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The Darkness Waits


Aurbere

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Hey everyone! Seems my previous fan-fic received some great feedback, so I am continuing the series earlier than I originally planned. The second installment will focus on The Master's daughter and her quest to further his plans. There won't be too much action like in The Breaking Point, but what action that is in there will more than make up for it. Some of the action will be slightly more 'gruesome' (specifically the action with The Master and The other Watchers), but it's not going to be like 'I blew his head to kingdom come!' :D.

 

Anyway, if you missed The Breaking Point or any chapters of it, you can find it here: http://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=5522534#post5522534

 

Musings of the author will be written in Dark Green

 

 

Prologue

 

War is a game of deception, and The Master had played that game to perfection. Everything that had occurred was apart of his plan... even his capture. Skywalker had brought him to the galactic capital to be tried and convicted of several war crimes, the punishment, of course, was death.

 

The Master sat within a Force Cage, escorted to the Court Chambers by Luke Skywalker. They refrained from speaking to one another, much to The Master's dismay. He had hoped Luke would try to preach his Jedi teachings at him, if for nothing else other than entertainment. But Luke remained serene, centered in The Force. He believed the Force Cage kept The Master's power suppressed, but that was far from the truth. He was in control of the situation, they could prevent him from unleashing his power, but they could not contain his potent will.

 

Luke escorted The Master's floating cage into the center of the Court Chambers. The almost spherical chamber remained empty aside from a Twi'lek Judge sitting in a durasteel stand.

 

The Master looked around the room as his cage came to a rest. "No Attorney, no Jury. What is this? Is this an example of your proud judicial system, Skywalker?"

 

Skywalker, still at The Master's side, opened his mouth to respond, but the female green Twi'lek answered for him. "This is a sentencing hearing. There is no jury, there are no lawyers."

 

The Master shook his head. "So that is how it is?"

 

The Judge looked at the papers in front of her. "You are charged with treason, conspiracy to commit treason, several war crimes, genocide, and mass murder. For these crimes, you are sentenced to..." She stopped and hesitated. "Do you have anything to say in your defense?"

 

The Master had many things to say, but he didn't plan on grand-standing. "Yes. Yes I do Though it won't change anything, will it?." The Force Cage limited his mobility, so he remained seated. "My students and I created a wall between the Galactic Government and those who wished to destroy it. We manipulated events to ensure that battles would end in our favor. When Emperor Palpatine took control of the galaxy, I helped bring the Rebel Alliance together. I made sure the Death Star plans fell into Rebel hands. I arranged Grand Admiral Thrawn's departures into the Unknown Regions. I made sure Palpatine was on the Second Death Star, and helped Luke Skywalker get to him. I allowed the location of reborn Palpatine's clones to fall into New Republic hands." The Master sighed heavily before continuing. "When the Vong attacked the New Republic, I did what I could to turn the tide, but they were more powerful than I had remembered. When the New Republic bested them, I assumed that the galaxy was in good hands. I remained watchful, but allowed the Galactic Alliance to fight its own battles. Until Skywalker allowed the Sith to continue their pathetic existence."

 

The Judge rose a hand to stop him. "If I may interject, but what is the point of this?"

 

The Master rolled his eyes at her ignorance. "The point is that you need us on that wall. You need us to provide that barrier between your weak people and those that would do them harm."

 

"And that excuses your actions?"

 

Indeed. "Those deaths, although tragic, saved lives. My war would have saved lives. And my existence, although completely incomprehensible to you, saves lives! Even after everything your Alliance has been through, you are still weak, but I would have made the galaxy strong again."

 

The Judge quickly interjected. "I've heard enough. The sentence is death! And at Master Skywalker's recommendation, you will be held aboard the Jedi prison The Prism. Take him away, Master Jedi."

 

The Force Cage lifted off the ground as Luke directed it out of the Court Chambers.

 

Sentenced to death. At least they got that right. But they were sending The Master right where he wanted to go: the ancient Jedi-built prison The Prism.

 

Everything was proceeding as The Master had foreseen.

 

 

Don't click unless you really want to!

 

 

A Few Good Men reference FTW! :D Gotta love Jack's performance.

Edited by Aurbere
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Very good.Don't take me wrong but I have one complain:You made the Master too ******.I mean,you made him

look like god.I know it's your first fan-fic and I'm not saying I can do any better but I suggest you to make him

more weak,more human,as much as he can be.No offense.:)

 

I understand. I think I went a bit overboard, but that kinda had to happen for him to actually pose a threat to Luke.

 

I already have plans to 'humanize' him.

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I understand. I think I went a bit overboard, but that kinda had to happen for him to actually pose a threat to Luke.

 

I already have plans to 'humanize' him.

I know, how about you have the Master meet Traya's ghost and she uses force-lecture on him. That tends to humble. :D

 

Great FanFiction, I look forward to future chapters!

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Chapter 1

 

She sat alone in the dark, waiting for her father to re-establish contact. The Master had not told her what the plan was, only that it required patience. Why did he toy with the Alliance? Why not take the seat of power? The Harbinger could only wonder, but she intended to ask him when he contacted her.

 

The Master's Holocron glowed bright green once again as his image projected from the device. "Ah. Child."

 

She remained seated, bowing her head. "Father. What is your will?" She lifted her head back up and brushed her long silver hair out of her view.

 

"I have allies that are awaiting my call." The Master's image brought much needed light to the darkness that permeated the Iron Citadel. "You will rally them while I make preperations for the next step of my plan."

 

He had allies? The Harbinger did not think such a thing was possible. "Who are these allies? I will find them."

 

The Master lifted a hand at her. "Not yet. My other students should be with you now."

 

Emerging from the shadows behind The Harbinger were the Twi'lek twins The Shadow and The Assassin. The Shadow, a green Twi'lek with spotted lekku, knelt before the Holocron. "We are here to serve, Master."

 

The Assassin, a blue Twi'lek, knelt as well. "Our mission is complete. The Gree Computer has been procured and installed."

 

The Harbinger made a double-take at the two Twi'lek's. "Where have you two been? And what Gree Computer?"

 

The Master answered her question. "I sent them to retrieve a Gree Computer from the wreckage of a battle cruiser on a remote planet in the Unknown Regions. The Computer is vital to the operation of Project Death."

 

The Harbinger took a deep breath and composed herself, centering herself in The Force. "Well, now that you have your computer, what now?"

 

The Master remained silent for a moment, as if studying his daughter. "You will go about the galaxy and rally my allies. The Shadow and Assassin will follow you, hiding in the shadows. They will make sure that you are not harmed."

 

Did she need their help? No, she was trained to be the best, but their help could be necessary. "Yes, father. Who am I looking for?"

 

The image shook slightly before vanishing and quickly reappearing. "I have several allies, but you shall first travel to Hutt Space and procure the Hutt Cartel's services."

 

The Harbinger had studied the Hutt Cartel... they weren't to be trusted. "The Hutts? We can't ally with them!"

 

The Master quickly stopped her. "They owe me a favor, but if they require credits, then credits they will have."

 

She still didn't like this. "What method of travel do I have?"

 

"My Defender-class Starship is sitting behind the Citadel. You will take it."

 

The Master's shuttle was a relic of days past, but he had modified it to make it a viable ship for this modern time. "Of course, father. I shall leave immendiately."

 

The Holocron deactivated, it's bright green light receeding back to a dim glow. The Harbinger stood up and use The Force to retrieve the device. She turned around to see the twi Twi'leks still kneeling. "Let's go you two."

 

The Twi'leks stood up as she walked past them.

 

Finally, The Master had unleashed her upon the galaxy.

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I know, how about you have the Master meet Traya's ghost and she uses force-lecture on him. That tends to humble. :D

 

Great FanFiction, I look forward to future chapters!

 

An encounter between the two would be interesting. Traya would probably scold him about his reliance on The Force for survival and The Master would call her a hypocrite.

 

I actually have been thinking of some sort of trial for The Master involving spirits of the past.

 

(and Chapter 1 is ^above)

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Chapter 2

 

The Prism- Prisoner Distribution Center

 

Luke Skywalker and Jaina Solo watched several guards escort The Master's floating cage through The Prysm's dim halls. Luke was intent on following them to make sure The Master didn't escape, but he was stopped by the super-prison's Warden: Jansil Cordon. Jansil was a tall man, and had an air of nobility about him. His dress code supported that theory, as he was wearing a neat black suit.

 

"Master Jedi, it may be best if you avoid the prisoners. Many of them have been put in here because of you Jedi." Jansil had an optimistic attitude for a prison warden.

 

Luke noted Jansil's attitude, but was worried still. "He surrendered almost without a fight... I don't like it." The Master was still dangerous, and Luke wanted to make sure he didn't escape.

 

Jansil nodded in agreement. "At least that scum is locked up where he belongs, as are the rest of his friends. I heard that their execution is in three weeks." He waved a pair of guards, dressed in standard blue uniforms, over to them. "These two will escort you to his cell."

 

The two guards saluted Jansil and marched to follow the guards escorting The Master. Luke and Jaina quickly followed.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

Solitary Confinement was nothing more than a long hallway of cells sealed with powerful Ray Shields. Each cell was equipped with several Neural Dampener, preventing Force-users from using their powers to escape. The Master could feel an invisible field around him, preventing him from using his powers. Escape would not be as easy as he had first thought.

 

The Master surveyed his cell. Rusty walls, rusty refresher, a rock-hard bed sitting on a raised metal slab. Truly The Prism was a quality prison. The silver durasteel walls had rusted to give the walls a blood-stained resemblance... perhaps it really was blood. He sat on the bed, it provided no comfort for him... not that it needed to. He did not intend to be here long.

 

The Master heard the echoes of footsteps coming from the hallway. Within moments the source of the footsteps was standing before him: Luke Skywalker, Jaina Solo, and two guards. "Come to gloat over your victory, Jedi?" The Master kept his gaze fixed on a red stain at his feet.

 

The two guards stepped to the sides of the cell entrance. Luke touched the Ray Shield that sealed the cell, it gave off no energy at his touch. "We came to make sure you didn't try to escape."

 

The Master chuckled to himself and brushed his brown hair out of his vision. "Indeed? As you can see, I can't escape. If you are here for something more trivial, please don't bother."

 

Luke said nothing in reply. He motioned to Jaina to leave. She obeyed her Uncle and stepped aside. Luke remained motionless for some time, studying The Master. A few minutes later, he left with the two guards. The echoes of their footsteps grew softer and softer as they exited Solitary Confinement, leaving The Master to his thoughts.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Defender-class Starship- Meditation Chamber

 

The Defender silently drifted through hyperspace en route to Hutta. The old star cruiser was remarkably capable for being from ancient times.

 

The bright white lights of The Harbinger's Meditation Chamber proved a stark contrast to the darkness of The Iron Citadel. The Harbinger found it refreshing to be out of the darkness. She meditated, sitting in front of The Master's Holocron, with the two Twi'leks sitting beside her.

 

The Holocron glowed bright green once again and The Master's image graced them once more. "Child, we have a change of plans. The Shadow and Assassin will not be traveling with you for now."

 

What happened to trigger this change? The Twi'leks remained silent, forcing The Harbinger to speak for them. "Why not, father?"

 

"My escape from this prison is delayed. I need their help."

 

At those words, The Assassin spoke. "What is your will, my master?"

 

"Former Chief of State Natasi Daala installed Neural Dampeners in The Prism, preventing my escape." The Master was clearly irritated. "Once you land on Hutta, steal a transport and make your way to Coruscant. Once there, sneak aboard a prison transport. If you have any concerns, I assure you that a dangerous prisoner will be needing transport to The Prysm when you arrive on Coruscant."

 

The Shadow's spotted lekku thrummed. "We will have to use stealth field generators, our powers will not work on The Prism."

 

The Master's image nodded. "Correct. Do not fail me. Your missions are of the utmost importance."

 

The Master's students stood and bowed before the image faded. The Assassin bowed once more to The Harbinger. "We will not fail. When we are finished with our mission we will return."

 

The Harbinger nodded in reply. She would have to deal with the Hutt Cartel on her own.

Edited by Aurbere
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Chapter 3

 

The Prism- Warden's Office

 

Luke and Jaina followed the Jansil into the Warden's office. The office was decorated with several amenities that Luke felt were unnecessary. The Warden's desk had several small and rare flowers in silver vases next to a small computer at the center of his desk. At the back was a large painting of himself holding a baby Akk Dog.

 

Jansil sat at the desk and sighed heavily. "I don't know Master Jedi. Having that guy and his goons here makes me uneasy."

 

Luke tended to agree. This 'Master' was up to something, and Luke didn't like the tension that he was feeling. "You told me that this prison was a fortress, Jansil. I'm sure you can keep him here until his execution." Despite the feelings, Luke remained cautiously optimistic. "I'll be leaving Master Kam Solusar here just in case." If anything, having a Jedi Master here would keep the prison in line.

 

Jansil tensed as he wiped his brow. "Thank you, Master Skywalker. A Jedi should help, but I have this feeling that just won't go away." Jansil started to relax, but that tension returned. "I feel like he actually wants to be here."

 

Behind Luke, Jaina Solo slipped out of the office.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Hutta- Jiguuna Spaceport

 

The Harbinger stepped off The Defender's boarding ramp and onto the sickly marsh of Nal Hutta. The planet was once a lush world thousands of years ago, now it is a toxic marsh. The air she breathed was a poisonous fume, but she used The Force to protect her from the toxic air.

 

The spaceport was empty besides the astromechs that desperately attempted to keep the port tidy, and several slaves and attendants. The spaceports walls ringed around The Defender, they were covered in slime and what The Harbinger could only consider to be 'gunk.'

 

She was approached by two pale white Twi'leks clad in extravagant black robes. They were followed by a hunched over creature that crawled on the ground. When the three came to a stop, the creature looked up. It was an Evocii. The Hutts' slaves had been so cruelly treated to the point that they were forced to crawl on the ground.

 

The female Twi'lek tossed the Evocci a small piece of flesh, which the creature devoured with pathetic zeal. The Twi'lek then bowed to The Harbinger. "Our master- The Great Ardunna The Hutt- was alerted to your arrival, but... he was expecting someone else."

 

Of course he was. The Harbinger knew who they were expecting. "You were expecting my father."

 

At first the Twi'leks were confused, but they quickly regained their composure. The male Twi'lek stroked his long lekku. "Our master was unaware of The Great One having a child. Did he send you here?"

 

She nodded in reply. "Take me to your master. We have business to discuss."

 

The Twi'leks bowed once again. "Of course, follow us." They clicked their heels and turned around to exit the spaceport. The Harbinger and the Evocii slave followed after them.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

Alone in a cell. It had been so long since The Master was alone. He enjoyed his time alone, it gave him time to think, time to plan. He had planned his war carefully over centuries. He knew that his ascent would need to happen eventually, so he began planning for his war centuries ago. He moved pieces to suit his purposes, noted the strengths and weaknesses of the Galactic Government, and planned accordingly. The Force had given him visions of his war, each attack was shown to him, each step was planned to ensure that his victory would come to be. His victory was ordained by The Force.

 

The Master heard the echoes of someone's footsteps come down the hall. More visitors. Minutes later Jaina Solo appeared in front of his cell with a steel chair in hand.

 

She set the chair up and sat down. "We need to talk."

Edited by Aurbere
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Chapter 4

 

Nal Hutta- Jiguuna Spaceport

 

The Master's servants watched The Harbinger follow after the Hutt's servants. Using their affinity for stealth, The Shadow and Assassin quickly followed after them, completely invisible to all but the most powerful of Jedi. The spaceport halls were in even greater disrepair than the landing zones. Wall panels were scored with blaster fire, circuits fired out sparks and the foul stench of the marshes dominated the air.

 

The two Twi'leks watched The Harbinger turn left out of the spaceport, but they would not follow. Their mission had changed, as their master commanded. They continued to walk the halls of the spaceport until they came across a bright yellow sign indicating the presence of another landing zone.

 

The Assassin touched the console to open the door to the zone. It flashed red, denying them entry. He pressed several buttons... red again. "We don't have time for this." He whispered to his brother before punching the console.

 

Sparks shot out of the console before the door squeaked open. They stepped inside to find a small band of four Weequay pirates standing next to a large, bulky cargo freighter. Under cover of stealth, the two Twi'leks moved behind the group. They activated their double-bladed lightsabers and cut down the group before they could react.

 

They removed their shrouds and unlocked the freighter's boarding ramp. The ramp hissed as it slid down to touch the wet ground. They knew security would arrive soon, but by the time they would arrive, the two Twi'leks would be gone, leaving nothing but the dead pirates in their wake. They quickly boarded the freighter. Their mission was of the utmost importance to The Master, and failure would not be tolerated.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

"Talk?" The prospect of speaking to the killer of The Historian was preposterous. "You killed one of my students. Why should I talk to you? We are enemies."

 

Jaina nodded with a smile. "I have questions for you. Enemies or not, you are stuck here. What's so bad about answering a few questions?"

 

That innocent tone of hers made him sick, but she was right. "Very well. Ask your questions."

 

She grinned with victory. "Who are you?"

 

"That's your first question?" He scoffed at her. "I am known by many names, but you shall know me as 'The Master.'"

 

It was her turn to scoff. "'The Master?'" She laughed at the name. "What possessed you to name yourself that?"

 

The Master did not suffer fools, but he was forced to suffer these indignities. "I was a great Jedi Master, the most powerful of my time. I founded The Watchers and taught them what I know. My power is undying... as am I. I am the master of The Force!" He was almost yelling at her, but he quickly calmed down.

 

She rolled her eyes. "Sure." She let out a sigh. "During your trial you spoke of the Vong. You said that they were more powerful than you remembered, what did you mean?"

 

"Is it not obvious?" It wasn't entirely a question. "I had an encounter with those creatures. It was over a century ago. I encountered Vong scouting party during one of my sojourns to the Unknown Regions. We fought... they won. But I returned with my students and defeated their scout party. Strangely, I never encountered them ever again."

 

Jaina studied The Master with intrigue, but he was done with questions. "I have had enough of your questions girl! You think I am defeated, but you could not be further deluded!" He rose from his uncomfortable seat on the bed and stepped up to the Ray Shield. "When I escape this place, I will bring a war greater than this galaxy has ever seen. I will see Coruscant burn, your Temple in ruins and Luke Skywalker kneeling before me!" He watched her face contort in fear. "Nothing will remain but ashes and dust! My power is limitless, you can only delay your inevitable death!"

 

The Master's words struck fear into her heart. She quickly centered herself. The Master backed off of the shield. "Leave me, child." She did so, taking the steel chair with her. No doubt she would tell Skywalker of their meeting.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Nal Hutta- Palace of Ardunna The Hutt

 

The Harbinger followed the pale Twi'leks down the wide halls of Ardunna's Palace. The Palace once belonged to Nem'ro The Hutt during the Great Galactic War, and had been passed down to his descendants, eventually ending up in the hands of Ardunna. The Palace's halls were in better condition than the rest of Nal Hutta, at least until she entered the Cantina. Drunk patrons threw their glasses of ale at the walls, others engaged each other in fist-fights. The only sober people in the Cantina were guards and bartenders.

 

The two Twi'leks showed her the entrance to Ardunna's Chambers. As she passed a table sitting next to the entanceway, a suave-looking patrons at the table winked at her before sipping some ale from his short glass. She blushed slightly, but quickly banished any thoughts from her mind.

 

She entered Ardunna's Chambers with the Evocii slave in tow. Ardunna surrounded himself with several guards and Twi'lek slaves. As she stepped into the chamber, two Gamorreans crossed their axes in front of her. She raised her hand and knocked them aside with The Force.

 

The Hutt laughed, seemingly enjoying her display of power. After recovering from a fit of laughter, Ardunna spoke. The Harbinger understood Huttese enough to understand what he was saying.

 

<"Little girl show same power as her father! Ho Ho Ho Ho! You come with a message?">

 

The Hutt was grotesque, his lips slathered in his saliva and the juices of the container of large insects that sat next to him. His fat body pressed against the female Twi'leks that he kept chained to him, their eyes begged The Harbinger for help.

 

"I come with a message from my father, but why not let him tell you himself?" Her words caused a stir as the guests of Ardunna quickly stared down the entrance hall to the chamber. She pulled out The Master's Holocron and activated it.

 

The Master's life-size image appeared from the small cube. "Ardunna. It is time to settle your debt, Hutt."

 

The Hutt laughed at The Master... fool. <"You think me a fool?! You are imprisoned, you hold no power over the Hutt Cartel!">

 

"Indeed?" The Master's presence in the chamber made many of the Hutt's guests cower in fear. "You owe me a debt, Hutt. This prison cannot hold me. Honor your debt, or I will destroy the Hutt Cartel."

 

More laughter from the bloated slug. <"You wouldn't dare attack the Hutt Cartel. Only fools would think such."> The chamber erupted with the laughter of its guests.

 

"You don't know the power of The Force. Your Cartel is meaningless compared to me. Honor your debt to me."

 

The Hutt hesitated for a moment. <"There may be a way for the Hutts to join you."> He waited a moment, keeping the chamber in suspense. <"If she can survive my challenge, the Hutt Cartel will join you.">

 

The Master paused, thinking. "Very well, Ardunna. What is your challenge?"

 

<"Not for you to know. The challenge will be revealed to your offspring when it begins!">

 

The Master's image nodded and turned to The Harbinger. "Complete his challenge quickly. We cannot afford the delay. Be careful, child." His image returned to the Holocron, its bright glow turning into a soft green glow.

 

She placed the Holocron in the left pocket of her black robes. "I'm ready for your challenge Hutt!"

Edited by Aurbere
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Chapter 5

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

The Neural Dampeners of The Master's cell projected their energy around him, creating a field around him, preventing him from extending his will and unleashing The Force. He spent much of his time testing the strength of the field, but it proved considerably more difficult than he expected. But he was not concerned. His students were going to deal with the dampeners.

 

The cold, hard surface of his bed proved little comfort as he laid on it, staring at the rusted ceiling. The Master heard prisoners yell from the isolation of their cells, begging for freedom. Fools, freedom would never be given to them. They were trapped him, but he would liberate them. Of course their liberation would be unintentional, but the denizens of The Prism could prove useful. Very useful.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Nal Hutta- Palace of Ardunna The Hutt

 

She stared defiantly at the crimelord. "I will complete your challenge, Hutt!" With her father's departure, the music of Ardunna's Chamber resumed and the patrons resumed their discussions.

 

Ardunna reached his slimy hands into the large bowl next to him and pulled out some sort of slime covered insect. He stuffed it into his mouth and slurped it down. <"Little girl is eager!"> He bellowed out a laugh, the foul stench of his breath filled her nose.

 

She held her breath for a moment and exhaled. "I don't have time for this. What is the challenge?" She took a deep breath at the first sign of relatively clear air.

 

Ardunna laughed again. <"The challenge is grueling. Little girl will not survive."> He coughed and spit up some of the insect he had eaten. The small pieces of the insect fell to the ground with a sickening sound.

 

The Harbinger held in a gag. "I don't care what you think Hutt, I have business elsewhere." Despite the sickening feeling she had, she remained defiant of the Hutt's insults and foul being. "What is the challenge?" She was growing tired of the Hutt's attitude, her anger was rising.

 

Ardunna let out a loud groan. <"Little girl must earn respect of entire Hutt Cartel by participating in galactic competition: The Battlezone!">

 

"The Battlezone?" She had heard of the gladitorial competition that the Hutt Cartel held. It was a barbaric sport that was broadcasted across Hutt Space and was viewed by degenerates across the galaxy. She let out a long sigh at the thought of competing. "Very well, Ardunna. I'll play your little game." She stepped closer to the Hutt's dias and parted her robes to reveal the two lightsabers on her belt. "But if you don't hold up your end of the bargain, you won't live long enough to hide from my father."

 

The room fell silent until Ardunna's laughter broke that silence. <"Little girl have spirit. She do well in the Battlezone!"> He waved his floppy arms at the Gamorreans. <"Take little girl to guest chambers. She wait there.">

 

The Gamorreans rushed to her side and squeeled for her to follow them. The Evocii slave that had been at her side throughout her meeting with Ardunna followed as well before being grabbed by the pale Twi'leks that had escorted her to the Palace. She quickly turned around and pulled out one of her lightsabers. "He stays with me." She took pity on the creature and sought to liberate him from this place. The Twi'leks backed off and let the Evocii go.

 

She clipped the hilt back on her belt and returned to the Gamorreans, who escorted her out of Ardunna's Chambers.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Maximum Security- Sector 7

 

The Soldier paced his large cell, his robes covered in the blood of the inmate he had just killed. The body of the Aqualish inmate lied slumped against the cell's back wall. The Aqualish's blood soaked the wall he leaned against, as well as the bunk-bed and the floor.

 

The screams, cheers, and boos of the inmates inhabiting the surrounding cells defeaned him, and alerted the guards to his actions. At least seven guards ran from several posts to investigate. As they approached, The Soldier sat down on the bottom bunk of the bunk-bed. The Ray Shield of his cell vanished as the seven guards entered the cells. One of the guards fired a stun round from his blaster pistol, knocking The Soldier back and incapacitating him. His vision blurred, his head pounded and his ears were numbed.

 

The guards lifted the dead inmate and carried him out of the cell. One of the guards covered the blast shield of his helm with his right hand. "Sith's blood!" His muffled voice was shaky as he spoke. "I didn't sign on for this!" He ran out of the cell, stopping to reactivate the Ray Shield before running back to his post.

 

The Soldier's mind reeled still from the blast, but he could feel his mind recover. Thoughts began to race through his mind. He knew they would send him to Solitary Confinement, as he had planned. He desired to be away from the masses of prisoners, to be alone, to meditate on The Master's plan. The plan had confused him. How could being captured be apart of the plan? The disturbances of the prisoners prevented him from contemplating the grandness of The Master's plan.

 

But he would know what the plan entailed, whether The Master wanted him to or not.

Edited by Aurbere
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Wow you've posted alot! I'm very much liking the story so far, keep it up! :D

 

Yup! I've been posting each chapter much faster than the previous installment. I think this installment is going to be a bit longer than The Breaking Point.

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Chapter 6

 

Nal Hutta- Ardunna The Hutt's Palace- Guest Quarters

 

The ornate decorations of The Harbinger's quarters were a nice change to the awful conditions of the rest of Ardunna's Palace. The small room had a comfortable feel to it. A nice comfy bed took up the majority of the room's space. It was flanked by two small tables, on which sat a small golden statue that looked like a Hutt. In the southwest corner was a small wooden chair. How the Hutts could have fashioned such a room was unknown to her, but she didn't care. She liked the change.

 

She layed down on the bed and stared up at the ceiling, slowly drifting off to sleep. The Evocii slave crawled up next to the bed and lied down next to it. Before she could fall asleep, the door to her room slid open to reveal a familiar figure.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Warden's Office

 

Kam Solusar stared out of the small viewport of Jansil's office, and into the Maximum Security section. The guards had just finished removing The Soldier from his cell and escorted him down to Solitary. From his viewpoint, Kam could see the pools of blood stain the walls and floor of that cell. The sight was harrowing, but he had seen worse.

 

His vision changed from the cell to his reflection in the viewport. The years had not been kind. His wheathered brown eyes stared back at him, his white hair was ragged, and his tough exterior was slowly unraveling. But his looks did not concern him. He was more concerned about the tension he felt. He could feel something putting pressure on the back of his skull, like he had just been hit by an invisible force. He tried to center himself in The Force, but could not. It was if The Master's presence had unbalanced The Force, as if the destruction that he caused was shifting The Force.

 

When Kam had heard what Jaina was told by The Master, he made sure to bring extra Jedi along to make sure The Master didn't try to escape. He brought seven Jedi Knights with him, he had hoped for more, but they would have to be enough. He kept his comlink close just in case.

 

Jansil's reflection appeared next to his own. "Terrible, isn't it?" Jansil's slim features were distorted by the angle of the viewport, giving him a slightly bloated appearance. "I heard from the doctors that the prisoner's skull was completely bashed in. They said that the guy's brain wasn't even intact when they cut him open. 'Looked like Bantha Stew', they said."

 

What could possess someone to do such a thing? The Dark Side... that was the only answer Kam could think of. "I've seen worse." He sternly said in reply. "Has he been secured?"

 

"Who? The Brute? Yeah. Just two more weeks until the lot of them get what's coming to 'em."

 

He hoped so, but he wouldn't take anything for granted. Not as long as felt the Darkness wait, lurking in his mind. He could feel The Master's power. "I don't want to take any chances. Install more dampeners around their cells."

 

Jansil nodded in agreement. "That's what I was thinking. I'll get the boys to work, don't you worry Master Jedi."

 

But Kam could do nothing but worry.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Nal Hutta- Ardunna The Hutt's Palace- Guest Quarters

 

The Harbinger recognized him from the Cantina. It was the man that winked at her! She quickly sat up, careful to not let her cheeks turn red. "Who are you? And what are you doing in my quarters?" She didn't know who he was, but something about him made her feel strange.

 

He stepped into the room and took a seat in the small wooden chair. It was then that she noticed that he was carrying a small glass, half-full with some type of liquor. "Me? Well, I'm Jadec Nellis." His smooth voice was very relaxing to her. He took a small sip from the glass before continuing. "And I'm here to help you." He slicked his black hair off of his forehead. His angular face was unmarked and clean-shaven. His brown eyes were beginning to glaze over from the liquor.

 

She relaxed slightly, but didn't let her guard down yet. "Help? With what?"

 

He took another sip and winked at her again. "Well, darlin.' Seems I'm suppose to prepare you for the BattleZone." He brought his left leg up to rest on the knee of his right leg. "Not that there's much to prepare for."

 

She remained cautious, but finally relaxed. "I have heard of the BattleZone, but what do I have to do exactly?"

 

"Well, darlin,' that's what I'm here to tell you." He took another sip from the glass. "The BattleZone is all about survival, which is easier said than done." He scratched the back of his neck. "No one's survived in years." He chuckled as if that were comical. "The Hutts don't want people to survive. Each year the Zone gets tougher."

 

The Harbiner let out a long sigh, followed by a groan. "I can handle it, now tell me what I have to deal with."

 

Jadec took another sip, emptying his glass, much to The Harbinger's relief. "The BattleZone is a gladitorial competition, big sport with the Hutts after Huttball got the boot... or tail." He let out a loud laugh. "It's a grueling sport pitting one contestant against a couple dozen fighters."

 

That didn't sound so bad, but he continued. "Now that doesn't sound that bad, does it?" He didn't let her answer. "That's because that's only round one. You have to go through three challenges. The first is fighting a few dozen warriors. The second is fighting the sponsor's best warrior. This year Ardunna is sponsoring the game, so you'll be fighting his best Bounty Hunter." Jadec attempted to take another sip before realizing that it was empty. He frowned at the glass before dropping on the ground. The glass shattered, pelting the Evocii with small shards. The pitiful creature didn't stir, he probably had experienced worse. Jadec sighed at the loss of his drink. "Now this Bounty Hunter is a real mean thug. Rumors say he's a Gen'Dai, but I don't believe them. Anyway, the final challenge is the hard part. You gotta fight the sponsor's monster. Now, since Ardunna is the leader of the Hutt Cartel, he's probably got something big. Some people say he's got a Krayt Dragon, but I saw the crate they flew that beast in on, and it is not big enough for something like a Krayt Dragon. It's probably a Rancor, but I wouldn't assume anything yet."

 

The Harbinger used The Force to collect the glass shards and reform them into the small glass. "And why is that?" She said as she set the fractured glass on the closest table. Upon her release, the glass fell apart, leaving glass shards in a small pile.

 

"Well, last year one of the sponsors brought in a Sand Demon from Tatooine. Poor Mandalorian got devoured by that thing."

 

She had heard of the legendary Sand Demons. Ferocious creatures. "I can handle anything they throw at me."

 

Jadec laughed softly. "I'm sure you can. Heard your the daughter of some really famous guy. Supposedly the Hutts fear the guy."

 

"You heard right! My father is the most powerful being in the galaxy." She was about to tell him why she was on Nal Hutta, but she knew her father wouldn't want her to.

 

He raised an eyebrow at her abrupt stop. "Then why are you here? And where is your father?"

 

She hesitated, the questions couldn't be answered easily. "It's not important."

 

Jadec nodded, understanding that she didn't want to talk about it. "Alright then. I guess my work is done here." He got up to leave. He pressed his index finger on the console next to the door and opened it. He turned his head to look at her, his brown eyes meeting her deep blue eyes. "If you need anything... I'm here." And with that, he exited her quarters, closing the door behind him.

 

The Harbinger exhaled loudly as she laid back down on the bed.

Edited by Aurbere
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Chapter 7

 

Nal Hutta- The BattleZone

 

The Harbinger stood in the dark entrance hall to the domed arena. It smelled wretched within the narrow hall. The dripping of moisture echoed through the empty hall, which was usually followed by the squeaking of some sort of rodent. Before her stood a rusty, barred gate, artificial light from the arena pouring in, but doing little to permeate the darkness.

 

She heard a voice echo around the arena, coming from several audio enhancement systems. "Ladies and Gentlemen! Welcome to the three hundred and thirty-third BattleZone!" The roars of cheers followed, bombarding her ears. "This year we have a special treat for you all: A Jedi!" More cheers... she centered herself, trying to drown out the cheering masses. "How will she fare against our competition? Find out LIVE at The BattleZone!"

 

The rusted gate opened, and she entered the arena. Inconceivably, the cheers grew louder as she entered. She ignored them and stepped into the arena. The arena floor was littered with rocks and slightly buried bones. At the top of the arena walls sat several VIP boxes for the leaders of the Hutt Cartel.

 

At the far end of the arena was another gate, which promptly opened. Out of the gate emerged at least thirty warriors, all of whom were heavily armored Trandoshans. Each of them carried electro-staffs. The Harbinger curiously wondered how the Hutts procured them for this contest, but it didn't matter now, soon they would be dead.

 

The Trandoshan warriors surrounded her, snarling at her. She activated her lightsabers, and closed her eyes. She centered herself in The Force, drowning out the cheering so that all she heard was the hum of her lightsabers and the breathing of her enemies.

 

She felt one of the warriors behind her charge, her eyes snapped open and she back-flipped over him. She avoided the swing of a warrior from the left and plunged her left blade into his chest, while blocking a strike from the right. She quickly pulled out her blade and decapitated him with it.

 

She then quickly vaulted over another Trandoshan and plunged her lightsabers into his back and cut through him, letting his body crumple to the ground in pieces. The Trandoshans cautiously formed a semi-circle around her, eyeing their dead allies. They had just realized what they had to deal with, but it didn't discourage them, only made them more zealous. They snarled at her, showing their pointed teeth.

 

She was not intimidated. She raised a hand at the eight Trandoshans in front of her and let purple tendrils race from her fingertips. The Trandoshans had no time to react before the purple tendrils connected with their heads. They felt no pain as the energy manipulated their minds, draining their will and bending them to her will*. The eight warriors then began attacking their fellow Trandoshans, devolving the battle into a brawl. Her new servants engaged the other warriors with zeal. The warriors bit and clawed at each other, stripping flesh from bone and spilling blood onto the barren floor.

 

The other Trandoshans paid no attention to her as they focused on putting down their rogue allies. At the end of their brawl, her servants were crumpled heaps on the ground, but they were able to kill twelve of their former allies. Which left fifteen more warriors for her to defeat.

 

The last of the warriors carefully stepped back, as if they felt fear... which they should. She leapt into the middle of them and made a sweeping slash, catching the lower abdomen of four warriors. The Trandoshans erupted into a frenzy, surrounding her and assaulting her with their electro-staffs. She called on The Force to enhance her reflexes and speed, allowing her to parry and risposte with incredible speed. During the brawl she was able to cut down ten of them before the last one retreated.

 

She was breathing heavily, she felt several electrical burns on her sides. The Force had allowed her to suffer these wounds without slowing down. And now only one warrior stood before her. Examining him, he was clearly the largest of them, possibly the pack leader. She lifted the Trandoshan up with The Force and summoned it around him. The energy formed a bubble around him, which she then quickly and forcefully collapsed the energy upon him, crushing the Trandoshan. He fell to the ground in a crumpled heap... dead.

 

She released her tension and deactivated her lightsabers, returning them to her belt. The roars of the crowd bombarded her once again, but above them rose the amplified voice of the Announcer. "Well, would you look at that!" He exclaimed. "Seems our challenger has passed the first challenge! But, really, are we surprised? The first round is the easiest challenge! But what's going to happen in the next round? Find out tomorrow, LIVE at The BattleZone!"

 

The cheers of the crowed bombarded her, growing louder until she entered the dark entrance hall.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

The Master could feel his power restrained further, more dampeners had been placed to keep him tame. As if that could happen. The small field that enclosed his will, grew smaller as the days passed. Fortunately, these dampeners would not be operational for much longer.

 

Outside of his cell, he heard two guards talking. "I just finished watching The BattleZone, amazing!" A deep muffled voice said to break the silence that Solitary had been experiencing.

 

"Really? Who's the victim this year?" A much lighter voice asked.

 

"No victim. This girl's a Jedi, and she literally destroyed the thirty guys she had to fight."

 

"Really? You know, I should probably start watching it. It sounds amazing."

 

The Master silently laughed to himself. He knew who they were speakng of. His daughter's mission is going well, indeed. He relied on her success. His victory would be assured if she were successful.

 

But his victory was already assured...

 

 

 

*An interesting use of Electric Judgment. Electric Judgment drains the will of its target. In this case, it was used to drain their will and make the use of Mind Trick on them much easier.

Edited by Aurbere
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Nice action scene - I'm liking how the Harbinger seems more light side than dark.

 

Yes, she is. The Master is trying to protect her from the Dark Side, which is one of the reasons why he didn't have her with him during the first war. That and he's very protective of her, as any good father should be. :)

 

And yes, the action scene was very nice (in my opinion). It wasn't as long as I would have wanted, but it was pretty good. I liked the use of Electric Judgment, very nice addition I think. (Says the author lol :D)

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Chapter 8

 

Nal Hutta- Ardunna The Hutt's Palace- Guest Quarters

 

The Harbinger opened the door and stepped in. She tossed her lightsabers on the bed and fell onto it face-first.

 

"Hey." A calm voice said from behind.

 

She yelped and jumped up, whirling around with her lightsabers in hand. The voice came from her friend Jadec, sitting in the wooden chair with a larger glass in his hand. "What are you doing here?"

 

Jadec took a sip from his glass. "Oh, you know, waiting for you." He was drunk.

 

The Harbinger put her lightsabers back on the bed and sat back down. "Why, exactly?"

 

He blinked several times and shook his head. "Saw your fight: impressive work. Haven't seen something like that since some other Jedi participated."

 

She furrowed her brow, her silver hair falling in front of her face. She brushed it back with her left hand. "A Jedi? Who?"

 

Jadec shook his head and took another sip. "No idea. Though he didn't seem like a Jedi. Not exactly the emotionless droid types you see in the Jedi Order." He let out a yawn. "Heard he caused a big stir with the Cartel."

 

Could it be? "My father?" She asked, leaning off the edge of the bed. "Was it my father?"

 

Jadec pulled back in confusion. "I don't know. Maybe."

 

She pulled back up onto the bed and lied down. It had to be him. "Who else could it be?" She said to herself.

 

Jadec took a long sip to empty his glass. "And one more thing: a couple of Gamorreans hauled off your little Evocii friend." He dropped the glass on the floor, watching it shatter into pieces.

 

The Harbinger let out a long sigh. "Of course they did." She had grown attached to the slave, but she knew the Hutt would want his slave back. "I need some time to rest Jadec, could you leave?"

 

Jadec knew it wasn't a request. He let out a long yawn, stretching his arms as he got up from the chair. "Alright, darlin.' I'll be around if you need me." He opened the door and stepped out, closing it behind him.

 

Leaving The Harbinger to her thoughts.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Coruscant- Mon Mothma Spaceport*

 

An excellent change of scenery to the rusted bucket that was the pirate cargo ship they flew in on, Coruscant was the jewel of the Galactic Alliance, the center of its power... and they had no idea their enemy operated under their very noses.

 

Various hovering vehicles sped above them, not knowing what lie below them. The great lights of the many skyscrapers lit the night sky, illuminating the city planet. From the roof of Mon Mothma Spaceport, The Shadow could see the Senate Building, shining with a thousand lights.

 

To his right, his brother, The Assassin, pointed to it. "Soon, brother, our master will bring down the corrupt walls of that building and reform them anew."

 

The Shadow knew he was right, their mission proved that The Master's victory was at hand. "Yes. But we are not victorious yet. Our master is not yet free."

 

"You still do not understand, brother." The Assassin slapped his brother's shoulder. "The Master is already free. The shackles that bind him are an illusion that the Jedi have deceived themselves with. We are an inegral part to his Grand Plan, we must not fail."

 

The Shadow nodded, knowing what his brother said was true. In the distance, he saw a small shuttle land on top of the planet's prison. "There's our target, brother."

 

"Just as The Master said. Excellent." The Assassin put a hand on The Shadow's shoulder. "Now, we move. We cannot delay."

 

Like shadows in the night, the Twi'leks leapt from the roof of the spaceport and into the shadows of Coruscant.

 

 

 

 

*I was originally thinking of doing Chancellor Palpatine Spaceport, but I felt Mon Mothma would be best. I couldn't remember the name of the main Coruscant Spaceport (other than Palpatine), so I had to make one up :o

 

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Chapter 9

 

Coruscant- Judiciary Detention Center- Prisoner Transfer Center

 

The Twi'lek twins found navigating the prison to be quite easy, their skills with stealth affording them the ability to navigate the prison complex on Coruscant with ease. They passed by several guard stations and cell blocks without alerting any guards, eventually coming upon the Prisoner Transfer Center.

 

The Transfer Center was wide open, allowing shuttles to land in the prison without effort. The roof of the prison opened to allow prison shuttles to access the prison and pick up their 'cargo.' Several guards were stationed at the Transfer Center, each of them garbed in shining blue armor and armed with small blaster rifles and shock sticks.

 

Emerging from an elevator on the west side of the Transfer Center was their target, a crime lord from the Coruscant gangs. He was hidden behind eight guards who surrounded him and escorted him to the waiting shuttle.

 

Cloaked in The Force, the two Twi'leks fell in line behind the escort, careful to not disturb them.

 

"Where are you taking me?" The prisoner, a short bald man in an orange jumpsuit, asked his escort.

 

"To The Prism. Someone must not like you, pal." The guard in front responded. He was donned in the blue armor of his cohorts, but his armor was also adorned with white markings, possibly the Galactic Alliance symbol.

 

The Assassin and Shadow followed them as the group marched up the boarding ramp of the shuttle.

 

The Assassin's urge for violence prodded him to take out the shuttle's guards and take command of it, but he quickly surpressed it. Doing such a thing would endanger their mission, and that could not be allowed. The two Twi'leks carefully made their way past the guards and into the cockpit. There they waited, watching the two pilots press several buttons and flip switches to get the shuttle started.

 

The shuttle lifted off the landing pad, scattering dust and creating buffeting winds as it took off, headed for The Prism.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

The Master sat alone in his cell. Even though his abilities with The Force had been restricted, his senses remained alert. He could feel his students draw near, their mission progressed as he had planned. Soon he would be free to continue his crusade. Soon his plan would come to fruition, and the galaxy would be returned to peace under the rule of the strong.

 

Sometimes he wondered why he had sabotaged Emperor Palpatine. But the answer remained clear. Despite the Sith Lord's power, he could not properly control the galaxy. The Master would not make such foolish mistakes during his rule. But now wasn't the time to think about such things, he first had to take his place as ruler, then he could worry about control.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

Nal Hutta- The BattleZone

 

Once again, The Harbinger found herself in the damp tunnel that led into The BattleZone. Moisture dripped into puddles on the damp floor, small rodents squealed and fled from her. The air was difficult to breathe, the stench clogging her nose. Behind her, she heard the patter of footsteps approached. She turned to face the source of these footsteps, to see the Evocii slave emerge from the darkness.

 

"Girly?" It was the first time he spoke. His voice was soft, timid. "Grewd escape from pig-men to find her."

 

Grewd? Was that his name? Or a name imposed upon him by Ardunna? "Why?" She whispered back.

 

Grewd crawled on the damp floor, his hands and feet separating small puddles. "Grewd want to leave nasty swamp with her in shiny ship."

 

His speech pattern was interesting. Truly his species had devolved since their enslavement. "Grewd... I can't go. I have a mission to complete here."

 

Grewd finally crawled up to her, looking up at her with his big green eyes. "But... can't she leave with Grewd?"

 

"No. My mission here is important. Why don't you hide aboard my ship and wait for me?"

 

Grewd's eyes widened at the prospect of being able to leave Nal Nutta. "Yes! Grewd wait for her on shiny ship." He quickly trotted off, the sound of water splashing slowly disappearing as the Evocii vanished in the shadows.

 

The Harbinger hoped bringing the creature with her was a good idea.

Edited by Aurbere
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*I was originally thinking of doing Chancellor Palpatine Spaceport, but I felt Mon Mothma would be best. I couldn't remember the name of the main Coruscant Spaceport (other than Palpatine), so I had to make one up :o

Yeah, that would be kinda awkward for the New Republic (or whoever they are) :p

 

Can't wait to see the Master escape! (or not?!)

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Chapter 10

 

Nal Hutta- The BattleZone

 

The rusted gate opened, allowing The Harbinger to step into the arena. The shining artificial lights were blinding at first, but her eyes adjusted. She drowned out the cheering crowd, focusing on only one thing: her next challenge and overcoming it.

 

"Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to The BattleZone!" The BattleZone announcers voice rang out across the arena, amplified by audio enhancement systems. "Our competitor miraculously emerged from her first challenge unscathed, but will she be so lucky today? Let's find out!"

 

She stood in the middle of the arena, staring at the opposite gate, waiting for her next test. The gate before her opened and sautering out of the tunnel was a large creature, possibly Gen'Dai.

 

"Making his way to the center of the arena, standing over three meters tall: Tundor!" The announcement echoed around the arena, quickly being drowned out by the patrons' cheers. "Can our challenger overcome this Gen'Dai? Find out LIVE at The BattleZone!"

 

Tundor stood before her, standing over one meter taller than her. He looked down at her. "Fight with honor. Die with honor." His voice was metallic, almost robotic. His body was clad in purple heavy armor, which was covered with different weapons systems.

 

The Harbinger backed up and drew her lightsabers, activating them with a snap-hiss. Tundor pulled a large vibrosword off the sheath across his back, holding it steady in front of him. Sweat dripped from her brow as she waited for him to make the first move. Her father had told her about Gen'Dai, more importantly on how they could be killed.

 

Tundor lunged his massive body forward, bringing his sword down in a heavy downward strike. She caught the blade between her own, parrying it downward and slicing Tundor across the chest. Purple strands of nerve fibers fell out of the crevass, but quickly slithered back in, the regenerative processes of Tundor's body working quickly to repair the damage.

 

She quickly leapt back and projected a powerful Force blast at Tundor. The blast shredded Tundor's armor, revealing his innards: a mess of nerve fibers and muscle strands. Tundor pointed his arm at her and launched a missle her way. The shrieking missle was stopped dead in its tracks by The Harbinger. She turned it around and launched it back at Tundor, impacting him in the chest.

 

His body was shattered by the missle, nerves and muscle cords flew around the arena, connecting with the walls with a sickening sound. She knew what she had to do, what her father told her to do. She delved into the most secret of Force techniques to set the pieces on fire and make them explode, incinerating them completely. She knew it was done, Tundor was no more.

 

"Amazing, ladies and gentlemen! Our challenger has made it to the final round! What awaits her then? Find out tomorrow, LIVE at The BattleZone!"

 

She deactivated her lightsabers and returned them to her belt, leaving the arena in shame. She did not want to do that, but she had to. Her father demanded that her mission be complete, which meant no one could stand in her way. It made her sad to do such a thing to a powerful creature like Tundor, but she had no choice.

 

Sometimes she wished that her father had never called her to serve...

 

 

A short chapter, but the next one will be much longer. Promise! :)

 

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Chapter 11

 

Koros Major- Iron Citadel

 

Kyle Katarn led Jaina Solo down into the darkest depths of the Iron Citadel. Two weeks ago, Kyle Katarn was held captive in the dungeons of the Iron Citadel and tortured by The Master. The dark halls were lit only by the blue glow of Kyle's lightsaber. The halls of the Iron Citadel were stained with rust and covered in webs. The Master had clearly not cared to keep the Citadel clean.

 

"Why are we here again?" Jaina asked. Her voice low.

 

"We're here to see if The Master has any plans." Kyle could feel the dark energy coursing through the Iron Citadel. It was as if the Citadel was working against them, trying to keep the two Jedi from accessing its Master's treasures. "Can you feel it, Jaina?"

 

"I feel it. Wasn't this place a Jedi stronghold? Why is it so dark?" Jaina kept her voice low, almost involuntarily so.

 

Kyle and Jaina slowly descended a series of stairs, descending into the darkest chambers of the Citadel. "It was. During the last Sith War, this Citadel served as a last stand for a brave army of Jedi. Records say that only two hundred Jedi stood to defend the Citadel against over one thousand Sith. Only one Jedi survived."

 

Jaina stopped on the stairs. "You don't think-"

 

"I do. We may be facing someone who is immortal." Kyle continued down the stairs, exiting the stairs and into a large and empty chamber.

 

Jaina quickly followed after him. "But how is that possible?"

 

The chamber they entered was the darkest chamber in the whole Citadel. The shadow hung in the room, making the air difficult to breathe. Kyle could feel the Dark Side was strong in this chamber, more importantly, he could almost see the Dark Side here. A purple haze descended upon them, surrounding the two Jedi and closing in around them. Kyle knew what they had found, they had stumbled upon The Master's personal chamber.

 

Kyle felt the Dark Side close in on him, pushing against his will, supplanting his connection to the Light. "Stay strong Jaina. Calm yourself." He was reassuring himself more than he was Jaina.

 

As if hearing his words, the haze dispersed, but the Dark Side that corrupted the Citadel continued to weigh on the two Jedi. The two Jedi stepped further into the chamber before being stopped by a crackling sound. A light shined in the shadows, the luminescent glow of a small Holocron. Projecting from the Holocron was the image of The Master, studying the Jedi curiously.

 

"Ah, so my chamber has been found." The image spoke. Even the Holocron was coursing with Dark Side energies. "I see you have prevailed over the energy coursing through this place." The image's words were just as potent as if The Master himself spoke them. "So tell me, why are you here?" The image was calm, malevolent. "Do you seek answers? Wisdom and knowledge?"

 

The light from the Holocron was sufficient to light the chamber, allowing the two Jedi to deactivate their lightsabers. Kyle defiantly stared at the image. "We know you are up to something. And we want to know what it is."

 

The image laughed at them. "Is that so? You expect me to tell you what I have planned? Foolish Jedi, aren't you?"

 

Jaina pushed past Kyle. "If we are so foolish, why have you lost? Why is it that we stand here in your personal chambers, while you sit in a cell awaiting your execution?" She defiantly taunted The Master's image.

 

But her taunts did nothing but make The Master laugh. "You are so defiant. You are so sure of your victory, and yet you fail to see that I am in control. You have not won. You cannot win."

 

Kyle pushed Jaina back slightly. "You can't win. The Jedi won't let you. We'll stop you."

 

"Indeed? Very well." He stopped for a moment. "Let's play a game. I will give you the location of one of my students, and you will pursue her. She is doing something very important. You can defeat me, but she will wage a new war. She is my ultimate weapon."

 

Kyle didn't want to play The Master's games, but if he had so much faith in this student, then he had no choice. "Where is she?"

 

The Master's image nodded. "She's on Nal Hutta. But you had better hurry. The sooner you stop her, the better off your Alliance will be." The image retreated into the Holocron, leaving Kyle and Jaina in the dark. Kyle felt uneasy, at least, more than what he was before. If this agent was so dangerous, they had to hurry.

 

*** *** *** ***

 

The Prism- Solitary Confinement

 

The Master knew that Kyle Katarn and Jaina Solo couldn't stop her. The Harbinger was superior to them. She had the potential to become more powerful than him. She was the ultimate weapon, the ultimate dealer of death. She was the key to his plan. Her success would make his conquest of the galaxy far easier, but her failure was inconsequential. His victory was ordained by the most powerful force in the galaxy. The Force had shown him his victory, but The Harbinger's success would make fulfilling that vision much easier.

 

His future plans relied on her success. The Master had made plans for after his conquest, and these plans would revolve around The Harbinger's success with his allies. And after her mission, she would join him in his war. Together, they would be unstoppable. His daughter would join him in final victory.

 

But first he had to escape from his abominable prison. He could feel his students arrive. They had ceased hiding themselves in The Force to alert their master of their arrival to The Prism. Their skills with stealth would be useful in the deactivation of the Neural Dampeners that prevented his escape. The Master would have them simply unleash the denizens of this prison, but instead chose a more subtle option. When the dampeners would be deactivated, The Master would act in a subtle manner to escape.

 

It was only a matter of time.

 

 

 

Question for the readers. I have two endings written for this installment, and I would like to get your opinion what which one I should use.

Ending 1 is the original ending and will make the next installment very dark.

Ending 2 will keep the story dark, but not as dark as what Ending 1 will do.

 

It will still be an epic third installment, but the different endings will choose the tone and overall feel of the story.

 

Edited by Aurbere
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Question for the readers. I have two endings written for this installment, and I would like to get your opinion what which one I should use.

Ending 1 is the original ending and will make the next installment very dark.

Ending 2 will keep the story dark, but not as dark as what Ending 1 will do.

 

It will still be an epic third installment, but the different endings will choose the tone and overall feel of the story.

I'd say the original ending, but whichever you feel is best.
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