raze_flyn | Entries tagged with galaxy of chaos

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Disclaimer: Star Wars and it’s expanded universe belong to Lucas film and several other companies working under licence from Lucas film. I am just borrowing the concepts and setting of the world for my own and possibly the enjoyment of other fans.

Note: This is part of my Galaxy of Chaos AU future fic series. Most of the cast is OC since it is set far in the future though there are references to EU characters scattered about. This fic verse will contain het as well as same sex pairings among the cast.

This fic is set 3 weeks from the end of the training camp.

The Next Generation

He walked through the gardens of Ossus on his way to inform Valin Kienaan the council member in charge of assigning the first apprentices to the newly minted Knights that he’d received and approved of his choices for the first padawans for the next batch of Knights to take the trials. It had been decades since he’d contradicted his human friend’s choice but his fellow council member still asked his approval. “Excuse me Master B’nar,” the young Chironian Padawan Errol said sounding out of breath after nearly running into him. He stepped aside and watched the Centauriform padawan racing off when he felt a stirring in the force that made him turn and follow after him.

“Wait Padawan Errol why are you in such a hurray?” He asked and saw the Padawan slow down clearly nervous. He knew that most of the younger students thought as a Neti he was slower than the average sentient but he could have more than kept up with the horse legged padawan.

“Master Lasek sent me to find his son and tell him that his Aunts and Uncles have stopped by on their way back to Zeltros to let him meet his new cousins and one new Uncle.” The Padawan said. “But he’s not in any of his normal places and Mak said he was in the blue fountain gardens with Tej Elsin.” He found that a bit shocking he wasn’t away that Kale or Mak knew the young Mashi Horansi padawan to be.

“I will go there with you feel free to speed up.” He said increasing his own speed. He knew it shouldn’t surprise him Mak Reyale was the only other Horansi among the Jedi so it should have been likely that Tej would be familiar with him but he had never heard of him spending anytime with Mak and certainly not with Kale Lasek. As he followed along with the confused looking Errol he thought about what he knew of Kale Lasek. He was very familiar with the boy’s adoptive mother as she helped with training the younglings but he was not as familiar with the boy. He knew that he tended to attract strays as his mother said first becoming fast friends with Mak Reyale when the young Treka Horansi joined the Jedi after being freed from slavers and then along with Mak embracing the troubled Swa Lu. He allowed himself a moment of sadness at her passing and a moment of joy at how she had died a true Jedi and transformed into the force. He was proud of how all the survivors of that training camp had done sense then.

He also recalled Kale had attracted yet another stray the former Imperial Apprentice Rath Sho whom they’d had to send to the Paladins for his own safety. They arrived and he over heard what was clearly the Horansi language being spoken back and fourth. He paused briefly and realized Kale was teaching the young Padawan how to speak his own language. He wondered how the Jedi had missed that the padawan did not know his own language. He felt foolish as he recalled how the padawan had come to them delivered by Kasa Horansi guards as an infant with a note saying his parents had seen a vision of him as a jedi so he was to be given to them.

He watched as Errol interrupted them and passed on the message. He couldn’t help but smile as Kale turned back and asked Tej if he wanted to come with him and keep practicing on the way. “I will practice with him.” He said speaking up. He saw them both start not aware of his presence but Kale recovered quickly and bowing took his leave. “Tell me Tej how did you come to be learning your language from Kale Lasek?”

“I over heard him talking with the only other Horansi here on Ossus and asked if he’d teach me.” Tej said sounding nervous as he bowed his glossy black coated feline head. “I didn’t want to admit to anyone that I didn’t even know my people’s language and I’ll be a padawan soon what if I met other Horansi in the galaxy.” He was bothered by the fact the Jedi had never caught on. “He’s been teaching me in his spare time and when he can’t Mak Reyale fills in.”

He sat with the boy then and helped him practice for a while impressed with the progress the boy had made in just a few days. The force assisted with learning but it still took a good teacher to help someone learn an alien language. “That is enough for now Tej go to your other classes and tell Kale next time you see him that he is a good teacher.” The padawan nodded and headed away. He pulled out the datapad with Valin’s choices and looked to see who Kale was to train once he passed his trials. He recognized the Omwatti boy that had been chosen he was a good fit for most beginners but he only hesitated a moment before changing him for Tej. He wasn’t sure why but he felt it was the right thing to do.

He made his way back to Valin’s rooms and found his former student now fellow council member looked agitated. “Appologies my friend something unexpected came up,” he said bowing his head and Valin quickly accepted his appology. “I approve of all of your choices except for one I have decided that Kale Lasek will have Tej Elsin as a padawan when he completes his trials.”

He could tell Valin was shocked by that and so he wasn’t surprised when his friend asked, “If I may master B’nar why have you made that switch?” He thought for a moment of how to explain to Valin when it came to him.

“Tell me Valin did you know that Tej has never been taught the Horansi language,” He saw Valin looked shocked and immediately check the records. “I am disappointed in that over sight even though I understand how it happened.” He could tell Valin was even more annoyed than he was over it. “For the last few weeks Kale Lasek and Mak Reyale have been teaching the boy after he asked Kale.” He could tell that Valin was still confused. “My friend think of what they have been through the training camp, their friend dying and in Kale’s case his lover of a few weeks being sent away.” He saw Valin frown as his friend preferred to avoid attachments. “And yet even with the trials coming up they are still in their spare time teaching a boy his language something we have failed to do I believe that speaks well for the next generation of Jedi.”

“I can understand that but perhaps Mak Reyale would make a better choice for the boy’s master,” Valin said calmly. “He is also a Horansi after all and it might help the boy fit in better with a master of his own species.” He knew Valin was simply offering another option but he wasn’t thinking it threw.

“Normally yes but the Horansi are so governed by caste that it might cause problems if Mak was his teacher and they ended up running into other Horansi.” He believed Mak Reyale could deal with it but he didn’t want a young Padawan having to watch his master be treated like an inferior while he was lauded as a mystic.

“I had forgotten that,” Valin said. “Very well Master B’nar if Kale Lasek passes the trials Tej will be his apprentice.” He felt a certainty in the force that all of the survivors from that camp would pass their trails and that they and the next generation they trained would be important.

The End.

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Crossposts: http://raze-flyn.livejournal.com/91596.html

Disclaimer: Star Wars and it’s expanded universe belong to Lucas film and several other companies working under licence from Lucas film. I am just borrowing the concepts and setting of the world for my own and possibly the enjoyment of other fans.

Note: This is part of my Galaxy of Chaos AU future fic series. Most of the cast is OC since it is set far in the future though there are references to EU characters scattered about. This fic verse will contain het as well as same sex pairings among the cast.

This fic is set 2 weeks from the end of the training camp.

His Mother’s visit

The Empire was at war and he was sitting in his great grandmothers receiving room with her, his mother, his uncle and two Imperial Knights. The goat legged with horse hooves horned alien who’s species escaped him that had been standing guard off and on the last few days and his mother’s Borneck body guard Valery Teff. He was very familiar with the pale yellow skinned woman though she always kept a respectable distance from and refused to interact as equals with royalty. “Tor, your grandmother tells me that your staying in my old room?” His mother said once again reminding him of the injustice of his house arrest while the Empire was fighting a war. “I studied the history of it extensively I should go tell you where everything in there came from.” He knew his mother’s passion for the Empire’s history was the only thing his great grandmother liked about her. Her reputation as being flighty and naive meant that after his father’s death his great grandmother had taken an interest in him and his brother. “We can go right now Galen, Grandmother why don’t we all go?”

“I need to talk to Galen alone,” His great grandmother said with a commanding tone. “Just take your body guard she can watch out for any episodes Tor might have.” It took a lot not to snort at the lie they’d told to keep anyone from believing him that he was having episodes where he’d rant about untrue things and get violent.

“No, take Janos, he is better able to spot the beginning of those episodes,” his Uncle Galen said quickly. He saw his uncle’s look and knew what it really meant. His uncle wasn’t sure Valery would stop him from telling his mother but his hand chosen guard to watch over him and his grandmother would.

“That’s fine come on Tor,” His mother said cheerfully and as he and the Imperial baby sitter followed she began to talk about the history of the mansion that his grandmother lived in. He wasn’t even paying attention by the time they reached the room he was in. “Janos guard the door Tor, we don’t have much time so please no questions until I’m finished.” His mother said shocking him into alertness.

She walked over to an antique mural of an ancient battle on the wall. “Watch closely Tor,” she said motioning him over. She began to push spots on the mural and the figures lit up and the mural slid down to reveal a massive crawl space. “I found this as a teenager one of our ancestors built it secretly you can hide stuff from Galen and the Moff’s search teams here.”

“You know the truth?” He said and she nodded. He started to ask again but then he remembered what she had asked him so he quieted down and waited. She walked over to the guard who handed her a bag that he’d been carrying hidden somewhere on his person.

“This is the most important thing Janos is the only guard you can completely trust.” His mother said surprising him. “He like me is part of an organization that transcends borders and we will be doing everything in our power to end this war no matter what it takes.” She looked sad. “I never expected to be telling you about all this in such a hurray but we can’t stay too long.” She pulled a holocron out of the bag then. “This comes to you threw Jennica Maral your brother’s new body guard.” He was staring in shock. “She and all the others aside form Cadets Quest and Berus took the deal after being warned by the Jedi Seer Tasha Baldour that they would be killed if they didn’t.” So they had known that’s why they had seemed to dread heading to Bastion. “She told them what assignments to take to help Master Sa’vin save the Empire from itself.” He was still stunned that he hadn’t been told.

“I know it seems strange that you weren’t told but according to Maral someone had to object and only you and your master wouldn’t be killed.” He supposed he could understand that though he hated the thought of the Empire killing for its secret. “When Master Sa’vin contacts you and your great grandmother keep quiet about my organization only Master Sa’vin knows about us and he agrees with me that your great grandmother can never know she would not accept outside help.” He could understand that his great grandmother placed the honor of the Empire above all other things. “There are a few more things in the bag you’ll need a tool kit and a focusing crystal to start work on a new light saber and a copy of your father’s holo journal I gave one to your brother before they were shipped out.” His mother said sounding tired. “I probably won’t be able to see you in person again since Galen and the Moffs are having us shipped all over the place I’ll try to send word to you threw Janos and when the time is right he’ll help you escape and meet up with your half brother who is also in our organization.”

“Half brother?” He asked completely shocked. “You mean the one no one ever talks about who failed as Imperial Knight and ran off to be a Bounty Hunter?” He had asked questions when he was little only to be told by his older relatives not to ask.

“That isn’t what happened Galen ran him out of the Imperial Knights because he hated your father but couldn’t bring himself to take things out on blood family members.” His mother said tiredly. “There are Jedi and supposedly deceased Imperial Knights in our organization and they completed his training I wish I had time to give you all the details but if we don’t head back soon Galen may get suspicious.” He wanted to know more but he understood. “Just remember I love you and your brothers and no matter what happens I will get you out of here and back free again.” His mother said giving him a quick hug and then raising the mural back to hide what she’d given him. “Let’s go, Janos take care of my son.”

“I will,” The Imperial guard said with a bow. “You have my word as a Paladin.” He said and then as they walked back down the hall his mother began to play the part of the cheerful historian again. He wondered how little he actually knew about his own mother as he followed her back. He hated to admit it but he’d accepted the popular belief that there wasn’t much to her just like everyone else.

The End.

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Disclaimer: Star Wars and it’s expanded universe belong to Lucas film and several other companies working under licence from Lucas film. I am just borrowing the concepts and setting of the world for my own and possibly the enjoyment of other fans.

Note: This is part of my Galaxy of Chaos AU future fic series. Most of the cast is OC since it is set far in the future though there are references to EU characters scattered about. This fic will contain het as well as same sex pairings among the cast.

This fic is set 1.3 weeks from the end of the training camp.

Necessity of Exile

“I am sorry to ask to see you on such short notice,” the Mrlssti Jedi master said. He was surprised to find himself and Kale asked to meet with the a member of the Jedi council. “However, the Empire is about to file a formal petition asking the Alliance to send you back as a deserter.” The master said looking at him. He felt Kale sitting beside him tense up. “The Jedi will not do that but at the same time we cannot afford to sour relations with the Alliance at this critical time.”

“Then Master Knesos should Rath and I leave Ossus,” Kale said and he was torn on how to react. “At least until the Jedi find the proof to prove the Empire is lying about what happened at the training camp.” He felt better when it became clear Kale just meant a temporary departure.

“Rath Sho must leave but you must stay Kale.” The old master said and then quickly added. “Rath, Kale are the two of you familiar with the Moff Banbl Mnaa and the Mad Arkanian incident.” He knew the story so he nodded but Kale clearly didn’t. “Moff Banbl Mnaa was a high ranking Moff and his sister was the reigning Empress around 1200 years ago.” He glanced over at Kale to see him listening intently. “He was also the head of Black Sun and heavily involved in a slave movement that supposedly sold slaves from lost colonies of extinct and nearly extinct species.”

The Jedi master pulled out a small holo emitter. “They turned out to be genetically engineered fakes the Red Sith for instance were just genetically engineered Myke’s who had their ancient sith ancestry enhanced and the Neti were just Zelosian’s who had their plant attributes greatly increased.” The Jedi Master seemed lost in thought as the Emitter showed the red Sith then a myke then the Neti who looked like humanoid trees and a Zelosian. “The Melodies they claimed were the furthest from the true species being now a polymorphic human off shoot instead of a humanoid that transitioned at different life stages.” Two more images appeared a human which then morphed to have a single fish tail where the lower legs used to be. “Only the Theelin and Kwa subjects could really be called an accurate reaction because..” He stopped and looked at Kale.

“Please Master, what does this have to do with Rath leaving?” Kale asked and he could detect the note of nervousness in Kales voice. He found it strange that he wasn’t bothered he felt secure that whatever this was about it would make sense but Kale was clearly a bit agitated.

“It is important Padawan Lasek trust me,” the avian master said. “They were the creations of Bol Durgachia the so called Mad Arkanian who just a few decades earlier had illegally altered a primitive human people into three mutated subspecies.” The holo emiter showed an image of a three eyed human, a four armed human and a human covered in bony spikes. “The Jedi discovered the source of all this trouble but the Empress refused to believe her brother could be a part of this and convinced her husband to refuse to allow the GA or the Jedi to investigate.” An image of a small furry sentient with a long tail appeared on the holo then. “A group of Jedi 175 in total quit the order and invaded the Moff’s territory exposing him and the mad Arkanian.” He knew the story the response to this event was the Empire closing its’ borders to the Jedi and expanding the Imperial Knights to police the Empire instead of just serving the Emperor. “Unfortunately the Moff and the Arkanian died complicating an already delicate political situation; the exiles led by their leader a Lurmen Jedi master nicknamed Arcady disappeared even as the Galactic Alliance relocated these new genetically engineered species to several potential home worlds.” The old Avian’s eyes lit up then. “The group which came to be known as Arcady’s Paladins still exist and it is to them we will send you Rath.”

“Okay that makes sense I guess,” Kale said looking over at him. “But why can’t I go with Rath to these Paladins until....” Kale stopped talking when he put his hand on his shoulder he wanted the old master to continue and Kale relaxed.

“The Paladins operate in secret respecting no boarders they go where they are needed they are not all even force sensitive some are Jedi and some are current and former imperial knights.” The old master said. “You cannot go Kale because they cannot survive without secrecy and only the Jedi council and a few Knights know of them but if you disappear as well then Jedi involvement in his vanishing becomes much easier to see.” He could understand that even though he didn’t like it. “Besides the two you will be working together again very soon as Kale after your trials I believe you should take up the habit of being a Wandering knight like your mother and father before you.” He saw Kale smile but he didn’t understand.

“A wandering Knight is a Jedi who doesn’t stay on Ossus and take missions they just travel around the galaxy letting the force lead them and they often pick up non Jedi companions along the way.” Kale said as an explanation. “Both my parents were wandering Knights that’s how they met.”

“Yes,” the old master said with a smile. “Many often hire ships for transport and I’m sure the Paladins can set you up Rath with a transport ship cover story in the weeks Kale is hear taking his trials.” He glanced over at Kale who was smiling and he realized the old man had thought of nearly everything.

“What about how the Empire will use my disappearance.” He said deciding now was the time to speak up. “If I vanish they will use it to further their lies.” He saw Kale frown but he did not want to be a part of causing more bloodshed. “Would turning me over help prevent that?”

“It would not,” The old master said sadly. “Tasha Baldour’s visions have been disturbingly accurate and no other seer can see more than she has seen.” He sounded grim. “If we turn you over Hapes will accuse the Jedi of siding with the Empire, If we refuse the Empire will accuse us of siding with Hapes.” The old Master looked tired. “Your disappearance will cause the least strife and allow the Jedi to continue trying to mediate though you will have your name dragged through the mud by the Empire can you live with that?”

“I can.” He said and meant it. He knew that some Nagai woudn’t understand him being willing to put aside any considerations of personal honor. “When do I leave to join these Paladins?” He hoped he’d have some time to say good bye to Kale.

“The Empire will file their petition in two days time according to our sources and the ones who will take you to the Paladins will arrive early tomorrow morning.” The old master gave them a sympathetic look. “I suggest you take tonight to say your goodbyes for this parting as it will be a few weeks before you can see each other again.” The avian master began to leave the room when he turned back. “Kale you may tell your parents and Maks Reyal but tell no one else.”

“I didn’t think I’d be able to tell anyone.” Kale said and he sensed the truth of that. The old master looked as if he’d smile if his species could and turned and left chuckling to himself. “I never thought Master Kavi Knesos had a sense of humor he’s always so serious.” Kale turned back to him. “My parents wanted us to join them but if you want we can skip it?”

“No I quiet enjoy your parents and I want to be there when you tell them.” He said meaning it. He’d only see them a few times since getting to Ossus but Kale’s parents accepted him readily enough that he could see where Kale got his open mindedness. He was not looking forward to this separation but he took comfort in the fact it wasn’t forever.

The End.

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Disclaimer and notes on chapter one

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Eight
Tor Varga

He watched as Bastion filled the view screen thinking back on how quickly they’d been rushed away once his Master had shown up with the Jedi. His master had come in his private ship and been immediately ordered to transport them all back to Bastion. He knew the Jedi had wanted them to stay and answer questions but the Empire had insisted. He thought about the strange way everyone was acting around him. He wondered if it was because he’d accepted Rath Sho’s shocking statement that he wasn’t going back to the Empire.

He knew that he and his master would probably get in trouble for accepting his resignation as a royal and a ranking academy master but something in the way Tasha Baldour had been staring at him as Rath asked had convinced him he had to accept it. His master had been even more taken aback but after he accepted it his master had followed his lead. “When we land your masters will be waiting,” Master Kalar said speaking up. “They will escort you to debriefing rooms.” His master looked over at him. “Tor your to come with me to see Master Artis.” He wondered how badly they were going to be yelled at by his Uncle for what he did for Rath.

He noticed that most of the others were looking away as if they were dreading what was coming. He had no idea why they were so nervous they had done nothing wrong. He was about to break down and ask them when they landed and the ramp extended. He saw the various Masters waiting there but in additiont to the med techs for the injured he expected he saw a full squad of Storm Troopers. He forgot all about asking the others what was wrong as he took in the strange sight.

“Let’s go Tor,” his master said sounding suddenly wary. He began to understand why his master was so wary when they were stopped on the way to his Uncle’s office and ordered to leave their light sabers behind. He thought for a second his master was gong to object but then he handed his over with a dark frown. “Can you tell me the reason for these orders?” His master asked as he reluctantly handed over his saber. He did the same just as reluctantly.

“No sir,” the storm trooper who took their lightsabers said. He felt a bit better once they were escorted into his Uncle’s office and saw one of the Moffs and two Storm Troopers there as well. He knew from experience the Moffs were sometimes willing to throw their weight around on the stupidest matters so taking their sabers was probably his doing.

“I’m so glad you survived the Hapan Attack Prince Tor,” The Moff said after the Storm Trooper who showed them in said and extended his hand. He found himself just staring at the man in shock.

“It was a Hapan attack?” He asked as something didn’t feel right about that statement. “They were behind Master Codi’s betrayal?” He couldn’t believe it not with how determined Master Codi had been to keep the Hapan Jedi away that it was them.

“Master Zholl Codi was no traitor he was killed by the Hapan scum who attacked you all the Jedi are just lying because the Galactic Alliance asked them too.” He was absolutely floored by that statement. “After all if Zholl Codi was a traitor then the incident his emergency transmission to the Emperor provoked would lead to repercussions for the Empire.” The moff looked right at him. “So for the good of the Empire you and everyone else from that training camp will officially state that Hapes was behind the attack.”

“What incident,” His master said speaking up and looking past the Moff toward his Uncle. He had always thought his Uncle looked severe when he was stressed out but now he looked as if he’d been carved from stone. “Galen, what incident?”

“My father confronted the Hapan Queen Mother and things got violent.” His uncle said tiredly. “The result is the Queen mother is dead and we will probably be at War with Hapes in the coming weeks.” His uncle looked away, “if it comes out the Emperor acted in haste the Galaxy Alliance will demand reperations be made to Hapes and the Empire can’t afford anything too severe.”

“But we can affort a war,” He found himself saying angrily. “You can forget it I won’t be party to this and I’ll tell everyone.” He saw the moff frown and motion to the Storm Troopers who began to head for him.

“Tor run,” His master said moving quickly to send the two troopers flying backwards with a wave of his hand. “Get a communications monitor broadcast..” His Master collapsed as he was hit with a stun shot from a gun held by his uncle.

“Sit down Tor don’t make me stun you too,” His uncle said tiredly. “This is for the good of the Empire and you need to respect that it is the Emperor’s command that you go along with this.” He found himself remembering Master Nextor’s statement about which method he would choose.

“I still refuse,” He said after a moment. “Do what you have to but I won’t be party to this lie.” He was then hit with a stinging blue light and everything went dark. He opened his eyes some time later in a blank white room restrained in a bed.

“Hello Tor,” His uncle said as he entered the room. “I thought I’d give you one final chance to change your mind.” He could see his Uncle’s frown. “Otherwise you’ll have to stay here in the Asylum for a while to sell the official statement that you were mentally unbalanced after the Hapan attack.” He had to admit it was a good way to make sure no one would believe him. “I thought you might reconsider when I tell you that all the other survivors agreed readily to say it was Hapes for the good of the Empire.” He couldn’t help but be disappointed in them. He wasn’t surprised by Silas Quest and Nick Berus but he would have thought some of the others would object.

“Where is Master Kalar?” He asked feeling a sense of dread. He couldn’t sense anything he realized quickly which meant they had taken precautions to keep him here. “Or have you had him killed to maintain the lie?”

“Delmon is a friend and I hope I can convince him to do his duty,” Galen said sadly. “Otherwise he might be imprisoned as a traitor until the war is over with or worse.” He couldn’t believe his Uncle was casually implying killing his master. “There is one more thing you should consider before you reject our offer again if you do then your field dismissal for Rath Sho will be accepted and he’s free to go.” He looked grim then. “If your mentally unbalanced then I’m afraid he’ll have to be considered a deserter and we will demand his return from the Jedi and he will be executed.” His Uncle smiled then, “Imperial Knight Quest seems to think that would upset you greatly.”

He couldn’t believe his Uncle’s words. “So that cowardly slime Silas is a full Knight now?” He asked and when his uncle nodded it made things easier. “Go ahead and try to get Rath back you won’t the Jedi won’t send him back and even if they would I still won’t help you.”

“I see disappointing but not really a surprise,” His uncle said darkly. “I always did think you were a bit too like your father and not the rest of us despite the good royal act.” His uncle said darkly. “You’ll be here until we can arrange a more suitable detention facility for a royal.” Galen Artis then turned and as he was leaving said darkly .”What a dismal final training camp there won’t be another after this too many Jedi ideals infecting impressionable idiots.”

He was left alone wondering what would happen now and hoping that the Jedi would expose his grand father’s lie and prevent a war.

The End of The Training Camp

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Seven
Jenica Maral

She sat alone attempting to meditate but her focus kept slipping back to the moment when Swa Lu pushed her out of the way of that blaster bolt. She kept coming face to face with the fact that she wouldn’t have done the same for the Jedi and that horrified her. She had always prided herself on being the best she could possibly be but now she saw how clearly she had failed.

She wasn’t even sure she could continue as an Imperial knight after leaning how flawed she truly was. She knew that her master back in at the Academy would try to tell her it was just the battle stress making her feel this way and that in time she’d accept it and move on.

“Hey Cadet Maral,” Bocota Long of the Jedi said from behind her. “Tasha Baldour is awake and is insisting that rescuers will arrive in the mourning that Master Nextor managed to call for help before he was died.” The Bothan looked relieved. “Looks like we won’t have to split up and have some of us head for the space port after all.” She thanked him for telling her and then went back to dwelling on things once he was gone.

She pushed the thoughts of Swa Lu out of her head and focused on Zholl Codi and his betrayal. She recalled Tasha Baldour claiming he’d been changed by the dead blonde woman but she couldn’t see how that was possible. The only real explanation was that he’d betrayed them before this some how. She hoped that the Empire’s investigation would discover all the details and route out any other traitors.

She heard a noise then and turned to see Tasha Baldour standing behind her. “May I help you?” She did not want to speak with her. She hadn’t forgotten their earlier confrontation about her supposed vision.

“We need to talk,” the jedi said firmly. “But not here meet me at the ruins of the Jedi ship in the valley.” She knew her reluctance must have been showing none of them had gone near the valley ever since they had carried the wounded to the small clearing in the woods. “Please it is important if you want to have any chance to make up for your inaction that got Swa Lu killed.” She felt as if she’d been slapped but before she could reply the other woman was gone.

She sat down and resolved not to go anywhere near the other woman again. Still something bothered her about what she said so she thought back. She realized with growing horror that the other woman was right. She had frozen when Zholl Codi was revealed as a traitor and still be frozen when Swa Lu shoved her out of the way. If she’d been acting like a real Imperial Knight she wouldn’t have frozen.

She wasn’t sure how the other woman knew she hadn’t even realized it herself but she found herself getting up and heading toward the Valley. As she walked she realized that as guilty as she felt for how she’d treated her partner the fact it was her own failing that made her sacrifice her life made it worse. The fact Swa Lu had been the only one of them who made it to the Valley to die was even worse. The Jedi would still be alive if not for her incompetence and that made every thing worse.

She arrived to find the Valley empty and for a moment she thougth the other woman had just tricked her but then she sensed her. The young Jedi woman was climbingout of the ruins of the Jedi ship holding a metal box that had clearly survived the explosion. “Good you came.” The woman said with a sad smile. “You aren’t going to like what I have to say but if you do what I ask of you then you’ll get a chance some day to save another like Swa Lu saved you and with him your beloved Empire.”

In that moment as much as it scared her she felt a crystal clear certainty through the force that the girl was telling the truth. She was momentarily terrified enough to run form the valley but she saw a fleeting image of Swa Lu between the trees that stopped her. She knew that Jedi who faded away like her partner had done sometime showed back up to guide the living. She forced herself to relax and drew on the force to center herself. “Tell me what you have to then.” She said.

To be concluded.

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The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Six
Tasha Baldour

She opened her eyes to find herself laying on a make shift pallet that used to be part of her robes. She could still feel how easy it would be to look into the chaotic mess that was the future but she forced herself to stay rooted in the present she had things to do before their rescuers arrived. “Your awake,” Her partner said and she turned to see her laying there with her legs heavily bandaged. “Did you see this earlier when I asked you not to tell me?”

“I saw you in a bacta tank I didn’t know why.” She admitted seeing the Chiss nod. “There is something I have to tell you that you won’t like.” She saw her partner stiffen but she had to be told this. “When you get back to the Empire they are going to ask you to cover up what happened here,” she could tell her partner was going to object so she headed her off. “And you have to agree to it otherwise you’ll be killed.”

She waited for the outrage the claim that it was impossible and ridiculess that the Empire would never do that but it never came. “Are you absolutely sure that will transpire?” Nitin asked and winced when she moved one leg slightly. “And what good can come of lying about what happened here?”

“I’m certain and the good doesn’t come from the lie but from your survival you have a role to play in the future.” She knew her certainty scared the chiss. “When you agree to it they will off you your choice of assignment so take it and get assigned to the Imperial Embassy in Chiss space.” She saw the other woman’s eyes widen. “Once they are no longer watching you inform the ambassadors wife about the truth of these events and how the Empire is now being manipulated and have her contact her Great Grand Father he is the key to organizing a means to save the Empire from the corruption that threatens it.”

“What is the source of this corruption?” Nitin asked and she was glad that it seemed the chiss woman trusted her. “And can you tell me why they want the Empire to lie?” She had been afraid Nitin would ask this.

“The corruption is from several Moffs spurred on by an outside entity who have used circumstances to strip the Emperor of his power making him a figure head for them.” She could tell that shocked Nitin. “None of the rest know this yet but when Zholl Codi was changed by that woman somehow he contacted the Emperor and said that we were all dead at the hands of Hapan Assasins.” She was not looking forward to revealing this next part. “The Emperor lost his temper and confronted the Hapan queen Mother it led to a fight that resulted in her death at the Emperor’s hands.” She could see understanding in her partner’s eyes. “The Moffs do not wish to concede wrong doing and the outside force will also spur Hapes into attacking the Empire in retaliation instead of going through the Galactic Alliance a war will begin.”

“And what will you do while I go along with those who would start this war and then try to help stop them.” Nitin asked with a concerned look on her face. She was a bit surprised by the question she hadn’t thought Nitin would be concerned about her future actions.

“I will inform the Jedi of everything I can safely tell them and then I will leave I need to find someone who can help me identify the threat moving behind the scenes.” She wasn’t sure why but she felt she had to tell her the rest. “There will be many more wars in the coming months not just Hapes and The Empire as this force hopes to destabilize the galaxy to fight it an alliance must be created in secret you will be part of it and so will many of the others here.” She found herself speaking at the force’s prompting. “The enemy saw us as disposable tools to start one of his wars but out of the ashes of this camp his downfall will begin.”

“Are you going to warn the others about what is to come?” Nitin asked after her pronouncement. “There are some amongst we survivors who will object to keeping this secret.” She knew exactly who Nitin was asking about.

“I will warn them all except for Tor Varga because they won’t kill him and his speaking out is necessary for the future.” She felt a chill of sadness. “He will be placed under house arrest with his great grand mother and that is where he must remain for a time.” She felt a chill down her spine at the look Nitin gave her. “I hate knowing all this but now that I do I have to do what I can to thwart this dark force.”

“I do not envy you your gift or the burden it places on you,” Nitin said and then turned toward her. “You should go tell the others now in the morning the healthier ones plan to head out to one of the shabby space ports to see if they can contact help.”

“Help will come in the morning but your right I should go talk to them now.” She forced herself to stand up and moved away noticing that Dev Guri was laying near by still unconscious. She saw fleeting images of his future and hoped she was wrong. She knew it was strange to cling to hope that the path to saving the galaxy she saw was accurate but also hope parts of her visions could be avoided.

“May we speak with you Tasha Baldour,” Silas Quest said as he emerged from nearby. She noticed that Nick Berus was fallowing after him his mangled arm heavily bandaged. “We would like to discuss what you said to Nick just before you collapsed.

“I meant what I said if he keeps allowing his lust for knowledge to guide him he will die badly.” She said knowing it was a lost cause. “The same applies to your lust for personal power and advancement it will not end well for you Silas.” She saw him start but then his easy confidence returned.

“So how accurate are you visions have you ever been wrong?” Nick Berus said as unlike Silas he didn’t seem as eager to dismiss her visions. “After all my research suggest that the further into the future you look the less accurate a seer’s visions are.”

“Every vision I’ve ever had about my own life has come true.” She said hoping they’d listen even though part of her knew they wouldn’t. “My visions about others are less accurate but still better than most.” She could tell that made them uncomfortable and she wasn’t surprised when they left. She knew they’d take the offer without having to be warned and given what she kept seeing in their future it was probably best they weren’t told. She turned and headed to find Cadet Streng and Cadet Sho they were who she had to talk to before she tackled the most difficult of all Cadet Maral.

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Four
Kale Lasek

He and Rath finally caught up with the others just outside the valley of the Jedi. He could tell that everyone was tense and ready for anything. “Is everyone else dead?” Rath asked rather bluntly when they saw the others. He was glad to see Mak and Swa Lu were alright.

“Everyone not here but Silas and Nick Berus is dead,” Tor Varga said angrily. “Those two cowards took off on their own since helping me and Geela with Dev was considered too risky.” He could understand the anger then.

“We should get moving,” Tasha Baldor said tiredly. “Be on guard there is something dangerous waiting for us in the valley.” He saw that everyone was taking her warning seriously so he fell in line with the others. He glanced over at Rath who tightened his grip on his saber hilt. It was almost anti climatic when they finally reached the valleyt o find it empty aside from several wrecked robots and the bodies of a strange blonde woman and Master Nextor.

“Good your alive I have called for reinforcements but we must get out of here,” Master Codi said as he emerged from one of the ships. “Is there anyone else still alive out there?” He asked. He found his eyes drawn to Tasha Baldour who’s eyes rolled back in her head and she collapsed. He was amazed that her partner managed to catch her. “Quickly everyone on the ships.” he said waving past them to the two cowards who were emerging slowly from the woods. He wondered if they’d been following after the main group the whole time.

He and several others went to help carry Tasha as Nittin stood up. “I’ll go prep the medical bays on the Jedi shuttle.” He nodded and Nittin took off toward the shuttles. He noticed the two late arrivals were nearly to the Imperial ship. He was just helping Rath and Maks lift Tasha when her eyes flew open.

“Everyone get away from the ships they are going to explode.” She yelled loudly stopping everyone in their tracks. “The woman did something to Zholl Codi he isn’t himself anymore he’s the traitor.” He spun to look at Master Codi who was hitting a switch on a remote seconds later the ships exploded and he heard screams as those closest were hit with burning shrapnel. “Stop him don’t let him get to the other ship.” Tasha called as she struggled to her feet.

He realized as he saw Zholl Codi fleeing with force assisted speed that none of them would catch up to him. He was proven right when seconds later a fight craft rose up and began firing at them. He heard Saw Lu yelling for someone to move and then a scream. He turned and saw that she’d pushed her partner out of the way and taken a direct hit form the fighter’s guns. He was still staring in horror at that when he was shoved aside by Rath who whispered. “Mourn later move.” He force himself to his feed and began using his lightsaber to ward off more hits.

He saw Tasha Baldor then walking toward the ship with her eyes closed she spun and threw her lightsaber towards the ship. He watched as he peirced into the ship which exploded in response. He wasn’t the only one staring at her that was a one in a million hit to a moving fighter to cause a chain reaciton like that. “How did you do that?” Nick Berus asked in awe as he cradled his mangled arm.

“I can see everything here in this valley,” Tasha Baldour said turning toward Nick Berus. “If you don’t abandon your lust for knowledge you will die a horrible death Nick Berus.” She collapsed after that leaving everyone confused and staring at her.

He started to head for her when he remembered Swa lu and turned and raced toward her. Her head was being supported by Mak who was telling her she’d be fine. “Liar,” Swa Lu said. “I’m a healer remember I know there is nothing that can be done for this.”

“Why did you do it?” Jenica Maral was saying as she knelt down. “Why give your life for mine after ...” She didn’t finish but he knew what she was going to say. He could tell in this moment she felt guilty about how she’d treated Swa Lu now.

“I’m a jedi we save lives even if it cost us our own.” Swa Lu said with a weak laugh. “Mak, Kale thank you for being my friends.” She said and closed her eyes. He could hear Mak begging her to hold on but he just sat silently unable to say anything as she faded away leaving just a belt with her light saber on it. He felt Rath’s hands on his shoulder pulling him up ten reaching down to pull the loudly crying Mak up. He pulled his crying friend into a hug and let him cry on his shoulder he felt Rath’s hand on his shoulder and he was grateful but he couldn’t bring himself to cry yet not while Mak was falling apart.

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Four
Tasha Baldor

“Are you alright,” Nitin asked shortly after the last droid fell. She nodded her head and stood up and then she knew what she had to do she darted forward and shoved Nitin out of the way as a droid reactivated and swung a electric whip toward them. She let go of Nitin and rolled to the side as the whip flew over them. She jumped to her feet and ran forward decapitating the droid.

“Thank you,” Nitin said climbing to her feet. “These droids appear to be designed to fight force users that one actually pretended to be defeated.” She sounded extremely disturbed. “We should try to find others we will need help.”

“We will meet up with them at the valley,” she said knowing instantly that it was true. “We need to be careful though these are not the last droids we will face on our way there.” She said as brief images of them fighting droids danced across her mind’s eye. “We need to especially watch out for some hidden in the ground.”

“All right,” Nitin said looking down warily. “Let’s go.” She led the way deeper into the jungle toward the valley. “Are you sure we shouldn’t search directly for the others?” Her chiss partner asked.

She closed her eyes and shook her head. “No if we meet up with them too early we won’t be in position to help them,” She said as she saw images of death in front of her. “The result won’t be pretty.”

“Your visions are becoming stronger the closer we get to the valley aren’t they?” Nitin asked a hint of concern in her voice. “You are being affected by the force nexus there are you sure you can trust these visions.”

“I can trust them,” She said and smiled at the other woman. “It is no longer just visions I can also feel the force guiding me to the best out come to the one that saves the most lives.” She felt instantly that Nitin didn’t trust her completely. “I know it’s a lot to take on faith that I am being guided but all I can say is move.” She said force shoving her partner out of the way as an attack droid shot up form where she would have been.

As she destroyed the droids more droids exploded form the ground and Nitin danced around grace fully destroying them once she’d recovered from the force shove. “I believe I trust you now,” Nitin said staring down at them. “We should continue on our way to the valley.”

She nodded and followed after the Chiss. She could feel the vision she knew was coming getting closer with each step toward the valley. She only hoped she could endure it and hold it off until they were safe she didn’t want to be lost in a vision while they were fighting for their lives. The rest of the journey was oddly quiet at first as they didn’t encounter any more droids or even the Vong creatures that were supposed to patrol the forest. “What do you suppose happened to the Vong creatures?” She asked as she felt that was part of the answer.

“I don’t know,” Nitin said looking around. “The fact they are missing worries me it implies these droids moved into the forest and eliminated them without alerting anyone.” The chiss looked around. “That implies that someone at the camp may have been assisting them.”

“Have your visions revealed anything about a traitor to you?” Nitin asked as she used the force to move aside a tree branch. She closed her eyes briefly and tried to see she got an image of a blond woman holding an object but that was it. She shook her head no. “That is too bad we will have to be on guard with everyone then.”

“I think I’ll know who they are when it matters,” She said feeling the force guiding her words. “But I just hope it’s not too late to do something about them then.” She felt the force stiring and stopped. “We need to wait here,” She said knowing it was so.

“For how long,” Nitin asked looking around warily. She knew it wouldn’t be long but she had trouble putting that into words. Fortunately she idnd’t have to as they heard the sounds of battle beginning. “Do we go now?” She nodded and raced forward Nitin behind her.

They emerged into a clearing where a huge group of droids had surrounded most of the other students. She instantly knew that this was the moment she foresaw earlier. “Take them out quickly Nitin,” She said and dived into the back of the droid ranks slicing threw them with her light saber. She let the force take over guiding her to dodge and deflect every one of their attacks. She heard her partner scream and let the force guide her as she spun around and used her TK To sweep the droids away from her revealing Nitin with a badly mangled right leg.

Even though her partner was severely injured they had turned the tide and the pinned down Jedi had managed to get out and join the fray. The result was the battle ended quickly and soon enough Swa-lu was attending to Nitin’s leg. She saw conflicting visions in some Nitin kept her leg and in others she had either a bionic or vong grown replacement. “We will get our final answers in the valley.” She said to the gathered group.

“How do you know that,” Iella Sallin said giving her a strange look. “Have you had visions about how this turns out?” She shook her head and saw the red haired woman frowning at her. “Then how do you know we’ll get answers in the Valley.”

“I just do,” She said feeling the force flowing threw her. “Just like I know that this is only a smaller piece in the plans of some unknown force.” She looked down at the ground. “We need to get going we have to face whatever is waiting for us in the valley together if we have any hope of surviving.”

“Listen to her,” Nitin said speaking up. “She knew to guide us here so the two of us could save you.” Her chiss partner looked around at everyone. “I do not understand how she is doing this but I do know her answers have been accurate so I trust her.” She could tell the others did now share her partners faith in her but they were willing to follow her visions for now and she hoped that would be enough.

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Three
Kale Lasek

He watched as Rath’s light saber sparked and died after stabbing threw the chest of one of the droids. “Catch,” He called throwing his adjusted shoto over to the other man. He turned back to dealing with his own droid opponents.

“Move,” Rath called behind him and he darted to the side quickly as a tree came down on the droids. “That seems to be the last of them.” Rath picked up his discarded light saber and began to check it. “It seems the focusing crystal has shattered it’s useless for now.”

“Hang on hand me back my shoto,” He said and when Rath handed it to him he opened a belt pouch and pulled out a small tool kit to open the housing. “I’ll give you the crystal from the full length blade setting, it should work in your saber.” That way he could have his shoto back since he was used to fighting with two blades.

“Thank you,” Rath said pulling out his own tool kit and setting to work removing the shattered crystal. “I do not know why the crystal shattered when I plunged it into that droid.” He saw Rath staring at the droid that had done it. “Perhaps a trap set specifically to snare a light saber user?”

“Most likely,” He said as he popped the green gem out. “Here see if this will fit your saber.” He knew it would seem strange to non Jedi but the act of handing over that crystal to Rath felt far more intimate than a lot of what they’d done together. A light saber was such a part of a Jedi that handing over one of the gems felt like giving Rath a part of himself.

“Here goes,” Rath said once he’d closed the casing and finished hooking everything up. He hit the power stood and a green blade flared to life. Rath took a moment to adjust the focus and then it was ready. “We should find the others.”

“Swa Lu is that way and Mak is that way,” He said pointing out two directions. “Mak seems to be heading toward Swa-lu so we should do the same.” Rath nodded and they set off toward her. “I can’t sense Master Nextor or Master Codi in the valley can you?”

“No I cannot,” Rath said after a moment. “I fear that they may be dead since there were no instructions following the panic alarm.” He hated to think it but it was probably true he couldn’t see Master Nextor or even Master Codi sending the alert and then not giving them information if they could help it.

“Who do you think is responsible, Pirates, The Hutts, or someone else?” He asked. There was a feeling deep in his throat that the usual trouble makers in the galaxy were not responsible for this attack. He just wasn’t sure how to put it into words exactly yet.

“No this requires knowledge only a major player could provide,” Rath said as he looked around warily. “I do not believe this was done by out side parties but instead by someone within or with intimate knowledge of the Empire or the Alliance.” He didn’t look happy about saying that. “They are the only places where information about this training camp can be accessed.”

“At least as far as we know,” He quickly pointed out. “At the very least if it is an outside player your right that they’ve penetrated deep into either the Empire, the Alliance or both.” He said and then another thought occured to him. “Isn’t there some kind of major negotiations going on with the Empire right now?”

“Yes, the meeting with the Hapan Queen Mother finally began yesterday,” Rath said shaking his head. “It does not feel like a coincidence that the problem plagued meeting finally happened.” Rath narrowed his eyes as he thought about it. “I do not have much knowledge of the Consortium could they be behind this?”

“I doubt it,” He said shaking his head. “They did try once before to found their own group of force users but I can’t see why they’d want to attack a group of Jedi and Imperial Knights training.” He paused, “Still it feels like there is some connection and we should definitely try to contact someone in higher authority who can look into it.”

“Once we meet up with the others we should head for the valley maybe we the communication equipment will be in one piece.” Rath said and he nodded. He had been thinking along the same lines. “We should hurry.” The other man said and they picked up the pace.

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty Two
Tor Varga

He watched in horror as his partner was ensnared in the droids electrical whip and violently shocked. He darted forward and managed to cut it but Dev Guri still fell to the ground at the very least unconscious and possible dead. There was no time to check on the Togruta though as he was still badly out numbered by the cluster of assassin droids they’d encountered.

He reached out threw the force and hurled an old tree trunk at them but the droids easily dodged it. They had clearly been designed with targeting force sensitives in mind. If he could buy time to concentrate long enough he could sweep them all away but they kept firing keeping him pressured with defense so he couldn’t bring the full brunt of his force abilities against them.

The Trees behind him were suddenly moved aside and he saw Tuc Tinto emerging. The large Mandallian giant took one look at the collapsed Dev and screamed in anger before barreling toward the droids. “Come back here stupid your going to get killed,” Silas yelled chasing behind him.

The large green skinned humanoid didn’t stop he crashed into the droids and began slicing them to pieces with his large light club. He started forward to help him when suddenly one of the droids triggered a thermal detonator. As the smoke of the detonation cleared Tuc emerged badly burned and seriously injured. “Dev is he okay?” He asked quietly.

He realized what the Jedi wanted to know so he went over and knelt down next to the Togruta. He felt a pulse a weak but steady one. “He’ll live thanks to you,” He said and watched as the Mandallian collapsed and closed his eyes. He frowned as he looked up at Silas who was standing there darkly. “Help me with Dev, we need to keep moving.” He knew that Tuc was beyond help, already dead and gone.

“We should just leave him, he’ll slow us down.” Silas said turning. “We need to focus on our own survival and carrying a half dead Jedi isn’t very smart.” He ignored Silas and hefted the Togruta up over his shoulder. “Fine waste your strength but if you slow me down I’ll leave you too.”

He wanted to lay into Silas but stopped himself. He couldn’t force Silas to stop being a selfish jack ass until they were safely back in the Empire but he was going to make sure that he never became an Imperial Knight after this. “There is someone up ahead,” Silas said activating his light saber and stepping forward. “We are in luck they are allies.”

He came around the trees to see Cadet Berus and Padawan Sedaya. “Silas,” The Khill woman said running forward and giving him a hug. “I’m so glad your safe.” Her eyes fell on Dev and she ran over to help him with him. “Where’s Tuc?” she asked but when he shook his head she closed her eyes. “Alright let me see if I can do anything for Dev I know a bit about healing.” He laid the Togruta down and did what he could to help her.

“We need to keep on the move,” Silas said again. “Hurray it up you two.” He saw the Khill woman’s tendrils flick in irritation at him. “If you can’t do anything for him leave him and lets go.”

“Jedi do not leave their allies behind,” Geela said standing up. He grabbed her arm and motioned toward Dev. She nodded and knelt back down going back to work. He could tell that she was not trained predominantly as a healer but she knew more than he did so he followed her lead.

“It would be a sound tactical move to leave him,” Cadet Berus said and he made a note to add Berus to his report as another one who should never become an Imperial Knight. “If the two of you are insisting on staying with him it might be better if Cadet Quest and I go a separate way.”

“Then go,” He said before Geela could speak. He watched them exchange glances and then actually turn and leave together. He turned back to helping Geela witha frown. “I promise you this Geela if I live threw this,” He paused glancing at where they had been, “I’ll do everything in my power to see they never become Imperial Knights.”

“Good,” She said and then after a few more minutes. “I have done all I can for him, we should try to find Swa-lu she is the most skilled healer amongst us.” He nodded and picked Dev up again. He motioned for her to lead the way and activating her twin bronze light saber she began doing so.

He followed behind doing his best not to jostle Dev too badly. He reached out threw the force attempting to locate Swa-lu. He sensed a flash of emotions from other students but couldn’t pinpoint a specific one. He stopped when he felt someone approaching and drew his light saber. “Relax it’s me,” Mak said stepping out carefully. He had a long gash on one arm tha that had been bound with strips from his missing robe. “Prellon is dead did you loose anyone?”

“Tuc is gone,” He said speaking up. “Dev is badly hurt and Silas and Berus took off like cowards instead of helping us with him.” He glanced at Geela who nodded. “We are trying to find Swa-lu to see if she can help us with Dev.”

“Your going the wrong way Swa-lu is that way?” He said pointing out another direction. “Kale is somewhere over that way making his way toward her,” Mak said pointing out another direction. “The three of us can always find each other.”

“Lead the way,” Geela said dropping back to watch the rear while Mak took over leading. “Do either of you have any idea where the attackers originated or why the panic alarm was sounded?” He had been so focused on surviving and carrying Dev that he hadn’t thought about it.

“No,” Mak said shaking his head. “Prellon was probably right though he said just before he died that whoever did this was familiar with the camp it was set up as a perfect ambush for all of us.” That was a disturbing thought because it meant whoever did this was somehow connected to either the Jedi or the Imperial Knights.

“Could there be a traitor in our midst?” Geela asked after a moment. “Perhaps Silas or Berus they certainly showed no care at all for Dev’s injuries.” He wished it could be that simple but he shook his head no. “Why not?”

“Because Silas could have easily finished me off if he was the traitor while I was tending to Dev,” He said and then nodded at her. “Berus could have done the same to you before Silas and I arrived.” He looked ahead. “They are selfish failures at being any kind of Knight but I think we can rule them out of being responsible for this.”

“Hold up there’s a couple of people up ahead,” Mak said cautiously “I smell blood someone is probably hurt.” They crept forward cautiously and came upon Iella Sallin and Dag Feskin both tending to minor wounds while surrounded by shattered droids. He noticed Iella watching them all warily and a small voice reminded him of the fact she was Hapan. “Good to see you guys are still alive,” Mak said. “We are on our way to meet up with Swa-lu since she’s the best healer feel free to come along.”

“We will be glad to accompany you,” Dag said and the Green Nikto fell into line behind Geela. Iella hesitated briefly and then joined in. He felt it was probably because she distrusted him and the other Imperial Knights in the group.

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Twenty One
Jenica Maral

“This is your final test,” Master Nextor said standing in front of the Jedi shuttle. “After I take off in the shuttle you and your partner will take off into the forest and the first team to make it to the Valley of the Jedi Wins.” The Iron Knight looked around at all of them carefully. “You have an emergency contact device that you can trip if you and your partner get in serious trouble it will signal me or Master Codi to come get you.”

She would avoid calling for help unless it was unavoidable to do so would ruin her chances for advancement. “There is also a second function that has never been used but I must tell you about it anyway just in case,” The Jedi Master said darkly. “If for some reason the camp where to be attacked either Master Codi or myself will send out a warning pulse that will cause an alert alarm to sound.” The Iron knight looked around. “If by some slim chance that occurs you are to abandon all competition and work together to face whatever threat is coming do you all understand?”

“Yes, Sir,” She and everyone else said a quick glance at her saurian partner showed the Ssi Ruuvi was determined which she supposed was good. The Iron Knight turned and headed into the shuttle which soon enough lifted off where it would land next to the Imperial Shuttle in the valley.

“We need to move quickly so come on,” She said to her partner and began to move as fast as she could toward the woods. She was pleased that her partner was keeping up with her but it she didn’t think it would last once they reached the underbrush.

“I agree but we should pace ourselves appropriately the Vong biotech is still active further into the forest we need to be rested enough to face it,” Her partner said unnecessarily she already knew that. “I have experience with Vong Biotech it will be difficult to bypass.”

“You never mentioned experience with Vong Biotech before,” She said careful to keep the accusation out of her voice. “I thought you said your speciality was healing.” She remembered the discussion of their abilities.

“That is why I am familiar with Vong Biotech,” her partner said flicking her tail with visible irritation. “Vong biotech has been integrated into virtually all medical practices threw out the galaxy as you should know.” She felt insulted but her partner was technically right she should have known that. “If it is still offensive in nature we must be extremely wary of poisons and weaponized life forms.”

“How are you healing skills at dealing with Vong poisons?” She asked hoping that Ssi Ruuvi’s skills in healing would be up to the task. “I mean if either of us gets poisoned can you treat it or will we have to forfeit?” She asked planning not to get poisoned but wanting to know worst case scenario options.

“I can treat most poisonings,” Swa-lu said shaking her saurian head. “But it will be best to avoid them any treatment I administer to either of us would take a great deal of time during which we would be unable to move forward.”

“Which team do you think is our stiffest competition?” She asked as soon they would be passing the barrier into the forbidden part of the forest. She doubted they would have much time for coming up with strategies then.

“Probably the team of Ferfer and Cadet Task,” Swa-Lu said surprising her. “Both are so focused only on doing the best job possible that they are not liable to be distracted by personal entanglements.” Swa-lu wasn’t finished speaking though as she went on. “Another group to watch is Padawan Baldor and Cadet Nitin if Baldor’s precognitive abilities are being used to full effect the quickest route to the valley can easily be determined.”

“I may have misjudged your abilities,” She said as they finally reached the border area. She noticed that the gate was already open which meant either the masters had done so or one of the other teams had gotten here before them which they should have seen. They had only progressed a small way into the vong jungle when the emergency beacon began to scream. “What is going on?”

Swa-lu had already pulled out her beacon and was looking down at it. “It says danger,” Swa-lu said and then it cut off. “There is no information about what kind of danger should I trip it?” Her partner was asking.

“No, it was probably just a malfunction,” She said not wanting to risk losing the competition. They were about to begin moving forward again when a pair of droids exploded form the underbrush and started firing. “Is this part of the test?” She yelled as she drew her light saber to deflect the blaster bolts.

“I do not think so,” Swa-lu said dodging a shot that destroyed a tree trunk. “These shots appear to be set to kill, I do not think it was a false alarm.” She darted forward and beheaded the nearest droid and her partner did the same to the other. “I still hear shooting,” Swa-lu said and turned toward the sounds of battle. “Some of the others are in trouble we must aid them.”

She didn’t have time to say anything as her partner shot forward and she found herself chasing after her. They arrived to find Ferfer Tobian lying dead and Obran Task fighting for his life against a squad of droids. She was amazed as her Jedi partner didn’t stop just dived into the fray to come to the aid of the Imperial knight. She followed her out and their presence resulted in the defeat the droids quickly.

It was only then that Swa-lu allowed herself to show any emotion about her fallen comrade but she remained professional. She knelt down next to Ferfer and checked him. “He’s gone,” the Ssi Ruuvi said standing up. “Cadet Task are you injured do you need medical assistance.”

“No,” He said gruffly. “They came out of no where as the alarms were going off we never stood a chance if you hadn’t come.” That was the most she’d ever heard him say so it was obvious he had been shaken by what happened.

“We must find the others,” Swa-lu said standing up. “We will return for Ferfer’s body later if we are able but for now we must move.” She realized then that Swa-lu had taken command of the situation and appointed herself leader. She felt a moment of irritation but let it pass the Ssi Ruuvi was right and they had to find the others.

“Lets’ go,” She said falling in behind her a glance at Task showed he was shaken but he fell in line as well and they began to move carefully threw the forest searching for the rest of the students from the camp. “I think I sense someone up ahead.”

Swa-lu nodded and they headed into an area where several dozen droids were smashed to find Cadet Streng and Padawan Long standing back to back looking around wearily. “Do either of you require medical attention?” Swa-lu said still radiating authority. When they shook their heads she motioned for them to join them. “Come we must find the others.”

To be continued...

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Nineteen
Jenica Maral

She emerged from the woods where she’d been swimming to see Master Nextor talking with Cadet Sho. Her curiosity got the better of her and she headed toward them. “Meditate on what I have told you and remember that it is your decision one way or the other.”

“Thank you for your advice Master Nextor,” Cadet Sho said and then turned toward her. “Do you need to speak to the Master Cadet Maral,” He said easily and she knew he would never tell her what he and the Jedi master discussed.

“No I was merely on my way back to the camp from a swim,” She said quickly. She watched as he gave her an unreadable look and then gave a nod of farewell to the Jedi. He began to walk away toward the area where the other students were just before the camp. “Do you mind if I walk with you?” She asked catching up with him.

“Not at all,” He said smoothly but she could tell something was on his mind. “I believe I may have been out of line my criticism of your relationship with the Jedi.” He gave her a stern look. “All right I was out of line and I appologize for it.”

“You are forgiven,” He said easily. “I can understand why you have those concerns even though they are unfounded.” He walked steadily with no hesitation in his steps. “No matter what my future career may be my actions here will not affect my life negatively.”

She felt a moment of foreboding at his word choice but she couldn’t figure out why. “You are not the least bit worried about your future carreer prospects?” She asked hoping to find out why his words filled her with such fear for him. “Surely you hope to be placed well when you take your vows of service.”

He looked as if he was about to answer her when they reached the area the others were in. She watched as his Jedi lover made excuses to stop talking to Master Codi and hurried over to talk to Cadet Sho. She wasn’t the least bit surprised when he took his leave with the other man leaving her alone.

She made her way over to Master Codi and asked, “What did Padawan Lasek wish to talk to you about?” She asked hoping it would shed some light on what was going on. She had a feeling his talking with Master Codi at the same time Cadet Sho was talking with Nextor wasn’t not a coincidence.”

“He was asking about his great grand father’s deeds,” Master Codi said with a smile. “I am a bit disappointed that Cadet Sho and Padawan Lasek believe I am that easily distracted.” He said shaking his head. “I suspect you have also noticed that Cadet Sho is not as invested in the Imperial Knights as he should be?”

“Yes, I have,” She said feeling a bit stupid that she had assumed Master Cod hadn’t noticed it. “I am worried that Cadet Sho might choose to leave the Imperial Knights when we return to the Academy.”

“That is certainly a possibility,” Maser Codi said shaking his head. “It is my hope that by the end of this camp he will have gotten any doubts out of his system but if not then while it will be a loss to the Imperial Knights none of you are irreplaceable.” He said looking away. “Do you know of any Imperial Knight who might be able to sway Cadet Sho’s affections away form the Jedi this is one of the first relationships I have ever seen him engage in?”

“No, as far as I know he has never gotten involved with any other Imperial Knights,” She said shaking her head. “I know he had a few relationships with civilians who lived near the academy but they ended quickly.”

“Then we will simply have to hope he makes the decision to stick to his commitment and becomes an Imperial knight,” Master Codi said with a sigh. “It is frustrating that we can do nothing else but that is life.”

“I understand master,” she said though privately she didn’t She could see why Master Codi didn’t interfere directly since it might push Cadet Sho more firmly to the Jedi’s side but there had to be other options. “I think I shall go speak with Master Nextor,” She said after a moment recalling something she knew was a major debate amongst the jedi.

“Do not mettle too much Cadet Maral,” the Imperial Master said. “It can often back fire on you and you should be focused on working well with your partner for the final test.” He said giving her a stern look. “I know you dislike being matched with a Ssi Ruuvi but she will not suffer any repercussions if you perform badly you will.”

“I know and I am doing my best to work with who I have been given,” She said knowing it probably wasn’t completely true. “I just have to ask Master Nextor one thing and then I will return to preparing for the final test.”

“Very well,” Master Codi said and dismissed her with a nod. She turned and headed back toward the direction she had come so she could seek out Master Nextor and ask him directly his opinion on attachments. They had come close during the first day at camp but the Iron Knight hadn’t revealed his actual stand on the issue. Perhaps the issue of attachments would give her some leverage to have a discussion with the Jedi Padawan that was the problem.

“Master Nextor, may I speak with you,” She asked once she had made it back to where the Iron Knight was. She was a bit surprised to see the Iron knight standing in the middle of nowhere but the Jedi had done strange things before. “I have a question about Jedi policies.”

“I will gladly answer any of your questions,” Master Nextor said turning toward her. “That is what I am here for to share Jedi philosophy and knowledge with anyone who asks.” She made a note about how that was phrased.

“I was wondering if you could explain something in detail to me,” She said choosing her words carefully. “I know the Jedi order has a long standing debate on how much attachment is allowed and I was wondering if you could explain why?”

“That old dragon is of interest to you?” Master Nextor asked after a moment. “The Imperial knights have no such debate as long as loyalty to the empire comes first there are no issues for you all.” She was sure he knew the real reason she was asking but he wouldn’t confront her about it.

“That is why I want to know,” She said once more doing her best to pick the right words. “I just want to compare how the Jedi view issues of relationships to how we Imperial Knights do.” There that was well done.

“Very well,” Master Nextor said sounding tired for a droid. “The debate has raged nearly as long as the Jedi have existed over how well one can serve the force while distracted by other things,” Master nextor looked away. “Attachments are also unpredictable as they can lead a Jedi down the dark path threw their inability to let go.” That sounded promising. “Of course they can also be a source of strength a way back from the darkness.”

“So are Jedi who have attachments more likely to fall to the darkside?” she asked curious if he would say as much. “Also master if I may ask where do you fall on this debate are you for allowing attachments or not?”

“There is some evidence that is the case though it is mainly in times when the order disallows attachments and they have no where to turn for advice,” The Iron Knight said still sounding tired for a droid. “However there is also a much better track record for someone coming back to the light in Jedi that have had attachments.”

The Iron knight began to walk away. “I believe attachments are inevitable and that to try to suppress or avoid them is foolish.” He turned back toward her. “I believe the Jedi order should prepare our students to deal with them in a healthy way and to be able to let them go when they have to.” He then turned back to look at her. “And now I have a question for you Cadet Maral.”

“Of course sir, what is it,” She asked falling back on protocol. It was expected that she treat the Jedi master like another of her instructors at the academy. She wondered what possible question the Iron Knight could have from her.

“How would you deal with your attachment to the empire if it suddenly wasn’t worthy of your respect?” The Iron Knight asked giving her a stern look. “I ask this because I have just recently received a report from the Jedi on this trade dispute between the Empire and The Hapes consortium.” He looked directly at her. “Both your Empire and the Hapans are being very stupid about things.”

“How dare you insult the Empire,” She said angrily and then saw the droid shake his head in disgust. “Do not pretend you did not mean to make me angry with that remark you knew it would.”

“Yes I knew it would,” The Iron Knight said quietly. “And you spectacularly failed to prevent your anger at the insult from affecting you.” He stepped toward her. “That is the danger of attachment which you are succumbing to regularly.” He stepped back and turned away. “You are so concerned with the Empire losing a valuable asset that you do not even consider what may be best for Rath Sho and the Empire..”

She stared after the retreating Iron Knight in shock and anger. She couldn’t believe she had allowed him to bait her that effectively. She resolved to have nothing more to do with any jedi except the one she had to work with for the rest of this blasted training camp.

To be continued...

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Disclaimer and Notes on Chapter One

The Training Camp
Chapter Eighteen
Tasha Baldor

She set on the edge of the river bank her mind swirling with ghostly images of the vision that simply wouldn’t come. She hadn’t planned to push for the vision like this but for some reason she felt it was important that she see the vision as soon as possible. She had a terrible feeling that something in the galaxy was moving and soon it would strike. She saw a brief flash of a blond woman and Master Codi fighting but then the vison ended and she opened her eyes.

She knew that small tidbit of information was all that she would get from her searching the future. Her master had warned her that intentionally looking toward the future could cloud a vision but there was some thing familiar about the blond woman as if she’d seen her before but couldn’t place her. She was trying to decide where she could have seen her when Iella Sallin stalked past her clearly irritated “Iella are you all right,” She said pushing the mystery of the woman out of her mind to offer help to her fellow Padawan.

“That man is frustrating,” Iella said angrily. She put her hand on the other woman’s shoulder and was suddenly hit with a vision of Iella and a dark haired man in bed together. “Tasha Baldor what is the matter?” Iella asked as she staggered back.

“I had a vision,” She said weakly. “But it wasn’t one that I will witness in the future I almost never have visions like that.” As long as she could remember she’d primarily only had visions of her own future seeing others future disconnected from her own only rarely.

“You saw my future,” Iella asked calming down. “You see shocked by what you saw did you foresee my death?” There was the calm acceptance of her potential death that she expected from Iella. “Or did you see something else.”

“I saw you with a dark haired man,” She admitted after a moment. “The two of you were locked in a passionate embrace in bed together.” She saw the woman pale considerably. “I don’t know who he is but he looks vaguely familiar.” She could tell it still disturbed Iella. “There’s no guarantee that will come true my track record with visions that aren’t about my own future is pretty bad.”

“Obviously you simply mixed me up with someone else,” Iella said after a moment. “I will never be intimate with anyone.” She nodded along the truth was her visions while slightly less accurate when they were not about her own future were still often at least partially true. However, she didn’t think Iella was in the right frame of mind to be told that. “You seem to be having more visions here do you think it is our proximity to the Valley of the Jedi?”

“I hadn’t thought of that,” She said and suddenly she knew with utter certainty when the vision would come. “I think I will discuss it with Master Nextor at the first opportunity.” She wondered if she could get permission to enter the valley before the final competition it would allow her to solve this problem.

“Where is Master Nextor,” Iella said after a moment. “I have not see him since earlier today.” She closed her eyes and searched threw the force. She felt Iella doing the same. “He’s with one of those Imperial Knights again, Master nextor is spending too much time with them.” Iella scoffed after a moment. “You should go interrupt your visions are more important than whatever that Imperial Knight wants.”

She sensed that she mustn’t interrupt them as this conversation was important. “I’ll wait,” she said feeling certain that she was doing the right thing. “I think this conversation is important but I can’t see why.”

“I do not understand how it could be important,” Iella said and then turned. “I will be going now I need to meditate and center myself.” The other Jedi walked away and she felt a sense that Iella was in for a rocky road ahead of her. She also sensed that Iella would survive it and a new vision floated in front of her Iella older and wiser a powerful master standing on a strange world with many students.

She began to head back to the barracks to grab a remote for some light saber practice. After the last few moments she decided she needed the focus of training to block out any more visions. She was sure that she knew now when the vision would come so she needed to focus on being prepared for it. She needed to have the focus necessary to endure it without letting it over whelm her. She needed to see but also be able to remember and keep her perspective.

She had just started to get into the rhythm of deflecting the remote’s shots when she felt someone approaching. At first she did her best to ignore them but the confusion they were radiating forced her to shut down the remote and see who it was. She was a bit surprised that it was Tor Varga but then she realized he must have been the one that got into it with Iella and riled her up.”

“Forgive me for asking this Cadet Varga but did your disagreement with Iella upset you greatly?” She asked still clearly sensing his confusion and agitation. “Do you wish to talk about what is bothering you about it?”

“It’s nothing she just called me and the other Imperial knights no better than dark siders,” he said with a frown. “Between her and Padawan Long’s prejudices I’m really disappointed if you all are the best the Jedi can do.”

She was startled at first but then she got it. “Do you think we are the best of the Jedi?” She asked wondering who he got that impression from. “The Jedi chosen for the training camp are not exceptional in anyway the masters who think their Padawans can benefit from it submit them and the council decides based on who needs it most.” She looked down at the ground. “My master for instance says I need to learn greater focus and this camp has helped me thanks to my partners complete disinterest in the future.” She smiled to herself. “She has helped me learn to become more effective at shutting away visions of the future when I must have my mind in the present.”

“So what are Iella and Long here to learn then,” He asked sounding a bit confused She wasn’t surprised he asked about the two who had disturbed him. “And for that matter what is my partner there to learn because I don’t think he’s learned it.”

“Dev, was supposed to learn discipline I think,” She said not completely sure. “I do know that Iella is meant to learn that you are not all dark siders but that doesn’t seem to be sinking in.” She saw him scowl at that. “Padawan Long is supposed to confront his prejudices by being shown what it was like to be exposed to bigotry.” She looked away. “Master Nextor matched him with the Imperial Knight who was up there thinking not the Bothan as loud as possible.”

“So what happens to those of you who don’t learn the lesson you’re here to learn?” he asked curious. “Is there any kind of penalty for those who don’t learn it?” She wasn’t sure how to read his question if he wanted them punished or if he concerned for them.

“The trials involve confronting your weaknesses, fears and problems so they might fail them,” She said shaking her head. “Failing the trials isn’t necessarily the end of your opportunity to be a Jedi but it can be a blow to your self image that causes some students to leave in disgrace.” She shook her head. “But some learn from their failure and come back stronger to grow into even better Jedi knights.” She turned toward him. “What about for you Knights how are your trails handed?”

“Oh we don’t have trails,” He said shaking his head. “Once your master says you are ready you take your oaths in front of the Holocron and begin your service.” He looked away. “Of course if the masters don’t think you are worthy you are sent packing so I’m not sure which is abetter system.”

“Neither am I,” She said and could tel he was surprised. “I often feel like I have very little choice in life because of my visions in some ways letting others make the choices for me would be better.” She then looked away. “But then I’m reminded of the fact that the ability to choose for myself is a gift that I shouldn’t be so quick to give away.”

“I can see why you would feel that way,” He said giving her a strange look. “If you don’t mind I’ll be heading inside the barracks to meditate for a while.” She nodded and watched him go before switching her remote back on and resuming her practice.

To be continued...

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