my action would reveal the Dark Side within me to her and others, and that without understanding what I was doing I'd somehow hurt her, stopped me from doing so. Still, as gently as I could, I sent comforting thoughts to her.
While I wasn't going to return to Coruscant any time soon, as I felt her notice my lingering feelings and react, I knew I'd contact her before I left with Anakin to train him and refocus myself after the change in my connection with the Force. The issue was that just talking to her over the Holonet felt wrong, cheap even. As if I was doing her and the memory of Drallig a disservice by not speaking with her in person. However, I didn't want to step back on the Republic capital, never mind enter the Jedi Temple. Not while Anakin was with me.
I could, in theory, drop him with Bo for a week or so, but until I had a handle on the changes I'd undergone, going anywhere near the Jedi or Sith was off the table. That left me with communication through the Force. As Serra's happiness at knowing I was safe, along with confusion and curiosity – suggesting she sensed the change in my Force connection – and some fear travelled to me through the Force, I smiled. Knowing she was as well, or at least as well as she could be, was a relief, though I did note that even at the great distance between us, her feelings came through stronger and clearer. Another little hint at just what the Interface had been restricting.
"Observation: It appears whatever you are doing is working, Master. The local ambient temperature has risen by zero-point-two-seven degrees." That wasn't quite all the way back, but it was close enough for me to be satisfied.
"Hopefully that means you'll get some target practice before we're picked up," I replied as I opened my eyes and took in the dull, damp swamp around us. Nothing appeared different, but I knew I wasn't yet in tune with the Force and myself enough that I'd be able to sense anything amiss.
"Assurance: My accuracy is within acceptable levels, Master. However, one can never be too lax in ensuring quality is maintained."
"Just don't burn down the planet while we're still on it."
"Indignation: I would never do such a thing, Master! Unlike some so-called battledroids, I'm not as clumsily built or fundamentally flawed as to commit such a mistake. Appeasement: I would only burn a world under your orders, Master."
"While I don't want that today, I won't deny there are a few worlds that I wouldn't mind seeing scorched clean," I replied as I resumed walking toward the rendezvous location. "For now, you'll have to restrict yourself to whatever fails to understand that we, not it, are the apex predators of this world."
"Exclamation: I look forward to doing so, Master."
R2 gave out a long, worried beep as he shook slightly from side to side. "Don't worry," I said, stopping and placing my hand on his dome, "if anything somehow gets past HK, I'll ensure it doesn't get to you. You're far too useful to allow some giant snake or reptile to swallow or use as a chew toy. And once we're away from here, HK and Anakin can suggest modifications so the next time we come here you can be as effective as HK in achieving dominance over the locals."
A series of loud, happy beeps erupted from the astromech, which made me laugh. By the time of the Clone Wars, in the other timeline, Anakin had ensured R2 was far beyond a regular astromech. With HK and I here to help, when war finally erupted in this galaxy, R2 would be a match for almost anything the Trade Federation, The Republic, or anyone else could deploy.
Once my laughter had died down, I turned my attention to the notices from the Interface. While I could keep an eye out for local beasts that might be a problem, I felt that would restrict HK's fun and after spending three and a half days watching me meditate in this swamp, he deserved the chance to blow off some steam.
Interface Upgrade Complete!
Having chosen Natural Evolution as the final form of your Interface, the following changes have been made:
1: The Interface will no longer regulate your connection to the Force.
This means that neither your Force Powers nor your FP level will be tracked or displayed by the Interface.
FP will be replaced by a Force Exhaustion percentage so that you can monitor how close you are to hitting that barrier.
2: To use the Force, the Player must behave like any other Force user in the galaxy.
This includes all the benefits and drawbacks such behaviour brings with it.
3: The tracking of the strength and level of your Force Bonds has been removed from REPUTATION.
4: New perks specific to this upgrade have been added to the choices.
Perk Points remain available at every 4 levels.
5: New Player Powers specific to this upgrade have been added to the choices.
Player Power Points remain available every 5 levels.
6: The Player Power, Player's Mind, has been deactivated and removed.
Because of this, the Player Power Point for it has been refunded.
(Currently, you have 2 PPPs available.)
7: The Player is now susceptible to influence by the Force.
This will occur if, like many other Force users, they sink into the Force.
If they don't wish this, then they must influence the Force with their intentions and desires.
8: All skills have had a potential 7th tier (Legendary) added.
The Player still has to put in the training and effort to reach it though.
9: The quest Skill to the Max has been altered to be simply to reach the top of the 6th tier (Prodigy).
10: No training quests are possible for taking skills beyond Prodigy:100.
11: STAMINA is now calculated as Player Level *(Strength+Vitality+Agility).
This results in a boost to your STAMINA to 1950.
The Player has a STAMINA regeneration rate of (due to selected Perks) 39/min.
...
NOTE!
Bonuses for levelling, bar STAMINA, remain the same.
These are:
2+INT/20 Stat Points per level.
INT*1 Skill Points per level.
1 PP every 4 levels.
1 PPP every 5 levels.
...
Having chosen Natural Evolution as the final form of your Interface, the following changes have been made:
1: The Interface will no longer regulate your connection to the Force.
This means that neither your Force Powers nor your FP level will be tracked or displayed by the Interface.
FP will be replaced by a Force Exhaustion percentage so that you can monitor how close you are to hitting that barrier.
2: To use the Force, the Player must behave like any other Force user in the galaxy.
This includes all the benefits and drawbacks such behaviour brings with it.
3: The tracking of the strength and level of your Force Bonds has been removed from REPUTATION.
4: New perks specific to this upgrade have been added to the choices.
Perk Points remain available at every 4 levels.
5: New Player Powers specific to this upgrade have been added to the choices.
Player Power Points remain available every 5 levels.
6: The Player Power, Player's Mind, has been deactivated and removed.
Because of this, the Player Power Point for it has been refunded.
(Currently, you have 2 PPPs available.)
7: The Player is now susceptible to influence by the Force.
This will occur if, like many other Force users, they sink into the Force.
If they don't wish this, then they must influence the Force with their intentions and desires.
8: All skills have had a potential 7th tier (Legendary) added.
The Player still has to put in the training and effort to reach it though.
9: The quest Skill to the Max has been altered to be simply to reach the top of the 6th tier (Prodigy).
10: No training quests are possible for taking skills beyond Prodigy:100.
11: STAMINA is now calculated as Player Level *(Strength+Vitality+Agility).
This results in a boost to your STAMINA to 1950.
The Player has a STAMINA regeneration rate of (due to selected Perks) 39/min.
...
NOTE!
Bonuses for levelling, bar STAMINA, remain the same.
These are:
2+INT/20 Stat Points per level.
INT*1 Skill Points per level.
1 PP every 4 levels.
1 PPP every 5 levels.
...
That was what I'd expected, though the display of a percentage for Force Exhaustion was going to be useful in prolonged combat while the boost in STAMINA wasn't something to sniff at. I was sure Bo, Naz and others wouldn't complain about the increase, and that was before I learned how to properly use the Force to refresh and enhance myself. Being susceptible to the Force was a fear I'd had before choosing Natural Evolution, but given I needed the higher potential power levels for what was to come, I'd have to be cautious about how that went.
Waving away the notification of changes, I opened the next notice waiting for me, discovering it came from TPTB.
We must admit that we are surprised and impressed you chose to remove the protection the Interface grants you in regard to the Force.
Taking NATURAL EVOLUTION places you, and those around you, at far greater short-to-middle-term risk from threats than PLAYER+ would have.
It does, as you have surmised, grant a better chance to survive the coming chaos.
Because of you choosing to take the path of greater risk, and as we are feeling generous, we offer what shall be our final boon.
1 Perk Point has been added to your Interface.
Spend it wisely, or not.
The choice, as always, is up to you.
...
Taking NATURAL EVOLUTION places you, and those around you, at far greater short-to-middle-term risk from threats than PLAYER+ would have.
It does, as you have surmised, grant a better chance to survive the coming chaos.
Because of you choosing to take the path of greater risk, and as we are feeling generous, we offer what shall be our final boon.
1 Perk Point has been added to your Interface.
Spend it wisely, or not.
The choice, as always, is up to you.
...
Unlike the previous message, this one was unexpected. At least regarding the free Perk Point. I'd expected something from TPTB, but they rarely if ever offered gifts, but I wasn't going to complain about it. While Perks weren't as powerful – or broken depending on how I was feeling on a given day – they were powerful and potentially offered me advantages few if any other sentient could achieve.
While I was curious about what new Perks were available to me, with 2 Player Power Points, seeing what was on offer there was my first port of call.
PLAYER POWERS
These are powers and skills that are unique to The Player and earned by spending Player Power Points [PPP].
Currently, you have 2 PPPs.
Many Player Powers have requirements that depend on the Player's level, or stat values and will remain hidden until their requirements are met.
Player Powers may grant abilities that mirror, or even surpass, what many consider to be 'Dark-Side Force powers' so be careful when using them around 'Light-Side Force users'.
Currently, you have the following Player Powers:
Heart of the Force [2/2]
Inventory
Player's Body
Observe
Silent Interface
Upgraded Minimap
…
Available Powers:
Colour Shift
Enhanced Inventory
Enlarge/Shrink
Glamours
Greater Minimap Mark 1
Level Boost
Reveal the Hidden
Superior Inventory
Upgraded Minimap Mark 2
…
These are powers and skills that are unique to The Player and earned by spending Player Power Points [PPP].
Currently, you have 2 PPPs.
Many Player Powers have requirements that depend on the Player's level, or stat values and will remain hidden until their requirements are met.
Player Powers may grant abilities that mirror, or even surpass, what many consider to be 'Dark-Side Force powers' so be careful when using them around 'Light-Side Force users'.
Currently, you have the following Player Powers:
Heart of the Force [2/2]
Inventory
Player's Body
Observe
Silent Interface
Upgraded Minimap
…
Available Powers:
Colour Shift
Enhanced Inventory
Enlarge/Shrink
Glamours
Greater Minimap Mark 1
Level Boost
Reveal the Hidden
Superior Inventory
Upgraded Minimap Mark 2
…
My eyes were drawn instantly to the only one I'd not seen before or been altered to appearing: Reveal the Hidden. As I read its description, it instantly went to near the top of the pile for selections, though I wasn't going to make any decision until I'd gone through the Perks list as well.
Reveal the Hidden
This Player Power will allow the Player to see the bonus objectives of all quests granted to the Player by The Powers That Be, or generated in response to the Player's actions/decisions.
...
This Player Power will allow the Player to see the bonus objectives of all quests granted to the Player by The Powers That Be, or generated in response to the Player's actions/decisions.
...
For simpler quests, such as training ones – though I'd not taken many over the last year or so as I'd focused on preparing for Naboo over random training of specific Skills or Force Powers – this wasn't a major thing. I'd already determined what the three or four bonus objectives were from having taken and completed – or not – so many training quests previously.
For other quests, such as Tremors of the Ancient Sith Empire, the Changing Fate quests, and quests linked to Bo, Pre Vizsla, Maul and others, it would be a major boon. Knowing what the additional targets were would, I suspect, change how I approached the quests, but it might also grant me insight into what I might have to do to complete the quests.
I wasn't sure how, if at all, it would affect The Promise of the Fallen quest given to me by Revan, as that quest didn't fit into the categories of quests Reveal the Hidden covered. If it didn't reveal anything there, then so be it, but there was a chance I was wrong on this.
Not wanting to dwell on one particular Player Power, I turned my attention to Level Boost, as along with Reveal the Hidden, it was the most likely Player Power to be taken. After reading the description, that feeling was only reinforced.
Level Boost
This Perk/Player Power allows the Player to raise the tier limits of their skills by 3 tiers.
This can either be used to raise 3 Skills 1 tier (to the Paragon tier) or 1 Skill 2 tiers (to the Mythic tier) and 1 Skill 1 tier.
NOTE!
No Skill can be raised more than 2 tiers.
A skill can only be raised once, though 2 tiers can be raised at a single time.
Level Boost tier lifts can be saved, though no more than 5 can be kept at any one time.
If Level Boost is selected again (which is possible once every 10 levels from level 30) as either a Perk or Player Power, and it results in more than 5 tier lifts, the excess tier lifts will be lost.
Level Boost can only be taken once per 10 levels regardless of which category it is taken from.
Therefore, if a Player Power Point is spent for it, it will disappear from both available Player Power and Perk lists.
...
This Perk/Player Power allows the Player to raise the tier limits of their skills by 3 tiers.
This can either be used to raise 3 Skills 1 tier (to the Paragon tier) or 1 Skill 2 tiers (to the Mythic tier) and 1 Skill 1 tier.
NOTE!
No Skill can be raised more than 2 tiers.
A skill can only be raised once, though 2 tiers can be raised at a single time.
Level Boost tier lifts can be saved, though no more than 5 can be kept at any one time.
If Level Boost is selected again (which is possible once every 10 levels from level 30) as either a Perk or Player Power, and it results in more than 5 tier lifts, the excess tier lifts will be lost.
Level Boost can only be taken once per 10 levels regardless of which category it is taken from.
Therefore, if a Player Power Point is spent for it, it will disappear from both available Player Power and Perk lists.
...
I'd already known what Level Boost was going to be, but getting the full details made it clear that I'd be taking it. I wasn't yet sure which Skills I'd use it on, but I suspected I'd use it to lift one skill two tiers and then keep the last point back for consideration later.
The other Player Powers, bar Upgraded Minimap Mark 2, were the same as before. Upgraded Minimap Mark 2 extended the ability of the Minimap to locate hidden passageways and alcoves to places hidden by either the Force or other advanced methods. That was interesting, but given what was offered by Level Boost and Reveal the Hidden, it was unlikely I'd be taking it this time.
Before I made sure of my choices, I had to example the Perks available, and after dismissing the Player Powers that was what I examined.
PERKS
These are earned by spending perk points [which you earn at a rate of 1PP per 4 levels].
Currently, you have 1 PerkP.
Most perks have multiple levels, allowing the Player to take improved versions of a perk if they so wish.
Currently, you have the following perks:
Ambidextrous
Boosted Growth Mark 2
Eidetic Memory
Empathy
Enhanced Regeneration [1/3]
Force Prodigy
Heart of the Force [1/2]
…
Available Perks:
Bookworm
Brainiac Mark1
Cat's Grace Mark1
Cult of Personality Mark1
Dominant Mark1
Enhanced Regeneration Mark2
Giant's Strength Mark1
Healing Acclimatisation
Iron Skin Mark1
Level Boost
Luck of the Force Mark1
Medic Mark1
Mind Abilities Affinity
One with Beasts
One with Nature
Overdrive
Physical Regeneration Mark1
Psychometry Acclimatisation
Seer's Insight
Shatterpoint Acclimatisation
Stellar Ace
Stat Limit Boost Mark1
Style Mark1
Wisdom of the Ancients Mark1
…
These are earned by spending perk points [which you earn at a rate of 1PP per 4 levels].
Currently, you have 1 PerkP.
Most perks have multiple levels, allowing the Player to take improved versions of a perk if they so wish.
Currently, you have the following perks:
Ambidextrous
Boosted Growth Mark 2
Eidetic Memory
Empathy
Enhanced Regeneration [1/3]
Force Prodigy
Heart of the Force [1/2]
…
Available Perks:
Bookworm
Brainiac Mark1
Cat's Grace Mark1
Cult of Personality Mark1
Dominant Mark1
Enhanced Regeneration Mark2
Giant's Strength Mark1
Healing Acclimatisation
Iron Skin Mark1
Level Boost
Luck of the Force Mark1
Medic Mark1
Mind Abilities Affinity
One with Beasts
One with Nature
Overdrive
Physical Regeneration Mark1
Psychometry Acclimatisation
Seer's Insight
Shatterpoint Acclimatisation
Stellar Ace
Stat Limit Boost Mark1
Style Mark1
Wisdom of the Ancients Mark1
…
Again, the list was a mix of old and new offerings. Level Boost was, as had been stated after the upgrade to Natural Evolution had been applied, listed as a Perk as well. That was much like Heart of the Force, but for that, I'd needed to spend one Perk Point and one Player Power Point to bring the increase in Force Potential to a level close, but not quite at, Anakin's. Overall, there was a larger percentage of new Perks than new Player Powers and curious about them, I worked my way through their descriptions.
Enhanced Regeneration Mark2 was a simple improvement on Enhanced Regeneration Mark1. It lifted the base regeneration for PP, STAMINA, and Force Regeneration – which was no longer tracked but I felt fed into Force Exhaustion – from two times to four times the base regeneration rates. Having the ability to delay Force Exhaustion, and then recover from it quicker was certainly appealing, but nothing ground-breaking.
Overdrive was something unexpected. It would, when activated, allow me to draw on more of the Force, however, that worked, to the extent I could push beyond the limits of Force Exhaustion. The downside of the perk was that for each minute it was active while I was Force Exhausted, I would damage my body. Any damage taken because of the perk would be immune to accelerated healing, be that from the Force or something like bacta, outside of permanent injury caused by the perk.
The ability to have a way to push far beyond my limits with the Force was interesting, and when fighting against someone on the level of the High Council or a Sith Lord, might well be useful. Though it would be, I hoped, a long time before I had to confront anyone on that level. Additionally, the perk had a time limit of an hour, and if it was active for that long, then without immediate attention, I would die from the damage taken.
It was certainly a perk to consider for the future, but as of now, was not one I was giving any serious consideration to taking. The same couldn't be said of Mind Abilities Affinity.
That perk was if I was reading the description correctly, something beyond a simple ability to use mental Force abilities. It would grant me a natural understanding of how to use the various Force powers that affected the minds of others, most of which, when I went by the old Interface listings, were Dark Side aligned. Since those powers were dangerous to use without proper training, the perk would be a massive boon, though I wasn't the sort of person inclined to manipulate the minds of others. At least not at present, and hopefully never would be.
Stellar Ace was another I'd not expected to see or had considered as possible. This perk would grant me double XP for any skill related to flying or piloting a machine. It didn't matter if the skill applied to starships in space, fighters in atmosphere, or vessels inside a liquid such as water, the XP gains would be doubled. The downside of the perk was that it would half my XP gain for any skill involved in riding a living beast. Since that wasn't something I'd done much, if at all, since emerging into this universe, it wasn't anything more than a minor inconvenience to the perk.
What did stand out about Stellar Ace, was that, if taken and then Level Boost was applied to piloting, I could, in theory, find it easier to match some of the better pilots in the Jedi Order. I didn't think I'd ever reach the level of Saesee Tiin, to say nothing of what Anakin was capable of, but it was an intriguing perk to consider. The same could be said of the Acclimatisation perks. Or at least Shatterpoint Acclimatisation.
Each Acclimatisation perk granted me the equivalent of a natural inclination toward using those powers: Force Healing, Psychometry, and Shatterpoint. It didn't, however, grant an affinity toward them, nor the ability to use the power on an almost instinctual level, such as what Master Windu was said to have with Shatterpoint.
What was interesting was that, from ten levels after taking an Acclimatisation perk, an Affinity perk would be available for it, and a further ten levels from there could offer a Naturalization perk for the power and all sub-forms of it. A further perk, which wasn't detailed or explained, would then come into play twenty more levels later that would make me one of only a handful of beings to ever truly understand the Force ability in question.
While that would be a very long road to travel, it did mean that, in theory, if I reached level 60, I could be as natural at Shatterpoint as someone like Windu. Of course, the chances of me reaching Level 60 were slim at best.
After going over the list of perks, and reviewing the older ones to see if they had changed, I found myself wondering why there weren't any for my more unusual or rare Force Powers like Phase, Teleport, and Inanimate Conversion.
That is because, in our infinite wisdom, we have chosen to be gracious.
At least regarding the majority of those powers.
For most, including Phase and Teleport, since you have shown continual effort to learn and grow those powers, we have granted you a natural affinity toward them equivalent to what you have with Battle Meditation.
Perks to make you a natural are not going to be offered because they are not needed.
With training, dedication, and perhaps a large helping of fortune, you can develop those powers to become one of the greatest to ever wield them.
Inanimate Conversion, however, is an entirely different issue.
That power, and a few like it, were not ones you were meant to discover or use.
In truth, their use aligns with a branch of Force powers commonly referred to as Force (or Sith) Alchemy.
Again, with training, effort, and the right teachers, you can learn to do what those powers once did.
And, perhaps, even more.
That, however, is something you will have to work very hard to achieve and might take you to places you will always be unwilling to go.
In the end, the choice, like it has always been, is up to you.
At least regarding the majority of those powers.
For most, including Phase and Teleport, since you have shown continual effort to learn and grow those powers, we have granted you a natural affinity toward them equivalent to what you have with Battle Meditation.
Perks to make you a natural are not going to be offered because they are not needed.
With training, dedication, and perhaps a large helping of fortune, you can develop those powers to become one of the greatest to ever wield them.
Inanimate Conversion, however, is an entirely different issue.
That power, and a few like it, were not ones you were meant to discover or use.
In truth, their use aligns with a branch of Force powers commonly referred to as Force (or Sith) Alchemy.
Again, with training, effort, and the right teachers, you can learn to do what those powers once did.
And, perhaps, even more.
That, however, is something you will have to work very hard to achieve and might take you to places you will always be unwilling to go.
In the end, the choice, like it has always been, is up to you.
Not having to spend Perk Points for affinities for powers like Phase and Teleport was a relief, and the TPTB were right that I used them semi-regularly. Losing access to Inanimate Conversion was annoying as I'd hoped, at least before learning about and selecting Natural Evolution, that I could get the power to a point where I could create beskar by simply willing it. That dream was dead, though the pathway to it and other powers was there if I so chose.
Adas had spoken on the benefits of Force alchemy, and from the few records I'd found on him, it was said the axe he used in combat had been enhanced with the Force, so perhaps that was something to pursue at a later date. Oddly though, having to work to recover and reuse that power, and possibly Restore as it might fall under the same category, felt a better choice. Having to earn the right to manipulate objects at the atomic level was something that should be earned, and not simply gained for fun. Plus, as much as it now felt like a mistake, I'd stopped focusing on Inanimate Conversion in the lead-up to the invasion of Naboo.
That, however, was a matter for another time, as was making a final choice on which Perk to take, though I would admit I was leaning toward Shatterpoint Acclimatisation simply because, even at a low level, that power had game-changing potential.
Dismissing the Perks list, I saw that, in the time I'd been splitting my focus between the Player Powers and Perks and hiking, we'd almost reached our destination. I looked up as I felt the approach of a familiar and powerful presence grow stronger.
As I gazed upward, I saw Raven slip through the low-lying clouds and felt her relief at finally being able to sense me optically. Yet, my focus wasn't on that, but on how alive and vibrant she felt. I stopped walking, to avoid stumbling as I felt her relief flood my mind, and a wide smile spread over my face. I'd known that I shared a connection with Raven because of how she'd been created and my actions in saving her when Zonoma Sekot had left, but this was the first time I'd truly felt it and it was an incredible sensation.
Raven was, in a large way, a part of me, and the joy radiating from her had an almost familial sensation to it. While her thoughts weren't clear like those of a sentient, I understood her feelings with ease. Closing my eyes, I reached out through the faint opening to the wider Force that I retained, and let her know I was well and pleased to see her again.
I gasped as an almost overwhelming surge of delight came back. After recovering from the blast, I understood that she was happy not just because I was safe, but because the bond between us was stronger and more instinctual. Lifting my hand, I reached out through the Force – widening my connection to it fractionally – and truly sensed Raven for the first time.
Power flowed through her in ways that while I understood on a technical level, I'd not truly experienced in a metaphysical way. Even a few kilometres from her, I could sense how alive she was, how the power from her core flowed through her organic circuits to the various components – be they mechanical or organic – that composed her frame. How a slight shift in one section of her body shifted the flow of energy toward her anti-gravity generators to help her turn as she descended.
The feeling of the cool, damp air of Dagobah brushing over her skin, and how she enjoyed the moisture and newness of it, was easy to pick up on. As was how she saw the various airborne life on the planet, and how all of them avoided her; understanding that she was beyond them in ways they didn't fully comprehend. Yet under the pleasure of the new experience of the planet, and her joy that I was safe and soon to be reunited with her, the desire to surge between planets, to dance among the stars shone brightly. Raven was born to fly in space, and soon she would return to what she did best, and she couldn't wait to do so.
My smile widened as I opened my eyes, and took in Raven once again. Before this change, I'd known that if Raven had died, I'd have been hurt. Now, however, I understood that if something happened to her I'd burn the cosmos to make those who hurt her, who dared threaten my daughter – which in many ways she was – learn the error of their ways. Raven was something unique, something special that had to be nurtured, treasured, protected, and encouraged to grow. Deep in my soul, I knew that there was little I wouldn't do to protect her from others. A feeling I knew she held for me.
Watching happily, I observed the way she turned in the air, her engines shifting thrusts to ensure when she landed she was facing me. While Simvyl was at her helm, Raven was the one doing the flying. The landing struts, a mixture – like much of her – of organic and mechanical – slipped from her underbelly. The spots they'd emerged from were invisible before their emergence as they blended perfectly into her skin.
As I resumed my approach, I felt her change the flow of power through her frame, reducing thrust to the engines, and she touched down with a grace comparable to any dancer I'd ever seen. The ground gently sunk, accepting her presence without breaking, and as I nodded to Simvyl in the cockpit, I sensed before I heard her ramp descending.
Before it had reached the ground, two figures – one small, the other larger, and longer – emerged from the gap. I shuddered, experiencing Fenrir's delight as he bounded toward me. A delight that his pack wasn't damaged, that his family was safe pushing aside the desire to race off and assert his position as the apex predator of this new world.
"Fenrir!" I called out as I was knocked over by the giant tuk'ata, his tongue lathering my face. "Off!"
He didn't listen, continuing to lick my face and chest as his relief that I was well, and delight flowed around us. Rolling to the side to save myself, I laughed loudly at his behaviour, and at fully feeling the connection I held with him. While I didn't have the same natural connection to Fenrir that I held to Raven, I'd known the tuk'ata longer and he'd been a part of my family, or my pack, for several years.
Even as I enjoyed the increased connection, my remaining hand tried desperately to push him back. Though given his massive bulk – his shoulder stood at my neck, and I felt he still had growing to go – even with two hands I'd struggled to restrain him when he was this happy. Thankfully, after it felt as if he'd drenched every inch of my upper body in drool, he pulled back. My arm came up, wiping at my face just enough to clear my sight, though before I could growl at Fenrir, I was knocked over again.
"CAM!" I winced as Anakin, unintentionally shouted into my ear. A gasp slipped from me as his arms tightened around my neck, though the reaction also came from how powerful Anakin's relief was.
If it had been a river, I'd have drowned in the depth and strength of his presence, and even with my connection to the Force muted, because of our physical contact, I was unable to restrict the onslaught of emotions rushing forth from the boy. From my son.
The same joy and delight, mixed with relief, that Raven and Fenrir had radiated came from Anakin, though under it all, pushed down in the hopes I'd not sense it, I discovered fear. Pushing toward it even as I wrapped my arm around his back, I was assaulted by the source of that fear.
I'd known since Shmi had died, that Anakin had latched onto me, but until now I'd not realised how important I'd become to him. I was, thanks to the adoption, his father – though he saw me more as an older brother and mentor, which I was fine with – and alongside Lia, the only people that mattered to him. With Shmi's death having been so recent when I'd awoken in panic, his fear that he'd lose me had been what had driven him to reach out for my mind.
That decision had saved me, and holding him close, I understood just how powerful Anakin could be, and would be once I finished training him. Yet, under all that, I felt a tiny sliver of terror. Anakin's need, his desire, to help and protect those he cared for was what Sidious had exploited to turn him into Vader. While I'd known it was there, and could easily recall Dooku's words about the danger that Anakin would bring out that concerning tendency of mine to risk it all to help those I cared for, it was only now, with the Force unfiltered and Anakin in my arm, that I felt I fully comprehend just how powerful, and dangerous our shared need to help could be.
However, even though that was an issue, it was one for later. The more pressing one was that, with Anakin hugging me, and Fenrir and Raven close by, I was struggling to limit the emotional overflow coming from them. knowing I had to if I wanted to keep going, to say nothing of entering Raven, I closed my eyes and once more looked inward.
There I felt for the Force again, finding the connection I held with it, and the muffle I'd placed on everything bar the bonds I shared with others. Drawing on my lessons with Fay and others, I slowly followed those instructions to dampen the emotional feedback I was experiencing. I didn't want to entirely shut down the connection I held with others, but I had to dampen the sensations from them that I was experiencing.
It took time, though I couldn't say how much, but slowly I felt the emotional tidal waves coming from the trio lessen; the strength of their feelings sliding back to more manageable levels. Once I felt I'd dulled my connection to the point that I wasn't at risk of being disorientated by sharp, intense bursts of feelings, I opened my eyes and then slowly patted Anakin's head.
"I'm alright. There's no need to worry, An'ika." The word Bo had used to describe Anakin slipping easily from me. As I said it, I swore I felt a gentle, distant shift in the Force. As if it was reacting to my use of the word and, I thought, approving. "I'm here and I'm not going anywhere."
Anakin didn't pull back instantly, but after a short time he did, and I saw his face. His eyes were red, and I was sure his tears had mingled with Fenrir's drool as he'd hugged me. "I… I thought I'd lost you. L-like mum." His voice all but died out as he finished, but given he was still all but lying on my chest, it carried to my ears easily.
I lifted my hand from his back and brought it around. Since my fingers were cleanish – Fenrir's drool ending up on the back of Anakin's shirt – I gently wiped his eyes, clearing the tears and drool that had gotten stuck there when he'd hugged me. "I'm fine. I just… for a while now I've been having issues with the Force. As if I've had a block on what I can and should be able to do. During the fight with the Zabrak, just before it ended, I had an epiphany and understood what was wrong. However, to fix the issue I needed a quiet world that was strong in the Force where I could meditate without distraction. When I awoke, the barrier that I'd been experiencing was gone; however, the change caught me unawares, At least until you, Raven, and Fenrir reached out to help."
Anakin blinked; his eyes widening and a frown forming as if he understood something. "That's why you seem different," He muttered.
That comment had me frowning, though it was less that he could sense the change in me, but that he might sense the taint from my usage of the Dark Side over the years. "In what way?" I asked carefully, wondering if I could use him to gauge when I'd recovered the full ability to mask my presence – be it just the Dark Side, or the full breadth of my Force connection – from others.
His frown deepened. "I'm not sure," he began slowly, his face twisting as he thought on the matter, and I struggled to not chuckle at his expression. "It's like, before, even when you were nearby, it felt as if you were, I dunno, distant. What was there was powerful but in a good way. Now though," he paused, his eyes searching mine for something. "It's like I'm standing on a beach on Gaia, looking at an ocean." A flicker of a smile came to his face, as it always did when he thought of seeing oceans. "It's massive, stretching further than I can see but… there's clouds in the distance. A storm brewing maybe. And under the surface… there's something there. Something dangerous." He paused and his eyes widened again. "Not that, uh, you're, um, dangerous. It's, ah, like…"
I lifted my hand to stop his rambling, and as I chuckled at the attempt to pull back his words, ruffled his hair. "It's okay. I get what you're trying to say," I said with a smile, my concern that he could sense the darkness in me easing. Yes, it was still there, but it was distant and indistinct. That I could work with; at least until I fully learnt how to hide the rage buried deep inside. "As I said, I've overcome the block I felt I had. One that, as you and others have noted, kept me distant in the Force. While I've defeated that block, it seems I need to work on tempering my control." I looked around as if searching for something, before leaning forward. "The less others know of what you and I can do, and how I've changed, the less they'll ask about us and the more we can do without anyone watching," I added quietly, in a conspiratorial way that I knew would appeal to Anakin.
"Okay, I think."
I chuckled at Anakin's confusion, which I could see all over his face and sense in the Force. "I'm not sure you do," I said, my hand still ruffling his hair, "but I'll teach you." He nodded at that, and my smile grew as I removed my hand from his head. "Now, I think it's time we consider leaving this world," I added, and he slipped off my chest.
"C-cam," he began as I slowly moved to stand. I looked at him as I shifted to my knees, sensing the fear inside grow stronger. However, as I began to stand, the fear became clearer to sense, and I understood it wasn't centred on the change he could sense in me, but was a more generalised thing. "Idontwanttobeweak."
I blinked, processing what he'd said, and once I had, looked down at him. "What do you mean by weak?" My question was said softly, and while I hadn't expected that statement from him, I had a suspicion of why he'd said it.
He held my gaze for a moment before looking down at the ground. Finding a loose stone, he kicked it, sending it hurtling into a nearby bog. "I… I'm weak. I, I couldn't s-save my m-mu," he said quietly, unwilling, or unable to meet my eyes. "I… I n-need to be st-stronger."
I knelt and placed my hand on his shoulder, and when he finally decided to look at me, I spoke. "Everything dies, Anakin. That's the way of the universe." His shoulders slumped, not liking what I was saying. "However, that doesn't mean we should just roll over and accept our fate; accept that death is coming for us. If we want to do anything or have anything, in this universe, we have to be willing to fight for it, to fight to defend it. No matter what anyone says, be they a Jedi, a politician, or some random sentient you meet on some unimportant planet in the middle of nowhere, everyone seeks to be stronger. However, for those of us able to draw upon and use the Force, we must be careful with how we channel that and other desires. The Force grants us the ability to do wondrous things, but it can also be used to do terrible things. The key is in deciding how and when we wield the Force. Do we use it for personal gain, to enrich and empower ourselves? Or do we use it to protect others, to help them grow strong enough they can defend themselves and those they care about?"
"I don't want to be weak," he repeated, seemingly not getting what I was trying to say.
My hand came to his chin and lifted it so I could meet his eyes. "You're not weak, Anakin. Your mother's death wasn't because you were weak, nor are you in any way responsible for it. The fault, if it lies with anyone, should lie with me as…"
"It's not your fault!" Anakin jumped in aggressively, the Force reacting to the massive, enraged burst of anger. "Me and Mum would've still been slaves if not for you!" I blinked, struggling to comprehend the power behind the voice. While he wasn't doing it intentionally, I could feel the Force in him shifting. As if a storm of unimaginable strength was forming not far from me. Yet, for all I could feel at the beginning, the first true inklings of what that storm might bring, I knew it wasn't ready to be unleashed; that it could still be tempered and focused.
"That is a possibility," I said to Anakin, ignoring the sensations in the Force as best I could. "However, what is certain is that, in my desire to help others, I made a mistake. One that, in the end, cost the lives of many including your mother. I thought," I continued before he could cut me off again, "that because they'd grown strong enough to protect themselves, the Lokella could help protect others. My mistake, and it was one, was not considering how important I am to many of their people. Because of that, they overcommitted to help, and left themselves vulnerable to an attack."
"That wasn't your fault!" Anakin shot back, the brewing storm I felt in the Force slowly shifting around as if changing directions. "It was the Hutts who attacked us! I want them dead!"
I stayed quiet, wanting to see if a moment of silence might settle the rapidly growing fury that radiated from Anakin. Everything about his rage was, in my opinion, justified. The Hutts, specifically Decca, had chosen to attack the Lokella when they were distracted, to strike back at losing control over those he had no right to consider his property. Yet, once more, it wasn't the cause of Anakin's rage, but the raw power that surged from the boy that caught me off guard and, as much as I knew it was wrong, impressed me.
Even now, as a nine-year-old boy, Anakin was powerful, but he was a wild beast, unable or unwilling to harness, to focus that power. He needed to refine and direct it while gaining the disciple to be the one in control, otherwise, it was easy to see what would become of him. Even with his connection to Palpatine unformed, if left as he was, it wouldn't take much to turn Anakin into Vader. Though the Vader I could see in the darkest elements of the growing storm wasn't the cold, calculated one I knew, but instead a wild, untamed monster.
In the corners of my mind, I heard whispers. Faint at first, but growing stronger as Anakin continued to rage. They were louder than before, though because I'd dampened my connection to the Force they should've been weaker, yet it wasn't hard to hear their words, the offer the Dark Side was giving. All I had to do was harness Anakin's rage, to focus it toward my goals, and when combined with my power the galaxy would cower under our weight. If I moulded him to use that anger, to harness it while remaining in control, he would become a dragon of death: He would wield a power few, if any, in the galaxy could stand against.
I blinked, realising the voices in my head, the whispers of the Dark Side were distracting me, tempting me more than I needed. The loss of the Interface now meant those offers of power would be stronger, and while I'd felt muting myself to the Force would hide them, it seemed they were even stronger and louder than before. Looking at Anakin, under the rage toward the Hutts, I saw a faint hint of fear, though I knew it wasn't for himself. No, this fear was for me. Almost as if he had some inkling of understanding of what dwelled within him.
"I know you want them dead, Anakin," I said slowly, being careful of my words. "Yet, while the Jedi would tell you to simply let go of your anger, and your feelings toward your mother, I won't. Nor will I tell you to give in to that anger as a Sith might. What I will do is promise you that, with time and dedication, you can learn to control that rage, to control yourself." That, I could admit, was a bit hypocritical as I struggled with that, but I also knew I had to learn this lesson, so what better reason to have to do so than to protect and help my son? "That day, however, is far from today."
"How long will it take?" He asked; firmness in his voice and certainty in his stance.
"I don't know, but when you've finally learnt to control yourself; when I, HK, Simvyl, Bo and others have finished training you, then know that all of us will stand with you. We will be with you when it's time for you to show the galaxy that the small, scared former slave is gone, and his place stands a warrior ready to do what he must."
Anakin blinked as I spoke, his anger shifting away, though not disappearing. "Isn't that what a Jedi's meant to be?"
"No, it's not," I replied with a chuckle. "At least according to many of the senior members of the Order. However, to me it is what a Jedi should be, what everyone should strive to be. Then again, I'm far from what most of the Order would consider a good Jedi." Fenrir growled in amusement and even though he was further away, I heard Simvyl's snort of agreement.
"Commentary: The Creator wasn't considered a good Jedi in his time, Master, nor would he be seen as one now. However, I believe he would consider you a true Jedi. Musing: Perhaps that is why he so enjoyed educating other Jedi on their inaccurate views."
I bit my tongue, not wanting to comment on the fact that Revan likely carried out those education sessions while a Sith Lord. Still, it was amusing to hear HK believe that Revan would consider me a true Jedi. He had been both Jedi and Sith and while I hoped that wouldn't be my fate, I would accept the compliment HK was offering on his creator's behalf.
Imagining how others in the Order would respond if they ever heard that comment from HK was something I'd enjoy thinking about, though I had no intention of ever sharing it with them. Bo, perhaps, might like to hear it though, as would Naz and a handful of others.
I saw that Anakin was smiling, seemingly happy with HK's remark. He'd read the first of my Knights of the Old Republic series and had asked me questions about Revan and his fate. I'd answered them as best I could without spoiling the story or putting the wrong ideas in the boy's head, but I'd avoided spoiling the surprise that was due to appear in the second book, Shadow of the Sith: that the hero of the story, the one working to save the Republic, was Revan.
Padmé, Serra, and others had asked me for spoilers about the stories as well, but I'd refused to ruin the surprise, and when the book dropped – which should be early next year – I knew I'd been getting a lot of calls about the reveal. Hopefully not from the Jedi Council or the Sith, but I expected Dooku at least to reach out.
I stood, planning to walk toward Raven only to stop as I remembered a promise I'd made. "HK, Fenrir," I said to the assassin and war beast, "we'll be leaving soon, but until then feel free to go hunting. Just don't go too far."
Fenrir howled in delight and raced away, seeking out the first challenger to his position at the top of the food chain. "Affirmative: Yes, Master. I will not take too long. Exclamation: I shall, however, enjoy removing as many detestable bestial meatbags as I can."
I laughed as he turned and raced away in the general direction of Fenrir. While the droid disliked organics, he was impressed with Fenrir's combat efficiency, considering him a useful, if not ideal, combat partner.
Once the droid was a decent distance away, I turned back to Anakin and clasped his shoulder. "Now, while we wait for those two to have their fun, perhaps we might begin your training in earnest?"
"Okay," the boy replied with a wide smile, and we moved toward Raven, R2 at our heels.
As we walked, I opened a new notice, one that had appeared while I'd been speaking with Anakin.
Quest Alert! [¤] [ɸ]
Te Ad's Skira
Rating: A
Train your son to the point where he is ready and capable of gaining revenge for the death of his mother.
Objectives:
:a: Help Anakin reach level 20 before the death of Decca Besadii Diori.
:b: Ensure that Anakin is the one to end the life of Decca Besadii Diori.
:c: Make sure Decca Besadii Diori dies before the outbreak of galactic war.
:d: [?]
:e: [?]
:f: [?]
Rewards:
:a: 2000XP
A decent increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Decent Reputation increases with Ferox and Lia Skywalker.
Small increases in Reputation with anyone in the Lokella before you took Anakin Skywalker as your Padawan.
:b: 3500XP
Pass 2 Tests of Friendship with Anakin Skywalker.
A large increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Decent Reputation increases with Ferox and Lia Skywalker.
Decent increases in Reputation with anyone in the Lokella before you took Anakin Skywalker as your Padawan.
:c: 2500XP
Variable changes in Reputation depending on how Decca Besadii Diori dies and who kills him.
Potential to pass a Test of Friendship with Anakin Skywalker.
Failure:
:a: -1000XP
The likely death of Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
:b: -1750XP
A decent loss of Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
:c: -1250XP
A small loss of Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
Accept?
Yes/No
...
WARNING!
It is possible to complete one of the base three conditions of the Quest without completing the others.
In that event, Rewards and Failures will be applied accordingly.
Thus, depending on which objectives are completed, you could complete the quest but end up worse for it.
...
Te Ad's Skira
Rating: A
Train your son to the point where he is ready and capable of gaining revenge for the death of his mother.
Objectives:
:a: Help Anakin reach level 20 before the death of Decca Besadii Diori.
:b: Ensure that Anakin is the one to end the life of Decca Besadii Diori.
:c: Make sure Decca Besadii Diori dies before the outbreak of galactic war.
:d: [?]
:e: [?]
:f: [?]
Rewards:
:a: 2000XP
A decent increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Decent Reputation increases with Ferox and Lia Skywalker.
Small increases in Reputation with anyone in the Lokella before you took Anakin Skywalker as your Padawan.
:b: 3500XP
Pass 2 Tests of Friendship with Anakin Skywalker.
A large increase in Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Decent Reputation increases with Ferox and Lia Skywalker.
Decent increases in Reputation with anyone in the Lokella before you took Anakin Skywalker as your Padawan.
:c: 2500XP
Variable changes in Reputation depending on how Decca Besadii Diori dies and who kills him.
Potential to pass a Test of Friendship with Anakin Skywalker.
Failure:
:a: -1000XP
The likely death of Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
:b: -1750XP
A decent loss of Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
:c: -1250XP
A small loss of Reputation with Anakin Skywalker.
Variable losses in Reputation with members of the Lokella.
Accept?
Yes/No
...
WARNING!
It is possible to complete one of the base three conditions of the Quest without completing the others.
In that event, Rewards and Failures will be applied accordingly.
Thus, depending on which objectives are completed, you could complete the quest but end up worse for it.
...
While the title of the quest and its description were unexpected, and a little concerning, given what I'd said to Anakin, the objectives made sense. And it would be the first of many quests I suspected that revolved around preparing Anakin for the future, and all the chaos it would bring. What was interesting was how the quest spoke of a galactic war without directly calling it the Clone Wars. That suggested that my actions had already altered the course of the galaxy and that the war wouldn't be fought by the same factions as in the other timeline.
However, before accepting it, I wanted to see where Anakin stood and used Observe on him.
Anakin Skywalker
Race: Human
Level: 12
Health: 100%
Age: 9
Force Potential: Extreme
Threat Potential: Low
Reputation: Trusted Confidant
Affiliation Loyalty: Cameron Shan (86%), Clan Shan (86%), Lokella (84%)
Emotional State: Relieved/hopeful/angry
Young Anakin is glad that not only are you safe, but that you will help him become strong.
He hopes that, over the next few years, he can get closer to being strong enough to protect those he loves.
Though his rage toward the Hutts, specifically Decca, colours much of his thinking.
...
Race: Human
Level: 12
Health: 100%
Age: 9
Force Potential: Extreme
Threat Potential: Low
Reputation: Trusted Confidant
Affiliation Loyalty: Cameron Shan (86%), Clan Shan (86%), Lokella (84%)
Emotional State: Relieved/hopeful/angry
Young Anakin is glad that not only are you safe, but that you will help him become strong.
He hopes that, over the next few years, he can get closer to being strong enough to protect those he loves.
Though his rage toward the Hutts, specifically Decca, colours much of his thinking.
...
Everything there was about what I'd expected, though seeing his loyalty to me was already beyond that of the Lokella was a little surprising. That there was no mention of the Jedi or Republic in his loyalties was fine, though I wondered where Bo and the Mandalorians ranked in his loyalty scale. Sadly, the Interface only ever provided the top three choices for Affiliation Loyalty; at least where they were over 50%.
Still, the targets for the Te Ad's Skira quests were achievable. Or at least the two of them were. Eight levels of growth wasn't going to be too hard to manage, not when both Anakin and I were focused on making him better and stronger. Therefore, the first objective of the quest wasn't a major issue. Ensuring Decca died before the outbreak of galactic war would also, I felt, be achievable, which left only the one to ensure Anakin was the one to remove the Hutt as a challenge.
On the overall balance, it was a worthwhile quest to take, but as it wasn't time-limited for me to accept, I wasn't going to accept it now. After the mistakes I'd made early on, which I'd paid for with the death of Master Micah Giiett and his linked quest, I'd learnt my lesson.
"Give them an hour to hunt before calling them back," I said to Simvyl as I reached the ramp. He nodded accepting my order as I headed into Raven with Anakin and R2.
Even without taking the quest, I'd be training Anakin to be capable of taking on a Jedi Master before galactic war erupted. The only questions that ran through my head were, with the changes I'd brought forth already, and those I'd cause with training Anakin, what sort of chaos would be unleashed, and how they would affect the galaxy as a whole.
All I could do was work to ensure that whatever happened, it helped with my overall goal of ensuring I didn't die when the Republic fell, and Sidious assumed control of what remained. Preferably without letting the Empire be born as anything more than a state bound to fail before it even emerged.
… …
… …
A/N: Before anyone decides to suggest it, Cam has not been nerfed. While he will have to retrain himself to use the Force, his potential is fully unlocked and, with time, he'll become capable of doing what is needed to not only survive, but potentially defeat the oncoming storm of the Banite Sith and their Grand Plan.
... ...
For that are interested, the possible Perks and Player Powers Can had to choose from at level 30.
Level 30 Perks Descriptions
Level 30 Player Power Descriptions
This story is crossposted on Fanfiction.net, Archive of our Own, and Royal Road.
If you're interested, then feel free to join the Discord server for the story, (link below). There, discussions about the story and canon ASOIAF elements take place. Also, if one is active enough to reach a suitable rank (which isn't that high) they can view the story a week or so before it is released publicly here and on other sites.
For this series: Heart of the Force
For general chaos/Gamer stories: Shiro's Gaming Omniverse
If you wish to support my writing, then follow the links below to either Pat-re-on or Sub-scribe-star. There, even the lowest tier gets the next chapter a few weeks early, while higher tiers get extensive drafts (around 70-80% of the final draft) or a redraft needing a final check, around two months earlier.
Patreon: USSExplorer
SubscribeStar: USSExplorer
Regardless if you join the discord or support my writing, I hope you enjoy the story and suggestions, valid criticisms, and ideas are always welcome.
And of course;
May the Force be with you. Always.
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Erebos_03_
Getting sticky.
- Joined
- May 2, 2023
- Messages
- 59
Can you post a link for your server for those under us that only read on their phone?
alec_potter
Versed in the lewd.
- Joined
- Oct 27, 2017
- Messages
- 1,405
Thanks for the update. As always it was a very enjoyable read.
While I like reading your ventures into so many aspects of force, am hoping that there might be some fights as well.
And a return of Bo or Naz or any new female lead would also be nice.
While I like reading your ventures into so many aspects of force, am hoping that there might be some fights as well.
And a return of Bo or Naz or any new female lead would also be nice.
Is this a mistake? Even if the world rotates faster, 42 hours means each day was 10 hours long. Then it would have been called 4 days and 2 hours. Just nitpicking.
USSExplorer
Doing what's necessary, even if it causes chaos
- Joined
- Mar 4, 2019
- Messages
- 474
For this series: Heart of the Force
That link (the bolded part) doesn't work via phone?
Anyway, link is
http://discord.gg/UM89QfyQk3