A New Player in the Force (SW/Lite Gamer)

[Ranan]

Just got to the facing the council chapter, and I wanted to ask. How does Cam lose fights? Like with his skills as high level as they are it makes no sense, the majority of other people in the galaxy have no way of reaching his level of skill in even one area let alone as many areas as cam, yet, he still manages to turn what should be total domination into hard fought victories where he barely scrapes by. Disregarding the totally valid comments Ive seen about how useless the interface is, Im more concerned about how unreliable his skill levels are, if he is so skilled in lightsaber combat he should be easily securing victory even in extremely unfavorable conditions, moreover his forcepowers should make that dominance even more thorough. Do his skill levels mean nothing at all??

 

[D3mented]

Just read through this whole thing over the last few days. There is a lot I enjoyed about it, especially Cam and his character development over the course of the story. I love his gradual decent into the dark side and I cannot wait to see him actually step into the field as a third player in the war.

I did not read the comment section while rolling through the chapters, but I can imagine there was a lot of discourse over the rather strange implementation of the gamer system in this story.

It definitely feels like there is a love hate relationship with the things presence in the story. He's got all these levels and skills, but the plot and narrative seem hell bent on undermining it all at every turn. To the point where having the system was a nearly lethal handicap by the time he went to Naboo.

This aggressiveness against the system seems to have calmed down with this "natural evolution" update, but I'm not entirely sure what is even left of the original system at this point? He's got an extra dimensional space and some nebulous stats... kinda? I'm hoping that the fic stops fighting to nerf the system so much and let Cam breathe more.

 

[USSExplorer]

A/N: As always, a huge thank you to those helping with lore and planning for this and my other stories.

And again, this chapter was released to those of sufficient rank on the story's Discord (it pays to talk) about a month ago. For those who support my writing, then it was released between 2 to 7 months ago (and those supporters can also access chapters that far in advance).

---

Aftermath and Groundwork 2
… …​

I leaned back in my chair, closing the Interface. After some time debating on the matter, I had chosen to select Upgraded Minimap Mark 2 with my Player Power Point. Of the choices available, it was the one most likely to be of use as it revealed passageways, alcoves and the like that were hidden from sight and even the Force. I wasn't exactly sure how one hid something from the Force, but I now had a way to locate such places. At least so long as they were within the range of the Minimap.

Obviously, there were no such locations on Raven, nor would I be able to sense any of them as we raced through hyperspace, but at least now it would be there. I'd just have to wait and see how it alerted me to such hidden locations.

Currently, we were heading towards the Gaia system along with a rented transport vessel that Dooku was managing. To help him do so, Simvyl was accompanying him, which gave my former Master someone else to monitor the women and children who no longer suffered as reluctant members of the Prophets of the Dark Side. The men remained with Maul on the Starblade and would do so until we returned, and the asteroid base intended to house them was ready for occupation.

As I leaned back, I looked up at Raven's ceiling and pondered which Perk to take. Many of the choices weren't that impressive or were extremely limited in how useful they would be. Six of the possible Perks - Brainiac Mark 1, Cat's Grace Mark 1, Cult of Personality Mark 1, Giant's Strength Mark 1, Iron Skin Mark 1, and Wisdom of the Ancients Mark 1 – only lowered the difficulty of upgrading a single stat by 25%. While that was an impressive amount, it wasn't worthwhile to spend a Perk Point on.

One with Beasts and One with Nature remained, since they had appeared on the list, the most unappealing choices. Gaining double XP for skills was interesting, but not when they only applied to skills related to fauna or flora.

Luck of the Force was similarly unappealing. Yes, it granted me the equivalent of 20 Stat Points in an instant, but they were only assigned to LUCK. While that wouldn't be the worst thing, it also felt like a waste of a Perk Point, at least when compared to several other options.

Dominant Mark 1 and Style Mark 1 held some use as both were geared towards interactions with people. The former granted 20% boosts to any skill I used while leading a group and another 10% boost to a skill that affected those under my command. The latter offered a 15% boost to all Charisma skills while increasing boosts in Reputation by 10% and decreasing losses by the same amount. Both skills would be useful during and after my rise to becoming Mand'alor, but not ones that instantly screamed at me to take them.

Healing Acclimatisation, Mind Abilities Affinity, Psychometry Acclimatisation, and Seer's Insight all unlocked or offered boosts to specific Force abilities or ways of using the Force. However, the latter two weren't powers that I was currently interested in, nor did I expect to be any time in the near future.

So long as Quinlan was travelling with me, I'd have someone with an incredible natural affinity for Psychometry with me, while visions of the future weren't something that held my interest. Yes, several that I'd had experienced had proven useful, but the flipside was that the Force could offer conflicting visions as it had done with Serra and myself in the lead-up to Naboo; something that had cost her the life of her former Master, Cin Drallig. The time needed to focus on visions and insights and then decipher them to the point they could be understood with as little confusion as possible wasn't something I ever expected to have.

Stellar Ace had some appeal, as becoming a better pilot would be useful. However, I could already envision a future where my focus wouldn't be on leading the charge in a starfighter but from the bridge of a warship. I retained my natural affinity for Battle Meditation, though I'd barely spent any time learning how to use it, with me now able to naturally use the Force.

I did intend to consult my mother's holocron and that of others to seek hints on the matter. In the coming years and decades, the ability to influence the minds of every warrior under my command in battle was something I would need. Mando'ade, even though almost all were individualists, fought exceptionally well when working together when called upon to do so, but the chance to further enhance that ability and conceivably influence major fleet engagements directly meant I'd be spending time when I could find it relearning the ability linked to my mother's bloodline.

Healing Acclimatisation and Mind Abilities Affinity held more appeal, however, each had drawbacks. With my current inclinations, I was uncertain how effective I would be with using the Force to heal others, even if I had the branch unlocked fully. With my Inventory it was a trivial matter to ensure I had large supplies of Bacta in various forms stored there; something I'd committed more space to while on Mandalore.

Medic Mark 1 was, in practical terms, more useful than taking a single step – of an untold number – along the Force Healing tree. Making any healing agent or item used by me, be that on myself or others, twice as effective didn't sound bad, but not to the point of being something that instantly jumped out at me.

For Mind Abilities Affinity, I could see the use as I had destroyed the mind of the Prophet I'd ripped knowledge from. For someone like that, or any other sub-sentient that crossed my path, I saw no issue with destroying their mind to gain the information I needed. Such creatures deserved as painfully excruciating a death as possible. However, there would be times I'd wish to gather a hint of information from those I couldn't simply reduce to a quivering, mind-broken wreck.

The last three possible Perks were Enhanced Regeneration Mark 2, Overdrive, and Physical Regeneration Mark 1, and each was, at least to a degree, tempting.

Enhanced Regeneration would double my current boosted regeneration rates, which were already double the standard rates for a Human, for recovering Stamina and PP, along with boosting my ability to recover from Force Exhaustion.

Overdrive was a power that would allow me to draw extremely heavily on the Force, to the point of going beyond my limits for a short time. However, if I drew on the Perk for too long, the damage done to my body would be irreversible, and the healing of injuries suffered wouldn't be enhanced by the Force, bacta, or any other method. If I broke my arm, for example, while Overdrive was active, then it would take months to heal properly, leaving me damaged and weak for a dangerously long stretch of time.

Physical Regeneration Mark 1 granted a direct ability to recover my health at a rate of 5% per hour. It wouldn't regrow lost limbs or remove permanent lowering of my HP, but the ability to heal at a faster-than-natural rate wasn't something to be overlooked. There was also the chance that, as it was listed as Mark 1, there'd be a way to eventually recover my missing limb naturally, though that was only a working theory.

Honestly, none of them was as appealing as the locked options of Stat Boost Mark 2, Shatterpoint Familiarisation, and Level Boost. The issue was that those options wouldn't unlock until Level 42 for the first and Level 40 for the other two. I might still retain the Perk Point until Level 40, but at that point, I'd also have another Player Power Point, and I could use that for Level Boost unless something new and more appealing than one of the three currently locked options appeared.

Pushing aside thoughts on what Perk to take, I closed my eyes and let myself drift off. There was little I had to deal with currently, and as Anakin was all but permanently locked looking after Sariss, I had to man the helm by myself. Raven was more than capable of flying herself, but I might need to intervene if something happened, thus I was all but trapped in the cockpit until we next exited hyperspace, which would be – I confirmed after a quick glance at the display – roughly another twenty-six hours.

I might as well catch some sleep while I could, and perhaps while doing so, some insight into the Perk choice would reveal itself.

… …
I was awoken sometime later by the presence of Raven gently caressing my mind. There was nothing wrong to the extent that we were in danger, but she felt I needed to be woken. After blinking a few times to clear the cobwebs of sleep, I saw why she'd woken me. There was an incoming hail through the Holonet.

My brow rose as I saw the caller ID, and because of that, I took a few moments to ensure my mental defences were in place and all thoughts about what I'd been up to the last few months were buried far behind those protections.

"This is Cameron Shan," I said as I opened the channel, though only after I locked the cockpit so no one else could enter. While I knew where the location of the call was coming from, I didn't expect one of the people linked to it to answer immediately. That proved, to a degree, to be the case as the young woman who appeared wasn't someone I recalled ever interacting with before.

"Ah, Master Shan, I'm pleased I was finally able to reach you. The Chancellors have been seeking to speak with you for almost a month now."

I chuckled, amused at the fact that I had kept the Co-Chancellors and the two Banite Sith Lords waiting for so long. "Sorry, I was in seclusion and thus unable to be contacted by any bar those with me. Is either Chancellor available to speak with me now, or should I schedule a time to call back?" I'd prefer to put the conversation off if I could, ideally for a long time, but the more I avoided Damask and Palpatine, the more their true forms would grow suspicious of why I was doing so.

"One moment," the woman replied, and she turned her head away. While I saw her lips moving, there was no sound, meaning she'd muted the call at her end. "If you could wait for around ten minutes, Chancellor Damask would be free to speak with you."

I glanced at the displays in the cockpit. "Could you call back in twenty? I will be exiting hyperspace in a quarter hour or so, and would prefer not to be distracted while speaking with the Co-Chancellor by needing to pilot my vessel back into real space."

"Of course." The woman closed the channel, and I leaned back in my seat. Truthfully, I'd have been more than capable of handling the transit out of hyperspace even while on a call, but the extra time granted me time to gather my thoughts.

I'd already crafted a story, one I'd told Anakin on the chance others asked us about it, to explain not just where we'd gone but why Sariss and Karia were travelling with us. Dooku was aware of the story as well, though my concern was ensuring my son and apprentice didn't accidentally mention Dromund Kaas when asked where the women and children we were bringing to the Lokella had come from.

The only ones, outside the group that had travelled into Sith Space, who knew the truth were Bo, Adonai, Naz, and Torrhen. I'd have preferred to keep Naz out of the loop, but that was almost impossible given how often she was present with Bo and having to lie to her face like that wasn't something I wanted to make Bo do. Still, the daughter of Pre Vizsla had sworn not to reveal the truth to anyone else, not even her family, and I was trusting her to keep her word.

Time passed without incident until we dropped out of hyperspace, and after angling Raven towards a station in the system, one I'd stop at to refuel before beginning the run down the Ootmian Pabol route, I leaned back and waited for the Chancellor's office to call back.

As I waited, an amused smirk slipped onto my face. The fact that I was able to make the office of the Chancellor of the Republic call me back was ego-boosting. Yes, I knew Plagueis was only allowing this because he and Sidious wished to know of my whereabouts and see if they could, at the very least, factor me into helping their plans for destroying the Republic and Jedi. However, it was still amusing to think that a former Jedi had such influence over one of the most powerful figures in the galaxy.

"Ah, Cameron. It is a pleasure to see you again," Hego Damask stated as I was connected to him. Behind him, I could make out just enough to see he was in his office in the Senate building on Coruscant, though what time of day it was or if anything was happening in the sky was unclear.

"Likewise, Chancellor, though I am at a loss as to why you and Chancellor Palpatine would wish to speak with me."

Damask's expression remained neutral, though his lips seemed to thin. That might've just been a momentary interference in the Holonet, but it was strange to see him without the mask. Yes, he'd not needed it the last time we'd spoken, but I'd come to associate it with him, and I wondered if he still used it when speaking with others as Plagueis as a way to hide his identity further.

"Why would we not wish to speak with someone we both value highly? Particularly when they have recently left the Jedi."

I smirked, acting amused that they knew of that when I was sure they knew before I'd even left Coruscant that day that I was no longer a member of the Order. "It was a personal decision, Chancellor. One that, while not entirely affected by discussions we'd had on several topics, had been brewing for some time. You and Chancellor Palpatine are both aware of my grievances with the Order, and again I apologise for adding to your considerable workload by having discussed those matters with you."

Damask nodded, though that was the only outward reaction to my words. "As I have said on several occasions, I would not be here today had it not been for your actions on Mandalore over five years ago. As for my Co-Chancellor, he, along with his people owe something that can never be fully repaid."

"And as I have told him and Queen Amidala, there is nothing they need to pay. I did what was needed to right an injustice, Chancellor. Nothing more."

"You have said this before, and I see you continue to do so." He paused for a moment, though I didn't know why. "However, your presence was missed greatly at the recent anniversary of Naboo's liberation. From what I was informed, Her Majesty was most unhappy when it was confirmed you would not be attending."

"I shall endeavour to speak with the Queen when I have time." I had already planned to contact Padmé, as while there weren't many Mando'ade on Naboo, there were enough there that it would be a good out-of-sector location to visit to secure support for my claim to become Mand'alor. "And please let Chancellor Palpatine know that I am sorry for not attending the celebration."

"I shall pass along your message when I speak with him later this evening." I nodded in thanks. "If it is not considered personal, might I ask where you headed that saw you isolated from contact for over three months?"

"I was living in isolation on Mandalore. While I know my choice to leave the Order was the correct one for me, it was still a hard action to take. The Jedi took me in when I arrived on Coruscant, when they did not need to, and I have many friends and colleagues within the Order that I had to speak with. Those conversations were difficult, not least as, for many, I had to make sure not to reveal my intentions before I spoke with the High Council.

"After everything was done, I needed time to plan where I would head next. The Force offered me a hint of that path, and I encountered a tribe of Force users. Ones that used the Dark Side of the Force." There was no outward reaction to my words, but I knew he was intrigued internally. "Their actions and choices forced me to destroy them to the last man, an action I don't regret. However, those they kept as slaves didn't suffer their fate, and I'm currently transporting them to a secure system."

It might seem like I was providing too much information to Damask, but I knew he would learn which Holonet relay I was speaking to him through. Since he and Sidious knew of the Lokella, it was better to feed them a few crumbs regarding why I was heading to the Gaia system. They would no doubt investigate the matter through faint contacts under their influence, and when they learnt that I had deposited freed slaves with the Lokella, they likely would find no issue with my story.

Ideally, I'd prefer if they didn't pay any attention to the Lokella; however, that simply wasn't possible. The pair of Sith Lords were far too interested in seeing if they could twist me into a pawn, or at the very least find a way to use me in their coming plans to leave me alone. Thus, it remained best to feed them enough of the truth that any investigation they did only corroborated my story.

"I see your desire to help has not been diminished by your departure from the Jedi. Most commendable." I smiled in thanks. "As the Co-Chancellor, I cannot offer an opinion on your actions in exterminating a cult, nor in your continued support for a group of former slaves that actively strike at operations deemed illegal in the Republic. To do so would force me to deal with additional pressures that would only add to my already considerable workload. As your friend, if I might call myself that, I would applaud you for your ceaseless efforts to make the galaxy a safer and more just place."

"I consider both you and your Co-Chancellor my friends, Chancellor," I replied, making sure there was nothing on my face or at the surface of my mind that might hint otherwise. He shouldn't be able to even sense my thoughts through a holocall, but it was always safer to assume he and Sidious were more powerful and devious than I knew, so I lowered the chance they might do something I wasn't expecting. "Even if I no longer follow the orders of the Council, I remain committed to serving the Force and bringing forth a better, fairer galaxy for all."

Damask offered a small smile. "Along with my Co-Chancellor, I am relieved to hear that. Given our many discussions on matters relating to the Republic and its defence, it is reassuring to hear you have not lost sight of the efforts needed to guide the galaxy into a bright, prosperous future."

I smiled back, the only way over a call – no matter how secure – that I could acknowledge the hidden meaning behind his words. The Vong were still out there. Even if I would one day seek to strike down the Banite Sith, for now, we were allies of convenience and necessity in dealing with that looming but undefined threat.

"Since you have finished your private commune, would I be safe to assume that you have decided on a path forward?"

"I have," I replied slowly, running through, once again, how much to inform the Chancellor of my plans. "For the time being, I wish to gather forces to begin targeting elements that exist in the underbelly of the Republic that should not. Slavery, extortion, piracy, and other acts that contravene Republic law have grown rampant in the galaxy, particularly in the Outer Rim. Some of this was due to the Senate previously giving the Trade Federation free rein to handle all transport in the Rim; however, it was a problem that existed in some form long before then, stretching back to the days of the old Republic."

"That is indeed true; however, I feel trying to counter that is no better than trying to exterminate vermin with a Vibroblade."

I chuckled at the analogy. "It depends on who is holding the blade, Chancellor, and what they can do with it." He nodded, catching the joke in my words. "But yes, I am well aware that it might be a thankless task. However, it is one that shall allow me to attempt to make a difference. Something I couldn't do if I remained with the Order, as there are methods that will be needed to eradicate those elements that couldn't be aligned with the Jedi Code. At least not with how the Order currently defines it.

"I am also aware that there will come a time when I will find myself facing off against individuals or organisations that enjoy considerable profit from such activities. If I remained aligned with the Order, then I would risk the matter expanding to the point the Senate would be forced to intervene to maintain the peace, such as is," I added with open disgust. The fact that many in the Senate and elsewhere placed their desires for money, power, and influence over the greater good of the sentients they were meant to represent was a disgrace. Yes, for some species, that was the way they had always behaved, but it didn't mean that I could find it acceptable.

"Yes, if your actions grew large enough to draw significant attention, which, from what I know of your convictions and approach, they would, then there is no doubt that those in the corridors of power would seek to interfere. As Co-Chancellor, I would do what I could to support your actions, but there are limits to that support."

"Yes. Which is why, among other reasons, leaving the Order and the ties it holds to the Republic behind was the only logical choice." I grinned slightly. "For others to see the light of freedom, I must walk through the shadows and darkness of the galaxy to exterminate those who dwell within it. And yes, I am well aware of the dangers that come from confronting such darkness unprepared," I added, hoping to suggest that I was still unprepared or arrogant to the dangers I faced from the Dark Side.

Walking this tightrope with Plagueis and Sidious was always a challenge, but one I had come to find myself enjoying. There was a danger that they would discover that the way I was saying I was drawing on the Force wasn't quite as they believed from my words, or that I might do something that could harm their plans unintentionally – or at least they would see it that way I hoped – but by doing this I kept the full force of their power from crushing me before I was ready to stand against them. That it brought me clandestine support from the Republic and themselves was a bonus that I would exploit when it benefited me.

"I am relieved to hear you are aware of the dangers that lie on the path before you, Cameron. Neither Chancellor Palpatine nor myself would be pleased if you lost yourself in the darkness where you are planning to walk. We would lose a shining light that we hope can guide us into a new, better era. The galaxy has many sectors in need of being addressed, both from the top of the Republic leadership down to driven individuals like you."

"As always, I am at your service, Chancellor, though I believe it will be harder for me to return to Coruscant to speak. Beyond not wishing to be close to the Jedi Temple and the memories it contains, the, if you shall forgive me for saying so, stench that lingers under the surface of the planet is one I no longer find myself easily able to bear."

All of that was true and was a suitable reason why I wouldn't be returning to the capital of the Republic for the foreseeable future. Yes, there were those in the Order that I still wanted to speak to, or longed to hold in my arms, but I wouldn't place them and myself in danger by stepping back into the gundark den that was Coruscant. Not unless I was going there with the power and desire to exterminate some or all of those irritants.

"Understandable," Damask replied with a lowering of his large head. "I will speak with my Co-Chancellor regarding this change in your availability and, when we next speak, I hope that we have some way to overcome the issues that such conversations bring."

"I would be grateful for that, Chancellor." As I spoke, I lowered my head in acquiescence.

I'd already thought about how I could continue to communicate with the Co-Chancellors and hidden Banite Sith Lords, and the most logical option was secure couriers. However, anything they sent from their office or that I delivered to the Senate building would be seen and monitored by others. I was sure the pair had methods in place to circumvent this issue, as Palpatine had been able to move freely even as a Senator with no one suspecting he was meeting with Damask as often as he would've been.

Damask glanced away from the recording device on his desk. "It seems I shall have to end our call here. My assistant seems quite insistent that I speak with them about what I am sure is a matter certain Senators consider important."

"Of course, Chancellor." Having the call end now was probably best, as it meant I didn't need to go into detail regarding where I'd been or what I'd been up to over the last three months. The vaguer I could remain about my travels, the easier it would be to avoid them discovering even a hint about the truth of my recent adventure. "I remain at your service if the need ever arises," I tacked on to appear loyal and subservient.

Damask's brow rose slightly, though he chose not to respond verbally. Once the channel closed, and Raven assured me the call had ended and that nothing had been transmitted while it was ongoing, I leaned back in my seat and relaxed. Playing this game of trusting and being unaware of the truth about the Banite Sith Lords was always tiresome but necessary.

It was going to be several more years at best before I was ready to, at least publicly, break from my support of them. Until then, I needed to remain someone they saw value in, though not to the extent of attempting to break me. Add in the fact that I had no idea who they would now be using in place of Dooku as Darth Tyrannus – if that was the name they granted the replacement – and it meant I was playing a very dangerous game, but in many ways the only one I could play to ensure I had the time I needed to gather forces strong enough to stand alone when chaos engulfed the galaxy.

… …

---

… …
"We are honoured to see you visit us once again, Mtael."

I smiled politely as Tweq Ruhn greeted me once I'd departed Raven and stepped onto Mtael's Gift. The Rodian seemed to have retained his place on the Lokella Council and been the one chosen to greet me upon my arrival.

"It's good to see you again, Tweq, and thank you for once again avoiding the fanfare," I added with a smirk.

Sentients were moving around the bay in which Raven had landed, though most chose to go about their business. I only recognised a handful of faces, and those all offered me a nod or small bow when they saw me looking their way.

"It seems you have continued to grow in numbers and strength," I continued, referring to both the new faces in the bay and the increased number of ships in the system. None of the new ships – or at least ones I didn't know the names of from before as there was a chance they'd altered their registry depending on what their former owners had named them – could match the Dreadnought or Liberator class cruisers that formed the core of the Lokella Defence Fleet, to say nothing of the massive doughnut-shaped frame of the Luuhan, but they did swell the numbers.

Assuming the Lokella were still working with the same pattern as before, which meant that no more than a third of the fleet would be outside the system, then the total fleet number was near or just over a hundred warships. Yes, a dozen of those were transports like the Gozanti-class that had been upgraded with heavier weapons for anti-fighter defence, but it was still an impressive fleet for a group that was less than a decade old.

There were also several non-combat vessels in the system. Those were generally gathered around the Luuhan, with the captured Lucrehulk being used exactly as it should be as a gigantic haulier and storage vessel. From what I remembered from my last visit to the system, one arm was used to store materials coming and going from the system, such as Phrik that was to be sold on the galactic market. The other arm served as the base for the Lokella's fighters and smaller vessels while also doubling as a sorting station for newly liberated slaves.

Medical and support staff were on hand there to examine the new arrivals and help them prepare for what step they wished to take once they had recovered from being enslaved. Most of those rescued chose to remain with the Lokella, either by joining the defence forces, adding their strength to help others be liberated, or moving to Gaia and working by choice either in the mine or around the settlement nearby.

The issue, and one that had existed for some time now, was that the bigger they grew and the further afield they deployed in anti-slaver actions, the more they risked larger counter-offensives. I planned to speak with Tweq and the rest of the Council about that, as I had plans for helping them there and using those operations to support my intentions with the Mando'ade, but as far as I could tell, there had been no attempt against the station or planet since the invasion of Naboo.

"While we remain forever in your debt, Mtael, those of the first waves of freed beings are now greatly outnumbered by those that came later. They are not as well-versed in your legacy as they should be."

I was glad Simvyl wasn't present currently, as he would no doubt have laughed or made some comment about Tweq's words. A glance over my shoulder showed the transport he was on, along with Dooku and the females and children freed from the Prophets, just entering the bay. They would be landing next to Raven, which was why the mechanics had yet to come over to examine my ship and begin refuelling her. Well, that and the fact I had marched down the ramp in full armour sans my helmet.

"There is no need for them to be so," I replied quickly as I sensed Anakin move to the top of the ramp. "I do hope that bringing new arrivals isn't a burden on your resources."

Tweq made an odd sound, though I knew it was one Rodian's made that was their version of a dismissive chuckle. "Those freed from the chains of slavery by the Mtael are always welcome in our ranks."

"They weren't technically slaves," I replied softly as I took a step closer. "They were, for lack of a better term, once of age, used as breeding stock."

Tweq's face shifted, and if he could display the same visible rage that a Human could, I knew he would be doing so now. "What?!" He snapped, his voice and tone rising, which drew the attention of those elsewhere in the bay. At his side, the two guards with him both tensed and grasped their rifles more tightly.

"The men responsible are dead, you have my word on that," I explained quickly. "Anakin and I personally executed those who survived our attack on their compound. However, beyond two that will remain with myself and my son, the rest are in need of shelter, care, and support."

"They shall have it," Tweq replied quickly. "Even if you were not the Mtael, we would never turn away those who suffered at the hands of others. I am grateful that you have punished those behind such acts, and hope their spirits are consumed by the darkest swamps of the Weslaq."

I nodded, assuming that was the Rodian version of Hell or something similar. I then turned and looked up the ramp, gesturing for Anakin, who, as normal, had Sariss at his side, to come down.

The girl clutched Anakin's arm tightly, her eyes shifting around rapidly as I felt her fear on the verge of exploding. Before I could tell my apprentice to wait, he leaned closer and whispered something to her. I didn't catch it, though, based on how Sariss' fear began to still and then ease, and how Karia smiled from behind the two children, it seemed Anakin had chosen the perfect words to calm Sariss.

"It would be best if this girl was kept away from others, and that my son is never away from her side," I explained to Tweq when I turned back to him. "He helped her gain a sliver of vengeance for what she endured, and ever since she has become rather attached to him."

"Yes, I can see that," the Rodian replied with a soft laugh. He turned and gestured to the guard at his left – a Twi'lek. "Have extra quarters prepared next to those for the Mtael and inform security to limit the presence of guards in the corridor to females for the time being."

The Twi'lek nodded and then turned away. I smiled and nodded in thanks as the guard moved off to pass along the orders. It was odd that he was doing so personally instead of simply using the station's communication system, but that was a minor matter.

"How many are to join our collective?"

"Eighteen. Eleven women who will need support and seven children. They will need support, but none of them was touched," I tacked on, so I didn't need to hear the question Tweq would have regarding their ordeal. "Thankfully, the children were too young to be of use to their captors."

"Good." The word came out harshly, making clear that even though it should be a semi-common occurrence to take in abused slaves, Tweq hadn't yet grown numb to such suffering. I wouldn't want anyone to grow dull to such things, as to do so would mean, in my opinion, losing some of their sentience. "I will have transports made available to take them to Gaia. How long will you remain once they are settled?"

"Not long. A week, two at the outside. There are people here I need to speak with, but other than that, I have business elsewhere," I replied with a smile. "While the Lokella are growing, you aren't yet able to begin striking against the true major slaver organisations that litter the Outer Rim. I have plans to begin to change that, but I need to commit to something for a few years before it will be ready."

"If the Mtael calls, we will respond," Tweq said, offering a slight bow while placing his hand on his chest.

… …
I walked beside Dooku as we moved through the corridors of Mtael's Gift. The rest of our party was elsewhere, with Karia watching over Sariss as Anakin introduced his friend to his sister Lia. Simvyl was monitoring the maintenance work being carried out on Raven and the hired freighter that had brought the women and children of the Prophets to the system. They were currently on the Luuhan, being examined and healed as needed, and would be transported to Gaia once all of them were ready.

Fenrir was already down there with his pack. As before, he had been deposited on a remote continent which was off-limits to anyone bar me, Dooku, or Anakin. I wasn't sure if he would remain with his pack or come with me when I departed, but the choice was his to make.

As we neared a set of doors that led to a cargo hold that had long since been converted into a training facility, I slowed. Not much, but enough that I felt Dooku turn to glance in my direction.

"If you are still unready for this meeting, then I can speak with Komari alone."

"No," I replied after taking a deep breath and coming to a full stop. "I've put off my issues with her for far too long. If she is, as you say, ready to be of use, then I need to confirm it for myself. She will eventually be given responsibility over others, and I need to be sure that both of us are ready for that."

Dooku's lips twitched. "Good. I am glad to see you are ready to face this particular demon. If you had delayed this interaction any longer, I would have grown concerned at your inability to move forward."

A chuckle, one that I'd admit was a touch nervous, slipped from me. "It's not that I can't move forward, it's just that I am unable to truly let go of what has happened." I paused and turned to face my former Master. "I have a rare gift, Master."

"Another one?"

I chuckled again. "Yes, I suppose. This gift, not that I'd call it that currently, means that I recall everything that ever happened to me perfectly. This doesn't go all the way back to my birth. It only, rather interestingly, goes back to my birthday just before my grandfather's death, but since that moment, I remember everything. The sound, smell, taste, and sensation of every second of every day that has passed over the last eleven years is as clear to me as seeing your face in this moment is." I sighed and turned away, looking at a section of the wall. "I recall the first time I saw the Jedi Temple. I can clearly recall my grandfather's last words before he was killed, the experience of the first time I tasted Ewok jerky or…" I paused as a smirk spread over my lips, "felt the lips of another pressed against mine."

I turned back to face Dooku there, the amusement falling from my face in an instant. "It also means that every excruciating moment I spent as a captive of the Bando Gora remains fully visible the moment I even tangentially think about Vosa or the torture I suffered!"

I paused there, looking down at the floor and needing to take a moment to re-centre myself. Just as I had stated to Dooku, images, sounds, smells, and sensations from my time under Vosa's tender mercies came rushing up. They weren't a risk to overwhelm me, but having them rise to the surface was the last thing I needed before I stepped into the room ahead of me to confront that woman.

I lifted my head when I felt Dooku's hand on my shoulder. "This greatly explains why it has taken you so long to reach this point. I am sorry that you will never be able to release the memories of such events. However, I know you are strong enough not to just keep moving forward, but to push the past aside when it is the future, and the role Komari might play in it, that is your focus." He pulled his hand from my shoulder even as he continued. "The path we are walking is one which we cannot complete without the assistance of others. Maul, Quinlan Vos, Aayla Secura, and young Anakin will be of great help in the future we seek to create as we move to defeat the Sith. However, Komari is another who can be of use. Her skills in understanding the underworld, the Dark Side, and the coercion of others will be of great benefit to us."

"I am aware of that, Master. I just… fear losing control."

"There is no shame in that, Cameron. The shame and failure comes from allowing that loss of control to consume and dominate you. I know that will not be the case for you, as not only did I train you, but I have seen you endure things that would break a lesser man, whether they are able to use the Force or not."

"Thank you, Master," I replied, offering him a small smile.

After getting a slight nod in response, I turned back to the door and resumed walking. It only took a few steps before it slid open, and I found myself entering the conference room. Seeing Quinlan and Aayla already seated at the table that dominated the room, I offered them a smile and gestured for them to remain seated.

The smile fell from my face as I turned my gaze to the far corner and locked eyes on Komari Vosa. There was no outward reaction to my gaze, though I felt her steeling herself within the Force. Before she could truly do so, and before I realised it, my hand had lifted slightly and formed into a fist.

Vosa gasped, and her fingers reached for her throat, clawing at her skin as her knees buckled. Her skin quickly turned red as her mouth flopped open and closed like a gobberfish in the oceans of Naboo. I felt my lips twitch upwards as, with time seeming to slow, she stepped forward, one hand falling from her throat to grasp the back of a chair.

The action was the only thing that stopped her from collapsing to the ground, though she was struggling to stand as I brought the full strength of my ability to command the Force to bear. Through that power, I could feel the muscles in her neck protesting, how her throat was constricted to the point that only a sliver of the air she needed was slipping through. The growing panic and fear in her eyes that echoed into the Force grew stronger and more vibrant with each passing moment, and it would take but a simple gesture for me to shatter her neck and remove her from existence.

I sighed loudly and flicked my arm back, opening my fist in the process. Vosa gasped loudly, her other hand coming down from her neck to help support her against the chair that was keeping her upright. "You should consider yourself lucky that our former Master believes you have value," I said coldly as I stared at her.

The voices within the Force, those that whispered lies and sought to trick the weak-minded, told me to strike her down, to end her before she could try to become a threat again. I resisted, knowing well that giving in to such desires only left me exposed to the worst ravages of the Force. I was better than that, I was better than the most twisted corruption of the Dark Side.

My gaze shifted to Quinlan and Aayla, the fury I'd felt at seeing Vosa before me fading away as I pushed the rage her existence caused back into its bottle. "I'm sorry you had to see that, but I recall everything that I endured because of her while I was a prisoner of the Bando Gora." My voice was calm and soft, yet I could sense trepidation from the pair as they watched me cautiously, Quinlan's hand resting just above the hilt of his lightsaber.

Aayla stepped forward, placing a hand on Quinlan's forearm. The one that would draw his blade if he moved it a fraction more. "I understand, Cam," she said gently, a hint of a sad smile creeping onto her lovely face. "While my memories are still heavily jumbled, I…" She looked away for a moment, and I felt a delicious sliver of terror slip from her into the Force before she got it under control. "I remember how we found you that day," she continued, her eyes soft and filled with compassion. "What was done to you…" she trailed off before looking over at Vosa. "That was the least of what she deserves," she added with some steel in her voice.

I nodded and offered a small, approving smile. The faint trickle of delight and amusement that I sensed from her through the Force was interesting. A Jedi clearly wouldn't feel such things, or at least not have such weak control to allow it to temper their voice and behaviour. As Aayla was displaying it, I took it as an encouraging sign that, while she was regaining her memories, much of her former Jedi training hadn't returned or was at least muted after her experiences serving Volfe Karkko.

"On that, we agree, Aayla," I replied warmly, before glancing at Vosa again. "However, Master Dooku believes she can be of use to us going forward."

I stopped there and sat in the nearest seat. Dooku took the one to my right, while, only after a nod from her former Master, Vosa likewise sat. She kept several empty spots between herself and the rest of us, which was fine by me.

"During our recent journey, Master Dooku and I encountered a Dark Side cult. While not as… deranged as the Bando Gora, they were still an issue. Most of their members are dead; justice served for the actions they took against those around them, including the female members of their cult and families."

There was a spike of anger, and I shifted my focus to Quinlan. His brow was creased, and his fingers grasped the edge of the table tightly. The anger, brought on by his mind conjuring ideas of what had happened to the women I was referring to – ideas that I suspected were close to accurate – only eased when Aayla placed her hand on his shoulder.

"Those we rescued from the cult," I continued after giving Aayla a small nod of thanks, "are currently being examined by the Lokella. After that, most will be settled on Gaia. Three of them won't." I held up a hand, stilling the question filled with concern I sensed rapidly building in Aayla.

"There is nothing inherently wrong with them," I explained slowly. "However, one of the young girls we rescued has become attached to Anakin, and as I don't wish to see her recovery damaged, I'm allowing her and another to travel with me for the time being. The third will be trained by another of my allies as he shows potential in the Force."

"From what I recall, almost all of them do," Dooku commented. He was already aware of the Force Potential of the group as we'd examined everyone before we'd departed, but by saying this, we were able to guide the direction of the conversation.

"Bar two, all of them would have, if discovered young by the Jedi, been brought in for training." The trio with us in the room all seemed to perk up at this. "Four of them have the potential to rival any of you three, while one has comparable potential to Master Dooku." That, as intended, made their reactions even more obvious.

For Aayla, I sensed a faint lingering sense of anger and injustice for what the people I was talking about had endured. There was also a kernel of interest that, if I was sensing it correctly, was aimed at perhaps finding someone her age to train with, or at least spend time with. I wondered if she was growing irritated at not having another female Force user to speak with, or even just someone she could confide in that wasn't her Master or me.

Quinlan's reaction was still rooted in anger. Most of it was focused on those who had hurt those whom Dooku and I had rescued. However, with a gentle grasping of the Force to gain insight, I sensed that some of the anger was aimed inward. As if he somehow felt he should've done something to help with taking down the Prophets. That was something I would have to investigate while I retrained him and Aayla, as it might well be exploitable to shift his focus in ways I desired.

Vosa was the least interested in those I was speaking of, at least outwardly. Her mental defences were stronger than Quinlan's or Aayla's – not a surprise as she hadn't lost her memories like they had. However, because of my earlier attack, I had crafted a small gap in her shields and gained a hint of insight into her thoughts.

She wasn't overly interested in the survivors. Not until I had mentioned that some had good potential with the Force. I couldn't be sure why that interest was there, but at a guess, I'd say she wished to see if any of the survivors could be trained into something useful.

Now, her definition of useful was different from mine, but the fact that I felt that was her motive for the interest was helpful. It suggested she would be of use to Dooku in retraining the surviving Prophets and then shaping them into tools that I could use. How they would be used wasn't something I was certain of currently, and if none of them proved worthy, then it was no great loss. However, the chance to have even one or two extra Force-capable soldiers, infiltrators, or saboteurs wasn't something to be ignored.

"The two I mentioned that will be travelling with me and Anakin are in that group with high potential, though one is already an adult, so I'm uncertain how easy it will be to train her. Another will be going for training with the ally I mentioned earlier, while the fourth is too young to begin training. At least for being taken as an Apprentice or Padawan by any of us."

"Even if Aayla and I hadn't lost our memories, I don't think I would be comfortable taking on another for training," Quinlan said softly. "As she is my first, I won't split my focus away from Aayla's education."

Aayla smiled at her Master's – or perhaps former Master, since she recalled more of their Force training than he did – words and placed her hand on his forearm. There was affection behind the gesture, and Quinlan returned it, though it was more familial than anything else. Something that, as much as I wished to ignore it, I was happy with.

"Understandable and expected," Dooku replied coolly as if the small gestures of respect and affection had gone entirely unnoticed. "Nor will Komari be given the chance to train those needing help with the very fundamentals of using the Force. However, there were several members of the cult that we captured. All of them were absolved of actions by the females," he added before Aayla – whose anger had flashed into the Force – could comment. "Those individuals will be secured far from this system, and I will, for some time at least, oversee their re-education to determine if any can be rehabilitated."

"Because of this, you," I glared at Vosa, "will be departing this system with Master Dooku. This is not up for discussion," I added firmly before she even considered a thought on trying to stay here.

Vosa responded with a nod, for which I was grateful. I'd prefer not to hear her speak ever again, at least when she was in my presence.

I turned my focus back to Quinlan and Aayla. "I won't be staying for long in this system, as I have determined my plans for the next few years and they lie elsewhere. I know we spoke before about me helping to retrain you both in the ways of the Force, but I need to ask you again if that is what you wish."

The pair shared a look, and after Aayla nodded at him, Quinlan turned back to face me. "It is. I know we earlier said we would do so on a trial basis, but after spending the last few months with the Lokella, we have grown more certain of our decision."

"If we returned to the Order, beyond separating us, they would have us remain at the Temple for several years," Aayla said as she took over. "Even after that, I find myself doubting they would ever allow us to venture out into the galaxy." She paused and looked away, as if seeing something through the walls of the room behind me. "These people have been abandoned by the Order and the Republic when they shouldn't have been. What you have helped create here is something noble and, as I regain more of my memories of our friendship, I find it clearer that my path lies if not beside yours, then close enough that we might regain our friendship."

I smiled in thanks at her words even as Quinlan resumed speaking.

"As for me, I owe you for helping me find and free Aayla and then taking us in while we considered our choices." He laughed, though it was more a grunt than anything filled with humour. "The people here worship you, but I can sense even without having recovered my abilities that you don't wish for that adulation."

"Force no!" I agreed, while at my side Dooku's lips twitched in the faint hint of amusement. "The last thing I want is for them to follow me blindly or make me their leader."

"That is something they already do, and if I recall, you have yet to step down from their Council."

I turned and glared at Dooku. "Because they won't let me, as you well know!" I snapped. Any anger I might've felt building at his words was destroyed when Aayla laughed softly.

Looking back at her, she'd lifted a hand to her mouth in a failed attempt to restrain her amusement. "While I don't recall everything from my time as an Initiate and Padawan, I know that seeing Master Dooku joking is something worth laughing at."

I grunted, biting back my anger as it mixed with amusement at Aayla's words. She was accurate to say that Dooku rarely joked, though I noted the dry style he used when expressing amusement was becoming more prevalent ever since I'd defeated Maul on Naboo and then become more naturally connected to the Force.

"Returning to the topic at hand," I said, shifting the conversation and taking back control of it, "I'll have bunks readied on Raven for the pair of you." They both nodded as I noted the expected alerts from the Interface though I couldn't deal with them currently.

"Master," I continued, turning back to Dooku, "I will leave it to you to explain our intentions regarding the captured Prophets to… Vosa." It took me a moment longer than ideal to say her name while she was in my presence, but I didn't feel any urge to strike her down. Or perhaps more accurately, I didn't feel myself wanting to give in to that desire.

"Of course." Dooku stood and gestured at his former Padawan.

I watched the pair leave the room, my gaze not quite intense enough to reduce Vosa to ash, and once the door closed behind them, I turned back to the other two.

"I still can't believe she's alive," Aayla commented before I could speak. "I mean, I know it's not the Jedi's way to kill a surrendered opponent, but for all she did to you and others," she paused and I wondered if she was recalling the state I'd been in when they'd been part of the team to rescue me, "I would've expected her to be tried for her crimes."

"I certainly wanted to punish her," I responded, able to keep the growl of anger out of my tone. "However, Master Dooku was adamant that Vosa could be crafted into something worthwhile. The Jedi Council disagreed, so he took it upon himself to prove them wrong." I smirked. "Something he enjoys doing more than he will admit."

"My memories of our time in the Order are gone," Quinlan remarked, drawing a look of concern from Aayla. "However, from what I have seen of Master Dooku, I don't find it hard to believe he would do that. He strikes me as a man very much set in doing things the way he feels they should be done."

"A fair assessment. Now, before I ask you one final time if you're certain about following me," I'd chosen that phrasing intentionally, "I need to tell you what I plan to do over the next few years. At least beyond working to help those like the Lokella strike back at slavers, pirates, and their ilk."

The pair stayed silent, letting me continue, but I could sense a flutter of apprehension from them, as if they expected my next words to be in some way troubling. "I will be focusing my efforts in the Mandalore sector as I intend to unite the Mandalorians behind me. While the Lokella are doing a commendable job, they are but a drop in the ocean of the galaxy. They cannot make the dent that they and I desire in combating slavery and the other issues plaguing the Outer Rim. Not even in the sectors bordering this one, which are, even though officially under Republic jurisdiction, all but slave states to the Hutts."

The pair were silent, which was expected. Stating that while retraining them in the ways of the Force – or at least in ways that would suit my goals for them – hearing that I intended to unite a people considered by some to be demons or dangers to the Republic would make anyone pause.

They turned to each other, and I felt the Force shift, marking the presence of a telepathic conversation. I'd not realised they'd recovered their abilities that much, but given the bond that existed between them – one that started when Quinlan had saved Aayla while he was a Padawan – I realised I shouldn't be surprised it existed.

I gave them their time, sitting quietly as I awaited the response. There was an urge to open the Interface and see what the notices – another had appeared when Vosa had left with Dooku – said, but I was in no rush to do so. Getting this pair onside was more important currently.

"I don't know much about the Mandalorians," Quinlan began after their mental chat ended, "however, from speaking with and sparring against those present on the station, I think they are good people. Maybe a little battle-happy…"

"Says the man who jumped into a nest of Shyracks without looking first."

"… but otherwise, they have good ideals," he finished, ignoring the half-whispered comment from Aayla. I was curious as to when they'd encountered shyracks, as to my knowledge, they were only found on Korriban, but I let the matter slide.

"Why do you want to lead them?" Aayla asked, her eyes watching me carefully, and I felt, as untrained as it might be, her probing my thoughts through the Force.

I lowered the outermost defences of my mind so she could sense my sincerity as I replied. "Beyond wishing to move against all those who engage in slavery and its ilk in the Rim, there is a darkness spreading over the galaxy. One that is oddly strongest over the Core. Along with others, I've felt this darkness growing for some time, but the Jedi Council dismissed our concerns. Even after I fought and defeated Maul on Naboo," I added, choosing not to dance around the topic as they would discover Maul was alive soon enough.

"That darkness is growing. Festering in the corrupted heart of the Republic. The Outer Rim has always been, by and large, discontent with the Core, and that issue has spread to at least parts of the Inner Rim. It is only a matter of time until a spark ignites the fuse and the galaxy is plunged into chaos."

"You want to use the Mandalorians to counter that chaos?"

I shook my head and laughed in gentle amusement at Quinlan's odd innocence on the matter. "No. There is nothing I, the Jedi, or the Co-Chancellors could do to prevent the chaos." Not least, as it was the Chancellors who were fermenting that chaos, but these two weren't ready for that information. "No, what I want to prepare for is exploiting the chaos. Not to become some dictator like Xim the Despot, but to create a bastion of stability and influence to bring order to the chaos faster than it would otherwise emerge."

"The Order would never agree to that," Aayla stated before offering me a small, seemingly understanding smile. "Which is one of the reasons you left, isn't it?"

"It is," I replied honestly. "Not the only one, nor the biggest, but a major one nonetheless." I leaned back in my seat, looking at the pair carefully. "The Mando'ade do not, for the most part, like the Jedi. They can respect a Force user's strength in battle, but they see the Order as too weak and unwilling to do what it must, to say nothing of its shackling itself to the Republic. If you come with me, there will be many who will challenge your right to stand at my side. Some might even try to kill you in an attempt to weaken my standing."

"Won't our presence do that already?" Quinlan asked. "Having two Jedi, or perhaps we should be called former Jedi, beside you will make many think you are acting on the Order's behalf to take down the Mandalorians."

"They will, but I am accepting of that," I smirked, exposing a few teeth. "And if they do challenge me because of your presence, then once they are beaten down, it will bring them and others in line faster. Or so I expect."

The pair shared a look before Quinlan spoke. "If you are aware of the problems having us around you will bring, and are willing to allow us to help you when we can in dealing with them, then we see no reason not to journey with you." He chuckled, the sound carrying a slight hint of nervousness. "I admit that spending time around so many of them will be challenging, but we have chosen to seek your help in relearning to use the Force, and that hasn't changed."

"Nor has the fact I'm still your friend," Aayla added with a warm smile. "Honestly, I'm not sure that your plan is a good one, or that the darkness you speak of exists, but I won't abandon you as you do this. Just as you didn't abandon me when I was lost to the manipulation of Karkko."

"Thank you," I said earnestly.

The pair nodded and, as they stood, I saw Aayla's smile grow slightly. Within the Force, for just a moment, I felt a faint, almost imperceivable tremor from her. One that carried, if I caught it accurately, a hint of attraction. I wouldn't deny that I didn't find her appealing, nor would I turn her away if she wished to indulge. However, I wouldn't pursue her directly, nor attempt to manipulate her into my bed. I wanted her blade and skills for the fights to come, and if missing out on the chance to taste that particular Twi'lek was the cost of doing so, then so be it.

I remained seated, letting them depart the room, though as the doors began to close behind them, I cast Observe on the pair.

Quinlan Vos
Race: Kiffar
Level: 28
Health: 100%
Age: 28
Force Potential: High
Threat Potential: High (Currently Low-Intermediate)
Reputation: Liked Friend
Affiliation Loyalty: Aayla Secura (70%)
Emotional State: Pleased/worried/patient
Quinlan is glad that you are willing to help him and Aayla retrain.
However, he is slightly concerned about your intentions to unite the Mandalorians, as they come across as battle-hungry people.
That said, he is more than willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, given your help in saving Aayla.
...
​

​

Aayla Secura
Race: Twi'lek
Level: 18
Health: 100%
Age: 19
Force Potential: High
Threat Potential: High (Currently Intermediate)
Reputation: Trusted Friend
Affiliation Loyalty: Quinlan Vos (65%)
Emotional State: Thankful/pleased/trusting
Aayla is still grateful that you helped free her from the influence of Volfe Karkko and that you have given her and Quinlan refuge while they consider their choices.
She is happy that someone she considers a friend is willing to help them retrain, even if it means causing yourself trouble with your goals.
She is uncertain about your plans for the Mandalorians, but has faith that you will achieve it and will trust that you are not deceiving her over your intentions.
...
​

I held off on considering what Observe had revealed, and then once the door was closed, I opened the Interface and read through the quartet of notices.

​

Quest Completed!
A Change in Path [֍]
Objectives:
: a: Convince Quinlan and Aayla to return to the Jedi. [No]
: b: Convince Quinlan and Aayla to join you on your travels so that when a galactic war comes, they are more likely to fight at your side. [Yes]
: c: Convince Quinlan and Aayla to explore the galaxy themselves. [No]
: d: Begin training Quinlan and Aayla in what you have learnt over the last few years in preparation for the coming war so that they might fight at your side in it. [Yes]
Rewards:
: b: 2500XP x2 (+1000XP)
Variable, though small, increases in Reputation with the Jedi Order once they learn of your actions.
Decent to large increases in Reputation with Quinlan Vos and Aayla Secura.
: d: 3500XP x2 (+1400XP)
Creation of a new quest
...
​

​

LEVEL UP!
37 -> 38
PP: +2
STAM: +68
SP: +5
SKP: +60
...
​

Quest Alert!
Path of the Lost [֍]
Now that they have decided to travel with you and allow you to retrain them, train them along a path that will be of use to you.
Rating: A -> S
Objectives:
: a: Before the outbreak of galactic war, train them to a level where they could defeat skilled Jedi Knights.
: b: Before the outbreak of galactic war, train them to a level where they could stand against the average Jedi Master.
: c: Before the outbreak of galactic war, train them to the level where they could stand against a member of the Jedi Council.
: d: Determine a path for each that suits their natural skills, be that with the Force or without.
: e: Have one or both choose to become Mando'ade.
: f: Prevent either from returning to or being captured by the Jedi Order before the outbreak of galactic war.
Rewards:
: a: 4000XP for each that makes this level of skill.
A decent increase in Reputation with each that makes this level of skill.
: b: 4000XP for each that makes this level of skill.
A decent increase in Reputation with each that makes this level of skill.
Potentially pass a Test of Friendship with each of them if they reach this level.
: c: 8000XP for each that makes this level of skill.
A large increase in Reputation with each that makes this level of skill.
: d: 1000-5000XP for each, depending on the path you guide them towards.
Variable increases in Reputation with each.
Potential to pass a Test of Friendship with either, depending on the path chosen for them.
: e: 3000XP for each that takes this choice.
Variable increases or decreases in Reputation with other Mando'ade.
Variable increase in Reputation with each that takes this path.
: f: 2000XP (only if both remain free of the Jedi).
Failure:
: a: Loss of Reputation with either that fails to reach this level.
The potential death of one or both of them.
: b: Loss of Reputation with either that fails to reach this level.
The potential death of one or both of them.
: c: Loss of Reputation with either that fails to reach this level.
The potential death of one or both of them.
: d: Small loss of Reputation with whichever lacks a path forward.
Failure to have them better placed to serve your goals in the coming years.
: e: None
: f: The loss of an asset or ally (depends on their trust in you)
A high chance that Jedi learn of your goals before you are prepared to enact them during the galactic war.
A high chance that the Banite Sith learn of your goals before you are prepared to enact them during the galactic war.
Accept?
Yes/No
...
​

Quest Alert!
Cult of the Apprentice [֍]​

With you having accepted Komari Vosa's presence among your forces, it is now on you to determine her purpose.
Rating: B
Objectives:
: a: Allow her to serve as an adjunct of Dooku.
: b: Find a role to take advantage of her former position as leader of the Bando Gora.
: c: Exploit her connections with the galactic underground.
: d: Discover a role for her that you are unaware of at the time this quest is accepted.
: e: Kill her to satisfy your desire for revenge.
Rewards:
: a: 1500XP
A small increase in Reputation with both Komari Vosa and Dooku.
: b: 2000XP
An increase in Reputation with both Komari Vosa and Dooku.
: c: 1000XP
Possibility to open currently unexpected quests and avenues to help your growth in power and influence.
: d: 4000XP
A large increase in Reputation with both Komari Vosa and Dooku.
Pass a Test of Loyalty with Komari Vosa.
(She can never be someone you consider a friend, and you both know this)
: e: 1000XP (Plus combat XP)
Komari Vosa's death.
A loss of Reputation with Dooku.
Automatic failure of other Objectives.
Failure:
: a: High Likelihood of Komari Vosa's death.
Small loss of Reputation with Dooku.
Loss of a potential asset.
: b: Decent likelihood of Komari Vosa's death.
Loss of a potential asset.
: c: Decent likelihood of Komari Vosa's death.
Loss of a potential asset.
:d: Loss of access to potentially powerful resources and allies.
: e: Komari Vosa survives.
What that means depends on your choices for completing this quest.
Accept?
Yes/No
...
​

That was a lot of information to go over.

My standing with the pair was about what I'd expected, though Aayla, once again seeing me as someone she considered a friend, was interesting. That would seem to imply that she had regained all her memories, if not the emotions behind them. Yet if that was the case, there was no point in her choosing to stay with me and not return with Quinlan to the Jedi. Save, perhaps, for her fear of being punished for what she did while under Karkko's sway and losing contact with Quinlan.

It was something I'd have to keep an eye on as I didn't sense any hint of deception from her, but the information Observe had generated created some concerns. Still, so long as Quinlan remained committed to retraining with me, I felt the risk was manageable, and in time, I hoped the pair would begin to place their Loyalty with me as well as each other.

The level-up was what I'd expected before coming to this meeting. That was why I'd dropped fifteen SPs into Intelligence. Perhaps there was no obvious benefit to doing so beyond bringing in an extra SP with each level and fifteen more SKPs, but I had the SPs to spare. After the Level up, I still had fourteen in the bank to go along with 420SKPs. That was a lot of SKPs to keep in reserve, but I had a plan for them.

Eventually, the skill Warfare[Space] would reach Professional:1 – I was at Adept:65 currently – and if it followed the former skill Warfare[Ground], it would split into two or three skills. Regardless, being able to gain a few tiers in each quickly would be of major help in growing my skill at fleet warfare, something I was going to need before a decade had passed.

The new quest for Aayla and Quinlan was expected – it was listed in the reward if they allowed me to train them – but one for Vosa wasn't. The fact that the Interface and TPTB behind it felt she could be of use was infuriating. I had gone along with Dooku's desire to redeem her for his sake, but to have others now suggest it was the right choice caused my rage to boil.

Yes, there was an option to kill her, but the rewards for doing so were a joke and would cost me other potential quests that the Interface seemed to be hinting would be of use to me. While I had, for obvious reasons, no idea of those potential quests nor of a role Vosa might fill that would unlock those paths, the fact failure of any of the other objectives carried a risk of Vosa dying made me willing to accept the quest.

It was easier to accept the Path of the Lost quest. I'd known it was coming, and nothing listed within it was entirely outside my expectations. The suggestion that one or both might wish to become Mando'ade was not something I'd considered previously, but after just a moment pondering the matter, I understood the reason it was listed. Adding in that the rewards would double as there were two people it applied to, and it was a simple matter to accept the quest.

Leaning back in my chair. I chuckled to myself, amused at the fact I'd levelled up four times in a few weeks. Yes, most of that was because I'd worked my arse off on Dromund Kaas and taken on the insane risk going there had represented, but it was still amusing. Part of me would prefer to grow more naturally, but I wasn't foolish enough to toss away the chance to gain extra power and skill when it was offered. Plus, the rewards of going to Dromund Kaas were, if cultivated properly, powerful enough to be capable of altering the fate of the galaxy if the Infinite Engine could become what the Star Forge once had been.

After accepting the two new quests, I stood and moved towards the door. I wouldn't be leaving the system today, as I wanted to ensure that the women and children were at least placed in Gaia before doing so. There was also the fact that our return gave Anakin time to visit his sister. Part of me hoped that being around a child might help Sariss begin to recover, but I didn't expect there to be any obvious sign of that.

What she had gone through was enough to break most sentients. The fact that I now had memories of some of the assaults that she'd endured trapped in my mind was something I had to live with. A downside of using the Force to rip knowledge from someone kindled with the way Eidetic Memory worked. I'd have to be cautious in the future when I used the Force to take information from the minds of others so that I didn't gain more memories that I despised.

As the doors closed behind me, I pushed aside thoughts on Sariss, the others freed from the Prophets, and literally, everything else I'd just been thinking about. Instead, I shifted to another matter.

There were nearly a hundred Mando'ade on the station – a fact my armour's Battlenet had confirmed once I'd connected to the local setup – and of them, at least one was an Alor. There might be others as well, but talking to the Alor was the first step. Once he was on board with my goal, then I could probe the others to see which, if any, might need to be taken down so they couldn't harm my rise to power.

… …
I leaned back slightly, dodging the incoming fist by angling my body away from the blow. At the same time, I shifted my feet and stepped around the arm of the attacker.

He was aware of my intent, and instead of pulling his arm back, slid it to the side, taking it away from me. At the same time, he danced on the balls of his feet, moving away before my intended counter could be enacted.

Having predicted that without needing to draw on the Force, I stepped forward, shifting to where he'd formally been standing. I might not have been able to attack with my counter, but by moving here, I remained to one side of him, granting a small window to strike.

I took that window, closing the gap between us with a quick shuffling of my feet, and my hand grasped his upper arm near his shoulder.

He moved, seeking to slip free of my grasp, but the mechanical fingers in my hand made sure not to surrender their hold. My mind raced, working through the potential counters he could use in an attempt to escape, and I watched for the faintest hint of which he would take.

A slight shift in the Force, one that would've been imperceivable to me a few years ago, provided the answer, and I moved to counter his escape. Our bodies flowed around the area as we each sought our goal: His to break free, mine to tighten the noose.

A grunt slipped from me as he drove a gloved fist into my side. While we weren't wearing full armour, we still had on some along with the underweave. That had dissipated some of the force behind his blow, but not enough that it didn't sting. Still, the strike wasn't enough to see me loosen my grasp on his other arm. Quite the opposite, in fact.

As the blow had landed, I'd moved, managing to secure his arm against my chest. Turning my body, I dragged him with me. He stepped frantically, seeking to avoid losing his footing, but my leverage was good enough, and my reactions quick enough, that he couldn't.

"Ugh."

The sound slipped from him as I drove him to the deck face-first. He scrambled, seeking to escape, even as I brought my weight down onto his back. My free hand came around, and I tapped him against the side of his neck.

He stilled as he felt that and then reached around, tapping my forearm three times.

With the signal admitting defeat, I released my grasp. Stepping back, I waited for him to roll over before extending my arm. There was a flash of irritation in his eyes at my action, though he still took it, and as we clasped arms, I pulled him to his feet.

"You've gotten better," Gar stated as we broke the clasp, a hint of annoyance in his voice.

"As have you," I replied diplomatically, "though not enough to be able to take me down."

Gar chuckled; the sound having grown deeper and more primal in the years since we'd first met each other. "One day. One day."

"Keep telling yourself that," I shot back with a grin as around us, those who had watched our spar clapped in approval. "How has your time been going?" I asked, shifting the conversation along and gesturing for us to step away from the centre of the room.

This was one of several spaces the Mando'ade who were helping and training the Lokella had been granted. Originally, it had been a storeroom that the Lokella had little use for, but the Mando'ade had converted it into a training and sparring centre to help them push themselves when not overseeing the Lokella's training or taking part in active operations.

Currently, about twenty Mando'ade were off station on such missions, and from the reports I'd been given, wouldn't return before my intended departure from the station. Thankfully, none of those absent was the Alor of their clan, so I wouldn't miss the chance to speak with them and gauge their support. That said, outside of Gar, only one other was an Alor: Rhir Trellik.

Rhir was an older warrior, older than Adonai or Torrhen, and hadn't fought on Naboo when I'd offered the chance to the Mando'ade. However, he had taken the chance to help train the Lokella after and was the one responsible for overseeing the Lokella's training on a day-to-day basis.

I'd only spoken to him briefly the day I'd arrived on the station, but Rhir came across as a gruff, no-nonsense sort of person, though one with a soft spot for children. To the point that, along with other Mando'ade, he'd offered to adopt several of the orphaned former slaves the Lokella had rescued over the years. As of now, about a hundred such children of a dozen different species had been adopted, with most still on the station training alongside their new parents.

It pleased me to see the adoptions happening and not just because it would swell the ranks of the Mando'ade. The closer the bonds between them and the Lokella became, the more they would work together in the coming years, which would be something I sought during and after my rise to become Mand'alor. First, however, I had to get Gar and Rhir onside with my goals, which was why I'd spent most of this morning sparring with my fellow Mando'ade.

"The Lokella are committed, though few have had much training before they join," Gar replied honestly as we moved away from the centre of the room; two other Mando'ade – a Twi'lek and a Togruta – stepped forward to spar now the ring was unoccupied. "They are often blinded by their need for vengeance. Understandable, but a flaw that needs to be refocused to ensure they survive beyond a single engagement."

"It's hardly a surprise they're like that. If someone imprisoned me, I'd want to murder them all once I escaped." The response had come from Rook Kast. Gar's mate had moved closer as we walked, bringing her husband a bottle of water.

"None for me?" I asked jokingly.

Rook smirked. "I'm sure if you asked, there'd be a few here willing to help you unwind," she shot back, gesturing over her shoulder at a group of female Mando'ade. "It seems your prowess has become something of a legend in certain sections of our people. First, taking down a Krayt Dragon, then leading a war of liberation. It's enough to make many consider you as a mate. At least while a certain redhead isn't present."

I chuckled but chose not to respond to her comment. I'd rather not know how many Mando'ade were aware of my closeness to Bo. It wasn't a secret, but it seemed the news of our closeness had spread further than I'd realised. At least among those Mando'ade who were willing to work with the Lokella and probably those on Naboo as well.

Rook, seeing me not responding, moved closer. "Of course, knowing Bo-Katan as I do, I don't think she would complain if you brought another female back to meet her. Perhaps even a pair of twins."

"Do I even want to know where you hear such rumours?" I asked, ignoring the hidden query by giving her one back.

Rook shrugged as Gar finished drinking from the bottle she'd brought him. "When you're stuck in one place for long enough, people begin to talk. Given that you're something of a legend to these people and that Zeltrons are rather… open with their relationships, is it any wonder those two freely boast about the night you gave them?"

"Rook," Gar half-growled, though it didn't have the intended effect as Rook laughed softly at him.

"Relax. I might not be normal in some ways, but I only want you."

I turned away as she moved towards him, sliding into his space. "If you could leave your attempts at procreation to another time, I wish to speak with you both about a personal matter." I glanced around the room, checking which of those present were watching or listening to us. "In private."

Rook, who had extracted herself from Gar, moved to my side and placed a hand on my shoulder. "Relax. I'm sure if you ask her, Bo will accept you as her husband. Or has another caught your eye? A member of your former order, maybe? Or perhaps," she leaned closer as her voice dropped to a whisper, "a certain queen with a skill for speeches?"

"Something more important than that," I replied, again avoiding answering her questions. My closeness to Serra had never been hidden, or at least not enough that other Mando'ade and the Lokella didn't speak about it. However, the mention of Padmé was unexpected and suggested Rook had some contacts on Naboo. Given that Mando'ade were training their defence forces and advising the Queen and her government on how to improve their defences, that wasn't a surprise.

I walked away, heading for the door to the training centre, figuring that by acting a touch mysterious, they would follow. When I heard their footsteps trailing mine, I allowed myself a small smile. It vanished from my face inside of a second, but it was nice to see that the hint of mystery had caught their attention.

We moved in silence as I guided them through the corridors of the station until we reached a small conference room. I'd asked for this room to be secured for my work, and the Lokella had agreed without question. A quick scan with the sensors in my mechanical arm confirmed there were still no active recording devices, though to be safe, I'd be leaving the scan running while we spoke.

Once we were all seated, I looked at the pair. Both were watching me cautiously, curious but careful about why I'd asked for a private meeting. "I'll be blunt about my intentions," I began, knowing that Gar was easiest to speak to when being upfront. "I intend to unite the Clans."

The look of shock that passed over their faces was one I'd been expecting and enjoyed. It'd only been a few months since I'd left the Order, so for me to decide seemingly out of nowhere to make the call to become Mand'alor would've come as a shock to them and everyone else whom I would be mentioning it to. At least those outside of the circle who were already aware of my intentions.

"I know how dangerous trying to do this is, and that many will oppose me simply because I was once a Jedi. However, it is the only path forward that can ensure the Clans ever have the chance to survive." I leaned forward. "There's a darkness coming; one that will shatter the Republic. In that chaos, there will be an opportunity for the Mando'ade to make something of ourselves, but if we don't unite, we'll be consumed by the chaos."

"And you think you're the one to do that?" Gar asked, his voice calmer than I'd expected given what I was saying.

"I do. Yes, I wasn't born Mando'ade, nor has it been long since I left the Jedi and thus freed myself from the yoke of the Republic. However, I feel the fact that I'm, in the eyes of many, an outsider can be a benefit."

Rook scoffed. "You are not an outsider. You are Mando'ade. You completed your verd'goten like any warrior and stood beside us in battle." She glanced at her husband. "I know Gar still harbours some anger towards you for killing his father, and that Tiber still rails against him for not seeking your death."

"It was a good, honourable death," Gar cut in. "I have said this before, and it remains true. What my father was doing is not important, only that he died a warrior. Yes, the death of my father hurts, but that shows that he was a good father, not that he needs to be avenged." He looked at me carefully. "How many others know of, and back your plans?"

"I have the backing of Alor Adonai and Alor Torrhen, as you would already suspect. I think I also have the support of Clan Yomaget, though that is contingent on me having enough backing for my claim to be brought forth openly before all the Clans."

"How…" Rook stopped after one word, which, given the shock in her and Gar's eyes, was understandable. "How did you get Alor Dred to back you?"

I smirked. "I appealed to his interests." Yes, my reply was cryptic, but it would remain that way for now, and probably for a good long while. The less others knew of how I'd convinced Dred to at least not openly oppose me, the better. "And his bottom line. The problem is, even though those three are some of the most powerful Clan leaders among our people, they are but three voices among hundreds of thousands of Clans. There is no certainty that the Clans sworn to House Kryze or House Ordo will support them in backing me, and many will openly challenge me for even trying to become Mand'alor."

"That is their right as a warrior. Just as it is the right of an Alor to determine the direction of the Clan." Gar stopped there and seemed to be considering something. "Clan Saxon will back Clan Shan."

I blinked, a little caught off guard at the quick confirmation. Yes, that was what I wanted, but I thought I'd have to put more work into gaining his support.

"You showed your conviction when fighting my father on this station," Gar said, choosing to explain his reasoning. "You showed me no ill will because of my father's actions and even offered me the chance to avenge him. You have proven yourself as a capable warrior in battle, though one who understands he doesn't know everything, and then there is Naboo."

"Aye," Rook agreed with a smile, one that had appeared not long after Gar had given me his support. "Yes, you hired us as mercenaries, but you led a force of Mando'ade, Naboo, Gungans, and even Jetii into battle. That is worthy of praise." She leaned forward. "Besides, I know that if we support you now, we'll get to see more battles like that in future. Hopefully, ones where the enemy is more of a challenge."

I chuckled. "I can assure you of that. When the Republic shatters, the Clans will be in a place to exploit the chaos; but before it even happens, I know we will fight against whatever forces the Republic gathers, including the Jetii."

The smile the pair wore at the mention of getting to fight the Jedi would chill the blood of many if they saw them.

"How far are you prepared to go if that happens?"

I looked Gar straight in the eye as I answered. "All the way. It doesn't matter who stands before me, be that a former friend, lover, or even the Grandmaster of the Order. If they oppose the Clans, I will fight them with everything I have until one of us lies dead at the feet of the other."

"Good."

… …

---

… …
"You wanted to speak with me?"

I nodded at Anakin's question as he entered Raven's cockpit. Sariss was resting, though I'd asked Aayla and Karia to remain with her so I could speak to Anakin. "I did." I gestured to the co-pilot's seat, which was empty as Simvyl was currently in the training hold with Quinlan.

The former Jedi was working on regaining his skills, and while Simvyl wasn't trained to use the Force as a Jedi or Sith would, the training he'd done during the two years we'd wandered the galaxy had honed his skills. It was because of that that he was capable of standing his ground against anyone bar myself if they used the Force. At least for a time.

It had only been less than a week since Aayla and Quinlan had come on board Raven, but they'd settled into the rhythm of the ship. Quinlan was bunking with Simvyl while Aayla shared a cabin with Karia; the Twi'lek was slowly helping Karia unlock her ability to draw on the Force.

While Aayla was regaining her memories from her time at the Temple, it seemed the emotional connection to those events was lacking, save for those connected to Quinlan, and as I was beginning to notice, to me. Now, perhaps in time, she would recover the emotions for other memories if she encountered and spent time around others such as Serra and Sai-Lan, but I was in no rush to test that theory. Nor, I was clear to myself, was I seeking to take advantage of her recovering any emotions she might harbour towards me.

The faint hints of attraction I'd felt when I'd spoken with her and Quinlan on Mtael's Gift had grown more common, which aligned with my memories of our times as Initiates and then Padawans. She'd never acted on the interest she felt – I assumed because of closeness to Serra – but I'd known she'd held an interest in me. If we'd both remained with the Order, then we might've acted on that interest simply to release the emotions, as, no matter what many, including myself, once upon a time believed, the Jedi were not celibate. They simply worked to avoid forming emotional attachments.

Of course, with Aayla's experiences with Glitteryll and then Volfe Karkko, her Jedi-designed moral compass was lacking. I could have exploited that and her attraction to me to bind her to my side; however, I wasn't going to do so. Not because of some high moral standing, but because I feared that doing so would, if I made a mistake, see her turn against me, which was the last thing I wanted. I needed her and Quinlan to stand with me in the upcoming wars, as even with Maul, Dooku, and Anakin, I couldn't take on the might of the Jedi Order, to say nothing of the Banite Sith.

All that, however, wasn't why I'd summoned Anakin, though there was some overlap. "Do you know why I've asked to speak with you now?" I said, curious to hear if he had an insight into my concerns.

"Um, because I've not been training as hard as I was before we went to Dromund Kaas?" He replied a little uncertainly and with a hint of worry; he was in trouble over that.

"That's not the main reason, but it is something connected to it."

"Then Sariss."

I nodded. "Indeed," I said, mimicking my former Master. "I understand why she has been clinging to you over others, at least those bar Karia. However, it has been a month since we rescued her and the others from the Prophets, and I can no longer allow her to interfere with your training. Nor, I suspect, do you wish that, as it would make your goal of justice for your mother harder to achieve."

Anakin scowled, and I sensed a flaring of his anger. "I haven't forgotten!" He snapped.

"I know," I responded, raising one hand to both calm him and, using the Force to expand my presence over the cockpit, remind him that displaying such rage towards me was unwise. "However, if things continue as they have been, your training will slow considerably."

"Now, I'm not saying that you have to stop spending time with Sariss. I don't wish for her to spiral inward if she was cut off from one she regards as her saviour," his cheeks reddened there, which was something I would be coming back to later. "But I cannot allow you to neglect your studies. Not when the next few years will see many target you for being my ad."

"They shouldn't do that, but I get it." Anakin sighed, his earlier burst of anger fading. "They will think you're too hard to kill, so they will come for me instead."

"Some will, yes. And when they do, I want you ready to prove to them the folly of their choice." I leaned forward and placed a hand on his upper arm. "You're strong, Anakin. Both in the Force and as a warrior, but you aren't yet ready to stand against most Mando'ade, to say nothing of those who lead the strongest Clans. Normally, I'd have Simvyl and Fenrir watch over you if we have to separate, but Simvyl will need to protect Sariss and Karia while Fenrir is… otherwise occupied."

The tuk'ata had, at his request, remained on Gaia with his pack. Now, the request hadn't come in the way it would from a sentient, but my bond with him was more than sufficient that I understood his wishes. He wouldn't be staying with the pack forever, but I'd decided to give him half a year with them to help them settle in their new home and train them so that when the time came for him to return to my side, they were more than capable of defending themselves against any that might try to hunt them.

Of course, if there were those in the galaxy who thought hunting a pack of tuk'ata was a good choice, then I wished them luck. Not only would they find that harder than they expected, but to do so, they'd have to deal with the Lokella who considered Fenrir one of their own. Mainly, as he stood with me and I held, as much as I disliked it, the only permanent seat on their council.

"I can protect Sariss!" Anakin snapped out, some of his emotions leaking into the Force. Since I was expanding my presence over the cockpit, they wouldn't be sensed by anyone else, which was good. While most of what he felt towards Sariss was geared towards protecting her as if he saw her as a sister, there was, if one dug deeply enough into his feelings, a hint of something more. Which was another thing I would be speaking about with him in this meeting.

"I know you think you can, but what happens if someone stronger than Bo comes at you while others target Sariss? Do you think, as you are now, that you could protect her from such danger?"

"I…" He stopped himself before he said what I suspected would be a boast that he could. That was encouraging as it meant he wasn't being blinded by his concern for Sariss. "Maybe," he finished, his head dropping.

I squeezed his arm, and once he looked up again, I spoke. "It is good that you understand your limitations, Anakin. Now we have to work on getting you past them." I let go of his arm and leaned back, offering him a smile. "And seeing if Sariss would be willing to train to draw on her potential as well."

"D-do you think she can be trained?" There was a hint of hope in his tone, and I sensed the same emotions, though they were weaker this time, as during his outburst a moment ago.

"You know that I tested all those that came with us from Dromund Kaas, correct?" He nodded. "Of them, Sariss has the greatest potential. Comparable to Master Dooku." Anakin's brow rose at those words, which wasn't unexpected. He'd have sensed she was strong in the Force, but to hear she could, in theory, one day rival Dooku was something he'd not have considered. "I'd like to begin her training with your help; however, I'm concerned that her current condition – mental more than physical – might make her susceptible to the worst tricks of the Force."

"I'll make sure she doesn't fall," Anakin shot back, conviction in his tone and certainty radiating from him into the Force.

"The choice if one falls is only ever theirs," I countered gently. "We can, however, work to ensure she has fewer reasons to lose herself to the worst torments of the Force, and if she does, that you can bring her back from the abyss." I sighed and glanced out the cockpit, taking in the swirling energies of hyperspace.

"The Dark Side isn't something to be feared. As you experienced with the Trandoshans, it can grant you the power you need in a moment. However, it shouldn't ever be fully relied on to give you that burst of power, or that it won't trick and drag you down if you use it. All of us, me, you, Karia, Quinlan, and Aayla, have been touched by the Dark Side. We've felt its twisted whispers and offers, and some of us have even indulged in our darker desires." Anakin shivered, probably remembering how he'd been when he'd been kidnapped and came close to dying. "Sariss is, of all of us, the most at risk. She has no training to draw upon, nor is she mature enough to be able to handle the maelstrom of emotions that rage, understandably and rightly, within her. However, when you helped her claim a fraction of the justice she deserved, you gave her a moment of light in the depths of darkness where she'd dwelled before then. That is a powerful thing, and why I feel she stays so close to you. We can use that to help her train, but before then, you need to be aware of the danger her need to be near you could create."

"I don't not like her," he replied, showing a hint of maturity and understanding. Something I'd not honestly expected but was pleased to hear, nonetheless. "And I think I get what you're meaning, but I want to help her. Not because she could be powerful, or because it will bring her peace, but because she's my friend."

I chuckled and leaned forward, ruffling his hair. Anakin scowled, disliking the gesture, which was part of why I did it, but made no move to pull away. "That is why you are a good person, Anakin. Your desires and thoughts are never about yourself, but for others. It shows your heart is in the right place, but as I've said many times before, that doesn't mean you can't be deceived or twisted by the Force. The need and desire to help and protect others can lead to a very dark place," the image of him fighting Obi-Wan in the other timeline flashed through my head, "but I trust you not to lose yourself in your need to protect and save others." I removed my hand from his hair and chuckled again. "Hopefully, by learning from my mistakes and those of the people around us."

"You mean like how Master Drallig died on Naboo?"

I blinked, caught out by him going on that tangent. "Not, perhaps, the example I would've suggested, but a valid one. Serra and I both saw the other in danger through the Force. It tricked us with differing visions to force our hands. Mine made clear she couldn't come if I wanted her to live, while hers made clear that if she didn't help, I'd die. In the end, our actions, our desires to protect each other, cost her the life of the man closest to being her parent."

"Is that why she didn't leave the Jedi with you?"

A small, barking laugh slipped from my lips, and I gazed out of the cockpit once again. My mind reached out into the Force, seeking the thread that led to Serra. In hyperspace and at this distance, I couldn't make a clear connection, but just sensing the thread was still there and that it – and thus, she – was safe, brought a wave of calmness to my heart.

"Perhaps, perhaps not," I eventually replied to my apprentice. "Our paths are still linked; of that, I remain certain. However, for now, we must travel separately. A day will come when we see each other again, and on that day, I do not know what will happen."

"Why? You still love her, don't you?"

"I do, and I know she loves me also. Life, however, doesn't always give us what we want, nor when we want it. Sometimes the paths we take carry us away from those we care for, and they might never lead back to each other." I barely held back a sigh, the longing I felt for Serra, and my desire to have her, like Bo, at my side, a chain around my heart.

"Why would the Force not want you to be happy?"

"The Force doesn't care about our happiness, Anakin," I replied quickly, having gathered myself during the time it took him to ask his latest question. "As I have said before, what it considers balance is a mystery. The Jedi, the Sith, and any other group out there who uses the Force in any way like to believe they understand what that balance is, and what the Force desires, but they don't. No sentient being ever can. It is as beyond us as we are a fly buzzing around the forest looking for whatever it is a fly seeks."

I grunted before I continued. "If we want to be happy in this life, we have to find it ourselves, and then once we've got it, hold on to it. We can fight to keep it in our grasp or let it go when we feel we should, but none of that matters to the Force. I love Serra, I don't deny that, and I hope each night that one day our paths will reconverge, but I won't keep her leashed to my side if it would make her unhappy. Her happiness matters to me as much as mine does. Just as Sariss' matters to you."

"What?"

I smirked at his reaction. "You care for her, Anakin. She's your friend after all," I added, diverting my meaning before the swell of panic I'd just felt grow. "It's only natural that you'd want her to be happy. What you can't do is let her remain shackled to you. She needs to, eventually, learn to stand by herself, which is why I'm going to ask you to help me begin training her in the ways of the Force. Not because I wish to see her fight alongside us, but so that she can defend herself when the time comes for her to stand without your support."

"W-will you adopt her?"

I blinked, caught out for a moment by the question. "I don't feel the connection with her that I do with you. However, if both of you would like that, then I will consider bringing her into our Clan as your sister." My eyes narrowed as I spoke. "Is that what you want?"

"I want her to be safe," Anakin replied quickly. I lifted an eyebrow, making clear I knew there was more he could, and should say. "I mean… I like having her around and don't want her gone, but…" he looked away, scanning the cockpit for nothing in particular while his fingers played with each other. "I don't know."

"Good." His head snapped back to me. "If you knew what you wanted now, after only knowing her for a month and when you are still unsure of yourself, I'd not support you. Not on this. You are powerful, Anakin and have a good head on your shoulders, but you're still a child and have much growing to do."

It would be two more years before he was of the age to attempt his verd'goten, something I knew he was still intent on completing. At that point, he would still be young, but at least he would be expected to have some idea of what path he wished to travel. Sariss was of age to complete her verd'goten, but she was not even close to being ready, which was another reason I was against adopting her currently. She needed to become able to stand by herself for that to even be an option, though if she wanted to become a member of my Clan, small as it was, then I wouldn't deny her that option.

"How should we train her?"

"That, I do not know," I answered honestly. "What she has gone through is enough to shatter most. That she'd still be able to, even if it's only barely at times, keep going is a testament to her fortitude. What she needs now, I think, is both someone to speak to honestly about what she endured and a way forward. For the latter, you can offer that, and as for the former, Karia will have to suffice. At least until we find someone better skilled in helping others with such trauma."

I'd asked Bo about finding someone among the Mando'ade to help, but I wasn't holding out much hope for that. Yes, Mando'ade spoke openly with each other about issues, but I didn't think they'd have much experience dealing with a child who'd suffered the sort of abuse Sariss had endured. Which was why, among other reasons, we were currently heading for Naboo.

There would be many there who'd suffered loss during the invasion, and the Naboo would have specialists trained in helping people recover from torment. None would travel with us once we left the planet, but if I could get ideas for how to truly begin Sariss' recovery, I would take them with open arms.

"How can I help her learn to use the Force?"

"I suspect she already does, though she will keep it hidden from most. You'll have to get her to open up to you about that, and once she does, find ways to encourage her to use the power within. Just remain ever mindful of the pain she's carrying. I don't wish to have to step in and send her recovery crashing back to the start by being in any way aggressive towards her."

"Okay."

I gestured that we were finished, and he stood slowly. While he moved to exit the cockpit confidently, I easily sensed the thoughts troubling his mind. The uncertainty of how to help his friend, and the fear that he might make things worse.

"Trust in yourself, Anakin, and use the Force to guide you," I said as the doors opened. "But be mindful of your feelings and not push her too hard."

… …

---

… …
"Your Highness, Jedi Knight Cameron Shan."

I walked into the throne room, moving forward calmly in my armour – sans my helmet, which I carried under my arm – and walked towards the throne. Around me, just like outside when I'd moved through the streets of Theed towards the Palace, people were gathered. Whispered conversations took place as I marched forward, almost all centred around wondering why I had returned to Naboo and where I'd been two months ago during the anniversary of the invasion by the Trade Federation.

I ignored all those comments, just as I had when moving through the streets of Theed, along with the handful of other comments. Those seemed centred around my attire, general look, and the fact that the Queen had arranged this formal greeting quickly. Going so far, I managed to piece together, by ending a meeting with her government the moment it was confirmed that my ship was descending to the planet.

Ahead of me, my eyes took in the sight of Padmé, who wasn't using Sabé as her double this time. The differences between the pair were minute and something only a handful of people would be able to tell if they saw both in regal attire. Even without the Force or seeing Sabé standing behind the throne trying to shield her face, I was able to tell it was Padmé who sat awaiting my arrival before her throne. She had a very distinct presence in the Force, and the various emotions that leaked from her only helped to confirm that it truly was her I was about to speak with.

As was Naboo's custom, she was dressed in one of those ensembles that I found to be over the top, verging on gaudy, with heavy makeup. Everything about the attire and appearance she had to project as Queen Amidala detracted from her natural grace and beauty, but since this was a public meeting, I was forced to deal with her being, in my opinion, sullied by her regal appearance.

Once near the throne, I dropped to a knee and lowered my head. There was no need for me to do so, and the action caused a few new murmurs from those gathered in the throne room. However, I felt it was a suitable way to greet royalty.

"Rise, Master Jedi." I obeyed Padmé's command and stood, offering a small smile as I did so. "We are pleased to see you have returned to Naboo, though, along with many in our court, I wonder why you did not show for the recent memorial commemorating all those who died defending our world from the heinous actions of the Trade Federation."

I bit back a comment about her acting stiff as I knew she was merely doing so for appearances' sake. She might be sitting perfectly still on her throne, but thanks to the Force, I could sense every emotion that raged beneath her surface; all of them centred around me, with several unsuitable for public display.

"I apologise, Your Majesty. However, a few months before the memorial, after communing with the Force in great depth, I came to a revelation that required me to depart for a private location and meditate on my path forward."

"If we might ask, what was this revelation?"

My smile grew as I locked eyes with her. "I no longer stand with the Jedi Order."

The voices of those gathered in the room rose quickly. They were trying to remain dignified and not speak openly, but the reveal of my departure from the Order was a shock to them, and I felt a massive spike in curiosity aimed at me. And, amusingly, at Padmé.

"We were aware of this. Our Senator reported it to us when they returned for the memorial." I dipped my head a fraction, accepting her words and not being remotely surprised about it. The moment Palpatine publicly learnt of my departure, he'd have informed the Senator for Naboo so that Padmé could be alerted. Even if he was simply doing so because he was the former Senator of Naboo, his game of using her to entice and corral me was one I'd anticipated. Of course, that didn't mean just because there was a trap centred around Padmé that I was going to avoid it. No, it was better to play into it, to a degree, as I didn't wish to hurt Padmé, to keep Sidious and Plagueis thinking I was relatively simple to predict and unaware of their true nature.

"It doesn't surprise me that you already knew this, Your Majesty," I said, offering her a warm smile. It would add fire to any rumours that existed suggesting something was going on between myself and Padmé, but I wasn't going to pretend she wasn't a friend simply to avoid such comments. "Because of my choice to depart the Order, something the Jedi High Council did not seek to stop, I spent several months far from established space lanes. While I did not regret my choice then, nor do I now, I required time to meditate on what path I would be taking now that I was free of the shackles of the Order and the Republic."

My choice of words, as was intended, caused a new round of murmurs. They weren't as pronounced as any of the previous moments of curiosity, but they still occurred. Through the Force, I reached out, seeking to determine the overall opinion of those present as they represented the political, financial, and artistic elite of the people.

Internally, I smiled as I sensed the general feeling that lingered in the Force was one of agreement with my words. It wasn't as strong as I would feel from any Mando'ade, but the fact that it was the prevalent private opinion was a boon I hoped but not expected to discover.

It was highly improbable that I could turn the Naboo, and with them the Gungans, against the Senate so long as Palpatine was Co-Chancellor. However, if I could subtly foster that anti-Republic sentiment among these people and the masses, I could weaken the support for the Senate on the homeworld of one of its current Co-Chancellors. Publicly, Palpatine would be aghast by this, but privately, he and Plagueis would be pleased, as it would further ferment dissension in the Republic before they moved to begin their Grand Plan.

Of course, doing this wasn't for their benefit, but for mine. Although it wasn't a strategic, commercial, or militarily important system or sector, it was still one of the more developed and powerful worlds in this section of the Mid Rim. If I could find some way to pull it from the Republic, even into just becoming neutral – as stupid as that concept was in the long run – it would damage the power of the Co-Chancellors.

"And what has your time meditating brought you?" Padmé asked, a hint of her curiosity slipping into her tone.

"Perspective on a great many things, Your Majesty. However, to discuss them, I feel, would be better handled in a less… public location."

Padmé's eyes locked onto me, and I felt the small struggle she was experiencing with my gentle request. Allowing me to speak privately with her would add further fuel to the rumours, but it was what she wanted, and she was, I felt, wise enough to understand that I wouldn't want everyone aware of what I wished to say.

"If you are amenable to it, might I suggest a private dinner this evening?" She suggested. "Any travelling companions you have with you are more than willing to join, of course, as would my handmaidens. That should ensure that what you wish to speak of remains known to only a handful of people in my government."

I lowered my head. "Your Majesty is as wise as she is beautiful," I replied. She might not react openly, nor show any response to the latest round of whispered comments, but I sensed her spike in emotions at my words. "I am at Your Majesty's service for when and where."

Padmé nodded slightly, accepting my words. As our eyes met, I caught a glint of excitement in her gaze. "Beyond what you wish to speak of privately, along with my court, I am curious to hear of your adventures in the time you have been absent from our world."

"As you wish, your Majesty."

… …

---

… …
This story is cross-posted on Fanfiction.net, Archive of Our Own, and Royal Road.
...
For those wishing to join the Discord for the story, the server link is:
For this series: Heart of the Force
For general chaos/Gamer stories: Shiro's Gaming Omniverse
(Those on the story server who engage in chat can earn access to a chapter ~3 weeks before it goes public).

For those who wish to support my writing, and get access to drafts and completed chapters anywhere from 1 to 4 months earlier head to one of the links below:
Patreon: USSExplorer
Kofi: USSExplorer

---

Regardless if you join the discord or support my writing, I hope you enjoy the story and suggestions, valid criticisms, and ideas are always welcome.
And of course;

May the Force be with you. Always​

 

[Cobra]

Great chapter, can't wait for the next one.

 

[TheOneTrueDemonLord]

Padme time, yay

 

[D3mented]

My man just casually dropping 20k words as a chappy on a Wednesday. The absolute madlad.

I greatly look forward to our MC giving Anakin the birds and the bees talk. He has earned the right to pass on the psychic damage to the next generation lol. I almost thought he was going to do it this chapter, but I think it'll happen within a chapter or two for sure.

Another thing I'm looking forward to is him actually fighting some Jedi. Preferably from that Jedi's perspective. There is something fun seeing an MC from how their enemy perceives them.

 

[ClassHole]

Just finished the Tremors of the Ancient arc.... and while it was mostly interesting and had some really cool moments, it ended in a huge steaming turd of a decision that's completely tanked the story for me. I'm sorry, but did you seriously just let your MC allow rapists/child rapists to live, simply because he needs a few warm bodies for his hypothetical forces one day? Seriously? So, the 2 guys he executed, they must die, because they raped a character who's name we learned, but the other 4 guys who survived, they only raped background characters, so hey, we can totally spare them. Sure the people they raped are literally the women he just mentioned also wanting to add to his forces, but hey, 4 more Intermediate potential chumps is KEY to the MC's new army, so I'm sure the ladies who were assaulted will be totally cool with it.

Nah, that's fucking shit. Frankly, your MC has been pretty morally grey and doing/saying a lot of pretty evil stuff over the past dozen chapters, but I was still on board, as I figured he'd be an ends justify the means type of evil, for the great good type of character. Apparently not. He's just a sack of shit now. Can't find it in me to read any further, as I actively don't like the MC now.

 

[USSExplorer]

A/N: As always, a huge thank you to those helping with lore and planning for this and my other stories.

And again, this chapter was released to those of sufficient rank on the story's Discord (it pays to talk) about a month ago. For those who support my writing, then it was released between 2 to 7 months ago (and those supporters can also access chapters that far in advance).

---

Aftermath and Groundwork 3
… …​

As I walked down the corridors of the Royal Palace following behind Sabé, I noted that beyond the guards who were stationed at regular intervals, this section of the building was deserted. That was a little strange as I was being guided by Sabé to one of the private royal dining rooms.

I had spoken with Padmé before her court about my adventures over the last two years, skimming over specific details where it would be better if they remained hidden from the masses. While everyone present should be loyal to the Queen, I'd be a fool of galactic proportions to think Palpatine didn't control at least some of those who worked in the palace. Indeed, outside of the Queen's handmaidens, I doubted any could be entirely trusted to keep anything Padmé did hidden when she was acting in an official or unofficial capacity.

I hadn't gone over everything as others were waiting to speak with the Queen, and the day-to-day business of the palace and Theed had to continue. Because of that, I'd expected there to be a formal dinner this evening where I would be expected to speak at greater length about my actions since Naboo was liberated. However, Padmé had decided to hold that dinner tomorrow, and instead, I would be having a private meal with her and a select group of those she wished to be present. Though she hadn't told me who those extra people were ahead of time.

When I had asked about those travelling with me, she had extended an invitation to tomorrow's dinner, but requested that only I attend this dinner. A strange choice, but one I saw no issue with.

Anakin wouldn't wish to come as it would be difficult for Sariss to handle the presence of so many people, particularly males. Karia would likewise choose to remain to watch over Sariss alongside my son, and while Quinlan and Aayla shouldn't have any issues attending a meal, I was reluctant to bring them tomorrow. Doing so would see word of them travelling with me leak to Sidious and Plagueis, and I wished for their presence in my orbit to remain hidden for as long as possible.

Since this wasn't a full formal dinner, I had slightly shifted what I wore. While much of my armour remained, I'd removed those covering sections of my arms and legs. I didn't expect there to be anything beyond eating and catching up taking place tonight, but it was better to be prepared and even with sections of my underweave exposed by the removed armour, I was more than confident in my skills if someone dared to attack.

My cloak, crafted from the skin of the Krayt Dragon I'd killed for my verd'goten, was attached around my shoulders, secured against small hooks on the pauldrons of my armour. My lightsaber hung at one hip while at the other, my Beskad was displayed proudly granting me the, I hoped, appearance of an important and powerful warrior. While I didn't think that this display would matter heavily to Padmé, it should make an impression on whoever else was joining us.

"Her Highness awaits you inside, Lord Cameron," Sabé stated as we reached a large, ornate set of doors.

Four guards, resplendent in armour marking them as the senior guards for the Queen, stood at the door, ensuring only those who were permitted could pass. Each appeared skilled, but even without Observe, I knew I could take them all down before any could aim their weapons at me.

I smiled at Sabé. "I had thought you might be joining us," I said gently, offering the young lady a warm smile.

While not Padmé, Sabé was still a beautiful woman, and I barely had to try to sense that under her veneer of calmness – or mischief, depending on the time and place – there existed a hint of desire aimed towards me. In another time and place, I would be more than happy to indulge in whatever fantasies she harboured. However, this was neither the time nor the place for such thoughts.

Sabé returned my smile, hers carrying a hint of amusement that suggested she knew something I didn't and found that funny. "If the Queen permits it, I will join. For now, she requests that I stay away from the hall." There was a slight shift in Sabé's presence in the Force. Amusement interlaced with a faint hint of irritation and weary acceptance. An odd combination, but one that I felt I would learn the reason for once I entered.

"Then until we meet again, I hope you are well," I replied, offering a nod of my head. Sabé's cheeks reddened slightly, though she made no effort to hide the reaction. All she did was widen her smile and walk away. As I waited for the door to be opened, I caught the subtle sound of her giggling to herself as she departed.

Two of the guards turned, each taking one of the doors and pushing them inward. The room inside was decorated to a high standard. The walls were painted a soft blue and edged with what appeared to be silver and gold. At the far end of the room, a line of massive double windows stood. Each reached from the floor to the ceiling and appeared to be made of wood. Curtains for each window, coloured a dark sea green, were tied back, letting the light of the moon shine into the room.

Along the walls to each side hung paintings and artwork that rested on pedestals at various points. None of them I recognised, though given I had little interest in such matters, that wasn't a shock. Nor would I be surprised if each of them was worth a considerable amount of Credits.

The table at the centre of the room was circular and appeared large enough to seat a dozen people. However, only four places were laid with each taking one of the ordinal points. A sheet of rich, navy blue was draped over the table, while in the centre, an ornate display of flowers, all freshly cut, I could smell, created a suitable centrepiece.

The sounds of a door to my right opening drew my attention, and as I turned, I saw Padmé entering, accompanied by two others. The man on her left was her father, Ruwee. I'd last seen him during the efforts to save the Shadda-Bi-Borans before their sun went supernova, and as he saw me, he offered a smile and a small nod.

The woman at Padmé's right wasn't someone I knew, but it didn't take much to realise that this was Padmé's mother. She smiled at me as well, though it was less expressive than that of her husband's and her eyes slid over me as if trying to determine my worth.

Padmé wasn't dressed as Queen Amidala, but clearly placed importance in her attire. The dress, which would have suited her at several formal functions I'd attended over the years, was one that fitted her form well without being unsightly. In truth, this dress, along with a few others she wore when not being Queen Amidala, seemed like a far better choice for her, though I wasn't going to suggest the Naboo changed their culture simply to suit my preference.

"I had expected our dinner to be a more formal affair, Your Majesty, and not a family affair." I began, dropping into a bow. "If I had known, I would have dressed more appropriately."

"I like what you're wearing, Cam," Padmé replied, her smile brightening as our eyes met. "It suits you."

"When we heard that you were back and that our daughter had requested a dinner with you, we asked to join," Ruwee said as the family came closer. His eyes looked at me approvingly. "It has been some time since we last met, but I can see you have grown into a fine, imposing man," he added as he extended his hand.

I had to remind myself not to clasp his forearm, as that wasn't the custom of the Naboo. "Time has been kind to you as well, Mr Naberrie," I replied as we shook hands. "Are you still involved with the Refuge Relief Movement?"

"Sadly, no. With Padmé becoming Queen, and then the invasion, I have been forced to shift my focus." We broke the shake even as he continued. "You have my thanks, along with that of our people, for not just helping liberate our world but working to locate and free those taken by the Federation to be sold into slavery."

"It was the least I could do. Padmé and I are friends, and I don't abandon them in their times of need."

Jobal scoffed slightly. "From what we have heard from our daughter and Chancellor Palpatine, you did more than not abandon them." She moved forward. "I am Padmé's mother, Jobal," she added while extending her hand.

I took her hand and lightly kissed her knuckles. "Lady Naberrie."

There was no custom for such actions on Naboo, but there was something about the air she was giving off and the way they had come with Padmé that made me feel that acting properly was the right way to go. As I stood and looked at her and Padmé, and took in their differing expressions, I became certain of that.

"While I am not a noble lady as such, nor is such behaviour common on Naboo, I thank you for the respectful greeting," Jobal said calmly, though with a hint of steel in her tone. "I do hope that my arrival with my husband and daughter hasn't caused you any concerns."

"No, no. I'm pleased to meet you, My Lady, and see your husband again." I looked at Padmé and smiled warmly. "You have raised a truly magnificent daughter."

Jobal smiled and looked at her daughter. "Please call me Jobal, and we did what we could, but Padmé has always been wilful and, once set on a choice, determined to see it through." She turned back to face me. "Something you experienced when she went before the Republic Senate and challenged the then-Chancellor."

I chuckled lightly. "Yes, I recall that and the rather provocative speech she gave on the eve of battle to liberate Naboo."

Ruwee laughed. "That speech is something of a legend on the Holonet." He looked around as if trying to make sure we were alone. "Do you know that she has had many men come here to ask for her hand because of that speech and what she did to liberate Naboo?"

"Father!"

I allowed myself to chuckle at Padmé's reaction to her father's words. "No, I wasn't aware, though I can understand why it happened. Your daughter is a woman of rare strength, character, and drive."

Padmé's head snapped back to look at me, and she blushed hard, a fact not missed by her parents, who shared a smile.

"Shall we sit?" Jobal suggested.

I nodded and moved to one side, allowing the Naberrie family to head to the table first. I might be the guest, but Padmé was queen, and it would be the height of bad manners, I felt, to even consider sitting before she did.

Once we were all seated, I noted the pattern. Padmé was directly opposite me, half-hidden by the flowers in the centre of the table, while her parents sat so they could see us both clearly. "We heard from our daughter and others that you are no longer a Jedi," Jobal prodded gently.

Before I could reply, the doors they had entered through opened again, and from the corner of my eye I saw several servants entering the room. Sabé was one of them, and she gave me a conspiratorial wink as I caught her gaze. Internally, I frowned, wondering about why she was doing that, but outwardly, I made no reaction.

"Yes. I realised that they and the Senate are unable, or unwilling, to do what is needed to even begin correcting the many issues that plague the worlds beyond the Core." As I spoke, I noticed that Sabé had come closer to Padmé. While I didn't hear what the handmaiden said, I was just able to see Padmé's cheeks redden again, and when I glanced at her, she looked down and away. An action that made Sabé's smile grow wider.

"Might I ask what your plans are now that you no longer have the backing of the Jedi and Republic?" Ruwee asked, moving to pick up his goblet as he spoke.

I nodded my thanks to the servant who had filled my goblet – one of the other handmaidens who offered me a similar smile to the one worn by Sabé – and picked up the drink. I inhaled the smell, pleased to realise it was Maison sur le Lac. "As you might be aware from Padmé, I have other endeavours that have brought me considerable, though not monumental, resources."

"You speak of your holonovels and movies?"

"I do," I replied to Jobal's query with a nod. I then took a sip of the wine before continuing. "It has earned me enough that, if I so wished, I could live a life of luxury on any world in the galaxy."

"You won't do that," Padmé commented quickly. "That's not you."

I chuckled before taking another sip of my wine. "Then what do you think I will do?" I asked, curious to hear her thoughts as our eyes met.

She blushed and looked away for a moment, an act I found cute given she had been Queen of Naboo for over two years now. "You'll move to help others, as you always do," she answered once she recovered. "Perhaps by working with the Lokella, or even maybe with other Mandalorians. From how they spoke of you after the liberation, and from those who are here to help train our defence forces, you are highly regarded by many."

"But not all," I countered with a smile to make clear I wasn't angry at her insight. "Many remain wary, if not hostile, because I was once a Jedi. To remove that distrust would take doing something… monumental." I kept it vague there as I didn't intend to mention my full plans to Padmé, her parents, or anyone else on Naboo. I didn't need word about my plans reaching Palpatine.

He would know of them soon enough; no way that could be avoided. However, the longer I could move in without his knowledge, the greater the chances that I could enact plans that might seem to suit his goals but wouldn't.

"Have you given thought to what monumental action you could take?" Jobal inquired.

"I have, though such matters are for me alone currently. I have, after all, not determined what path I will walk."

"Liar." I looked at Padmé, catching the grin that had come to her face. "You know exactly what you're going to do, and it's part of why you came here."

I held her gaze for a few moments, ignoring the way her parents looked at us intently. Eventually sighed and shook my head. "I do," I replied, offering her an amused smirk. "The question is how you realised that."

"Because you're not the type to sit still," Padmé replied quickly. "Once you know what you're going to do, you push for it and make sure it happens. Like when we spoke in Coruscant, when I was considering what to do after Chancellor Valorum didn't offer the help we needed, you already had a plan in mind. Even before I called the vote of no confidence, you went to visit the Senator for the Mandalore sector."

I chuckled after taking a moment to hear her answer. "I didn't realise you were watching me that closely," I said teasingly.

"I wasn't!" she shot back, a touch too defensively. "I mean, I was busy with the Senate stuff and saving my people. But after, when I had time to think, I saw that you'd already expected the Chancellor not to help and had plans in motion. Miraj said something that helped me realise it."

"Miraj?" Jobal prodded. "You mean the princess from Zygerria who came here for the memorial?"

I blinked, caught out entirely at that little nugget. The last time I'd seen Padmé around Miraj was at the premiere of Fellowship of the Ring. At the time, there'd been a budding rivalry forming between the pair over getting my attention. I'd not favoured either of them, but to learn that they'd moved past that to the point Miraj had visited Naboo was unexpected.

"Yes. She's told me about what Cam did for her world during our talks," Padmé replied to her mother. "There was an issue with one noble, and Cam knew exactly how to deal with it so it didn't affect him or the royal family's standing."

I nodded, remembering that. It had been a minor thing, a Zygerrian male questioning my actions and being jealous that Miraj was friendly toward me. That Miraj remembered it and had boasted about it to Padmé was another unexpected nugget to digest. Though, as I did, I wondered if this might be a way to indirectly help me with the quest linked to Miraj.

"I hadn't realised you and Princess Miraj were friends?"

Padmé smiled, though she then looked away, and her cheeks darkened again. "We're not. I mean, we are but…" she paused. "Anyway," she continued, "she told me about that, and when I went over what happened during the invasion and the liberation, I realised you don't act unless you have a plan, and I can tell you have one now."

Her parents turned their attention to me. I let Padmé get away with the shift in conversation, though I would be speaking with her at some point about Miraj. If their friendship was something I could use, I would, though I was curious how it had formed, as the pair didn't strike me as the type to become friendly with each other.

"I do, and you're right to say that it's part of why I'm on Naboo, but not the only or primary reason," I said, keeping my response vague. "And as much as you might beg, I'm not going to tell you everything."

"That's fine," Padmé replied, a happy smile on her face. "I'm sure I'll learn about it from you, others, or the Holonet eventually."

"Might we ask why else you came to Naboo beyond this plan of yours?"

I offered Ruwee a nod before I answered. "Of course. However, beyond the chance to once again visit Naboo, see how the recovery is going, and visit friends, I'd rather not discuss that over dinner. It's the sort of thing that could, I'm afraid, cause many to lose their appetites."

"Very well."

"Is our daughter among those friends you spoke of?" Jobal asked, shifting the topic slightly.

"She is."

"And would it be fair to say she is the most important friend you came to visit?"

"Mother!" Padmé whined at the pointed question, her cheeks once again darkening as she avoided my gaze when I looked her way.

"It would be," I answered slowly. Not because I needed to lie, but because there was a faint shifting in the Force. One that suggested something was about to happen, though not in a way that could be considered dangerous to me.

"We are pleased to hear that. When she is alone, our Padmé speaks of you often…"

"Mum!"

"… to the point that some might say she's in love," Jobal finished, ignoring her daughter's pained begging entirely. There was a smile on Jobal's face, one matched by Ruwee, so it seemed what she had said was only meant as good-natured teasing. However, the faint flickers of curiosity I sensed from Ruwee had me wondering if there was more to the comment than met the eye.

I chuckled, enjoying the sight of Jobal teasing her daughter, though, at the same time, I pushed all thoughts regarding Padmé and myself together deep down. By the standards of the Republic's Age of Responsibility and the Mando'ade, she was an adult and able to do as she wished. Naboo was slightly different in that while a child so young could hold office if regarded as mature enough, decisions affecting their life were controlled by their parents until they were twenty-one.

It sounded as if Padmé's parents were hinting that they were comfortable with me pursuing something with their daughter; however, I wouldn't be. Not so much because of her age – I'd been around that age when things had first kicked off with Bo – though it was a factor given I was now twenty. The main reason was that I didn't want to drag her, and by extension the Naboo, into my efforts to become Mand'alor.

"I suspect what Padmé is feeling, and without sounding boastful, others her age among the Naboo, is something akin to gratitude mixed with respect for my actions." My answer would, I hoped, diplomatically steer me around an awkward conversation without hurting Padmé's feelings.

Ruwee nodded. "That is certainly possible. You are something of a popular topic of debate among our people."

"He is of Naboo as well, dear."

I turned to Jobal as I replied. "I assume you are referring to the public announcement that I was a lost nephew of Chancellor Palpatine's?"

Jobal smiled in that way all mothers seemed to be able to. "No. While some on the planet still believe that to be true, I am aware that was a deception crafted for political reasons. What I am referring to is the fact you were granted citizenship, along with a residence not far from our home in the Lake Country, for your role in the liberation of our world."

"Ah."

Honestly, the fact that I owned a villa on the planet had slipped my mind. Since I'd never visited the place the last time I'd come to Naboo, it barely registered with me. Yet as I recalled the memory, I found myself wondering what the villa looked like.

"If you have time, perhaps you might visit your residence? From what I hear, it has some majestic views over several of the lakes and is but half an hour's travel from our home."

Even as Jobal made the offer, I saw Padmé sink into her seat, as if hoping it would swallow her up to hide her from the embarrassment she was sensing.

"I'm uncertain if that will be possible. I will only be staying a few days, perhaps a week at the most. There are matters of which I need to speak with Padmé about in her role as Queen, along with discussing internal matters with the Mando'ade stationed in the system."

Beyond wishing for healers trained in hostage and abuse recovery, there were three Mando'ade on the planet who led a Clan. Two of them were members of House Kryze, while the third was unaffiliated with either Adonai or Torrhen but respected by both. If I could gather their support before I departed, then it would be a bonus on top of gaining access to the healers I needed to help the survivors of the Prophets of the Dark Side.

"How much do you know about Naboo politics?" Ruwee asked in what felt like an odd shift in topic.

"Not much. Such matters have never held much interest for me."

Ruwee laughed softly. "You say that, and yet Sheev speaks highly of your ability to manoeuvre in such circles. I believe he even mentioned once that he asked if you might consider a future in politics."

"As I told him each time he mentioned it, I would rather face a pack of rancors than be forced to spend my days near the Galactic Senate or similar locations," I replied with a smile.

Both Ruwee and Jobal laughed politely at my response. "Perhaps a wise choice," Ruwee began as Jobal sipped her wine and Padmé continued to look as if she'd prefer facing the Trade Federation's army than spend a moment longer at this dinner. "The reason I asked is that, after the issues with the former King, the constitution was amended so that no monarch could serve more than two, four-year terms." I nodded, taking that in, though still wondering where he was going with this topic.

"Padmé is halfway through her first term and is the current favourite for the next election."

"A wise choice," I commented, offering the young lady a smile. She smiled back, fighting to keep her cheeks from reddening any further when our eyes met.

"We think so." Ruwee shared a look with his wife, which drew an amused twitch of her lips before he continued. "The second favourite, and really the only challenger for the throne, is you."

My mouth opened to comment, only for my brain to fail to produce words. It took a few moments for me to wrap my head around the idea that I'd be a contender for the throne of Naboo, as it was never something I'd ever given any thought to. At least something separate from Padmé.

"I'm honoured that your people think so highly of me."

"They are your people as well," Jobal corrected with an amused smile. "While you and those who fought with you are not born on Naboo, you are Naboo as well and able to stand in elections and offer opinions in public." She leaned closer, her smile shifting slightly. "Which is, in part, why we chose to join you for this meal."

I let one eyebrow rise, mimicking a look that, Dooku among others, used often.

"Firstly, we wish to confirm that you won't stand against our Padmé in the next election."

"I won't. My plans wouldn't allow me the time needed to do half the work she does."

"Good." Jobal looked at her daughter and extended a hand, placing it over Padmé's. "While we had not envisioned a life of public service for our Padmé, we are beyond pleased with her service to our people." Padmé smiled at her mum's words even as Jobal turned her focus back to me. "We had intended to offer our backing if you chose to stand after Padmé was disqualified from becoming Queen again; however, from talking with you, I feel that isn't something you would be interested in."

"While I am grateful for the trust you have in me, you are right that I don't desire the Throne of Naboo." As I spoke, I lifted my glass, taking another sip of the wine.

"Then, beyond asking that you speak publicly to confirm you won't seek the throne in two years and offering your support to Padmé, Ruwee and I are prepared to, if you and Padmé wish it, grant our blessing for your union."

"MUM!"

Padmé's panicked squeal was accompanied by my coughing up the wine in my mouth. I barely managed to place the goblet down safely as I choked on what was now caught in my throat. Shifting, I turned to one side and leaned over, fighting to ensure the wine I'd already consumed didn't come back up because of the unexpected offer.

"Is that not what you desire, Padmé?"

"I… but… MUM!"

As I coughed, trying to recover, I heard Padmé and Jobal speaking. The latter had a hint of amusement in her tone while Padmé sounded almost hysterical.

"He's already dating someone!" Padmé blurted out as I felt Ruwee come over and slap my back firmly.

"Hardly a surprise. He is an attractive young man." That did nothing to help me stop coughing, though, as Padmé whined at her mother's comment, I stupidly tried to laugh at the same time, and another cough slipped from my throat.

"Cam!"

I raised a hand, letting Padmé know I was okay. Or as well as I could be given the unexpected and slightly embarrassing turn this pre-dinner discussion had taken. Still, I was coughing as I tried to dislodge whatever was caught in my throat while fighting to keep down the already-swallowed wine.

"Did you think we weren't aware of your feelings towards Cameron?" Jobal asked. Her tone was not one of accusation but understanding and sympathy. "Or that we wouldn't learn of what happened when he visited you around the time of your coronation?"

I was glad my head was down as my eyes widened at learning Jobal knew Padmé had stolen a kiss from me back then. I'd chosen to all but ignore it had happened, and Padmé seemingly had as well, but it seemed the news of that kiss had leaked to her parents.

I growled or tried to at any rate, as I realised the source of that leak was Sabé. I wasn't sure how I could punish her, but I suspected Padmé would have several ideas if I suggested her handmaiden as the source of the leak.

"That… I… He…" Padmé sighed loudly as I slowly managed to get over the coughing bout. "I was simply happy to see him and acted out of turn. It didn't mean anything."

"Perhaps that was true at the time," Jobal responded as I slowly sat back up, offering Ruwee a smile in thanks. "However, after the invasion and liberation, I have come to realise that your feelings towards Cameron are more than a passing fancy. Add in his standing with our people and him now no longer being a Jedi, then your father and I are more than happy to have you date him."

"But he's seeing someone!"

Jobal chuckled gently. "I'm sure whoever it is cannot match your beauty, grace, or standing."

"Who I'm dating is my business," I said slowly, having finally recovered from the earlier shock and subsequent coughing fit. "While I am honoured beyond words that you consider me worthy of your daughter's hand, it isn't something I can accept." I saw Jobal's eyes narrow slightly, so I chose to continue. "Not because Padmé isn't in any way bad. Everything you said about her is true, though it barely scratches the surface of who and what she is. However, as Padmé said, I am currently involved with someone. Two others, in truth," I added, hoping to slightly lower Jobal and Ruwee's opinion of me.

"While neither is serious, they could become that way. Add in that, as I said, I can't spend much time on Naboo now, nor do I suspect that will change at any point in the next few years, so I have to, while still being deeply honoured by your opinion of me, reject your offer." I glanced at Padmé and offered her a small, warm smile. "And that is to say nothing of how busy Padmé currently is as Queen, nor if this is something she wants at the current time."

Jobal held my gaze firmly, a flicker of anger ebbing and flowing as I spoke. There was nothing I could do to ease that anger as I was rejecting her daughter, but I felt I'd done so as politely as I could while not entirely closing the door on returning to the topic at some later date.

Before either of Padmé's parents could respond, the door they had entered through earlier opened again. From the corner of my eye, I saw servants bringing several hovercarts stacked with food. Most of it was covered, but I found myself thanking the Force for the timing of their arrival.

We all sat silently as the food came closer and, beyond a few words with those serving the meal, stayed that way until the dishes were laid out before us. Each of them looked amazing, and the smells tickled my nostrils to the extent I heard my stomach grumble in anticipation. However, I couldn't fully focus on the meal, at least not yet.

I had to navigate the upcoming aftermath of Jobal's offer of Padmé's hand and make sure that I didn't offend anyone present in doing so.

As the servants began to move away, a sigh slipped from me as I wondered how this had happened, and what other quirks would strike me in future.

… …

---

… …
I leaned back, angling my blade to deflect that of my opponent with as little effort as possible.

"You might've beaten them, but not me."

The words came from Olaf Spars even as he, having expected me to deflect the thrust of his Beskad, shifted and chose a new angle of attack.

Olaf was the third of the three Clan leaders currently on Naboo, overseeing the efforts to retrain and adjust the thinking of the Naboo Security Forces. The other two, Brac Torsk and Guci Thol, I'd already beaten the challenges they'd picked for me to earn their backing.

It had taken some persuading – mainly drinking, boasting, threatening, and manipulating – to get each to establish what challenges I had to overcome to earn their support, but in the end, each had agreed to see if I was worthy.

While none came from massive Clans, their support was just as important as that of Adonai's or Torrhen's, as they were the Alor of their Clans and spoke with the same voice as those from bigger, more powerful and influential Clans. Add in that I would get a variable reward from the quest linked to my becoming Mand'alor, and that I would've come to Naboo even if they weren't present, gaining their support was worth the effort.

"Bold words for someone I'll take down with ease," I retorted even as I moved.

I wasn't drawing on the Force openly as that was part of the terms for the duel, and I wanted to prove to myself, Olaf, and the others that I was worthy of their backing. However, that didn't mean it wasn't present. The Force was a part of me; another tool in my arsenal that I could draw on, and I was doing so by using it to enhance my reflexes and reactions.

Olaf's blade came around; a quick shifting of his shoulder and waist changed the direction of the attack in an instant.

My body reacted, moving before he had finished his shift so that his thrust missed. Not by much, but enough that it didn't even graze my armour.

As he sliced mere millimetres from my Beskar, my arm on that side moved. A quick reaction had me trapping him by the wrist. I didn't keep the hold for long, as I lacked the leverage to do so, but it crafted an opening.

My Beskad came in at his side. Low and fast, the tip of the blade surged forward, striking his armour above his waist and causing the sound of Beskar on Beskar to echo around the hall we were in.

Around us, Brac Torsk and Guci Thol watched along with the other Mando'ade present, cheering and hollering as I sparred with Olaf. There were some Naboo security members present as well – their distinctive uniform having caught my eye before the spar began – but I wasn't focusing on them. This duel was entirely about defeating Olaf and proving to him and the others present that I was someone worthy of being followed.

Olaf pulled back, breaking free of my grasp. A rolling of his wrist had his blade turn, trying to clip my forearm with his blade.

I'd already withdrawn the arm. My Beskad moved up to push his blade away.

My fist came in, seeking to strike his side, aiming for a section of underweave.

Olaf danced back, slipping clear of my strike. "Not bad ad, but not good enough."

I snarled at the insult even as he came at me, his speed increasing.

Our blades danced around, slicing the air and clashing against each other and our armour as we both sought an opening.

The clangs from clashing Mandalorian metal intensified in a chaotic, discordant ring as our paces increased. Our free hands moved for leverage, to defend, or sought an opening as the blades slashed the air as if trying to rend the universe apart.

A strike landed on my shoulder.

I struck his upper thigh, the blow glancing off his protection.

My blade swept up, catching the edge of his Beskad for a moment. The movement completed with enough time to deflect the attack and craft an opening for my fist to strike his side.

He used the armour on his forearm to defend against a thrust. His blade then sliced the underweave on my leg, though not deep enough to draw blood.

On and on our dance continued, each of us seeking an opening. The first to draw blood would win the battle.

Time became irrelevant as we danced around each other, his superior skill countered by my ability to adapt and react quickly due to drawing inwardly on the Force.

The repeated blows being traded were met with an equally loud and enthusiastic response from our audience. The cheers of our fellow warriors served as background noise as we moved, thrust, and parried each other.

I drew the Force inward, demanding it ensure that not only would I not lose, but that my victory would come from drawing blood from near a critical point. A light slash to the arm or leg would grant victory, but I wanted more. I needed to prove to Olaf and the others that I was better than that. That I was worthy of them following me into the future I would create for our people.

An opening appeared. A slight flaw in his stance meant I saw a chance to strike his side. I rejected the opening, knowing the blow wouldn't impress. Instead, I used it.

A feint at the opening had Olaf react. His stance shifted to protect his side. I smirked as I saw the path to victory appear.

A thrust at his legs, an attempt to grasp his wrist, followed by a slide-step to one side.

"Hah!"

The excited call slipped from my lips as I felt my blade dig deep. Underweave gave, and the sensation of the tip catching flesh was felt by my fingers. As the blade came clear, Olaf stepped back, his hand coming to his neck.

"Well, I'll be," he muttered as his fingers brushed against the wound. It wasn't deep, something I'd made sure of, but the strike to the neck made clear if my skill had been lacking, that I'd have killed him, and because it wasn't, that I could have if I so wished. "Didn't think you were this good."

"He cheated!"

The call came from one of those watching. As I turned to the voice, I saw Dat Draturt was the speaker. Dat was a mountain of a man, surpassing Osto Ordo in height and width. I'd seen him training when I'd arrived, and I had thanked the Force that he wasn't the Alor of his Clan. That said, from the records Adonai and Torrhen had given me, his brother, Jupsa, was supposed to be even stronger.

"And how did he cheat?" Olaf asked, turning with me to face the approaching Mando'ade.

"He is a Jetii. He used their tricks to win."

"Did he use them outwardly and thus violate the terms of the duel? No, he did not," Olaf countered, stepping towards Dat as his voice grew harder with each word. "If he used them internally, then so be it. To ask him not to do so would be like asking you or me not to draw on our training as Mando'ade during a battle. It simply cannot be done."

Dat growled, and even though he was still a good ten metres away, I had to look upwards with each step he took to close the distance. "I say he cheated! He used those pow-gkgh!"

Dat's voice trailed off as he grasped at his throat. As he scratched at it, trying to recover, I stepped towards him. "If I wished to use the Force to take down you, Alor Olaf, or another, I could do so as easily as I am now," I stated firmly. My free hand had closed into a fist as I securely crushed his larynx just enough to ensure he couldn't speak back. "Or I could use my power to shatter every bone in your body before you could even consider drawing a weapon."

I turned and looked at Olaf. "I will not deny that the Force flows through me; it is a power that I cannot turn off as if closing a tap. However, I swear on my honour as a warrior that I never used it externally during our duel."

Olaf chuckled and clapped his free hand on my shoulder. "I have seen Jetii fight before, Alor Cameron. I know well that you did not, and I accept your vow." He stepped back and brought his free hand to his chest. "When the time comes for you to seek to become Mand'alor, my Clan and I stand with you."

I released the hold I had on Dat and clasped my hand over my chest in return. "I thank you for the vow of support, Alor Olaf. If you or any warrior under your command ever feel I am unworthy of your support, then step forward and challenge me, for I would welcome it."

Olaf laughed heartily as he lowered his arm. "Yes, I can see you would." He slid his Beskad – a more traditional length than mine – into its sheath at his belt. "However, I warn you that there will be many like Dat," the warrior in question was growling at me from the side, though made no move to come closer, "Who will question your loyalty given your former status as Jetii serving the Tsad Droten. There is also the fact that many would seek to become Mand'alor once you make your claim common knowledge."

"I am aware of both those concerns, Alor Olaf. For the first, I look forward to re-educating those utreekove. As for the latter, they will submit or die with honour."

Around us, the other warriors cheered, seemingly pleased with my response and my victory. I saw Alors Brac Torsk and Guci Thol at the front of the group moving closer, though my gaze lingered on Dat. The large Mando'ade had recovered from being Force-choked, and I could easily sense a burning rage within him at how easily I'd embarrassed him.

There was no doubt in my mind that before I left Naboo, I'd have to deal with him. Both with the Force and without, but that was expected. As Olaf had just stated, echoing words from Adonai and Torrhen, many would challenge my worthiness to lead our people.

I would happily face all challengers, and I would make them submit willingly, break them into servitude, or destroy them as a warning to others.

… …

---

… …
"I do wish that you could stay longer, Lord Cameron."

I offered Padmé a smile as she stood facing me with Raven at my back. "I promise that I won't be as distant as I have been, Your Majesty," I replied, bowing in respect. Given she was before me in her regal attire as monarch of Naboo, and that others were present to see me off, I had no issue with bowing.

What I disliked was being called a Lord. That had come about at the formal dinner the night after my arrival on the planet. Before those gathered, Padmé had stood and, after making note of how I no longer stood with the Jedi, had made me a noble of Naboo, elevating House Shan to the same rank as, among others, House Palpatine.

I had wanted to protest, but before the sounds to do so had even begun forming in my throat, everyone else had clapped and murmured in approval. She had given me a side-eye as the clapping took place, amusement ringing from her in the Force as I accepted, reluctantly, that I couldn't do anything to reject the title. Thankfully, as had been explained to me the following day, the title was ceremonial, but it saw me and my family raised to the same rank as House Palpatine.

In a clearly planned reaction, later that day, I had received a holocall from the Co-Chancellor congratulating me on my new status. We'd then talked a little about my adventures, but I'd been as vague with Palpatine as I had with Damask. Palpatine had accepted that, though he had extended an invitation to dine with him and his Co-Chancellor when I next visited Coruscant. I had no intention of heading there for the foreseeable future, so there was no risk in accepting the invitation.

"I do hope so. Our people always feel more buoyant when you are present. A feeling I find myself sharing," Padmé added with the faintest hint of a smile coming from underneath her makeup.

We hadn't spoken much since that dinner with her parents that first night I was on the planet, but this was the first time I'd not sensed some nervousness from her, which I linked to that dinner. I had enjoyed the meal and the chance to meet her parents – or re-meet in the case of Ruwee – however, the fact that Jobal had, in a roundabout way, all but offered me Padmé's hand in marriage remained something that had me conflicted.

I'd be a fool to say I wasn't attracted to her, and I knew well how she would continue to grow and blossom in the coming years. However, I wasn't seeking a new relationship. I was content with Bo and Naz, and while Serra and I had said our goodbye when I left the Order, I held out hope she would return to my side once I was Mand'alor.

There was also, as much as it wasn't a major issue, the fact that marrying the elected queen of Naboo offered me little in return. I had no intention of marrying – whenever that would be – for reasons other than love, but I knew that it might be something I had to consider.

"It pleases me to hear you think so highly of me, your Majesty," I responded, offering her a warm smile.

Outwardly, she remained calm, but I sensed the flickers of attraction and embarrassment from her through the Force.

"Cameron. Meesa miss you too."

I bit the inside of my lip at hearing the voice of perhaps the one person on the planet I had hoped to avoid. I'd expected Jar-Jar to be appointed the Gungan advisor to Padmé, but after he'd not been present on the first day on the planet, I'd offered a prayer of thanks to the Force for removing him from the environment.

The Force, as it was wont to do, ignored my thanks and instead had that annoying Gungan reappear the following day. Thankfully, I'd been busy with other matters, but having to be near that fool was a regular test of my patience.

To be clear, I had no issues with the Gungans as a species. They were skilled warriors, and many had earned the respect of the Mando'ade on the planet. It was just that Jar-Jar was, well, Jar-Jar. All I could hope was that he either suffered a fatal accident or wasn't kept by Padmé when she became Senator for the Chommell sector. That was if Padmé became the senator.

I didn't see anything that could divert her from that path, but since my battle with Maul, I knew that almost all of my knowledge of the future was about as reliable as a vision from the Force. Less so in many cases.

"Again, I wish to thank you for the healers you have agreed to send to the Lokella, your Majesty," I said to Padmé, outwardly ignoring Jar-Jar entirely. "Those who have suffered the most under cruel enslavers will be able to recover faster thanks to your grace."

Padmé had, after she and her advisors had heard about those I had rescued from the Prophets and the status of some of the freed slaves, promised to send a medical frigate to the Gaia system. It would be escorted by ships from the Lokella – I had already contacted them, and Baalta had assured me they would send good protection – and would carry healers specialising in helping those suffering from physical and mental conditions brought on by what they had endured.

"Many of our people have suffered because of the heinous actions of the Trade Federation. It is only right that, when others ask for help recovering from a similar or worse experience, we step up and offer our assistance." I felt my smile widen, once again impressed with Padmé's skills as a speaker. I'd always known she'd had a knack for it, given events in the other timeline, but I was glad to see that was the case in this universe as well. I just hoped that by the time war engulfed the galaxy, we wouldn't find ourselves on opposing sides. "Something made all the more apparent by the failings of the Republic during the invasion," she added.

"As you say, Your Majesty."

That sentence, along with others I had caught from her and others while on Naboo, had me doubting that the planet and people would be as supportive in the future of the changes that the Republic would undergo in the coming decade. It seemed that resentment towards the Republic lingered heavily in the minds of the people, and perhaps only the fact that Palpatine was Chancellor kept that bitterness at levels that were easy for Padmé's government to manage.

I offered her a final bow before turning and marching towards my ship. Everyone else was already on board with Quinlan helping Simvyl in the cockpit, while it felt as if Aayla was in the engine room. The young Twi'lek had spent time with Padmé, talking and rather unexpectedly sparring with the Queen.

It seemed that Padmé had continued to keep up her training with the lightfoil I had gifted her several years ago. Aayla, while not remembering all her training, was a good opponent as she fought in a very different style from the instructors Padmé had, and it meant I hadn't needed to spend too much time sparring with the queen, thus focusing instead on the Mando'ade on the planet.

All of them had, like those working with the Lokella, now offered me their strength in my efforts to become Mand'alor, and while they were few in number, every warrior I gained as an ally made my cause stronger.

Anakin was, as usual, with Sariss and Karia nearby. The younger female had barely left Raven during our time on the world, only doing so at Anakin's request. Padmé had, because of Sariss, had her first encounter with Anakin, and I was relieved and amused when he hadn't shown her much attention. His focus instead had remained on Sariss, which suggested I had altered the future in a rather major way; something I had already planned for and could now begin considering other paths for the pair.

As I walked up the ramp, I ran my hand along the wall, feeling Raven's pleasure at soon returning to the skies and then the space lanes. The ramp rose behind me, Raven closing it herself as I moved into her corridors. I wasn't sure when I would return to Naboo, but I'd gained what I wanted from this trip and would, if able, see if I could find ways to push Naboo away from being a world loyal to the Republic.

… …

---

… …
I stood at the back of the Scimitar's cockpit, watching as Maul activated the ship's power core. It'd been a little over two weeks since I'd left Naboo, and this was one of the final steps I had to make before focusing entirely on my efforts towards unifying the Clans.

"I am impressed again that your droids were able to overcome the security measures protecting my vessel," Maul commented as I felt the deck beneath me and the walls around me begin to thrum with energy. "I had not expected any to be able to do so."

"It wasn't easy for them," I replied. "HK is better suited to assassinations, but his creator ensured he had training in how to slice his way into a system, something Anakin expanded on once I had the droid up and running. As for the astromech," I chuckled, "let's just say R2 has a knack for being in the right place at the right time when needed."

Maul grunted, not understanding what I was implying, or perhaps simply not caring. That was understandable, as he didn't know what R2 had gotten up to in the other timeline. He did, however, know how useful the droid was in this universe and had offered suggestions to Anakin on how to upgrade and enhance both mechs.

R2 hadn't been as impressed by the suggestions as HK, though some would be implemented by Anakin while I was occupied dealing with the various clan leaders of the Mando'ade. Those included, rather amusingly, several of the adaptations that the astromech had employed during The Clone Wars in the other timeline.

"It is disappointing that most of the droids I had left to secure the vessel were permanently disabled; however, this is a chance for me to consider customising them with original programming to ensure there is no hidden code left by my former Master."

"If you want, I'll supply some of Anakin's ideas for HK that he came up with after going over the schematics of those droids."

It was odd for me to be standing in the cockpit of a vessel and not manning the pilot's seat, but this wasn't my ship nor one I'd borrowed. Allowing Maul to handle the restarting of the power core and examination of the ship's systems was a small way to further show I trusted him. The fact I'd not deployed any lines of code or installed monitoring devices would, once he'd given the ship a thorough examination, also help to further strengthen his support for me.

Maul turned and looked back at me for a moment before giving a quick nod and returning his focus to the controls before him. "That would be acceptable. The boy is skilled in ways it pains me to admit I am not."

I chuckled as I leaned against one of the walls, making sure beforehand that it didn't contain any displays or controls. "There are, I suspect, few in the galaxy with Anakin's insight when it comes to technology. If he is able to learn Mechu-deru, I suspect that ability will only grow."

That power was one Maul had shown Anakin the basics of during our time on Dromund Kaas. It was a rare ability that used the Dark Side and the desire to achieve dominance over technology – be that weapons, speeders, starships, droids, or anything else – to grant control and insight into all manner of artificial creations. Anakin already had an insane natural understanding of such things, and Maul had suggested, and I agreed, that learning the rare power would enhance that understanding even further.

"The boy should have no issues learning it, save perhaps accepting and defeating the Dark Side itself."

I stayed quiet, aware that the Dark Side's influence was a danger to Anakin but one I felt I was helping him mitigate by learning to refocus that power towards the goals he desired.

Currently, he, along with just about everyone else, was back on Mandalore. Only HK and R2 had accompanied Maul and me aboard Raven to the Scimitar's resting place on Dagobah. There was no need for Anakin, Sariss, or Karia to come here, and I'd left instructions for Quinlan and Aalya to use for training while I was away.

Several of the Mando'ade were uncomfortable with the two Jedi being on the planet, as they didn't understand they were former Jedi like me, but so far, no issues had arisen. In fact, Bo, Osto Ordo and a few others among their circles of friends had started spending time around the pair of memory-addled ex-Jedi, with Bo going so far as to spar with Aayla even before I'd departed for this system.

Both Bo and Naz had, in private, teased me about Aayla and the fact that she clearly was attracted to me. I'd explained to both – several times already – that I wouldn't be seeking to bed Aayla, though that hadn't stopped Bo from wondering what a Twi'lek tasted like. That woman was nothing if not vivacious in her desire to enjoy life and the company of others, though I was pleased that no other man dared approach her. We might not be anything more than friends with benefits, but if another male laid a hand on her in such a manner, they would lose it and other parts of their body in quick order.

"How long will it take for you to complete your checks?" I asked, shifting the topic to keep a conversation going, and thus banishing thoughts of anyone male other than me touching Bo.

"Thirty minutes to complete the restart. Another hour at least to examine the datacore." His fingers moved over the consoles as he spoke. "While I am… unhappy that you copied the core, the fact you did granted me time to examine what was stored there in more detail than I could do otherwise. It will make removing the unnecessary files and sections of code faster."

I grunted in acknowledgement. From what he had mentioned while we travelled here, there had been several sections of data that he hadn't been aware of. Maul had confirmed those were files and lines of code inserted by Sidious or Plagueis to allow them backdoor access to the Scimitar's systems and logs, so their removal was of the utmost importance.

The Starblade was with Mandalmotors undergoing the refit, but even when it was completed, I expected Maul to use the Scimitar when he could. It was his after all. The issue was the chance it could be traced while travelling; however, the Banite Sith were unlikely to monitor galactic travel outside of the major hyperspace lanes and the Core for a sighting of the vessel. Not unless they were still committing resources to something not seen in over two years.

Add in that the Scimitar had a cloaking system that masked its presence to most methods of detection unless at very close range, and that it also had a method to alter its appearance on scanners – something I had requested be added to the Starblade, as well as having a copy of the methods used to do that – and the chances of the ship being tracked were slim. Still, there was always the chance it might be, which was why the retrofitting and upgrading of the Starblade was taking place before that of the Fearless Slicer.

"The order for the droids should be on Mandalore by the time we return."

At his request, I'd reached out to Arakyd Industries for a series of replacement droids. Instead of the DRK-1 series of droids, of which two remained, I'd ordered the upgraded DSH-3 and simpler R-1 droids for reconnaissance for both the Scimitar and myself. An additional order of basic security droids from the same company had been secured, though, like that for the recon droids, it hadn't been done through my name or Clan.

There was a high probability that the Banite Sith were monitoring my movements and actions, so the orders had been placed by different members of the Lokella on my behalf. The droids had been purchased as singular or paired purchases in various locales across the Inner and Mid Rim, and on the way here, I'd received confirmation that all of them had been gathered on Mtael's Gift.

Gar Saxon and Rook Kast would escort the shipments back to Mandalore for me, though they, like everyone else, remained in the dark as to why I was ordering collections of such droids.

Maul would, I had no doubt, upgrade and alter the droids to suit his needs, but how he did that was up to him, as was whether he used any of the suggestions that came from Anakin and HK, as had been done with the schematics for the training droid Maul had.

The fact that it stored knowledge of the various forms of lightsaber combat and was intended to challenge Maul and keep him in top condition during times when he wasn't able to actively fight other Force users meant that I'd long since asked my son to examine and improve the design. Beyond likely helping train him and others, having droids capable of engaging low-skilled Jedi wasn't something to sneeze at. I'd love to get my hands on a collection of MagnaGuard droids and see if there were ways to improve them; however, I didn't know which company had produced them, nor if they even existed currently.

The closest droids currently available were the IG line of sentry and assassin droids, and I had planned to purchase some or at least the schematics. Anakin still had his project to craft a new droid, one designed for infiltration and protection under the guise of being a protocol droid, so getting him more sources of inspiration for that project was worthwhile. The issue was that even purchasing a single such droid, in theory, was highly restricted.

Of course, there were ways around that issue, and I intended to exploit some of those, but so far, I'd not found the contacts needed to make the purchases.

"If you are uninterested in watching me work, you can head elsewhere."

"As you wish," I replied to Maul's blunt dismissal.

Pushing myself off the wall, I turned and strode from the cockpit. I'd already explored the inside of this vessel before we'd secured it on Dagobah, and had thoroughly examined the schematics – official and unofficial – so there was no need to wander around again.

"I wonder if there's anything worth hunting in the swamp," I muttered as I walked, deciding I might as well kill time by gaining some XP and honing my skills. Of course, for that, I'd need to find something on this world that was anything more than fodder for me to kill.

… …

---

… …
"If there is nothing else, we shall depart for the base."

I lowered my head as I stood with Dooku in one of the arms of the Saak'ak. "I wish you safe travels, Master."

The former Trade Federation modified Lucrehulk sat, as it has since not long after the liberation of Naboo, in orbit above Mandalore. Adonai and Torrhen had worked with Mandalmotors to turn the giant haulier into something akin to a war station.

Officially, to make those who feared what the Mando'ade might do with such a massive vessel, one the Federation had upgraded beyond the regulations of the Ruusan Reformation, the hyperdrive had been disabled and the core that powered the drive dismantled. Unofficially, the engine could be reignited and brought to full power within six hours, meaning the Mando'ade had a battleship ready for war when the time came.

While the defences of the massive vessel were being enhanced, a process that continued nearly two years later as it had to be done quietly to avoid the Republic catching wind of it, it was serving as a trade station and rendezvous point for all those allied with Houses Kryze and Ordo. Which was why it had been used to house the members of the Prophets who hadn't been killed on Dromund Kaas.

Dooku turned and moved off, heading towards the parked transport behind him. Vosa was already on board, along with all the former members of the Prophets save Perzan. The boy – fortunate or not, I wouldn't say – had been introduced to Maul after the Scimitar had been flown into a secure facility under the direct control of Dred Yomaget.

The CEO of Mandalmotors had been interested in dismantling Maul's ship but had been dissuaded by me from doing so before Maul learnt of the desire and dealt with it himself. What Dred had gained was a modified set of schematics for the vessel. Maul was staying with the vessel to oversee the alterations it would undergo and the upgrading of the Starblade. While he waited for that, he would begin training Perzan to see if the boy might be of use.

I was grateful that he was choosing to remain, for the most part, out of sight. While many among the Mando'ade knew he was my ally, it was being kept under wraps so that word didn't leak to others who would be interested in hearing such things. Not even Quinlan and Aayla were aware that Maul was alive yet, though I did intend to change that in the coming months.

The ramp to the transport Dooku had boarded closed once he reached the top. There was no look back or wave as my former Master strode from sight, but I'd never expected any. It simply wasn't his style.

I shifted back, moving clear of the vessel as its engines increased their power. In the cockpit, I saw Vosa at the controls and fixed her with an intense gaze. I didn't need to extend my presence in the Force to remind her of my warning about the opportunity before her, nor did she bother to suggest she needed reminding. Her fate lay in her hands now, and if she couldn't prove her worth by at first assisting and then taking over, completing the training of the former Prophets, she would be removed from existence.

Once the transport had passed through the forcefield keeping the atmosphere in the cavernous hangar, I turned and moved off. As much as I wanted to begin gathering the support of the various Clan leaders in the sector, I still had one thing to deal with: Placing the Infinite Engine in a secure location with orders for it to follow until I returned.

Several systems had been located for use, and I planned to visit some of them on my next voyage, though at this point I was looking at a handful that lay near the galactic edge, out beyond Hutt Space. It was an area that was generally deserted and unclaimed, so the chances of anyone stumbling across the Engine as it grew were as low as I could make them if I wanted to ensure none knew where I'd deployed it.

Because of those locations, I'd decided to head through Hutt Space to reach the systems, stopping at Nar Shaddaa along the way. Beyond the quest linked to searching the former resting place of the Engine, there – I had the exact planetary coordinates for that – there were a few other reasons why a whistle-stop visit to The Smuggler's Moon would be interesting for myself and those travelling with me.

… …

---

… …
"I don't like this place."

"It's okay, you don't have to leave the ship."

The little back and forth had come from Sariss and Anakin, the pair standing behind me at the rear of the cockpit as I guided the Nekebi Vhett towards an empty landing pad on Nar Shaddaa.

This was the first time Sariss had come to the cockpit of the vessel since we'd left Mandalore, though as always, Anakin was at her side. The fact that she'd willingly come here, at the very least accepting Anakin's request that she come along, was a good sign. I knew she was still uncertain around Quinlan and me, but she was slowly getting used to our presence.

Neither of us spent much time close to her, however. Instead, that fell to Anakin and Aayla. The Twi'lek, at my request, was helping Anakin show Sariss how to focus the Force within herself and draw upon it. Progress was slow, as according to Aayla, Sariss disliked having to use the Force as it was the reason she was abused by her father and the other now-executed members of the Prophets, but at least she was willing to try, if only to appease Anakin.

Nothing had been said in the presence of either, but Quinlan and Aayla had both mentioned to me privately how they noted a strong bond forming between the teenagers. Aayla had regained some of her personality as she had begun teasing me about soon having a daughter-in-law, though she never pushed the matter and only joked when we weren't busy with something else.

"Anakin is right, you won't have to go outside, Sariss. Neither of you will," I added as my fingers danced over the controls of the Vhett.

I'd again borrowed the vessel from Alor Torrhen as there was no way I was bringing Raven to this kriff-hole. Beyond the fact that the air would've hurt her, the sheer revolting, twisted presence of the world within the Force wasn't something I wanted her to experience. I could say the same for Sariss, however, as I wanted Anakin to at least sense the corruption of this moon, I'd accepted her being here along with Quinlan and Aayla.

"Why? I've seen worse places."

I chuckled and glanced over my shoulder at my apprentice. "No, you haven't. Nar Shaddaa makes Tatooine or anywhere else look like an all-expenses-paid leisure cruise. I don't have to tell you what this place represents, nor that the Hutts control it."

Anakin growled slightly, though he stopped quickly as Sariss tensed. I'd not seen her reaction but instead felt it through the Force. It seemed his concern for her feelings outweighed the spark of anger at the mention of those overgrown slugs, and via them, his thoughts turned to his mother's death and the one responsible, Decca the Hutt.

I had no idea if that particular slug was on the planet, nor would I be seeking him out, but the chance he might be here, or that Anakin might run into someone working for him, was the main reason why he'd be remaining with the ship, along with Sariss and most others. Only HK would accompany me onto the moon, mainly as if something happened, he'd not have any issues about shooting first and then ransacking and burning the bodies afterwards.

"Now, both of you, close your eyes and reach out with the Force," I ordered.

My focus was only half on the controls as I continued guiding the Vhett downwards, but I had to ensure that no one might try to intercept or attack us as we approached the landing pad. The issues with that pad, of which I knew there would be several, I'd deal with once down.

"Feel the Force around you and in this place. It teems with life, yet at the same time it will be hard to centre yourself."

"It's strange," Anakin mumbled. "Cold."

"Yes, it is." This might be my first time visiting the Smuggler's Moon, but thanks to my memories of a certain game in my former life, I already had an inkling of what this place felt like.

Now, that didn't mean I hadn't reacted similarly to Anakin as we'd moved into the moon's gravity well, but I was far better trained than either him or Sariss at handling the sensations of this place. Nor did I have to worry about Quinlan or Aayla being overly affected. Quinlan had awoken here after losing his memories, while Aayla recalled enough of her training that I had no fear of her losing herself in the twisted chaos of this world as it burned disgustingly in the Force.

"The moon is alive with the Force, yet oddly not. As if death and decay seek to consume all that lives here."

"It's like Dromund Kaas, but not."

I smirked, though neither Sariss, who had spoken, nor Anakin saw. "That is a fair assessment. Dromund Kaas was dead because of the actions of the Sith Emperor thousands of years ago, yet alive with the Dark Side because he and his Empire had fallen. Nar Shaddaa, however, wasn't corrupted and twisted by the Force nor a powerful user. It became this way because the Hutts and those who helped them made it so. A palace to host the worst that this galaxy has to offer."

"I… I can't sense anyone," Anakin commented, a hint of panic in his voice.

"That is the same on any world with billions living on it. However, because there are few, if any, on this rock who are truly happy, then everything is drowned out in a tidal wave of despair, hate, and fear. The challenge for the two of you, while I am working, is to keep yourselves centred while enduring the maelstrom this world generates within the Force. Prove to yourselves that you are better than what this world represents. That you are stronger than the eddies of chaos that flow freely through every living thing here, and that you, not the Force, are in command."

Sariss gasped, and I felt her turn her power inwards. "I… I hear him."

"He's dead," Anakin soothed, and I didn't need to look to know his hand was holding hers tightly. "He can't get to you here. I won't let him."

"Sariss, I burnt his soul from the Force. What you're feeling is your own emotions being pulled and twisted by this world. Do not give in to that. Prove you're above it and show us that you can overcome the darkness that lingers inside."

I hadn't actually removed Cronal's soul from the Force, but no wraith of the Dark Side had appeared after his death and with the temple the Prophets had called their base gone – I'd made sure to obliterate it before the eyes of the survivors – even if he somehow found the strength of will to remain as a shadow, he would be trapped in the rubble of what he had represented.

"I…"

"You can do it."

"Okay."

I bit back on my amusement, keeping it hidden from either of them. The fact that it took such a simple phrase of encouragement from Anakin to have Sariss do as I requested continued to amuse me. There was a chance that it might become an issue in a few years once the pair were more aware of each other and the bond between them, but for now, it was something I could use to encourage and push Sariss with her training.

"Good. Now, unless you wish, you can head back to your bunks."

I felt a small hint of thanks from Anakin through our bond before the doors to the cockpit opened and closed soon after. Now alone in the cockpit, I focused on the approach.

The landing pad I was aiming for was one of several that appeared unguarded and were reasonably close to the location where the Infinite Engine had once been stored on the planet. I'd have landed closer, but those pads had, according to the Vhett's scanners, defences making clear they were controlled by someone. Hopefully, the same wouldn't be true of the area where the Engine had once been protected by the Ongree loyal to Revan.

The records I'd read implied that the Ongree were all killed when the Engine was taken, but there was a chance, however small, that some had survived. Of course, without the Engine, they wouldn't have been able to remain as secluded as they had been, as it had provided them with everything they needed to live like monks while protecting it.

As I neared the pad, an incoming call came into the ship. I ignored it, knowing it would be someone seeking to warn me against landing on the pad I was aiming for. Perhaps it might be wiser to avoid conflict, as I wasn't looking to generate a presence, but if I simply turned away, then word would soon spread around the area of a ship's captain who was easily bullied. Plus, if those who controlled the pad wished to argue the point, it would be a chance for me and HK to stretch our legs.

... …
"Are you deaf, or are the scanners in that ugly helmet not working? I told you this pad belongs to the Scarlet Hounds!"

The comment, or more accurately, the half-snarl, had come from a rather large Togruta. He was bearing his teeth while holding the hilt of a Vibroblade tightly as he stood about five metres ahead of me. With him were nearly two dozen others; all armed in some way and as badly dressed as their leader.

"Are those montrals simply for show, or are you as inbred as you look? I'm not moving." My tone was calm, but as had been the case since HK and I had exited the Vhett, I wasn't being particularly polite. "You're certainly the dumbest prey I've ever seen," I added as I continued to insult his species.

There was no way this wouldn't be resolved without violence, but since I had some time before chaos was unleashed, I figured I'd enjoy testing out some insults.

"Observation: He does seem unusually slow for a meatbag. Speculation: might he have been damaged while young, Master?"

I chuckled as the Togruta snarled. "Given that face, I'm sure his mother dropped him on a few occasions."

"Musing: Yes, that would certainly explain his inability to understand the situation."

"What the hell are you babbling about, droid?" A Rodian at the side of the Togruta snapped. "There's two of you and twenty of us!"

"Evaluation: Based on you and those with you, meatbag, and their armament, I calculate your odds of defeating only me in combat at less than five per cent. As for my Master, the odds depend on whether he decides to treat you as worth the time or not."

"Why you!!!" The Togurta marched closer. "Don't be acting tough just because you have armour shell-rat! I've seen many of your cult die to a single bolt!"

I shrugged. "Then they weren't true Mando'ade." I tapped my gauntlet against my chest. "But keep coming closer, tail-head and see what happens," I added with a growl, letting some of my presence flow into the Force.

Around me, the Battlenet noted a slight but continuing drop in temperature. It wasn't enough that it would affect the atmosphere, but it felt good to let my presence out. If only slightly.

The Togruta snarled again, though before another insult came my way, his eyes shifted, looking beyond me. A vile smile spread over his face as a disgusting wave of lust rushed into the Force. "Tell you what. Give us the whore, and we'll let you go."

"The wh…" my words trailed off as I sensed the presence of Aayla behind me. The Battlenet confirmed she had moved to stand at the top of the Vhett's ramp. "Wrong move," I muttered.

Before the Togruta could even finish processing what I'd said, I'd closed the distance between him. One hand came up, and I grasped his neck. The alien's eyes widened in fear and panic as I clamped down on his throat; the sound of the muscles and blood vessels there erupting was caught by my armour's sensors.

Even as the first hints of blood slipped from his lips, my other hand came up. The blaster in it spewed plasma, each bolt racing at one of the targets on that side. HK's rifle was active as well, his programming adapting to target those I couldn't.

Those closest to the Togruta, or those who carried more dangerous armament, fell before they could aim their weapons or seek cover. Those further back and less well-armed rushed for cover even as the eyes of the Togruta rolled back into his head and the blood began to flow freely from his lips.

I dropped the body, and as the blaster in my hand continued to sing alongside HK's rifle, I brought the heel of my boot down hard on the alien's face. The sound of bones caving in under the pressure as he drew his last, painful breath brought a smile to my face.

Less than three minutes later, I holstered my blaster and looked at HK. "I think you overestimated their odds."

"Agreement: That much is obvious, Master."

Before heading off, I glanced behind. Aayla was still standing at the top of the ramp, confusion and shock radiating from her.

[He said something about you I didn't like,] I said to her through the Force as a way of explanation for the sudden burst of violence. [Secure the ramp and keep the engines and weapons powered up while I'm gone.]

After a small nod, the Battlenet reported the Vhett's ramp rising. With that done, I reached down and searched the Togruta's pockets.

"Analysis: It is unlikely they have anything of value, Master."

"Not here," I replied as I found the communicator I was looking for attached to the alien's belt. "But I'm sure their friends have something worth taking. If not, well, I think we could both do with some relaxation."

"Musing: I do think I need further tests to confirm my latest calibrations, Master."

… …
"Wh-why are you doing this?"

I looked at the Weequay that had whimpered out the question. He was on the ground, both legs broken, along with one arm, while his guards had fallen dead where they'd stood before I'd entered this office. "Do I need a reason?" I asked back.

Outside the office, the sound of blaster fire was quickly lessening. A sign that HK was systematically taking down the remaining members of the Scarlet Hounds.

If I were being objective, there was no reason for me to have chosen to target this, the eighth location controlled by the gang. Most of my annoyance with the nuisances that had tried to extort me once I'd landed had been appeased by wiping out that location. However, when I'd discovered that the brothel used slaves, and the owner, in a final act of pitiful resistance, had detonated their collars killing several dozen sentients, my annoyance had returned and been inflamed into a need for violence.

I was sure Dooku would be disappointed in me getting distracted from my mission, and that Maul would consider it a pointless waste of energy. Neither were they here, however, nor were they me, and as such, after slicing my way into the computers of the brothel, I'd begun systematically targeting the nearby locations under the Scarlet Hound's control.

"W-we have the protection of Decca the Hutt!" The Weequay blurted out, hoping that would have me reconsider my actions.

I laughed as I knelt next to the broken fool. "Do you think that bothers me?" I unclasped my lightsaber and ignited the blade. I'd already learnt that this gang was in the service of Decca, and had resolved to, if not destroy them, then ensure they were crippled to the point of being easy targets for rivals. The fact that they worked for Decca only made taking the time to hunt and destroy the Scarlet Hounds that much more enjoyable.

"You're a Jedi! You can't do this!" While he spoke with eyes filled with a new wave of intoxicating fear, his words were beginning to slur because of blood loss as his life slowly slipped away.

"I can do as I please," I said as I drove the tip of my blade into his gut, making him grunt in pain. "And I'm no Jedi."

I stood, in the process sweeping my blade to one side and slicing the Weequay's gut in two. The last embers of life faded from the alien's eyes as I powered down and reattached the hilt to my belt, making sure it was once again hidden under my cloak.

Stepping over the body, I moved to the terminal, intending to slice and download whatever was there. However, as I rounded the desk, I was greeted by the face of a rather angered Iktotchi. "And who might you be?" I asked even as I began accessing the terminal.

"The better question is who are you and who hired you to target those working for Decca the Hutt?" His tone was calm, but the faint twitching of his facial muscles allowed the sensors in the armour to deduce he was infuriated.

"No one hired me, I just felt like working on my anger issues," I replied. The alien had no way to know I was being honest, and I knew that my words would only serve to anger him further. "If you like, we can meet face-to-face and discuss things further."

The Iktotchi growled, enhancing the demonic aura his species had, though it did not affect me. Compared to someone like Master Tiin, this sentient was nothing more than gutter trash. Like the vast majority of those on this heap of a moon. "Just because you have managed to disrupt some of our minor operations, do not think you are a threat to us."

"And yet you're acting scared," I responded as I sliced through the protections on the terminal. I might not be as skilled at this as others, but I knew my way around such systems, and they clearly never expected anyone to gain access to this terminal, so the defences were lower than I'd have placed on them if our roles were reversed. "But fine, I'll just keep striking your operations one by one until you invite me to your headquarters and we can talk things out like rational sentients."

A notice through the Battlenet confirmed that HK had finished sweeping the upper floors of the building for threats. All that remained were the four dozen slaves on the premises. After the first attack we'd launched, I'd had Anakin work on a way to disrupt the connection between the slave collars and their controllers. It wasn't a perfect system as it had been hastily crafted, and Anakin was still working with R2 to upgrade it. Because of that, over twenty slaves had died since then because their collars killed them, but the vast majority of those captured by this gang were now free.

Ideally, I'd arrange transport for them off-world, but I'd yet to find a location controlled by the Scarlet Hounds that held starships. Even if I found enough vessels to transport them from the moon, finding enough beings capable of flying might be an issue, to say nothing of trying to get them out of Hutt Space. Still, if the chance appeared to evacuate them so they could join the Lokella, and it didn't interfere with my reason for first coming to this cesspool, I'd take it.

"You are remarkably bold for a lone Mandalorian, even one who seems to have killed a Jedi and taken their weapon," the Iktotchi remarked as I downloaded all the files on the terminal to a datapad I'd pulled from my Inventory. "You are just one warrior and a droid. You cannot hope to keep winning against our forces, so how about we come to an agreement?" I tilted my head, already suspecting where he was going but choosing to act dumb for the moment. "If you have not been hired to disrupt our business by our competitors, then perhaps we could persuade you to turn your attention to them instead of us."

"How much are we talking?" I asked, playing into the narrative he had crafted that I was just a wandering warrior for hire.

"Twice the going rate for someone of your skill, plus the bonuses. That and we shall allow you to keep everything you've taken from us so far, so long as anything taken from those we direct you at is split evenly."

"Not a bad deal," I muttered as the pad reported it had finished copying the files on the terminal. "But what's to stop you from turning on me the minute I outlive my usefulness?"

The Iktotchi laughed. "That is simply life on the Smuggler's Moon, Mandalorian. Eat or be eaten."

"And you'd rather I ate at someone else's table?" He nodded. "Very well. Where should we meet to finalise our arrangement?"

The alien smiled, exposing several of his teeth, which only furthered the evil appearance his species had. "I will transmit coordinates along with a time and details. If you do not arrive, then I shall consider it a rejection of our offer."

"The same applies to you," I replied. Already, I knew this was a trap, but that was fine. Even if they brought a hundred beings to the meeting, I was confident I could escape it. That was if I decided to attend, as I had no interest in staying on this shithole of a planet for that long.

"Of course."

The channel closed and, a moment later, the terminal beeped as I received a data-packet. Opening it, I transferred the information – visually so that they couldn't download anything into my Battlenet – to the armour's map. With that done, I moved towards the door, stepping over the body of the dead Weequay and then around his guards.

As much fun as it was taking down these places, it wasn't even a drop in the ocean of the problems that existed on Nar Shaddaa. It was time to shift my focus towards my reason for being here.

"HK, we're leaving," I said through the Battlenet. "The manager of this place wishes to meet and discuss terms for our employment."

"Assessment: That is undoubtedly a trap, Master. Please tell me we are going to turn it into one of our creations?"

I chuckled at the hint of excitement in the droid's tone. "We'll see."

… …

"Well, this was a waste of time," I muttered to myself as I read the latest notice from the Interface.

Quest Completed!

Enclave of the Engine [¤]

Objectives:

Locate the point where the Infinite Engine was once protected by Ongree loyal to Revan. [Yes]

Ensure that nothing remains of the temple, the Ongree, or the Engine at that location. [Yes]

Rewards:

1000XP [+200XP]

500XP [+100XP]

...

​

I was standing at the coordinates where the Engine had been found by agents of the ancient Sith Empire, or more accurately, as close as I could. It seemed that in the time since the Engine had been taken, this area of Nar Shaddaa had undergone some serious reconstruction, as instead of a building, or anything solid for that matter, there was a giant hole. One that, according to my armour's sensors, extended down several kilometres.

Add in that pipes extended out on this and the other side of the hole with Force-knew what spewing out of them, and it was clear that the enclave of the Ongree was long gone. Something the quest completion notice confirmed.

I turned, walking away from the edge of the hole and dismissing the quest completion notice. The reward was minor, but at least now I was assured that the Engine I had aboard the Vhett was the only one in existence. It might even be the only functioning section of the Star Forge that remained in the galaxy, but I couldn't be certain of that, not until I eventually headed to Lehon and examined whatever wreckage remained there.

The Interface had generated a quest for doing that, though I had yet to accept it. The objectives were relatively simple, but the fact that one of them involved exploring the system before the outbreak of galactic war meant slotting it into my plans for the future could be a challenge. Add on that another objective was to destroy or salvage as many remaining traces of the Star Forge – inert or otherwise – meant it could take some time to complete the quest, which was why, as of now, I'd not taken it.

The failure conditions were also irritating, as if I didn't complete the quest – if I took it – before the outbreak of galactic war, others might research the Star Forge once they learned I controlled the Engine. There was a lot to unpack with that failure situation, and with the chance that the Banite Sith might also investigate the remains of the Star Forge.

I expected to take the quest at some point, but for now, I let it go without doing so, as my calendar was likely to be extremely clustered for the next few years once I returned to Mandalore.

The Battlenet crackled to life, and I opened the channel, expecting it to be a call from HK.

"Statement: It seems we were right to be cautious, Master. The Iktotchi meatbag arrived at the meeting as scheduled, with more company than expected. The sensors deployed in other nearby buildings show a nearly three hundred per cent increase in meatbags in the thirty minutes before your meeting is due to commence."

I chuckled as I pulled up the data HK was reporting, observing the scene through a projected map created by the Battlenet armour inside my helmet. "It is a shame they are being so obvious, but what can you expect from scum?"

I paused, examining the overview of the location, noting HK's location several kilometres away from a vantage point that would allow him clear lines of sight on the only two entrances to the building selected for the meeting with this senior member of the Scarlet Hounds. The angles from that location were tight, but with HK's skill and the information flowing to him from the various scanners we'd deployed around the location, I had no doubt he could take out anyone who emerged from the building before they could slip away.

"Are the charges still all reporting as active?" I asked as I walked, my voice not carrying to those around me; most of whom scampered to avoid being anywhere near a Mando'ade as they marched down the dirty alleys of Nar Shaddaa.

The charges and the various scanners and sensors HK had control over had been placed by me, not long after the meeting had been arranged. With the Force at my command, it had been trivial to slip into the meeting location and other buildings nearby to place everything. I'd even managed to avoid killing anyone in the process.

As much fun as it would've been to be an armoured silent assassin, that would've seen the Iktotchi and his men not come to the meet, and thus deprive HK of this moment.

"Answer: Every signal is coming in clearly, Master. Evaluation: Your skills as an infiltrator almost rival my own."

I laughed to myself. "I'm glad I'm worthy of such praise." My voice trailed off as the armour reported a signal coming in through the planetary communication grid. "Seems the party is about to start. Stay on the line and wait for my signal."

HK's response was two clicks over the comms, and I opened the new call, greeting the small holographic image of the Iktotchi that appeared above my mechanical limb. "Is something the matter?" I asked without emotion.

The alien glared at me. "I'm standing at the assigned location, and we are almost at the specified time, yet there is no sign of you or your droid, so can I assume that you are rejecting the proposal?"

"Given you never intended to honour it either, are you surprised?"

If I hadn't been looking for it, I might've dismissed the tightening of his jaw as a signal issue. "I have no idea what you are talking about. I arrived in good faith to discuss the terms of your employment."

"So why are there over thirty of your men in and around where we agreed to meet?"

The Iktotchi glanced away, and the sensors of my armour picked up very faint sounds of what was likely movement in the background. "I don't know what you are talking about. As arranged in the data file sent to you, I arrived with just three of my men."

"Well, either you are lying, or you were followed by rivals," I replied after shrugging. "Either way, I find myself reluctant to go through with the meeting."

Before the alien could reply and spin some story about how the men weren't his, I closed the channel. "HK, begin the hunt."

"Statement: With pleasure, Master. I shall meet you at the vessel once all meatbags have been exterminated."

He closed the channel there, though the data feed remained. As I walked, whistling a tune to myself, I watched the reports coming through the Battlenet as HK demonstrated that, at over three thousand years old, he was still a monster when it came to combat.

For a moment, I almost felt sorry for those he was taking down, though it faded away when I remembered what I'd discovered on the various terminals used by this gang. The work they'd engaged in, while probably common on Nar Shaddaa, meant the ending they were getting was the least they deserved.

… …

---

… …
"Query: How much longer is this exploration going to take, Master? I am growing weary of seeing nothing but hyperspace and barren systems."

I chuckled at HK's remark as he stood at the back of the Vhett's cockpit. Outside of him and R2, only Anakin, Sariss, and Karia remained onboard. The others had split from us on Nar Shaddaa after, thanks to a little bit of luck, I'd located two freighters capable of carrying most of the slaves HK, and I had liberated from the Scarlet Hounds.

That group had been in too much chaos to notice when I'd borrowed their vessels, though I suspected that by now they had recovered from the disruption HK and I had unleashed on them. Either that, or they had been consumed by a rival or directly taken over by Decca.

I'd not mentioned that the freed slaves had come from operations that giant slug was involved in to anyone before we'd left the Smuggler's Moon, as I didn't want Anakin getting wind that Decca might be close. Even if I ignored the quest to prepare him, he wasn't ready to take down even a minor Hutt, never mind the child of one of the most powerful.

By now, Quinlan, Simvyl, and Aayla should be at or close to the Gaia system and the Lokella, which was where we would meet them once I had finished my scouting.

"Three more systems," I replied, "and then we'll head back to Mandalore via the Lokella."

I looked down at the displays, trying to hide my irritation at how long it was taking to explore the two dozen systems I'd selected as possible locations for the Infinite Engine to be deployed. All of them were in the area of the galaxy between Hutt Space and the galactic rim, meaning they would be devoid of almost any travellers. Or that had been my expectation.

Instead of the dozen searched so far, all had some sign of occupation, be that from a minor mining operation to a hidden colony that had, for whatever reason, cut itself off from the galaxy. Because of that, I was working my way towards the galactic south, using one of the few decent hyperspace routes in this region, the Triellus Trade Route, to guide me.

The issue was that, while a registered hyperspace route of good length, it was slow as hell. The Vhett wasn't a slow ship by any means, but even pushing the engines to their safe limits, we were crawling along. Haran, a 3.0 or even 4.0-rated haulier on the Corellian Run, would be moving faster than we were, and things got worse when we had to leave the Triellus route and move down some barely used, if not abandoned, hyperspace lanes to find the systems I'd picked out for deploying the Engine.

"Suggestion: I remain unclear why we simply did not remove any meatbags from one of the previous systems. They are so far from the rest of the galaxy that it is highly unlikely that they are in communication with anyone."

"Probably, but the chance they might be means I can't risk it. I can't have the Engine discovered by anyone. Not if I want to use it how Revan used the Star Forge."

"Conjecture: I do not believe the Engine will become a second Star Forge, Master. While I admit that my knowledge of the Star Forge the Creator discovered is limited, I believe that the Engine isn't designed to function in the same manner, nor do you have the tens of thousands of years the Rakatans had to create the Star Forge."

"Yeah, I expect the same. Still, if it can grow to become just a huge, automated factory, then it will be of use for the future." I turned and glanced at him. "Who knows, we might even be able to have it create droids of your calibre to unleash on the galaxy."

"Indignation: I assure you, Master, that no factory could craft something as brilliant as I. The Creator was a visionary beyond reproach." I held my tongue about Anakin potentially being Revan's equal in such things. "Exclamation: Still, an army of droids crafted in my image with close to my abilities would be a wondrous sight to see."

"For you. Not for the rest of the galaxy."

"Statement: Meatbags should know their place, Master. Present company excluded, of course."

… …

---

… …
I tapped at the communication console, sending the signal through the Holonet and then waited for the response. Raven had just dropped from hyperspace and was now making the crawl towards Mandalore. Around us, various ships were moving to and from the planet; the volume of traffic was larger than it had been when I departed, but still below the levels when the fleet had returned victorious from Naboo.

The Saak'ak was easily the most prominent vessel in orbit above the planet, the massive frame of the former Trade Federation transport turned dreadnought dominating everything around it. Even the Ne'tra Tal'ade, a massive command and control battleship from the days of the New Sith Wars that was moored nearby, looked small in comparison.

The other ships in the system were as varied as there were planets in the Republic. While the ships built for war, such as the Tal'kar-Class Light Cruiser or the now repurposed Kom'rk-class, were more common, they were easily outnumbered by the assortment of other vessels moving around the system. Most of those were smaller craft, comparable to the Vhett that I was currently travelling in, and likely used by various Mando'ade as personal vessels for carrying out whatever work they were engaged in.

The fact that the Mando'ade lacked a centralised system of governmental structure was part of why, even after defeats and attacks such as the Ani'la Akaan and the Dral'Han, the culture still survived and flourished. However, that very same lack of centralised control was going to be an issue when it came to having them all march in tune under my banner. At least in terms of a unified military doctrine and strategy.

While in time the Engine, now resting comfortably in the asteroid belt of the Shola system, would hopefully be able to rectify that problem, it would be at least five years – if not closer to ten – before it could be used. Yes, I had Dred onside for my bid to become Mand'alor, but he couldn't begin shifting Mandalmotors construction schedule until I had assumed command of our people. That meant that for at least the first year or two of my reign, I'd be forced into either fielding forces made up of a smorgasbord of vessels or spending large chunks of my financial reserves.

Those reserves, according to my accountant and the manager who oversaw royalties from my works, were steadily creeping towards a trillion Credits. It was an insane amount of money for any single sentient, but a drop in the ocean for arming a billion warriors and building a fleet worthy of such a force.

I suspected that once the Clans were united under my banner, then I would have access to more resources, but I couldn't be sure until then and would need to, while working on my rise to power, consider ways to gather weapons and ships to fill in the gaps that would appear early on. I had plans for that, but until I had once more spoken with Adonai and Torrhen, probably after I'd defeated them in combat, I couldn't consider enacting them.

The communication console beeped, signalling my call had connected, and a familiar figure appeared in a small hologram over the console. "Master, I hope you are well?"

"I am, as are those under my watch," He replied, being intentionally vague. While the channel should be secure, there was always a chance the Banite Sith would be monitoring communication when I made it. Particularly in the Mandalore sector, as that was, to the best of their knowledge, where I had spent almost the last half-year. I certainly hoped that remained the case as I didn't want them learning I'd been moving around the galaxy, particularly with regards to where I'd travelled recently.

"Has everyone settled into their new surroundings?"

"They have, and while there were several complaints about those working with me, they have been suitably managed." I nodded, easily understanding that he was referring to Vosa.

The Prophets had been very much a patriarchal group, so the idea of learning from a female, even one as powerful and dangerous as that bitch, would've angered them. That it seemed as if she had already made clear the chain of command, I couldn't complain, though I'd not be complimenting her for her efforts.

"I trust your explorations bore fruit."

"They did, in more ways than one."

Beyond depositing the Engine, freeing several hundred slaves from the Smuggler's Moon, and damaging Decca's flow of earnings and local influence, the destruction of the Scarlet Hounds had been an enjoyable way to pass the time. In addition, with the Credits taken from the various businesses under the gang's control, I'd secured schematics of several droids used for combat and assassinations, such as some of the older IG series by Holowan Mechanicals, from an underworld merchant.

Those had already been handed over to Anakin, though I wasn't sure how much time he'd spent going over them. For most of the voyage after we'd left Nar Shaddaa, he had been focused, along with Karia, on getting Sariss to accept the power she held and begin her steps to becoming able to not only defend herself but strike down others who behaved like the Prophets.

If Vosa was unable to make anything of those under her tutelage, I intended to let Sariss deal with them. As much as I hoped those former Prophets could be useful tools, if they failed to meet the standards I desired, letting Sariss remove them would be a suitable test of her ability to control her emotions and not lose herself to the Dark Side.

"I am pleased to hear that. As scheduled, I will remain at my current location for no more than three months before heading off to new ventures."

I nodded at his words. "I'm thankful you are helping me with this project, Master. If we don't speak before then, I hope the Force is with you for those endeavours."

He'd not come out and said anything directly, but I was reasonably certain that if he couldn't bring his family under his control, he'd be removing them to gain the power of being a Count of Serenno. I didn't intend to draw on his resources to help my rise, as he would be working towards his own gathering of power from disillusioned systems and sectors in the Inner, Mid, and Outer Rims, along with the Expansion Region. The more systems we could sway away from the CIS or the Republic, the weaker both would become.

I still remained in the dark as to who the Banite Sith had manipulated to replace Dooku, and if that figure would become a new Darth Tyrannus, but they would've already had someone in mind, if not active. At some point, I would have to deal with them, but for now, it was a matter to only be monitored, much as was the case with the movements made by groups like the Trade Federation – which was slowly recovering from their failure at Naboo and the death of Gunray – and the Techno Union.

Since I already knew most of the major players in the coming war, I only had to watch and listen for rumours of the new factors created by my actions over the last decade-plus of this life. A task that sounded easy, but given the size of the galaxy, would be anything but.

"As I expect the Force to be with you as you move forward, my former Padawan." There was the slightest shifting of Dooku's lips, the closest he would come to smiling openly, as he spoke. "I will also keep myself abreast of news of Master Fay. While I cannot say when she will return from her expedition, it is something you should begin preparing yourself for."

"Yes, Master."

After a nod from Dooku, the channel closed, and I leaned back, turning my thoughts to Fay.

Truthfully, I was conflicted about meeting my other former Master. It'd been years since I'd last seen Fay, and while I was reasonably certain she was well, and suspected she had discovered Tython as intended, I knew our reunion wouldn't be a happy one. Dooku and I leaving the Order was something I felt she would accept, as perhaps she would understand my move to unite the Mando'ade. However, as I willingly and often openly drew on the Dark Side of the Force, I feared Fay would become a potential foe.

I didn't know if I had the strength to strike down my former Master if I had to, and I prayed that day would never come. However, I wasn't naïve enough to believe that it wasn't a possibility. Fay walked in union with the Force, obeying and accepting its guidance as a true Jedi did. I had abandoned that path – if I had ever truly even considered it – as I wouldn't simply sit back and allow the galaxy to fall into chaos and terror under the Banite Sith.

Destroying the Jedi was something that needed to be done, but because of Fay, I remained conflicted if a new Order could be formed. It would need to be one that either chose not to intervene in galactic affairs or, if it did, chose to do so by obeying the rules of nature and the Force in harmony. It couldn't repeat the current orders' failures by kowtowing to the whims of those unable to use the Force, those who wielded power for their own corrupted goals, or ignoring the suffering of others simply because the Force didn't will them to use their power to intervene.

A sigh slipped from me as I considered those paths for the Order, aware that the chances either possibility would be acceptable to me in the coming decades were slim. I wasn't fully against having a Jedi Order that worked to protect and help those in need, but finding a way to align that with my goals and the will of the Mando'ade was going to be a challenge. One, I was uncertain I'd have the time, energy, or patience to take on.

… …

---

… …
I walked into the private room on the top floor of the Oyu'baat Cantina and offered the two men present a warm smile. "It has been too long," I said as I offered my arm to Torrhen, who was the closer of the pair.

"That it has, Cameron," Torrhen replied as he grasped my forearm. "We hadn't expected you to be gone for several months so soon after returning from your expedition."

"I do hope it was time well spent?" Adonai added as I moved to clasp arms with him.

"It was. All that I wished to accomplish was handled, and I was able to take some R'n'R on Nar Shaddaa."

The pair exchanged a look; smirks slipped onto their faces even as I broke the arm clasp with Adonai.

Torrhen gestured to the table, and as I looked there, I saw three mugs already filled with ale waiting for us. "That is not a world many would consider visiting to relax," he said with an amused tone. "Should I ask exactly how much of the planet remains liveable?"

"As much as before," I answered as we settled into our seats. "If I wished to wipe the planet clean from the galaxy, I would need more than just myself, my ad, and my droids." I took a sip of the ale, savouring the harsh taste of the familiar drink. "Still, I was able to remove at least one group and free several hundred slaves. The fact that the operations were under the control of Decca, the Hutt was simply an unexpected bonus."

"The name is familiar, but I can't remember why."

I smirked at Torrhen. "Beyond being the offspring of Gardulla, he is the one responsible for the various attacks on the Lokella. Including the one that took Anakin's mother from him and his sister."

"Ah."

As Torrhen took a sip from his mug, Adonai spoke. "Was it wise to further antagonise the Hutts? With your plans for our people, it could be dangerous to draw the attention of any Hutt, never mind one as powerful as Gardulla."

I chuckled as I considered the words. "I doubt Gardulla will care heavily about another failure of her child. As for the Hutts interfering in my plans, I have a few ideas on how to exploit that if they do." Both looked at me carefully, wondering what I was thinking, but I wasn't at a point where I was prepared to explain plans that were, at best, barely half-baked currently.

"On my trip, I gained the support of five Alore and a few hundred Mando'ade. It is not much, but it is a start," I said, changing the topic to why we were meeting today. "One I can admit is but a drop in the ocean for gathering the backing of most of the Clans and our people."

Adonai chuckled and rubbed his beard. "Aye, that is a fair assessment." He glanced at Torrhen before continuing. "Based on the figures we've managed to gather, there are upwards of sixty thousand Clans."

I blinked, shock rushing through my body. "Sixty thousand?" I repeated in a voice barely above a whisper.

I'd known there'd be thousands, as, if one took the rough estimate of the sector's population alone, there are tens of, if not over a hundred billion Mando'ade. However, to hear the number of Clans was that high was entirely unexpected.

One of the objectives of the Dragon of Mandalore dealt with gathering the support of as many clans as possible, so I'd expected the number to be ten or twenty thousand at most. To hear I was so far underestimating the number was a problem as it meant I'd need the backing of at least ten or fifteen thousand Alors, along with, I suspected, about a third of the population, to stand a chance of becoming Mand'alor.

"Yes. Most Clans are small, barely much more than a generation or two of a family, much like your Clan. There are larger clans, with mine being one of the greatest at a hundred thousand."

"There is also the fact that the majority of Mando'ade do not belong to a Clan, or only contain a single member, like Clan Keto." I pushed down the burst of emotion the unexpected mention of Serra caused as Adonai took over for Torrhen. "There are also many who are gathered into a House, which is a gathering of Clans and warriors under a single banner. House Kryze and House Ordo, as you know, are the two greatest of Mando'ade Houses; however, we aren't the only ones."

"Is House Varaud still a threat?" I asked, referring to the House that had struck against Houses Kryze and Ordo during the last civil war.

"While they lack much of their former power and influence, Alor Anzur still has power. As do many other Alore leading smaller Houses."

I groaned and leaned back in my seat, looking at the ceiling. "This is going to be harder than I thought," I muttered, wondering if completing the unification of the Clans was going to be possible in five years, never mind the three years I was aiming for. Well, more like two and a half since I'd spent the first half of the year on Dromund Kaas and then moved to sort out everything that came from that mission.

"It will be, which is why when you first spoke of your intentions to unite the Clans, we said that even though we support your goal, we would challenge you." My head came down, and I looked at Torrhen as he continued. "Each of us commands millions of Mando'ade within our Houses. What you might not be aware of is that anyone in the House or allied with it can challenge us for leadership of the House."

"If a new Alor rises to lead the House, then its name changes if they come from a different Clan. Those Alore under the command of the House, along with the unaffiliated warriors, must then choose to follow the new House Alor or depart the House." Adonai smirked as he spoke, something Torrhen also did, and as they looked at me, I began to see their intentions.

I considered his words for a moment. The path he was laying out was clear; however, the more interesting question that came to mind was why hadn't Pre made any attempt to take control of House Kryze. The pair were close enough in ability that I felt Pre had a chance to do so, yet, as far as I knew, Pre had never made any such attempt.

From what I recalled of him from the other timeline, while he had held great disdain for those who didn't follow Death Watch, he had fought Maul honourably and had a worthy death for a warrior. Yes, he had vastly underestimated Maul, but that was something many had done. Since he'd never challenged Adonai, did he believe that he couldn't defeat him, which was possible as Adonai didn't feel he could defeat Jango, or at least not without it being a pyrrhic victory, or was this Pre not who I expected him to be?

"You want me to openly challenge for control of each of your Houses, and bring everyone under a single banner?" I asked, pushing thoughts about Pre aside. He was a matter to deal with further down the road.

"Yes," Adonai confirmed. "There are many in both our Houses who will dislike the idea of a former Jetii becoming Mand'alor, and more still who will question why someone so young should be supported. By defeating us in public before the Alore and warriors sworn to our Houses, you can counter many of those issues."

"At least so far as the battle is genuine and we fight with the intent to kill each other," Torrhen added. "Any hint of faltering effort or desire to win would immediately stand out and see many question your prowess and conviction."

"Assuming I defeat you, I don't think they'll all just fall into line afterwards."

Torrhen sighed in response to my statement. "You're right in saying that. Many in each of our Houses would choose to withdraw their support instead of backing a former Jetii. However, the majority would continue to support you via our backing of your claim."

"There is also the chance that many of the unaligned might flock to your banner," Adonai slipped in, "though just as many might seek to test your mettle."

"I hope I'm not going to be forced to battle millions in single combat to become Mand'alor," I muttered with a chuckle. "That would be a waste of time and effort if they never have the skill to defeat me."

The pair chuckled in agreement. "No, most wouldn't choose to, at least not after word of your continual victories spreads through the sector and to our people beyond. However, as your name grows, many might gather together and seek to strike at you to prevent your rise."

"I'm assuming you mean House Varaud and whatever remains of Death Watch?"

"They would be the most likely forces, but not the only ones." Adonai glanced at the door for a moment. "Pre assures me that the Kyr'tsad have been destroyed, but I remain sceptical. There has been no sign of the Darksaber, nor confirmation that we have rooted every possible base those dar'manda might use."

I hid a twisted smile by bringing my mug to my lips. "I'm sure Pre Vizsla has his reasons to believe Death Watch is gone, but I suspect, like you, that it remains. Within any culture, there are always those who seek to twist the ideals to suit their darkest desires and impulses. At some point, those figures will step forward, and when they do, I will crush them into dust and take their symbol so that they can never rise again."

If that meant also destroying Pre, then I would do it. As much as I wished not to kill him simply for Naz's sake, if the choice was between appeasing her and leaving an enemy alive to stab me in the back, or striking them down and losing her affection, I would take the latter every day of the year. It was the only logical choice to make, but I hoped I wouldn't lose Naz's feelings because of her father's mad desire to resurrect a deranged group.

… …

---

… …
This story is cross-posted on Fanfiction.net, Archive of Our Own, and Royal Road.
...
For those wishing to join the Discord for the story, the server link is:
For this series: Heart of the Force
For general chaos/Gamer stories: Shiro's Gaming Omniverse
(Those on the story server who engage in chat can earn access to a chapter ~3 weeks before it goes public).

For those who wish to support my writing, and get access to drafts and completed chapters anywhere from 1 to 4 months earlier head to one of the links below:
Patreon: USSExplorer
Kofi: USSExplorer

---

Regardless if you join the discord or support my writing, I hope you enjoy the story and suggestions, valid criticisms, and ideas are always welcome.
And of course;

May the Force be with you. Always​

 

[stads]

nice chapter thx for writing it
good to see hk got to test that he is still up to standards on the hutt moon for safety reasons that is ofcourse

 

[Dragonslayer Ornstein]

Always a treat to get another chapter of this epic, thanks for the effort @USSExplorer, I'm grateful for every bit you do!

 

[Reshi35]

Review: A New Player in the Force by USSExplorer (From beginning to chapter "Living Planet 2")

Overall: 9/10. For me a 10/10 feels structurally impossible at this scope, but this is as close as a fanfic realistically gets. I've been reading continuously for the past month, and I wanted to write this both to thank the author and background team for the extremely impressive work, and to get a few things off my chest that I keep noticing precisely because I'm so invested. But first and foremost, thank you for this story, I am so thankful and it has just been a joy to read for me. So thank you author and team for this mightily impressive fan fiction and story!

PS: At time of writing I have reached chapter Living Planet 2.

What works for me

• Prose quality. The writing is visual, well-paced, and feels professional.
• Characterization across a huge cast. Characters feel real and consistent whether you like them or not, and the POV shifts each carry a distinct voice. That's hard to pull off.
• Scope, arcs, and subplots. The overall structure and the smaller threads are genuinely interesting and feel deliberately constructed rather than improvised.
• Fight scenes. With this many abilities and options on the table, choreography is brutally hard, and it lands well. There are moments where I want to yell "just use telekinesis" (e.g. Tedra nearly being captured and thrown through an air duct), but even there the narrative usually explains why Cam reaches for the lightsaber instead.
• Lore and worldbuilding. Consistency with the Star Wars universe is excellent. More importantly, we don't just visit cultures like the Mandalorians, Jedi, and the captured Lokella, we experience them meaningfully. That's a huge differentiator.
• Accessibility. I'm not a SW expert, and the descriptions of species, places, and aliens are vivid enough to carry me through without losing me.
• The Lite Gamer System is generally well-implemented and consistent.
• Lightsaber forms via the System. The detail that Cam learns the mechanics and velocities perfectly but then gets read by senior Jedi precisely because his execution is too clean. That's a beautiful touch.

To the author and background team: none of the below would be worth writing if the story weren't genuinely excellent. The fact that I notice these things at all is because I've been deeply invested for a month straight. Thank you for the work.
I realise this pushback is solely my impression and opinion. I by no means think I am entirely correct, but I'm so immersed in the story that I genuinely needed to get it off my chest. If anything, push back on my pushback if any of you feel like it!

What I want to push back on

1. Changing already-established powers creates confusion

My biggest issue with the System is when already-established rules or powers get changed without clear in-story explanation. To be fair to the author, I know there are arguments the other way: Revan presumably gave a quest using the Force, and the early Player Body concussion was probably meant as a hint that the power had limits. But as a reader, I didn't experience those moments that way. I genuinely thought the Revan quest was just the System granting a quest like any other, and I read the concussion as working within the power's parameters as established (and honestly, I still think that's a defensible reading).

The early chapters set up that the System operates outside the Force, granted by greater-than-Force beings. Reading that, I built a mental model where the System would be Force-agnostic. Later developments contradict this in ways that feel inconsistent rather than revelatory: powers that worked before suddenly don't; TPTB silently alter the Player Body without telling Cam or the reader; Player Mind gets toggled on and off ("only for the council, not combat," then used in combat anyway).

Each individual change might be defensible, but the cumulative effect is that I no longer know what the world's rules are, and that uncertainty repeatedly breaks immersion. When an established rule shifts, I spend the next several chapters second-guessing what I thought I knew instead of just enjoying the story.

2. Cam's emotional maturity around women reads as a much younger character than 28

The MC is a 28-year-old soul in a young body, but in romantic and female interactions he behaves like a stock anime teenage protagonist. Passive, non-communicative, unable to articulate his own feelings even to himself, with girls fawning over him while he just... doesn't react.

This section is the longest because it's the one that genuinely frustrates me, and a single example wouldn't carry the argument. The point is the pattern.

Examples that compound:

• Putting his finger on the lips of young Jedi apprentices and Padmé at age 8 to 10. Why would a 28-year-old in an 8-9 year old's body interact with kids that way? I just only see that in Anime shows.
• Serra, a Jedi girl experiencing her first menstruation and gives him her first kiss (kisses Cam). Cam can't bring himself to talk to her and has to outsource the entire conversation to Master Fay.
• The two Mandalorian girls (14 and 15) are consistently more mature than Cam in every interaction. He's passive, never states his feelings, ignores everything.
• The hospital scene where a girl/Nia kisses him and touches his skin at the shoulder wound. He does not break the kiss or her touching him, Cam gives zero reaction either way. Later the narrative frames this as possible sexual assault. The issue isn't whether it qualifies , it's that Cam's complete non-reaction in all their interactions together means she had no signal to read, which makes the framing feel inconsistent with what was actually shown on the page.
• Even at the Living Planet Arc, where Cam supposedly draws a line, the girl/Bo still instigates the makeout and the bed scene. The morning after, he demands "Why?" from her, asking her to do the emotional work again, without articulating his own position.

He managed it once with Serra, but only after Fay laid all the groundwork. He never internalizes it.

The hormone explanation doesn't carry the weight the story asks it to. Hormones don't erase a 28-year-old's capacity to say a sentence. Serra, Bo, and Nia are all more mature than him, and Serra is an isolated Jedi. The cultural Mandalorian maturity argument doesn't cover it either, because being culturally adult doesn't make Cam's passivity adult. Star Wars and this fan fiction is "real world in space"; when the MC behaves like an anime caricature, it pulls hard against the tone the rest of the story is going for.

I think I may be too harsh, but it just feels to me so tonally jarring in a story that's otherwise so grounded. Sorry if I am way off here.

3. The Republic critique lacks counterweight

From the start through the first Vong encounter, the larger plot machinery hammers a consistent message: the Senate is corrupt, slavery persists, wealth is hoarded, the Jedi are too entangled with the Senate, the Jedi have billions of credits sitting in the bank doing nothing (with a brief explanation that the Senate wouldn't approve of the Jedi actually using the money for good), the Outer/Mid/Core divide is rotten. Hutt space, Coruscant's lower levels, Tedra's backstory, Gar instantly diagnosing how the first war will go, Cam helps funding relief for an entire species the Senate is stated to practically ignore, the High Council's handling of Dooku and the Mandalorians. It's the same drumbeat from many angles.

The critiques aren't wrong. But this is a galactic-scale Republic, and we never see anywhere it functions. There's no counterweight, no perspective. Pointing at what's broken is easy; showing what working governance would even look like is the harder and more interesting question, and the story so far doesn't engage with it. The High Council's more balanced handling of Cam after the Dark Sect and Vos torture is a small step in that direction, but it stands out precisely because almost nothing else does.

I get that much of this is Cam's POV and reflects his views, but the POV shifts are an opportunity to complicate the picture, and they mostly reinforce it instead.

 

[USSExplorer]

The Dragon Rises 1

… …
​

I sat in a small room, the sounds of the outside world ignored as I checked over my armour and equipment. The options added to my armour for combat were all lethal, which would be the same for my opponent, as this was a duel in which nothing was held back. My beskad was attached to my hip, though my lightsaber wasn't. Currently, that rested in the hands of Anakin as he and others stood nearby watching me as I sat silently.

I took a deep breath, the latest of many, as I kept trying to get used to the odd sensation of not being able to sense the Force or those around me. Once it had been settled that I would be duelling today, in front of hundreds of Clan leaders and several thousand other warriors, I resolved myself to win this duel without the Force present.

When I'd defeated Olaf Spars on Naboo, I'd kept my usage of the Force internal; however, I'd still be able to draw upon it. Since Alor Olaf, for all his impressive showing as a warrior, only led a minor Clan that didn't have any major allies, I saw no issue with using the Force internally in that duel. Today, however, I did.

As part of the agreement that I'd reached with Adonai and Torrhen for gaining their support for my rise to Mand'alor, I had to duel both for control of their Houses and do so publicly before many of the Clan leaders who supported them. As such, I'd decided to sever myself from the Force for these duels, the first of which would be taking place today.

While I'd known it was possible to consciously sever oneself from the Force, it wasn't something I had learned before taking Natural Evolution. Thankfully, Adas' holocron was able to teach me the power after I'd explained why I wished to learn it. The gatekeeper had seemed impressed by my choice to fight without the advantage of the Force at my disposal, suggesting it was right and honourable that a great warrior proved themselves better than others by not using their best weapon. I suspected he had more to say on the matter, but I'd not lingered on the topic, instead diving into learning how the power worked and applying it to myself.

I looked at the fingers of my mechanical limb, moving them around as I focused on accepting that the Force wasn't with me currently. The sensation of it not being there was, to put it mildly, discomforting, yet because I had lived a life without the Force before being reborn in this universe, it felt like a return to how I had been back then. A reminder that for all the power the Force offered, it wasn't unstoppable nor guaranteed to always be with you.

"It's strange. I can see you, but I can't feel you."

I lifted my head and looked at the speaker, offering her a smile. "It's even stranger for me, Karia. To not be able to call upon the Force in any way, not even to gain the slightest hint of what everyone in this place is thinking, feels wrong. As if a part of me is missing."

"Why are you doing this?"

As I looked at Sariss, readying to answer her question, she shifted, slipping partially behind Anakin. I held back an amused chuckle at the display and at how Anakin used his free arm to shield her. Not because I was a threat, but because it offered Sariss comfort, and Anakin was willingly choosing to protect her.

"It is the way of my people," I answered her, but also Anakin. The boy was standing there silently, my lightsaber in one hand, looking at me carefully. I didn't need the Force to tell what was on his mind. "A warrior must show themselves capable if others are to follow them."

"You did so on Naboo!" Anakin shot back, hints of anger and fear in his voice. "You proved you could lead the Mando'ade into battle."

"And now I must prove that I can lead them as a warrior who will sound the drums of war," I replied. I stood and moved towards Anakin, placing my organic hand on his shoulder. "Do not fear for me, Anakin. I will not die this day, nor any day in the near future. I don't need the Force to be certain of that."

He held my gaze for a moment before looking down at the floor. As I watched him, his grip tightened on the hilt of my lightsaber; his fear growing stronger with each passing moment. It was understandable he was feeling like this, as there was a chance I could die in this duel – it would be fought under full terms – and the idea he would lose me only a few years after I adopted him following Shmi's death was no doubt raging inside him.

"He's right," Sariss all but whispered into the boy's ear as she shifted closer to his back. "I can feel it's not his time."

"You can't be certain of that," Anakin replied, seemingly trying to control his emotions so he didn't snap at the girl. His head came up and his eyes, blazing with worry, found mine. "I can't lose you."

"You won't," I replied, squeezing his shoulder. At least as best as I could, given that he was wearing his armour. "If you can't trust the Force, then trust me. Torrhen Ordo is a great warrior, but I know I'm better."

While I said that with complete conviction to reassure him, I doubted that to be the case. Yes, while my non-lightsaber combat skills, at least those applicable to the weapons I'd chosen for this duel, were all Master tier or higher, and I'd fought in many battles, Torrhen was older, wiser, and far more experienced in combat, but I should have a few tricks up my sleeve for this battle.

The issue was that for every trick I revealed today, Adonai would be aware of it when I duelled him in a week's time. Bo was telling me what she could about her father's fighting style, but she couldn't reveal everything as it would be a betrayal of her family and Clan. Still, the fact she was at least willing to do so showed how committed and devoted she was to me and my goals, which, given she was the first to suggest I become Mand'alor, even if it had been said half-jokingly, was reassuring. I just wondered if her support would remain as strong after I defeated and possibly injured her father.

"I know, but I'm still scared."

I moved closer, letting my hand slide around Anakin's shoulder so I could pull him into a half-hug. "If you weren't scared, then I'd think you didn't know what was at stake. Every time we step into battle, be it a duel like this or on a battlefield on some far-off world, there is the risk of death. Fear reminds you of what you are fighting for and what you might lose if you fail. However, fear only ever wins if you let it. So long as you use that fear to power your actions, you will never lack the courage to survive a battle and live to fight another day."

Anakin grasped a section of my underweave that was exposed as he pressed his head into the beskar covering my stomach. "Okay," he said weakly, his voice half-muffled by my armour.

I stayed like that for a few moments, ignoring the way Karia looked on in amusement and how Sariss seemed conflicted; one hand still holding onto Anakin's back while she tried to stay close to him without coming too close to me.

A knock at the door had me release Anakin from my hold, and I turned to face the door as it opened. Osto Ordo walked in, flanked by Jadaka Tyri and a third warrior I didn't recognise.

"It is time," Osto stated, towering over everyone as he always seemed to do. "We will escort you to the Yamika be Verda."

I nodded and stepped forward, letting Anakin and the two females fall in behind me. "I'm ready."

Osto nodded and shifted so that I could exit the room. Before I could, however, Jadaka stepped forward. "Why are you doing this?" He asked bluntly, a hint of barely constrained anger in his tone. "House Ordo and House Kryze are your allies and backed you when you became Mando'ade. Why do you choose to reject that friendship?"

I smiled at the heir of Clan Tyri. Unlike his father and a select few other Clan leaders in the two Houses, he was, like the majority of the House members, unaware of my intentions and that Torrhen and Adonai had been the ones to propose these duels.

"When I win, I shall tell you and the others why," I replied firmly. There was a flicker of something on Osto's face, and I wondered if he knew more than he should. Curious about what both of them felt about what was happening today, and to learn who the third warrior was, I used Observe, thankful it wasn't severed from me along with the Force.

Osto Ordo
Race: Human
Level: 27
Health: 100%
Age: 28
Force Potential: Low
Threat Potential: Intermediate
Reputation: Trusted Friend
Affiliation Loyalty: Clan Ordo (100%), House Ordo (87%), Bryn Tyri (86%)
Emotional State: Curious/Cautious/Amused
Osto is looking forward to seeing your battle against his father, though he is uncertain if either of you will emerge unscathed.
He is also wondering if what his father hinted at when they spoke about this duel is true, while being amused by his brother-in-law's confusion.
...

Jadaka Tyri
Race: Human
Level: 29
Health: 100%
Age: 30
Force Potential: Low
Threat Potential: Intermediate
Reputation: Liked Acquaintance
Affiliation Loyalty: Clan Tyri (95%), House Ordo (80%), Vallo Marric (81%)
Emotional State: Angered/Confused
Jakada is furious about why you are challenging Alor Torrhen for control of the House.
He knows there must be a reason, but none will tell him. Not his father, brother-in-law, or any other.
...

Sol Tragan
Race: Human
Level: 26
Health: 100%
Age: 27
Force Potential: Low
Threat Potential: Intermediate
Reputation: Disliked
Affiliation Loyalty: Clan Tragan (91%), Faon Kurn (89%), House Ordo (75%)
Emotional State: Confused/Distrustful/Angered
Sol is uncertain why you wish to challenge Torrhen Ordo for control of the House and dislikes you because you were once a Jedi.
He is irritated as he knows there is much happening, but no one will tell him why.
...
​

It was amusing, though I kept it internal, that none of the trio was fully aware of why I was challenging Torrhen today. From what I could gather, Osto had spoken with his father about the duel and thus had some hint of the reasoning, though he lacked confirmation.

All three were loyal to their Clan and House, and going by the fact that Osto's wife, Bryn, was listed for him, I assumed the new names mentioned for Jadaka and Sol were their spouses as well. It was interesting that only Osto was fully committed to his Clan, though neither of the other two was disloyal, as otherwise the Clan and House loyalties wouldn't be listed.

The fact that all three were around the same level and age as Quinlan caught my eye, and I wondered if, once my challenges against Torrhen and Adonai were completed, the trio could be persuaded to spar with the Kiffar and Aayla.

Those two would be somewhere in the stands, watching as guests of House Kryze today. Like almost everyone else, both remained in the dark as to why I was fighting for control of House Ordo today, and I suspected that when I emerged, and they couldn't sense me through the Force, they would be concerned. However, once the duel was over – provided I was victorious – then they, along with the others gathered, would be made aware of my reasoning and intentions.

Jadaka stared hard at me, probably trying to determine if there was more to my reply than was said. After grunting in annoyance, he stepped forward and, with Osto, led me and those with me towards the chamber. Sol fell into step at our rear, and as I passed him, I didn't catch any hint as to how he felt about the duel. At least not anything more than Observe had told me.

The walk was done in silence, with Anakin, Sariss, and Karia a few steps behind me, which gave me time to centre myself and give my plans one final mental look-over. I had faith in them, but it would soon be time to see how well they survived contact with an enemy in battle.

The corridors were lined with guards, each proudly bearing the crest of House Ordo. I couldn't see their faces as they all wore their helmets, but I was sure that every one of them was glaring at me. They no doubt considered me dishonourable if not treacherous for attempting to take control of House Ordo after Torrhen had been one of the first to back me when I became Mando'ade.

"You should not be here."

The words came from Osto as, when we neared the great doors that led to the chamber proper, a familiar figure was seen leaning against the wall.

Bo pushed herself off the wall, giving the far larger and older warrior an amused grin. "Why should I not? He is mine," she stated, pointing at me firmly.

"You are not married, Bo-Katan, and Alor Adonai is standing neutral over today's events. If you enter with Alor Cameron, many will question on which side House Kryze stands."

Bo rolled her eyes at Jadaka's words. "I am well aware of the rules of our people," she responded in a tone with barely controlled annoyance. "But I must speak with him before he enters the hall."

Osto shared a look with Jadaka before sighing loudly. "Why can you not respect our traditions?" he muttered as he ran a hand down his face.

"Because it relates to him and what he represents," Bo shot back with a knowing grin. Unlike those before us, she knew why I was challenging Torrhen and her father, and supported me without reservation, and it seemed she was enjoying rubbing the fact that she knew in the face of Osto and the others.

"You have two minutes," Osto eventually said before stepping a bit further forward to grant me some privacy. Jadaka followed, though not before glaring at Bo with enough intent that if he could use the Force, I suspected Bo would've been reduced to ash.

Bo moved closer, giving Jadaka a snort of dismissal that just had to anger the man, though beyond clenching his fists, he didn't respond. Once she was closer, Bo slid a hand up my arm and slipped inside my personal space.

"Are you ready for this?" She asked. I nodded, and her grin widened. "Good. I have followed you since Zonama Sekot and will follow you regardless of what happens, but if you lose today, I will be angry." Her hand reached my chin, and she pulled my head down so she could kiss me.

I savoured the kiss, missing the taste of her lips and the presence of her body against mine as I'd spent the last few days in isolation working on preparing for today's duel and growing accustomed to having myself severed from the Force.

As she broke the kiss, Bo stared into my eyes; the fires of desire raging in her gaze. "Be safe," she leaned closer and placed her lips against my ear. "For all our sake."

She pulled back after saying that and moved to one side, allowing me to pass. I gave her a look, wondering what she meant by her final words, but I couldn't linger on them, and as we reached the doors to the chamber, I had put Bo and everything she represented to one side. My mind was focused fully on the duel that awaited me.

Once at the doors, Osto and Jadaka moved to one side, and then each pushed a door inward. Beyond them, in the light of the chamber, I saw two figures standing waiting.

"Head with Osto," I said to Anakin as I turned to face him, Sariss, and Karia. "He and Bo will escort you to the stands above so you can watch my victory."

There was a snort from Jadaka, no doubt at the confidence I had that I would defeat Torrhen Ordo, but I ignored that and focused on my ad, his friend, and the woman who watched over them.

"Okay." Anakin paused as if considering saying something else. He didn't, offering me a final nod before moving away, and I turned back and walked confidently into the chamber.

As I emerged, grumblings rose from those above me. The noise came from the various Clan leaders, their heirs, and other important figures within House Ordo. I didn't need the force to know they were all infuriated by my decision to challenge Torrhen, no doubt seeing it as a betrayal of the alliance between our Clans. It wasn't, but until the duel was over, they would continue to think so.

As I neared the centre of the chamber, I offered a nod of greeting to Adonai and Torrhen. Both were outfitted in their armour, though only Torrhen was dressed for war on an unrestrained scale. Adonai was still armed, as no Mando'ade would ever be otherwise, but for each weapon that I saw on his frame, Torrhen seemed to have at least two.

What truly stood out was the large hilt that was exposed over his right shoulder. Normally, holstering a blade there would be awkward for unsheathing it, but I suspected Torrhen's weapon, whatever it might be, was held in place by magnetic clamps, removing that issue. It did, however, leave the problem that I had nothing in my arsenal designed to engage such a blade, meaning I was going to have to wait for an opening in his attacks to slip in closer once combat moved to close quarters.

Adonai offered me a wry smile before he turned and, in a voice that spread throughout the chamber and the stands above, spoke.

"Mando'ade! We are gathered here today, in this hallowed ground, to settle a dispute between two warriors. Alor Torrhen has led House Ordo for over twenty years, leading those who followed him to glory in battle. However, an ally of his, Alor Cameron, deems that glory has faded, and it is time for a new Clan to lead the House!"

As he spoke, cheers erupted at the mention of Torrhen and his past, while when I was brought up, something akin to barking came from the warriors above. A sound that signified they were unimpressed by the challenge and accusation. I agreed with them about the accusation, but the words Adonai had spoken were the custom, and we couldn't reveal the true reason for this challenge until after it was completed.

"As is our way, Alor Torrhen has accepted the challenge, and before you all, in this sacred place, the matter of control of House Ordo will be determined. Victory, as would be found on the battlefield, is simple. Either kill your opponent or defeat them so that they have no way to continue fighting."

As Adonai finished, there was a round of cheering and chanting from those watching. Most of the voices were in support of Torrhen, which was entirely expected. He gave me a smirk as if amused by the overwhelming backing he held, but I ignored that. We'd both known coming in that I'd be lacking in supporters, so it was neither a shock nor something that mattered. What did was that I not only won, but proved I was worthy of leading the House in Torrhen's place.

Adonai looked back at us. "Commence once the gong sounds."

With that, he turned and strode away, departing the chamber floor. I gave Torrhen a nod, which he returned before we both slipped our helmets on. Once it was secure, the HUD fired up, providing me with a run-down of Torrhen's armour and weapons. I whistled as the list grew. While I was armed for battle, he was armed for war.

Moving back to generate some space, my mind fired, running through ways to counter every weapon that Torrhen was carrying while also considering that there might be, such as with myself, extra hidden from sight. Torrhen lacked the artificial limb that I had, and thus couldn't hide weapons in his body, but I was sure there was more to his armament than met the eye.

My feet shifted, settling me into a base combat stance, one that limited the amount of my frame that was exposed to Torrhen's sight. He adopted a similar position, one hand sliding to his rear hip where a pistol was currently holstered. Like myself, his armour was composed of beskar, meaning this duel was going to be a kriffing pain, and several strategies I'd concocted had been thrown out the moment I'd realised that.

It felt odd to be readying myself without calling on the Force; the lack of extra sensations crafted an unsettling emptiness in my mind and soul. Yes, the HUD could track every slight movement Torrhen made, but I didn't have the suprasensory ability to predict his movements and actions before he took them, nor the ability to sense danger and react before it was upon me.

Time slowed as we awaited the sound to begin the duel. My fingers shifted, mere millimetres from one of the blasters at my hip. Commands were sent to the mechanical limb, prepping the various components installed for this duel.

The moment the gong sounded, we both moved. Blasters came up, sending bolts of heated plasma across the chamber.

My armour might be able to handle the blows, but there were still sections where I was relying on the underweave. While it was also made of beskar, it was so thin that blows against it were painful, and it could be ruptured with sufficient force. The same weakness of the armour was true of Torrhen, and we were both aiming at the sections of exposed underweave while shifting to protect our weaknesses.

The HUD reported bolts coming in, my mind racing to decide which to avoid and which to trust the armour to endure.

I slid to my right, avoiding a volley from Torrhen. At the same time, my free arm came up, and twin darts raced from my vambrace.

A grunt slipped from me as Torrhen blocked the darts with an energy shield formed above his forearm.

Several of his bolts struck me, though through timing my movements, I ensured all clashed against beskar and not underweave. My bolts crashed against his armour and shield as we moved.

The chamber was devoid of cover, forcing us to keep moving as we sought an opening. The air was thick with plasma generated by the gas of our weapons, while above us, many were cheering.

Such sounds were ignored by my mind and semi-muted by the armour, but I knew they were there.

My feet kept moving as my blaster sang. I sought an opening while Torrhen did likewise.

Reports of bolts crashing failingly against my armour were reported in turn, while those that struck Torrhen were countered. Nothing was landing in key areas, nor were my bolts striking in the same section of armour. Even if they did, it wouldn't do much, if any damage.

I stepped forward, seeking to close the distance. It would limit the time Torrhen had to react to my bolts. The same was true for me, but I trusted myself to endure.

Torrhen matched my movements while continuing to circle, causing us to shift in ever-decreasing spirals.

The time taken for bolts to travel between each other lessened as we neared each other.

Testing the moment, a blast came from my mechanical limb. Electric sparks danced in the air as they surged for Torrhen.

His shield took the attack, dispersing the energy and filling the air with blue sparks.

With his HUD's sight partially blocked, I rushed forward, blaster blazing as my other hand reached for my sheathed beskad.

A warning from my armour had me stop, and I jumped back. The ground where I would've stood exploded, sending dust and debris into the air.

My free hand came up, instinctively shielding my eyes. I realised the mistake a fraction of a second before a hand came surging through the dust.

The debris sparked as I struck the small shield generated by Torrhen's vambrace, though my focus was more on his fingers as they rushed towards my exposed chest.

My hips twisted, and I pivoted on the balls of my feet. My mechanical limb came down, seeking to grasp his wrist, only for the fingertips to crash against his shield.

A mental command had the fingertips emit a pulse, and his shield failed. Before I could grasp the wrist, however, I caught sight of Torrhen's blaster as I emerged with the rest of him through the dust cloud.

Torrhen pulled back the empty hand, my fingers catching the edge of his vambrace that had generated his shield.

The blaster in his hand sang as I felt metal strain against metal.

I moved, seeking to avoid the incoming fire without losing my grasp on his vambrace.

A grunt slipped from me as two bolts, no, the HUD reported three, struck a section of exposed underweave.

As I jerked back, twisting to avoid more fire, I heard the sound of metal straining and felt the fingers of my mechanical limb dig in, if just for a moment, into the vambrace on Torrhen's arm.

The HUD reported more bolts from Torrhen's blaster striking me, though all were, thanks to a contortion that would leave me hurting after, against the beskar plates. At the same time, small sections of metal and electrical components were pulled into the air.

I spun on the ball of one foot, pivoting to Torrhen's unarmed side. He turned in response, his blaster singing out as he sought to strike my underweave.

My blaster was also firing, though few of my bolts were landing as I was more focused on my free hand.

My HUD reported several bolts striking my back. Another grunt escaped my lips as some of those once again found underweave.

I ended my move, my beskad now free of its sheath, slashing the air.

Torrhen moved back quickly, ensuring the weapon was unable to strike his damaged vambrace. The move made clear to me that it was still semi-functional.

My arm shifted, rolling the momentum of the blade, angling it back towards Torrhen. Our blasters continued to sing, launching hot bolts of plasma at each other. More of his bolts than mine struck, but I was fine with that. My focus was on my blade.

I had to strike the vambrace or, failing that, a section of underweave. The edge of my blade would cut through to his skin.

Torrhen, sensing this, continued to move; his body weaving to avoid my blade as it sliced the air.

Seeing this wasn't working, I shifted tactics.

My blaster shifted focus. No longer did I try to strike Torrhen's underweave. Instead, I waited until I was sure and then depressed the trigger.

Bolts raced from my blaster, striking Torrhen's hand. Even as my HUD reported more strikes against my underweave, and flashes of pain erupted in my side, Torrhen was forced to drop his blaster.

We both shifted back, our HUDs reporting the danger.

The blaster exploded; one of my bolts had struck it fatally. The air filled with the light of the ignited tibanna gas, blinding me for a moment.

Still, through overwhelming light, I continued to fire, hoping to strike Torrhen based on his last known position and movement before his weapon had destroyed itself.

The dust and debris began to settle, the bolts racing through it, forming holes, granting sight beyond. Movement was spotted; my blaster sang, seeking its target.

My eyes widened as the dust was slashed. I danced back, the barrel of my blaster barely avoiding the tip of a war blade.

Torrhen emerged through the remaining dust, looking like the conquering warrior he was. His blade slashed upwards, forcing me to scramble back.

My blaster continued to fire, seeking to distract or divert his focus. Each strike against his armour or underweave was another sign the plan was failing.

I shifted my stance, drawing on the keys of Makashi to move around the attacking blade. It was no lightsaber, but Torrhen knew how to use the two-handed sword. One that my HUD reported was made of beskar.

My feet danced on the floor, moving with the experience of wearing my armour to avoid his strikes. There was no wasted movement from him, no flaw in his early style. Each attack flowed formlessly into the next; the air sliced and severed by the razor-sharp edge of his blade as he sought to strike me down.

I pivoted on one heel and shifted at my waist. The blade slashed down in front of me. A quick backpedalling ensured the upstroke of his blade only barely clipped my chest piece. Sparks flew, and the air was filled with the clangs of beskar crashing against beskar.

As I moved, my blaster continued to sing. Bolts struck Torrhen, but each glanced off his armour.

I tossed the pistol at him, aiming it to strike near the crossguard of his weapon.

The move did no damage and tragically failed to even force him to shift his attack. It didn't even cause his speed to waver.

While moving, seeking to remain clear of the blade, I shifted my beskad from metal fingers to ones of flesh.

My blade came up, parrying his next strike with as little effort as I could manage. I was driven back still; the power of his attack was greater than I'd expected.

From my mechanical limb, darts raced out, aimed at where his underweave would be exposed.

His stance shifted, the blade slicing the air and deflecting one of the darts. The others missed the target, either glancing off beskar or sailing harmlessly past him.

Regardless, it crafted a small opening.

I stepped forward and thrust my beskad, seeking the hands holding his blade. At the same time, as he angled his weapons back to try and strike me, my mechanical limb came up.

I grunted as my fingers closed around the blade. My arm protested at the sudden force it had to counter, but I knew I could take it. Torrhen might be a great warrior, but I was stronger than any regular Human. Perhaps even close to the pinnacle of our species, thanks to me taking Stats Boost.

My arm strained to keep his blade under control. He fought to free his blade even while shifting, trying to ensure my beskad couldn't strike his hands.

My blade wouldn't be enough to break his armour, but if I wanted to strike the vambraces. If I could damage them and render whatever weapons he had within inoperable, it would grant me an advantage in the fight.

The air filled with flames; fire raced from his forearm, soaring up his blade and filling the air around the hilt.

I growled in annoyance, even as my beskad moved closer. The HUD reported the rapid temperature rise. The beskar covering the limb would hold, but I grew concerned it might damage the internal mechanics or motors and servos that were exposed at the joints.

Still, I retained my grip, and my blade struck his wrists; beskar screeching against metal as I slashed his vambraces.

The flame died away; either the nozzle was damaged or the fuel-line severed. Either way, the weapon was inoperable.

Torrhen shifted, and my eyes widened. He'd pulled one leg back and pushed on his blade. The sudden movement caught me off guard.

I stumbled forward, filling the space where he had just been standing. Only my grasp on his blade stopped me from tumbling.

He took advantage of that grip; his blade coming down. The movement had no intention of striking me, but it cost me the lever I was using to control my balance.

I let go of the blade and rolled forward.

Behind me, as I ended the move, stone and dirt were cut by the weapon.

Turning even as I stood, one foot sliding behind for stability, my beskad and hand came up, ready to deflect or grasp his blade.

My eyes widened as the tip of his blade surged at my chest, aimed right below the plate of beskar there.

I slapped at the blade with my hand while shifting my body to that side. Once again beskar screeched against beskar as the edge of his blade scraped against my chest plate.

I grunted when, in a display of skill and control, Torrhen shifted the movement of his weapon and drove the flat of the blade into my chest.

Stumbling backward steps were taken to minimise the blow, though as I did so, Torrhen withdrew the blade, dragging it down my armour.

I snarled as the HUD reported my underweave was slashed at one side. The cut was shallow, but it was a warning. Torrhen wouldn't be as easily beaten as I'd hoped.

I shifted, ignoring the pain of my first wound so that the next swing of Torrhen's blade sliced only the air. My beskad thrust forward, dragging itself over one of his vambraces, increasing the damage done earlier.

My body twisted, moving to avoid a strike from Torrhen, my mechanical limb coming around to punch the flat of his blade.

The move wasn't pretty, but the strike worked, and his pattern was knocked off.

Before he could recover, I pushed forward. My beskad came in low, angling for a section of underweave.

Torrhen dropped one arm, removing the hand from his hilt. My blade struck his armour, the blade sliding clear.

Before he could re-secure the hilt, my mechanical limb closed around his wrist. I twisted at my waist and turned on my feet, pulling him towards me.

As his footing slipped, I dropped low, dragging his arm with me. His leg caught on mine. His body fell forward as I released my grasp, letting him crash face-first into the ground.

Before he could recover, my beskad came around; the tip digging into a section of underweave.

His body shifted. His free arm came around to smash me away.

I took the blow and then trapped the arm against my side even as we fell to the ground together.

Another grunt came from me as the pommel of his blade crashed into my other side. Ignoring that, I pushed my beskad forward, slashing at the inside of his elbow.

The HUD reported his underweave was breached again, though it was another shallow wound.

The air was driven from my lungs as he drove the pommel into my gut. I snarled as one of his feet came crashing down on the inside of my knee.

My blade slashed; each strike aimed at the exposed underweave. Not all struck. Often, they were deflected by his frantic strikes as he sought to escape my grasp.

He shifted his weight, seeking to roll off me and slip free of my grasp on his other arm.

I rolled with him, pushing him down onto the floor.

My beskad continued to strike when it could, inflicting as many minor wounds as I could manage as I did my best to ignore the pain each of his powerful, frantic strikes caused as he battled to escape my grasp.

I snarled as I felt something dig into the back of my thigh. The HUD reported it was his blade.

As I realised he'd dropped it, I felt his now free hand come around and grasp the arm I was using to trap his other arm against my side.

I held on with all my might, my enhanced body giving all it could to ensure I didn't lose my hold.

The fist holding my beskad struck the back of Torrhen's neck, targeting the weak point in his armour there. The HUD reported an opening, one through which I could thrust my blade, but I didn't take it. Victory would be mine, but I wouldn't kill one of my most important supporters to gain it.

I had to show him, I had to show everyone watching, that I was powerful enough to defeat Torrhen without ending his life.

A curse fell from my lips, though no one else would hear, as Torrhen resisted my blow. I struck again and again, each punch harder than the last, even as I felt his fingers grasping my arm as he tried to wrench himself free.

Part of me wished I could call on the Force. With it, I could end this duel easily. I understood I couldn't. I had to prove to myself that I was worthy of the throne I sought. That I could be the figure that others followed into war.

Sensing the attacks weren't working, I shifted tactics. My legs moved, locking around Torrhen's waist. My free arm moved, sliding around Torrhen's shoulder.

His free hand slipped from my other arm as he sensed my intentions. His fingers grasped my forearm, fighting to stop my blade as it moved around his front.

I snarled, putting everything I had into the movement, forcing the tip of my beskad forward inch by agonising inch.

Torrhen fought, his fingers digging into sections of exposed underweave. Pain wracked my arm as he tried to crush the limb, but I didn't relent. I had to keep my weapon moving.

I roared in fury as the seconds ticked by. The frantic struggle between us, a war of dominance between our Clans.

A wave of delight rushed through me as I felt the tip of my blade brush against metal. The HUD projected where the edge was and how close I was to striking the finishing blow.

Torrhen grew more frantic. His fingers dug deeper even as he rocked and rolled, seeking to break free of my grasp. I didn't let him, moving in time as best as I could, even as the blade inched ever closer to its goal.

As I felt my blade slide off the metal and dig into the underweave, I roared. My voice filled the chamber as my beskad slowly sliced into the flesh of Torrhen's neck.

The pressure of my blade increased even as Torrhen continued to struggle. He could sense, I hoped, that the fight was over, but he was unwilling to surrender. His pride, as great as mine, wasn't ready to accept his defeat. Thus, I pushed the blade further, sinking it deeper into his flesh.

Part of me was panicking. The slightest mistake, the wrong shifting from either of us, would see my blade slice his artery and, barring a small miracle, end his life. I didn't want that, but I wasn't releasing my hold. I just had to wait for him to recognise his loss.

We struggled like that, in the dust and debris on the chamber's floor, for I couldn't tell how long. Each move he made to escape; I countered as best I could without ending his life. Every frantic shift he made to free himself, I stopped, securing my grasp on him further. All that mattered was keeping him trapped until, eventually, he accepted his defeat; a hard thing for such a powerful warrior to do.

"I…" Torrhen's voice echoed in the chamber, the sounds of those watching having at some point fallen away. "I Yield."

The tension in my body and the worry in my mind all fell away at those words, yet I didn't release my hold. There was a chance, however small, that this was a feint. A trap to misdirect my focus.

Torrhen's fingers let go of my arm, his body stopped struggling, and as a cheer – one that was muted and filled with confusion – filled the chamber, I lifted my blade from his throat.

As he rolled off me, I lay back and groaned. My body stung almost everywhere, but it didn't matter. I'd won and taken the first true step towards my rise to become Mand'alor.

… …

---

… …

"I yield."

As the words slipped from Adonai's mouth, I stumbled back, one arm going to my side. I winced, certain now, as the adrenaline wore off, that my ribs were cracked if not broken. The bastard had used his mechanical leg to strike me there, among other places, and one, unlucky for me, strike had found a gap in the armour and crashed into the underweave.

While it had redirected as much of the kinetic force of the strike as it could, Adonai's kick was more than it could handle. At the time, I'd grunted and kept going, knowing I couldn't afford to lose, but now with the battle over, the pain came surging back.

I wished I could use the Force to at least numb the pain. However, as when I had duelled Torrhen, I'd severed myself from it for this battle. Restoring that connection was, like severing oneself from it, not something that could be done in an instant. I had to meditate on the matter and forcibly reopen the pathways I'd closed, overcoming the Force's dislike of me choosing to sever our connection.

As I looked down at Adonai, it was clear he was in worse shape. The chief of Clan Kryze had given as good as he'd gotten, striking me hard and fast with each of his limbs in the final, frantic moments of our duel as he sought to defeat me. I'd fought with my all as well, and in the end, as against Torrhen, my enhanced strength and agility granted me just enough of an edge that I was able, just barely, to overcome him.

Around and above us, warriors cheered and hollered. They sounded more supportive of my victory today than when I'd defeated Torrhen. Hardly a shock, as back then, I only had Anakin and Bo cheering for me. Today I had the backing of House Ord… No, of House Shan.

With Torrhen's defeat, the vast majority of those who had once followed him had, after he had done so first, pledged their strength to me. Not all had, unfortunately, and Torrhen had spoken to several about changing their minds. I didn't know if they had, but I knew he had, at my request, ensured even those who hadn't backed me were present today as I took over the Houses Torrhen formerly led.

Once the pain had subsided as much as it was going to, I stepped forward again and offered my free hand to Adonai. The old warrior chuckled as he reached for it, and then he allowed me to pull him to his feet. He favoured his right leg; a sign I'd perhaps done more damage to his left leg than I'd initially realised, and cradled his broken left arm against his chest.

After he was upright and gave a nod to assure me he could stand under his own power, I released my grasp on his hand. As he used the now free hand to support his broken arm, I turned and looked around the chamber, taking in the faces of those above me.

Most were virtual strangers to me, with even the Alor who had sworn themselves to House Shan after my defeat of Torrhen nothing more than a name, and in most cases, a small fact sheet because of Observe. However, among the crowd, the HUD picked out the faces I sought.

Anakin was cheering wildly, almost dancing with Sariss at his side. The girl seemed less nervous now than she had been at the end of my last battle, but it was clear that if not for Anakin, Karia, and Bo, among others, standing nearby, she would've fallen into herself. Karia was clapping politely, clearly uncertain about why I was again battling for control with someone I called an ally while glancing in confusion at Bo's reaction.

To those who didn't know the Mando'ade, or Bo in particular, the fact that she was cheering after seeing her father defeated would look crazy, or suggest the pair had issues. Both were far from the truth, as she was above everyone here, even Anakin, my strongest backer to become Mand'alor.

At her side, Naz was also cheering, as was her aunt Nia Visla, Asta Ordo, and the rest of Clan Ordo. Beside them, seemingly impressed with my victory was Pre Vizsla.

The current – and by the time I was finished, last – leader of Death Watch, wore a smile of approval, but I didn't need Observe or the Force to know he was fuming internally. He had intended to defeat Adonai and take control of the House before using it to restore Death Watch to what he regarded as its rightful place, leading our people. With my actions today, I'd ensured that wouldn't happen, and by the time everyone left here, his goals would be reduced to little more than whispers in the corners of random cantinas across the sector.

Under my helmet, I smiled, wondering how long it would be before he challenged me. While he was skilled, I didn't feel he was comparable to either Torrhen or Adonai, and if he would not submit, I looked forward to crushing him under my heel. If that cost me Naz's love, then it was a price I was prepared to pay, even if I would do so with a heavy heart.

"Today, before all of you, my fellow Mando'ade, I, Cameron Shan, have defeated Adonai Kryze and taken his House. I call on all of you here, both those of House Shan and those of House Kryze, to stand with me when I lead you into battle! Who will stand at my side?" I called out, turning to make sure I faced every side of the chamber as I spoke.

"Clan Kryze will follow Clan Shan!" Adonai responded, being the first that was expected to do so. He didn't drop to a knee or clasp a hand to his chest – the latter would've been difficult given his broken arm – but his words were spoken with conviction.

"Clan Vizsla will follow Clan Shan." My smile grew wider at hearing my next marked target speak. Pre was digging his own grave by openly pledging his support when I knew he would at some point betray me and prove himself unworthy of leadership, along with being a coward.

"Clan Ordo will follow Clan Shan!"

"Clan Saxon will follow Clan Shan!"

"Clan Tyri will follow Clan Shan!"

"Clan Vosak will follow Clan Shan!"

"Clan Tragan will follow Clan Shan!"

I stood in the centre of the chamber's floor, listening as the confirmation came in from various Clan leaders. As they did, Adonai moved to my side and placed his good hand on my shoulder. "You fought well," he said quietly, ensuring only I heard his words. "And with this victory, have taken another step to becoming Mand'alor. However, even among those now swearing themselves, many will question why you are doing so."

"Then I should give them a cause worthy of their support," I replied before stepping forward, slipping from Adonai's grasp.

"Mando'ade!" I called out in Mando'a, cutting off the declarations of support from those above. "I stand before you today not as the head of House Shan, not as Alor of Clan Shan, not even as the victor in this battle. I stand before you as your brother. I remember the sins of our past, I recall our defeats and victories, our moments of glory and days of disgrace and despair!"

I looked at those above me, noting how all had fallen silent, a sense of curiosity filling the hall save those few who understood exactly where I was going with my seemingly impromptu speech.

"I did not challenge Alor Adonai nor Alor Torrhen because they were weak or had lost their way. Nor did I do so for glory I could selfishly hoard. No, I challenged them because they are strong! They are true warriors of Mandalore!" A cheer went up from the crowd, many pleased to acknowledge the men they had, until today, followed into battle over the last few decades.

"We are a people forged in war, tempered in battle and bound by honour! Since the days of Mand'alor the First, when our ancestors came to this world and conquered the great beasts that ruled it, we have sought glory and honour in battles across the galaxy. It did not matter who ruled elsewhere, be it a Republic, an Empire, Jedi, or Sith. If they were strong, we would fight! This is what it means to be a warrior of Mandalore! A promise that cannot be broken!"

"Yet today, we have passed a crossroad, one caused by others enforcing their will upon us! After the disgrace of the Dral'Han, after the cowards of the Republic attacked us and slaughtered our children because they feared our strength, we have turned our blades inward! We have allowed those who are weak, corrupt, and decadent to manipulate and control our people! NO MORE!"

"The Republic and Jedi, those who struck us down fearing our strength, have grown weak. They cower in their towers that stretch to the heavens, believing that no power in the universe can challenge them. That nothing can ever end their thousand years of peace!" I spat on the ground at my feet. "They lie to themselves, as they did to us when they said we could sit at their table! We are not fools who beg for scraps at the base of their towers. We are warriors who should rule!"

"The Republic talks of justice and equality; it claims to be a beacon of freedom and liberty. Yet they drown themselves in decay, corruption, and chaos! Slavery runs rampant in the galaxy, from the false gem of Coruscant to the darkened pits of Nar Shaddaa. Those chosen to protect the people of the galaxy instead line their pockets with the suffering and pain of others. They willingly sell their own people into chains to enrich themselves, all while claiming they do so because it's right and just!"

A murmur was building in the crowd above me as my words began to resonate with those listening.

"The Republic is not strong. It is weak, crumbling, and failing. It has lost its will to fight for what it desires. Its people have grown soft and fat while ignoring the suffering of their neighbours because it empowers them!" I moved around, my voice growing more vibrant as my body began to flow with energy. "And what of the Jedi? What of those self-proclaimed defenders of the peace? What do they do?"

A few insults came from the crowd towards the Order, vitriol in the voices.

"They do as their masters command! They act at the behest of the corrupt and deceitful fools in the Republic's Senate while claiming they seek balance and peace. They know the rules are broken, they know the system is immoral, yet they stand as the first line of defence when any dares threaten to expose the Republic's failings!"

"Yet, for hundreds of years, we allowed fools and traitors to stand in our name and bow to the immoral rulers of a broken system! We looked the other way as the galaxy called out for strength and honour! NO MORE!"

"NO MORE!" Came an echoing cry from several listening to my words.

"It is time, my fellow warriors, for the sons and daughters of Mand'alor to rise once again!" I glanced at Adonai, who gave me a nod of encouragement. "We are not fools! We are not corrupt or blinded by greed! We are warriors who follow a code of honour. We fight with conviction!" I pounded my chest, driving beskar against beskar. "We wear our armour not to celebrate days long gone, but because it is a promise we all swore. One forged in fire!"

"For too long, we have been broken and divided. We have allowed our people to wander aimlessly with no goal other than to fight; to remind the galaxy that even in disharmony, we are warriors to be feared and respected. NO MORE!"

"The time to reclaim what was once ours, to remind a flawed galaxy of who and what we are, is at hand! The galaxy does not need more honey-scented words from the lips of another deceiving politician! The people cannot stomach another hollow promise from the corrupt Republic or spineless Jedi! It needs new, strong, powerful leadership! It needs the warriors of Mandalore!"

"OYA! OYA! OYA!" The chant, one meaning many things but always one of positivity and power, echoed around the chamber. I swore I could hear the drum in each of their hearts, the sound that called all of us to battle, beating loudly. For the first time in decades, if not centuries, that beat was growing loud enough that soon the entire galaxy would hear it. However, I wasn't yet finished sounding the clarion call of my people.

"Education and armour. Self-defence, our tribe. Our language and our leader – All help us survive," I continued, recounting the Resol'nare. "Our bond is our creed, our strength, our unity, our destiny to rule! Yet, for too long we have stood disjointed and fractured! That ends today!"

I pounded my chest again. "I stand before you now, not as the leader of my Clan, or head of those who have chosen to follow me. No, I stand before you to claim, before my fellow warriors, that it is time for a new Mand'alor to rise! For us to gather under a single banner, to step out from the centuries of darkness and confusion and show the galaxy the rightful path it should take!"

"It is time for the warriors of Mandalore to rise once more. To shake off the ashes of time and roar to the galaxy that the fire that burns in our hearts can no longer remain silent! We do not beg; we do not bow. We are the sons and daughters of war!"

"We are Mandalorians! We do not ask others for freedom; we take it. We do not bow our heads before injustice and cruelty; we crush it! Let us now, under one banner, go forth and make the galaxy tremble at the sounds of our drums! Let us forge a new path for our people. One the broken Republic can never stop!"

"Mand'alor!" The cheer predictably came from Bo; her voice cutting through the cheers from the others. "Te Shukur'tuur Mand'alor!"

I cringed under my helmet even as the HUD caught the amused smirk Bo wore as she called that out. The title of a Mand'alor was chosen by his people, but the one she was using was not what I would have preferred.

"Te Shukur'tuur Mand'alor!"

My head snapped to glare at Adonai as he matched his daughter's call. I couldn't see his face, but I knew he was laughing at the title Bo had just given me.

"Te Shukur'tuur Mand'alor!"

"Te Shukur'tuur Mand'alor!"

"Te Shukur'tuur Mand'alor!"

I glared up at Bo, finding her looking at me with amusement and affection. "I'll show you a dragon," I muttered to myself, promising to make her pay for making that my title.

… …

---

… …

My lightsaber flicked out, deflecting the incoming blue blade with just the right amount of strength to ensure the attack missed. At the same time, I shifted my feet, turning away from the attacker I'd just protected against to meet the other as they leapt towards me.

In the same motion of deflecting the first lightsaber, my blade came around and clashed with the second. I pushed forward, causing its wielder, still airborne, to be driven backwards. Her lekku swirled around her as she adapted in midair, landing a good five or so metres from me.

Before she could come at me again, I had turned away. My blade had continued its movement, guided by the adoption of Ataru footwork into Makashi velocities, so I could easily face the blade of my first opponent before they could exploit me engaging the Twi'lek.

I smirked as Quinlan grunted, two hands on his hilt as he struck with power. "I had expected better," I muttered, drawing a snarl of anger from the Kiffar even as a chime sounded. One signalling the second phase of this spar.

Just as he applied my strength to his attack, trying to keep me focused on him, my feet glided around the ground. The movement, unseen by him, caused him to stumble forward. I turned with him, bringing my free hand around and driving the edge of my palm down onto the back of his neck.

The strike, empowered by the mechanical nature of my hand, drove Quinlan down, and as I reset my feet, his face crashed hard into the ground.

"You've had weeks to retrain yourselves with what you remember and what I taught, but you're still using the same flawed approaches," I added as I braced, readying to strike at Aayla as she rushed forward.

I could feel the anger in the room as it swirled in the Force. Quinlan was furious that I'd taken him down again, while Aayla was enraged that I had not just endured their assaults, but the moment the time limiter on me attacking expired, had defeated her Master instantly.

It was good that they were drawing on their emotions in battle, but they were still undisciplined. Their rage disrupted their focus and left them over-extended, out of position, and exposed. Something proven by Quinlan's current position, as he enjoyed the taste of the dirt beneath my feet.

"Don't give us that!" Aayla snapped as her blade, thrusting forward towards my midsection, came at me. "Don't look down on us!"

"Why should I not?" I countered as my lightsaber, with clear contemptuous ease, pushed the tip of her blade to one side. The movement exposed her midsection to my blade as I turned my wrist to angle my blade for a strike. "You are beneath me. In skill, experience, and understanding," I added, rubbing salt into their wounded pride.

I slid my lead foot forward, lowering my body and driving the tip of my lightsaber at her. However, before I could fully extend as intended, something interfered with my rear foot.

A grunt fell from me as I saw Quinlan, still on the ground, having grasped my ankle to prevent me from moving.

"Irritating," I muttered as I prepared to drive the heel of my other foot into his skull.

I stopped myself from doing so as the Force, bound to my will, alerted me to a greater danger.

I turned at my waist, shifting as best I could to meet the powerful swing coming in from Aayla. It was overly wide and aggressive. The sort of move that left one exposed after, yet with me unable to easily avoid the attack due to her Master holding my foot as if his life depended on it – which it would if this were true combat – I couldn't avoid the strike as I wished.

My wrist turned, angling my blade so that I could guide her strike away from my chest. At the same time, I slid my free foot back, driving my heel into Quinlan's side.

The Kiffar grunted but impressively maintained his grasp around my other foot. A commendable display of resilience, even if, in the grand scheme, it was worthless.

Adapting to my predicament, I leaned back as my blade clashed with Aayla's. Her swing wasn't easily stopped, even with my superior strength, and doing so would've left our blades locked for a moment; something I suspected she intended as I felt the Force reacting to her desires.

Not wishing to grant her a chance to strike at me with the Force, my mechanical hand came up, and the fingers, encased in beskar, closed around the plasma of her blade.

Her eyes widened in delicious disbelief with a thin side of fear as I trapped her blade with my hand. While that happened, I powered down my lightsaber and then, once her blade had moved just a fraction, reignited it.

The move, one considered risky and something many Force users would avoid doing for the inherent danger of it, meant my blade was now beyond hers and inside her guard.

She pulled, trying to force her blade free. I couldn't keep it trapped forever; however, just being able to ensure she couldn't strike me with it was enough, and the tip of my blade clipped her side.

"Ugh!"

The sound fell from her as the smell of burnt flesh rose, and a smile spread over my face.

"That is your defeat. Again," I said firmly, holding my blade against her skin as a clear warning to accept the loss or suffer a greater wound than wounded pride. I didn't wish to mar her skin, but if she didn't accept defeat, I would ensure the lesson was one seared into her with pain.

"AAAGH!" Aayla screamed, letting the fury that had been building inside explode outward. The Force around her rippled with dark desire and intent; as I waited for her to regain control, I savoured the taste of her fury.

Twi'leks were passionate beings, and without the restraints of the Jedi controlling her, Aayla was more willing to let her emotions out. Something I was more than pleased to see and help guide, so she learnt to temper and control her emotions.

"Fine!" she snapped, though with less aggression than she'd held a few moments before. "But we're getting closer," she added as she powered down her blade.

I did likewise and moved my mechanical hand, now grasping nothing, back. "Perhaps. If one considered such progress suitable for a Youngling."

I felt Quinlan's grasp on my ankle disappear and heard him rolling on the ground. "You really don't know how to be nice," he muttered, though there was no venom in his tone. "I know I've finally recovered enough to surpass Aayla, so we're not doing that bad."

"No, but you should be doing better," I countered before stepping closer to Aayla, slipping inside her air as I did. "Especially you. You recall your lessons with a lightsaber but continue to doubt yourself." I stared into her eyes before she looked away, her lekku rippling.

In the Force, there was a faint shift coming from her, and I reached out, grasping that shift and pulling what it was that disturbed her into the open. A sigh fell from me even as she gasped at me, so easily overcoming her outermost mental defences.

"You need to stop blaming yourself for those who died while Karkko was manipulating you," I said, my voice barely above a whisper as I spoke to the small mound that female Twi'leks had in place of ears. "You failed to resist him, but it is understandable that you did, given your condition at the time. However, you are better than that, and in time will be strong enough to ensure no one else could ever dominate you like that again."

She shivered, and her lekku twitched as I savoured the rush of emotions that came from her. Fear and disgust at what she'd done while the Anzati's puppet mixed with longing for my words to be true and the faintest wish to submit to someone strong again. Her eyes briefly came up, meeting mine, before she looked away again. "I know," she said quietly, her cheeks darkening, "but it's hard to forget."

"Don't forget, Aayla, draw on those memories," I replied as I stepped back, sensing that Quinlan was standing and watching us carefully. "Remember how helpless and used you felt; recall how powerless you were before someone like Karkko. Then use those feelings to empower yourself so that you never have to submit to anyone you don't wish to ever again."

I turned and looked at Quinlan, noting the questioning glint in his eye. "It's going to take time for each of you to recover all your skills and remember how to use them on more than an instinctual level. As you do so, be mindful that you don't allow your emotions to grow too strong lest they start to dictate your actions instead of empowering them."

"I can sense that what you're teaching us isn't something the Jedi would approve of," he commented, suggesting either he had regained fleeting hints of his memories or he and Aayla had been speaking about my teaching methods.

"It's not. The Jedi would insist that you let go of all your emotions and give yourselves over to the Force, placing blind faith in it to never betray you as it works towards its goals." I chuckled and shook my head. "Even when we were all in the Order, I wasn't able to do that, nor did I agree. Now that I've chosen a different path, one that will lead to war with the Republic when chaos engulfs the galaxy, I'm more certain than ever that their way never worked for me." I shifted back, letting me look at both of them as I continued.

"You've chosen to allow me to help with your retraining, and for that, I'm honoured. However, you were both aware that I wasn't walking the Jedi path, nor would my training take you down that road. If this continues to concern you, then I won't stop you from leaving so you can return to the Order."

"No! We've made our choice and will stick to it." Aayla spoke confidently, and I sensed her conviction radiating from her in the Force. "The Order would be wary of me because of my failings, and I won't allow them to hold me back because of that." She looked me dead in the eye. "I will become stronger so that no unworthy male will ever control me again."

My lip twitched, catching the interesting choice of wording she used, but I chose not to comment on it. "Very well," I said softly, offering her a nod of respect. "However, as I have said several times already, I cannot focus as heavily on your retraining as you might like. Plans are in motion that I cannot ignore, so I will trust you both to work towards improving yourselves without my constant supervision."

"I get why you are trying to unite the Mandalorians, but I don't think it will work. There's what? Twenty million of them? How is that number going to be enough to begin enacting change in the Rim?"

I chuckled at Quinlan's question. "In the sector, there are at most that many, but most Mando'ade are elsewhere. Be that because their Clans are based in other sectors, or they are employed by others because of their skills. In time, all will return home, as to do otherwise would mean being cast out as warriors." I looked upward, thinking not about the ceiling of the room we were in but the stars above and those who were currently wandering them. "Even if there were five hundred million Mando'ade, and I don't believe the number to be that high, they alone wouldn't be enough to change things. Not at first anyway," I looked back at the pair.

"I cannot tell you more of my plans than I already have, as, beyond those longer-term plans being in flux, neither of you has fully sworn yourselves to my side. Nor, I should add, am I going to force you to do so. I hope that you will, once you understand the depth of my intentions, do so, but if not, then I will understand. Regardless, I will keep my promise and ensure that, once chaos engulfs the galaxy, you are each able to stand against almost any threat that might rise to challenge you."

Even ignoring the quest linked to training them, I would be doing so if they'd asked. The longer they were exposed to my methods, developed from my time learning across the galaxy and what I'd learnt from the holocrons of Adas and Malgus, the more they would see things how I wished. Manipulating them to see things from my perspective wasn't the primary goal of my training, but it was a useful side effect.

The more difficult sections of the quest for them – convincing them to become Mando'ade and finding a path that suited their skills – were going to be a challenge, but one I felt would only lead to them being more helpful in enacting my goals. Of course, if either of them chose to return to the Order, I would have to consider how to handle the matter. It shouldn't come to that, as both considered me a friend. Aayla was more important to that end as it meant Quinlan would stay, as he seemed prepared to do what was best for her, but I had to at least consider the possibility that they would part ways and develop plans to enact if they did so.

"Now, since I have time, let's go again," I stated, shifting matters back to why I was here. The pair smiled, looking forward to the challenge, even if I sensed neither felt they were at a point where they could push me.

That was fine, as getting them back into sync with themselves and each other was the main purpose of their current training. Additionally, while they might be comparable to a weaker Jedi Knight currently, getting to spar against two Force users working together to defeat me was a good way to hone my skills. Beyond it allowing me to see what worked and what didn't for the adoption of Ataru footwork and small elements of other Forms into my style, I knew there would come a time when I'd be facing off against pairs and groups of highly skilled Force users. The more training I got now in how to deal with such situations, the better prepared I would be for whenever the Jedi decided to openly move against me.

… …

---

… …

"Mand'alor." I turned to face the voice, seeing it was a face I recognised, as was the one that entered the room behind it.

Currently, I was in the command chamber of what used to be House Kryze in one of the domed cities that encircled Sundari. I disliked the city, as I did with Sundari and the places made by those damned fools who once called themselves 'New Mandalorians', as it wasted beskar for decoration. However, there was nothing I could do currently to change that, as even though Adonai had been working for the last few years to replace much of the walls and decorations in the city and those like it with durasteel, many of the supporting pillars along with the domes themselves, were infused with beskar and removing those would see the cities destroyed.

As much as I might not complain about that, they provided secure housing and storage for hundreds of thousands of warriors and others. Add in that all the cities were connected by tunnels deep under the surface, and the domed cities weren't entirely useless. Haran, Adonai had even begun installing defences on the domes as if intending to turn Sundari and its satellite cities into some sort of mega fortress.

"I wish you would stop calling me that," I responded as Adonai and Torrhen entered. "I haven't defeated Jango Fett, crushed whatever remains of Death Watch and the forces of House Varaud, nor dealt with those who haven't accepted my claim to lead our people."

"We are aware," Torrhen replied as he moved towards the table in the centre of the room. "However, your words that day have sparked a fire in the hearts of many a warrior. A fire that means they see you as their Mand'alor already."

I grunted, letting the matter drop. Since neither of them nor the others I was dealing with daily was willing to not call me Mand'alor, there was little I could do to stop them. It was, after all, my intention to earn that title by defeating all who stood in my way.

"How many have sworn themselves to my banner?"

"Nearly a thousand Alore and those who followed them," Adonai replied as he placed a datapad on the table. "There's also been a steady flow of warriors who don't stand with any Clan arriving on the planet since word of your victories over us began to spread."

"I hope it doesn't move beyond the sector's borders. We aren't anywhere near ready to deal with external issues."

Torrhen chuckled. "There is nothing we can do about that, but so long as your focus remains internal to unite the Clans and our people, those who might challenge us in the Tsad Droten, Jetii or elsewhere won't have a reason to move."

"I do hope you're right." At the back of my mind, I wondered how long it would be before the Jedi High Council got wind of my actions. It was more likely they, instead of the Banite Sith, would seek to intervene, but they shouldn't be able to move since it was an internal matter for the Mando'ade. Of course, as they claimed dominion over all Force users in the galaxy, be they members of the Order or not, there would be many who might wish to capture or remove me from the situation here. "The Republic chose to strike at us eight hundred years ago simply because they perceived we were a potential threat."

"The Tsad Droten no longer have the will or courage to do such a thing," Torrhen countered. "They have, as you said, grown weak, corrupt and decadent. It is only when their interests are challenged that they raise a voice before the Chancellors."

I grunted, seeing no reason to argue the point. Everything I'd stated after defeating Adonai had been correct, so having those words thrown back in my face a few days later wasn't something I could counter.

"Also," Adonai said, tapping away at the datapad he'd placed on the table, "there are requests from another two hundred warriors to challenge you."

I groaned and let my head fall back. "Seriously? I thought the idea was once I defeated you two that I'd not have to deal with so many small fry."

I'd known others would come forward to challenge me, but eight days since my victory over Adonai, the number of challenges was only growing.

"Many think you a child who we only allowed to beat us to prop you up as a figurehead," Adonai explained calmly, just as he'd done each of the last two days and would probably do tomorrow as well. "Others will, as you are aware, question your commitment to our people. You were once a Jedi and have two at your side who appear to be members of the Order. It is only natural that many would consider your base weak and your skill unfounded."

"Ugh." I ran my hand down my face even as I brought my head forward. "Fine, schedule them in order of importance. Clan heads first, then any of particular note. Perhaps once I'd shattered enough skulls in front of the people's eyes, those with ambitions beyond their means will understand their place," I finished with a growl, letting some of my anger seep through so I could bleed it off. "Anyway, how many have now sworn their strength to me?"

"Around ten thousand Clan leaders so far. If we add in those acting without a Clan, then we're looking at two, perhaps three million warriors. Of course, with many of the more powerful Clans, cities and even worlds have sworn to follow you."

I nodded, accepting the figures. Two million might sound low, but given there were only, perhaps, twenty million Mando'ade in the Mandalore sector currently, it wasn't a bad starting point. Yes, the galactic total was at least ten times that, perhaps twenty, but there was no central register of those who'd completed a verd'goten and been recognised as a child of Mandalore.

The sector as a whole had somewhere easily north of five billion sentients living in it, but most were bound – be it by contract, loyalty, or simple place of birth – to the various Clans in the sector. Those sentients respected and observed Mandalorian law on the condition they were protected by the warriors. As such, the number of those not Mando'ade but were now under my control in some form was even less certain than the number of warriors, but it should be several tens of millions.

All those sentients knew nothing about my declaration to become Mand'alor, at least they shouldn't, and it would remain that way until I was ready to fully claim the throne, so to speak. At that point, they would be given the free choice to continue living under the protection of the Mando'ade, and thus become bound to me in a way, or leave the sector as we took back control of it from any Republic influence.

"It is only a matter of time until others who would oppose your claim to become Mand'alor unite under the banners of others," Torrhen remarked after taking a few gulps from his mug of ale. "The obvious person to do that is Duke Anzur, though his standing has fallen since the last civil war, where he was seen to ally with Kyr'tsad."

"They're still around as well," I cut in. "No matter what Pre Vizsla might say, I do not believe that group is gone. Not until I have the Darksaber in my possession and the last flag of theirs is ground beneath my heel will I consider them removed."

Adonai nodded. "I have ordered Pre to commit more resources to locate any remaining bases they might have in our sector or those nearby. So far, his searches haven't borne much fruit, only abandoned locations with no dar'manda present, but I have faith he will find what remains of the Death Watch. To do otherwise would leave it as a stain on his Clan's honour."

I held my tongue, not bothering to give voice to my concerns. I couldn't reveal that I knew Pre was the leader of Death Watch, nor that he intended to strike me down and claim leadership of the powerful House I now commanded. Like with knowledge of Sidious and Plagueis' public personas, I could only work around the restrictions of what the Interface termed as Future Knowledge if another was present who knew the truth.

I had located, thanks to Observe, a handful of Mando'ade who remained loyal to Death Watch and Pre working in Adonai's ranks. Well, my ranks now. However, I hadn't yet moved to remove them. Instead, I had R2, Anakin, and HK slice into the private files of those warriors and, in the case of the assassin droid, observe them from a distance.

Amusingly, the New Mandalorians, in their pursuit of peace, had installed rather extensive security observation systems in the cities they'd created. Officially, it was to ensure that peace, but it was to such an extent that I couldn't help but think it verged on being oppressive, if not tyrannical. Since I now had control of these cities – they had formerly been under Adonai's control – it was trivial to have my son and the droids enhance the systems for my purposes, using the systems that already existed instead of having to install such things myself and risk a backlash from the freedom-loving Mando'ade.

A good number of the security forces for the cities were loyal to Pre – hardly a surprise – and as I couldn't simply remove them from their posts, not without alerting Pre that I was on to his actions, I'd had the improvements made to the systems installed without anyone being the wiser. It was because of those systems that I'd found many more who were sympathetic to Death Watch, or at least distrustful of my rapid rise to power, and all of them were placed on lists that were being monitored by R2 and HK without anyone being the wiser.

"I hope you are right, Adonai. I won't tolerate any of their members, or others with similar ideals, trying to undermine what I'm building," I replied firmly. It felt odd to be forceful and even a little domineering towards the two men before me, but I was the head of our forces, and I had to do so when I knew I was right. In time, I suspected my mild discomfort with ordering around those two or three times my age, be that in battle or not, would disperse. I had, after all, commanded men older than myself in my former life, though, at least then, I'd been older than I was currently and had fought beside those men in previous battles before my promotions.

"Officially, Mandalmotors remains uncommitted," Torrhen said, shifting the conversation. "While you say Alor Dred will back you, the company isn't doing so. However, the orders you placed for additional weapons and starships have been received, and Alor Dred has personally assured me the work you requested will be completed on time and under budget."

I grunted, amused at the roundabout way Dred Yomaget was publicly dealing with the arrangement we'd reached a few months earlier. Yes, a good portion of the Credits I'd sent to Mandalmotors were for vessels, weapons, and other equipment that could be used soon, but the majority of the money was for the development of the fighters designed by Anakin.

The research and development of those creations would take at least a year, though Dred believed it would be closer to two before any prototypes were ready for testing, but from the initial reports I'd received from the development team involved in the project – according to Dred, their most experienced and groundbreaking unit at Mandalmotors – saw few issues in what Anakin had created. While there were kinks to work out, there was nothing that would require massive redesigns.

"The costs Alor Dred quoted were for more than just what was ordered, correct?" I nodded, confirming Adonai's suspicion without adding anything to further his thoughts. "Then I… we will eagerly await to see what your son has designed."

"What makes you think Anakin is involved in the work?" I asked, not bothering to keep the smile from my face.

"Ignoring how my daughter speaks of your son, it is known to many that he is skilled in the refining and upgrading of anything from droids to starships. Since you have some private arrangement with Mandalmotors, it is only logical that young Anakin is the focal point of that."

"For now, I reserve comment," I answered without truly doing so. "However, if things go as expected, then we should have several new toys to play with once it is time for our warriors to step beyond the confines of the sector."

Adonai wasn't wrong about Anakin's involvement, and my apprentice was currently at one of the Mandalmotors facilities in the system, speaking with the Mandalmotors team to overcome those minor problems. I'd gone to the first meeting and within a minute decided I'd never come back. I wasn't stupid, but the way Anakin and those warriors spoke flew over my head enough to make me feel like a kath hound trying to understand how the Republic Senate functioned.

Of course, he didn't travel alone, with HK and Simvyl with him as protection, but I was comfortable with him being so far from my protection. He'd already fought and knew how to use the Force, plus he would be completing his verd'goten inside two years, so it was time for him to begin stepping out from my shadow.

"Returning to the reasons for this meeting," I said as a way to shift the topic away from my secret projects before the pair started asking about the actions of others in my circle. "Are the Protectors managing to handle the increased foot traffic, and what about the food and accommodation situation?"

"Things are as expected," Torrhen replied with a smirk, suggesting he knew that I'd moved the conversation as I had. "When warriors gather, brawls are to be expected. We've diverted warriors to help the Protectors in ensuring fights don't grow out of hand and that those who wish to settle matters do so properly. As for the other matters, there are no concerns yet. The cities left by those di'kute are large enough to support three times the current occupants."

"I'd be wary of housing too many warriors in these places. They are a symbol of the submission by a section of our people, myself included, much to my shame, to the Tsad Droten. If you keep your command here for too long, it will only feed the opinion that you are working for the Republic and Jedi."

"I'm aware," I replied to Adonai's concern, "however, these cities are the only places on the planet able to support the influx we're seeing, and will continue to see in the coming year or so." I glanced towards a window in the room. I couldn't see out of it as it was shaded and hardened so snipers couldn't target us, but I knew outside thousands of Mando'ade were moving around, many growing restless. "Ideally, I'm planning to see if we can craft a new city near Keldabe to serve as my capital." I raised a hand before either could comment. "Yes, I know that no Mand'alor has ruled from anywhere but Keldabe before; however, as much as the city is a symbol of our history and legacy, it is lacking."

I leaned forward; a smirk some might call vicious spreading over my face. "I appealed to the history and traditions of our people during my speech, but we cannot return to the old ways. Yes, war is what we were bred for, but it cannot be a war of mindless conquest. We have to walk a new path, and a city designed for me to lead our people on this path will show them that we are entering a new era."

"Many will grumble about this. They might even seek to challenge you again."

"Let them," I replied. "By the time I make this plan clear to others, I'll have already united every warrior under my banner. Whether they currently wish for it or not, I will drag them into the future."

… …

---

… …

I looked over the datapad in my hands, reading the contents for a second time. As I did so, a smile spread over my face; one that would deeply concern anyone I didn't consider an ally if they saw it.

"Are you certain of this intelligence?" I asked the sentient who had brought the datapad to me.

The Rodian, Chuns Uguo, nodded. "Yes. We confirmed it from several operatives we've inserted into various operations in and around Hutt Space. Normally, this would be the type of operation we would deploy for; however, the Nuiri Sector is too far from the Gaia system to be a viable target."

"Not to mention the easiest hyperspace lanes to reach there travel through or close to Hutt Space," I added as I used my memory to superimpose an image of the major space lanes of the Mid Rim from the Lokella's system to the sector in question. "Or they are rumoured to be overrun by pirates and criminal organisations."

Chuns nodded. "Yes. As such, the Council felt that with you working from here, it was worth sending us to pass along the information."

Chuns had arrived in command of a CR-70 Corvette used by the Lokella earlier today. After getting cleared by the warriors monitoring the movement of vessels around Mandalore – an act I'd put into place so we could begin to track the movements of those that would or could be a threat to my growing power – they'd been placed in contact with me. Which was why he was currently here, in the office I was using in one of Sundari's satellite cities as my base of operations.

"I think I can see a use for this, thank you."

The Rodian bowed. "We are honoured to serve the Mtael," he replied.

I ignored the faint chuckle that came from behind me at the use of that title, though I ignored the sound and the one responsible for it. "I'll have your ship refuelled and resupplied before you depart. Also, a contingent of Mando'ade will, if you are accepting, travel with you to Gaia. Each of them is willing to fight and learn alongside your warriors in actions against slavers and pirates."

What I didn't say was that I was paying each of those two dozen warriors, who were all around my age, to work with the Lokella. Each of them came from Clans that had sworn themselves to my cause, and this would be a good way for them to train their skills in combat while being of use to me. That the group was being commanded by Ebbe Ordo, the youngest son of Torrhen and Asta, was a minor thing, but one Asta had been proud to hear of when I'd mentioned sending the warriors to the Lokella.

"We would be more than happy to transport willing warriors to Mtael's Gift," Chunn responded as I again ignored a familiar snicker. "That others are willing to fight and die for such a noble cause is something worthy of celebration."

"It is pleasing to see others in the galaxy who understand such things," Adonai commented as he sat to my right, offering Chunn a nod of agreement. "Every warrior who has worked with your people has spoken of their dedication and strength. We are more than pleased to continue this agreement and even enhance it in the coming years."

The Rodian perked up at hearing that. He glanced at me for confirmation, and I gave it with a nod. "Thank you for the report. I will be sure to speak of your swift arrival and service when I next visit the Lokella."

Chunn nodded and then turned, escorted out of the room by two warriors. Each of them, like Adonai, Torrhen, and the others who had sworn to follow me, now bore the sigil of Clan Shan on their armour alongside that of their Clan. At least where they wore a Clan sigil. It was ego-boosting to see the stylised Star Forge on the armour of the warriors around me, though I was mindful that, as yet, I only commanded a minority of all Mando'ade. Not even half of those in the sector had sworn themselves to me, though if the numbers continued to grow, then it shouldn't have been more than another month or two before that was the case.

"Do you really have to laugh every time they use that title?" I asked as I turned around and looked at Bo.

She was sitting very comfortably in a chair behind the table I was seated at, and at my question, shrugged dismissively. "How can I not?" she shot back challengingly, one hand on her stomach. "The fact that they revere you as their saviour and leader is amusing. More so, after years of complaining about having others follow you as they do, you're now moving to do so as the Dragon of Mandalore."

"Do I have to remind you of how much I hate that?" I snapped with an irritated groan. "Why did you have to say that after I defeated your father?"

Bo shrugged. "Every Mand'alor has a title. Since you are the one who defeated a dragon for their verd'goten, it felt right." She shifted and leaned forward, licking her lips as she did so. "Besides, I am well aware that you live up to the name on many different battlefields."

"Perhaps we might turn back to the matter at hand," Adonai said, though he didn't seem the slightest bit angered that his daughter was so openly flirting with me in front of others. Now, it was just Baston Tyri, Osto Ordo, and two guards that were present, and all knew of my relationship with Bo, but it continued to amaze me how seemingly unconcerned he was about his daughter's behaviour. "We'll have to confirm this intelligence ourselves before we act, and even then, if the defence forces around this station are too great, we might have to reconsider the attack."

"So long as it's close to accurate, we're going to strike it," I countered as I turned back to the table and pushed thoughts of how I'd punish Bo later to one side. "Yes, the Nuiri sector is a few away from us, but it is a simple matter to travel there along the Salin Corridor. While our focus should remain on uniting the rest of the Mando'ade in the sector under my banner, we cannot simply choose to sit back and do nothing with the warriors at our disposal."

I tapped the datapad, linking it with my armour and had a map of the sector project from my gauntlet so everyone could see. As Adonai and Baston leaned closer, I heard Bo shift behind, moving so she could get a better look while Osto did the same from where he had been seated.

"Based on the routes I know for the sector, we'd be taking a minor path from Vjun to the system in question. The challenges would be ensuring the data needed for that route without alerting security forces or those using the operation we'll be striking. Other than that, I see nothing that should be an issue."

"Your logic for targeting such a seemingly minor operation?"

I turned to Baston and smiled. "Beyond using it as a testing ground for having various warriors from Clans working together, I was speaking truthfully when I said it was time for our people to step out to challenge the failings of the Republic. If we simply move to control those no-warriors in this sector and then strike at worlds nearby randomly for the thrill of battle, we will simply give the Republic a target to unite against. The time for such acts of conquest has passed and should remain buried there. We need to find a new path, one that would see the rest of the galaxy not cower in fear of our coming, but gain strength in themselves so they will fight at our behest."

"There are many warriors who would not agree with your words."

I chuckled. "I know, but those are the same warriors who will only accept my domination over them once I grind them beneath my heels. Di'kute who seek battle against unworthy foes or wish to make those currently unable to fight into slaves are no better than those who lead the Republic to its demise. I will not see our people follow that path again. Not when a better one is staring us in the face!"

"I was not doubting your commands, Mand'alor. I was merely reminding you that what you propose could be seen as a betrayal of our history."

I nodded, accepting Baston's words without anger or complaint. "Those who do not learn from the past are doomed to repeat it. That is the greatest mistake the Republic, the Jedi, the Sith, and even our people have made. I will not allow the cycle to continue. It is time to break it and show every Mando'ade, every sentient in the galaxy, that there is a better way. One where strength is needed and respected, but those not currently with it have the chance to prove they deserve to stand at our side."

"You want this to be the first place to change our path?" Osto asked, having come close enough to look at the map up close. Bo was also closer, her hands resting on one of my shoulders as she peered over me to look at the projected map.

"Every great journey begins with a single step," I replied, quoting a saying that existed in many cultures in this universe and others. "The fact that the target is seemingly minor isn't important. What is, is that it represents the chance to allow our warriors to enter battle for a worthy cause, and as word spreads of our actions, show the galaxy that we are more than battle-obsessed warriors."

Osto nodded, a smile spreading over his face. "Once the intelligence is confirmed, I would ask to lead the strike force. I have grown weary of training without a chance to test myself in battle."

"Aren't you just annoyed that Ebbe's going to see combat instead of you?" Bo asked with a trickle of amusement in her voice.

"Not really," Osto replied with a chuckle. "I wish him well, as it is his chance to earn glory as a commander. However, he would not be in overall command there. Neither Validus nor Ferox would allow that if one cannot defeat them, and my brother is not at that level yet." I nodded, agreeing with the assessment. "If this is to be the first battle of your rise to reforming our empire, then I wish the honour of leading it."

"We'll see," I replied.

So long as the operation we were targeting was as minor as Chunn's intelligence suggested, then I saw no problem with allowing Osto this prize. However, part of me was growing annoyed that the only battles I was facing were challenges to my position as head of House Shan. Yes, the warriors I was fighting daily were skilled, but regular ritual combat was slowly growing stale. I needed something different, even if that was little more than slaughtering a group of slavers who had the misfortune to be brought to my attention.

… …

---

… …

"That's it," Anakin said as I stood in one corner of the room, ignored and unacknowledged by him and Sariss, "focus on feeling where the target is and knowing when it'll attack."

In the centre of the room, wearing a helmet designed to block her vision, Sariss stood with my shoto. Around her, two droids floated; the droids used by the Order to train Initiates in learning to understand where an attack was coming from by drawing on the Force. The droids had been ones Anakin had built for training after I'd copied the design specifications before leaving the Jedi. Unlike access to the secure Holocron vaults, such information was accessible to Knights.

As I remained silent at the back of the room, I continued to use the Force to mask my presence. The trick was one I'd learnt from the Sith Holocrons in my possession, and beyond being certain that an advanced form of this technique was what Sidious and Plagueis used to hide themselves from the Jedi, I was already seeing uses for it.

Anakin wasn't skilled enough yet to detect faint tremors in the Force that I was no doubt generating by using the power, but the fact that he remained unaware of my presence after I'd been in the room for nearly ten minutes was encouraging. At least so long as he wasn't focused so heavily on Sariss that he forgot about his surroundings. That was a habit he had and while he was slowly breaking from it, as a teenager it wasn't a shock that he could be distracted by something – or someone – that caught his attention.

Sariss moved around, hints of trepidation radiating from her in the Force even as she reached out, trying to track the droids as they moved. There was a faint sound each time they shifted; something akin to a release of pressurised gas that you could only hear if you knew what you were looking for. However, the direction the droid moved wasn't as easily detectable, nor when it seemingly stopped.

The blade shifted as she turned, sensing a bolt from one of the droids a microsecond before it fired. She deflected the attack, though her movement, which had been clunky, left her exposed to the other droid.

"Agh!" She cursed as she was struck in the back by a bolt. It was only a stinging sensation, but the fact that this was the sixth time she'd been struck was slowly getting to her. Something confirmed by a burst of anger that rushed from her into the Force.

I bit back a chuckle at how powerful the momentary rush of rage was. It wouldn't do for her to be distracted currently, not least as she might react negatively to my presence. While she was more comfortable around me now than when we'd left Dromund Kaas, there was still an edge to her movements and emotions whenever she knew I was present. What drew my interest was how she brought that anger under control and, rough as it was, used it to fuel her actions.

The next series of attacks from the droids were all deflected, Sariss moving slightly more fluidly as she deflected and avoided the bolts. The anger remained, but most of it was internally focused as she drew strength from it. For a brief moment, I sensed the image of Cronal from her drift into the Force, though before I could ponder why her thoughts had shifted to her disgrace of a father, she took down one of the droids.

"Yes!" Anakin called out as the droid, struck by a bolt Sariss had deflected, struck it well enough that it fell to the ground, sparks dancing from it as its circuitry shut down. "That's it, Sariss!"

As the girl relaxed, and Anakin danced in excitement towards her, I coughed gently. "There is still one other foe."

Both stilled suddenly, my voice catching them off-guard. Anakin spun towards me even as the remaining droid fired, striking Sariss in the shoulder. A blow that wouldn't have occurred if not for Anakin's excited reaction distracting her before the reveal of my presence upset her coordination.

"AGH!" Sariss screeched before the lightsaber in her hand slashed wildly in the direction the bolt had come from. The droid had already shifted, though given the short length of the shoto's blade, she would never have struck it anyway.

"When di…" I brought a finger to my lips, silencing Anakin mid-word. A glance over his shoulder was enough to remind him that Sariss was still training.

He turned, resuming his watching of his friend – and perhaps, I wondered, something more once they were both a little older and ready for such things – as she worked to recentre herself.

When my voice echoed around the room, there'd been a burst of panic from her, something that mingled with her anger and disrupted her concentration. Understandable and not something I had sought, however, the way she was recovering from the distraction, and even seemingly drawing on her panic to further strengthen her resolve, was intriguing. I'd hoped to see such a thing from her at some point, but not less than half a year since she'd been rescued from the Prophets.

Alongside my apprentice, I watched as Sariss engaged the remaining droid. She did defeat it, though it took her a few tries to deflect a bolt it fired back at it, and as the droid struck the ground, Anakin moved towards her.

"That was great, Sariss," he said as he helped her to remove the helmet she'd been using for the training.

There was a wide smile on her face as she looked down at Anakin, and I sensed that the bond between them had grown slightly stronger. There were a few concerning hints in the sensations coming from both, but nothing that wasn't expected, given their ages and situations.

Sariss' pleasure at Anakin's congratulations vanished the instant her gaze shifted to me, and a familiar burst of fear rushed from her. The Force around her moved inwards, seeking to shield her from a potential threat, though I remained calm, leaning against the wall of the room near the door. Her reaction was the same as it always was whenever she was around males, though I had noticed that it was less pronounced towards non-Humans.

The reaction to me was also less severe than it had been when, alongside Dooku and Maul, I'd taken down the Prophets on Dromund Kaas, which was a sign of gradual improvement and recovery. That it was still there wasn't something I was concerned about, as while she had the potential to be very powerful with the Force, she was nowhere near that level currently, and even if she reached her peak, I'd still be lightyears beyond her.

"You're coming along well in your training," I said softly with a slight smile.

Sariss stilled for a moment before nodding. "T-that's b-because of Anakin," she replied slowly and stutteringly. "H-he is a g-good t-teacher."

My smile grew at her words, letting her know she was safe even as Anakin stood at her side, his presence a touch closer than might otherwise be appropriate, though neither seemed unconcerned about that. "I'm glad you're doing well, though I am sorry if I scared you," I remarked, seeking to further ease her fears. She was coming along well, but I didn't want to push her or disrupt her recovery unintentionally. "However, both you and Anakin need to be aware of everything around you, not just what you are focusing on."

"How did you get in without me sensing you?" Anakin asked, sliding a half-step so that he was partially shielding Sariss from me.

I chuckled at his behaviour and how Sariss seemed to brighten up when he stood like that. "Beyond you once again becoming lost in your enjoyment of something, I have been training this technique while moving around. One day, when I feel both of you are ready, I will teach it to you. For now, however, you have things to focus on." I paused there, letting my words sink in for a moment before continuing. "Now, Anakin, can I speak with you outside?"

He glanced back at Sariss, who offered the most fractional of nods before he moved towards me. I turned and stepped outside, my son following as I led him to a small storeroom next door to the training facility he and Sariss were using.

"May I see the Heart?" I asked, holding out my hand.

It took Anakin a second to realise what I was meaning, and then another few to reach into one of the pouches around his waist. As the Heart of the Guardian landed in my hand, I cast Observe on it, smiling at what I saw.

Heart of the Guardian
(Unique Force Crystal)
One of two legendary Force crystals linked with Revan.
While the origins of this crystal have been lost to the ages, the potential it possesses has not.
HP: 20
Rarity: Unique
Value: 50000
Energy Value: 1000
Attuned Users: Anakin Skywalker (93%), Revan (7%)
Special Features:
Enhances the benefits of any other crystals used in a lightsaber.
Grants a small increase in the lightsaber's damage potential, along with enhancing the deflection abilities of the lightsaber it is a part of.
...
​

"Good," I said, handing the crystal back to him. "You have almost finished attuning it."

I ignored a faint prick of irritation at how quickly he'd managed to align the crystal with him. It had taken me far longer to align the Mantle of the Force, though that was likely because I had done so while still using the Interface to handle my connection to the Force. Or possibly because Anakin was the Chosen One supposedly birthed by the Force, whereas I was an interloper in the plans of the Force. Plans I was enjoying disrupting.

Anakin smiled, placing the crystal back almost reverently into the pouch it had come from. "I don't think I'm quite finished yet. It feels as if the crystal is fighting me harder now than when I first started getting used to it."

"That's normal. I had the same issue with the Mantle and other crystals that held previous owners." I placed a hand on his shoulder as I continued. "While you aren't quite fully attuned with the Heart, I feel it is time for you to craft your own lightsaber." When I finished, I removed my hand from his shoulder; a well-timed action given his reaction to my words.

"YES!"

I couldn't help but laugh at his enthusiasm, remembering how I felt when I was told I'd be heading to Ilum to get my crystal. Now, my adventure there hadn't been what I'd expected, not least as I'd met the Force Ghost of Revan – the only time he'd appeared before me, and potentially the last – but Anakin wouldn't be following in my footsteps.

Ilum was under the control of the Jedi, with the hyperspace route restricted to the High Council and a handful of others, including the ship that took all Jedi to the system, the Crucible. Because of that, I'd have to alter the steps Anakin would be taking.

"If you wish, you can use the Heart as the main crystal for your blade; however, I suggest using another so that the properties of that crystal are exploited."

"But where will I get another one?" He asked, his body slumping slightly as he realised some of the difficulty in locating another crystal.

"There are several options. First, I could give you one of those I have stored safely on Raven." They weren't with her, but instead, along with a lot of other things, including most of the holocrons in my possession, stored inside my Inventory. "Second, we could head to a planet where there should be crystals. Dantooine, for example, as I recall, collecting several with Master Fay when I was a Padawan." Those crystals were, by and large, the ones in my Inventory. "Or third, and this is the more taxing option and will see you have to continue using my shoto, is that we seek out rarer crystals that either only appear in one place, or that are considered collector's items by many in the galaxy."

"Um, I kind of want something special. Like yours."

I chuckled at his words. "If you wish to craft one such as mine, then one day I shall teach you how. However, you aren't ready to attempt such a thing currently." The effort needed to forge a crystal using Sith techniques wasn't something I wanted him to attempt currently. While I felt he had the power to craft such a crystal, he lacked the training and control to be able to maintain the effort and focus to pull that off currently. Not to mention his training hadn't delved deep enough into binding the Force to his will to make such a thing feasible.

"Then can we head somewhere to look for one? I can use that for now and then, when I'm older, see if I want to change to another."

"Certainly," I replied, giving him a nod. "I'll look into worlds like Dantooine that are claimed to produce crystals and not too far from Mandalore. With my current actions, I can't be away from the planet or sector for too long."

Technically, since this was for Anakin, it would be fine for me to depart for a few months. However, if I did so, then there was a risk that everything that was in motion would slow to a crawl. It was unlikely, but still possible, and I couldn't risk seeing my intentions of uniting the Mando'ade under my rule be weakened or destroyed.

Sooner or later, the Banite Sith and Jedi would learn of my actions and, once that happened, it was only a matter of time until complications arose that I'd rather not deal with until I was ideally suited to do so. The most likely step would be for the Jedi to send a team to request that I return to the Temple and explain myself. It would depend heavily on who was in that team to how I responded, but even if it was Yoda or Windu that came, I wouldn't go willingly, as I was neither officially a Jedi nor under their control.

Yes, according to Republic law, all Force users were under the purview of the Jedi, but they rarely, if ever, used that rule. As I was also Mando'ade and involved in local politics, they would be seen as interfering in an internal issue, which wasn't something they could do without either the request of the local leaders or permission from the Senate. Neither of those, I felt, would get as I was the largest single voice in the Mandalore sector, at least among the Mando'ade. The Co-Chancellors wouldn't seek to remove me so early from the board, not when they would be seeking to use me and the forces I was gathering to increase the chaos the Grand Plan would bring forth.

"Okay," Anakin said, trying and failing to hide his excitement. Even without the Force, anyone could see how happy he was to finally be told he could craft his own lightsaber. The extra parts wouldn't be an issue, as most were commonly available, while for those that weren't, I had spares stored in my Inventory. "When will we leave?"

I chuckled and moved towards him, ruffling his hair as I reached his side. "In time, Anakin. In time." He didn't scowl as he usually did when I toyed with his hair, an indicator of how eager he was. "For now, continue helping Sariss get used to the Force and focusing on what I've told you to work on. When everything is in order, I'll let you know so we can depart. Now head back to Sariss before she finds another teacher," I added teasingly.

"Okay."

Anakin turned and left, too caught up in his excitement to notice me poking fun at his closeness with Sariss. I didn't do that often, preferring not to cause Sariss concerns, but I knew that Bo, Aayla, and other females had commented on the developing closeness between the pair.

Of course, Bo was a fair target for such comments, as well as there'd barely been a night that she hadn't spent in my quarters. Naz wasn't as regular a visitor, but still appeared often enough that I suspected she was teased about the visits. No doubt her father was infuriated about her regular presence in my bed, but that only made me enjoy her company that much more.

… …

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