Understood. Over and out. :D

Copy that. The next chapter will be out as soon as I can finish it. Only two people know the rules to the game but they are the rules regarding their own side. Who will come out on top? Harder to answer in this time of uncertainty.

Sorry for the wait. I have one rule that I follow: I don't post the next chapter unless there is a chapter between the one I post and the one I am working on. I have been busy and I have had writer's block but now I am good. Here is the next chapter. It is a break inthe story to address problems within the core worlds.

Chapter 13
Coruscant was full of bustle as it normally was; the air traffic was nonstop. Few people had time or the patience to appreciate the morning. This morning was no exception as the senators filed in, some sleepily, to their places. Ever since that incident where Kirabaros said that Avalon wouldn’t give up Revan to no one, there have been a lot of sessions, some behind the doors to demand why or a showing of Kirabaros to explain. Senator Amstar maintained an expression of calm that would have been worthy of the Jedi as she walked in flanked by Caelos and Rowan along with Cora to her spot.

Caelos was nervous since this was his first assignment alone, well, at least one of high priority. After the incident at the landing platform, his friend and mentor, Kirabaros had ordered a sweep of the senator’s quarters and checked the security system himself. He left Caelos to reassure the senator and to make sure no unauthorized personnel entered. Lucky for him, no more attempts on the senator had been made but that didn’t that he had to stop being wary of his surroundings. Often he looked to Rowan for advice when he couldn’t find an answer.

The old warrior impressed him to no end. Rowan had met Kirabaros when he led the daring rescue mission for the Lady Governor. Caelos was completing his training at the time but he had kept tabs on the progress of the war. That was how he found out that Jacen had fallen into the river and died and Kirabaros was born. Rowan was more of a conservative warrior, preferring to play it safe in terms of tactics and didn’t take any unnecessary risks. Rowan was the aide to Darius when they pushed the Rashikian line back and they retrieved Lady Mara from the Garanga compound. Rowan lent a steadying presence to the whole scene as they took their respective seats. It remained long after the chancellor called the senate to order.

Senator Amstar practiced the meditative breathing that she had learned from her people as the chancellor called her forward. She maintained a stoic look that hid her emotions and thoughts well. It would become a look that would annoy all kinds of sentients that encountered Avalonians in the future for it had the maddeningly quality of appearing like a statue, impassive and cold looking. She stood tall and straight as a ramrod as she addressed the chancellor and the senate, “Members of the Republic, I understand that we have come here today to resolve the issue brought forth by one of Avalon’s honored warriors.”

“We want to know if Avalon will make do on her threat against anyone who tries to take Revan by force?” a voice interrupted.

Serena Amstar closed her eyes and reopened slowly after taking a breath. Why did you even say that Kirabaros? she thought as she said, “It is among our ancient laws that to whomever seeks refuge of any kind that they be protected. We have honored that law for centuries. It is strictly protection.”

“If it is protection, then why does Avalon refuse to admit they know where the Jedi Revan is?” the questioner asked again.

“I have to say that I do not possess the knowledge of Revan’s location.” Serena was growing weary of the whole gist of this. She remembered Kirabaros’ warning that they wouldn’t stop until they had Revan. As much as she didn’t want to believe it, she saw that there were many senators, mostly those from the Outer Rim, that wanted Revan tried for her crimes. She swallowed her sorrow that people still believed that the sweet woman who was a mother of a beautiful little girl was a monster that went on a conquest to conquer the galaxy.

“And what of Kirabaros? He led your people in the last war. Surely he must know,” a different voice sounded. It was getting difficult to tell who was questioning as the senators refused to move their booth.

“Kirabaros has returned to our world due to…” Serena began.

“This is outrageous! He has gone to warn her!” the questioner shouted. The statement caused a general cacophony that made it difficult to bring back to order by the chancellor.

Serena had pity on the poor man as he tried to show that the Republic could maintain good relations with the Jedi. She spoke much louder but couldn’t be heard. Instead it took a different voice to make the senators stop, “Must you speak such lies against someone who cannot defend himself?”

Everyone became quiet and all eyes were drawn to the short Jedi that had stood up behind Senator Amstar. He just stood there in the silence not saying anything. He just gazed at the senators, surprised at his own outspokenness and belatedly wondering what Bastila would say to him later. With all eyes on him he said, “Why do you content yourself to accuse others without having evidence presented?”

No one had an answer to the questions Caelos posed so Senator Amstar spoke up as if nothing had happened. She said, “He has gone in order to see if Jedi Revan would be willing to return to Republic space. It is the only way that she can return and she will be under our protection along the way.” Serena gazed intently at the chancellor who gave a slight nod. The rest of the Senate raised more questions that were answered in due time, allowing Caelos to take his seat again unnoticed.


The door to one of the room slammed shut at the Jedi Temple as Caelos walked in followed by Bastila. She asked angrily, “What were you thinking when you spoke out in the Senate?”

“I did what I thought was right and I’d do it again,” Caelos replied as he turned to face an angry Bastila.

“Do you have any idea what you have done by doing that?” Bastila was determined to get him to see what he did wrong. It failed with Kirabaros who was too independent and much like Revan to see fine lines when to him there were none.

“What I don’t understand is how you can let a body politic like them take the good name like Kirabaros and drag it through the dirt without one shred of evidence,” Caelos shot back, his voice rising.

“They were going to drag him into this whether we liked it or not. What you did is possibly damage the relationship that Avalon has with the Republic,” Bastila responded equally heated. Realizing that she was losing her temper, she began to recite the Jedi Code in her mind to calm her down. When she got control of herself she spoke much more calmly, “You may have put forth the idea that Avalon cannot keep tabs on their own people and their actions.”

“We are not weak if that’s what you are saying,” Caelos replied equally calm. He had managed to calm himself when he noticed Bastila doing the same. “We believe one is innocent until proven guilty, not the other way around. Besides Kirabaros knows what he is doing. He wouldn’t have gone back if it were other wise.”

Bastila smiled at the youthful face she had met before the liberation of Belos. He was too young to know the necessity of keeping your passions in check especially when those that you know came under the scrutiny of others. She replied, “You have passion and courage but you must understand that there are times when you have to bite back your feelings. You have to bear the insults, the jeering, anything they may say.”

“I see that you have to hide instead of face that what attacks you head on. The way of the Jedi follows the way of pacifism but there are times when you have to fight in order to maintain that delicate balance of the light and dark. If you hide, it only makes you weak in the long run,” Caelos replied honestly. Having been brought up in a culture where battle defines a warrior and the codes of honor dictated the actions of a warrior, it was difficult to contemplate why the Jedi would be slow to act.

Bastila saw that he would not understand. She left him to his own devices after a warning to keep his feelings hidden. She wondered how the boy came to be trained by the Avalonian Jedi when he obviously had little to no control over his personal feelings. She had forgotten that Kirabaros was once just like him but he lost that when he was seven and was tormented.

Caelos waited until Bastila left before sitting on one of the cushions. Sitting in a cross-legged position, he pulled out his communicator and flipped it on. He spoke, “Caelos here. I need to make sure that the new accommodations are in order.”

I was wondering why there wasn't any updates. Good Chapter though, like the description and I'm looking foward to more.

Excellent chapter, JM12. Great work on the Senate debate, I could almost hear the voices of the senators echoing in the Senate Rotunda. Keep it up.

Thanks igyman and Pottsie. When I envisioned the senate I paid attention to how Lucas portrayed them in the movies and I looked at photos of the US Senate seatings and what not and watched a bit of 1776. Yes I have "Sit down John" on the brain right now. Working on the next chapter for you gents.

Chapter 14
“Well that was pleasant wasn’t it?” a voice sounded through the thick haze. It sounded like it came from Atton though Kirabaros was lost in his own thoughts.

Only I can hold all the keys. It is the only way.

“I don’t understand why they were a little more harsh than usual,” Carth was speaking but it was muffled.

The Order is dwindling even with the help of the Lost Jedi and Darius. They are the hope for the future.

“They wanted to be sure that Kirabaros was telling the truth. It is his honor against his accusers. It would be an insult if he were falsely accused,” Michaela was explaining.

But they are so young. Together though, they are desirable by whoever wants to rid us of the Jedi.

“This is a lot he is doing for me and I would like to thank him, if he were listening,” Revan was speaking.

The special place is ready and if…

“Ow. What was that for?” Kirabaros asked with annoyance dripping from his voice as he rubbed the back of his head. He had been snapped out of his thoughts by a Force induced smack to his head and it had hurt. He turned to face the group as they were headed to the hangar where the Ebon Hawk had been stored.

Revan feigned innocence as she said in a condescending manner, “Maybe if you had been paying attention, you would have seen which one of us had done it.” Her honey colored eyes were wide but they betrayed her mischievousness.

Seeing through her ‘innocence,’ Kirabaros replied with a smirk, “What I am seeing is someone who needs to be put over someone else’s knee and be taught a lesson.”

“Hey! I thought you promised not to delve into my memories anymore,” Revan retorted as her face began to flush with embarrassment much to the amusement of Carth.

“Actually I didn’t go mind probing. Someone who is twice as stubborn as me told me about a little adventure you had on a crowded little ship,” Kirabaros replied with a smoothness that he used when trying to get out of trouble.

“That ship wasn’t little. It was…” Revan had caught on the wrong end of the response since she was rather fond of the Ebon Hawk.

Everyone began to laugh at her and Kirabaros just stared at her with a wicked grin on his face. With his spleen vented, he changed the subject, “Well let’s make sure the ship is stocked. Shall we?” He smiled.


A hooded figure was watching the group as they headed to the main port where the ship was kept. This was his chance to get a feel as to how the great Kirabaros would fight. He had heard much of his abilities as a Jedi and a warrior but he was in for a well-deserved surprise. He motioned behind him and made hand movements to direct their positions. They took off to head them off and he waited until they passed him. He would follow from behind and cut off their retreat.


“I know you mean well Carth, but let’s face it: the Sojourn is a slow moving hunk of metal,” Kirabaros was speaking as if it were an obvious fact. When they had rounded the corner, he felt a sense of unease but didn’t voice it. It was slight so he didn’t want to make a mountain out of the issue.

“Well excuse me if the Republic doesn’t have the advantage in having Avalonian vessels in their fleet,” Carth responded good-naturedly.

“Aside from the obvious sizing problems, it can’t seem to counter fighters that come up from behind, the front and side to side,” Kirabaros glanced at Carth, catching his eye.

Carth gave a slight nod and getting a rather hard glint in his eyes, he replied, “I suppose you would be the expert seeing as you can spot any kind of flaws.”

“Hey settle down. Maybe it would be a good idea to use the ship that the Council of Lords provided. It would make everything look official,” Revan interjected. She hadn’t seen the slight nod that the two exchanged and continued down the street.

The group rounded another corner when a dark hooded figure stood in their way. Atton had been in the lead when he appeared and stopped rather suddenly that Michaela bumped into him. Peering over his shoulder she saw the figure but she also saw six others appear out of nowhere.

The hooded figure had watched as they rounded the corner. The others had taken their position and the boss was bringing up the rear. He opened his cloak and placed his hands on his hips to reveal a lightsaber and a katana. It was not unusual, at least on Avalon. He spoke menacingly, “At last we meet. The so called Savior of the Republic, a fool and the great Kirabaros.”

Kirabaros had nearly run into the party that stopped. When he saw the hooded figure, he immediately threw up his mind walls and used his senses to scan for the others. When he heard the greeting, he made his way to the front. When he saw the lightsaber and katana, he guessed that he might be a faction that hated him for bringing the war or for encouraging the relations with the Republic. Nothing annoyed him more and he showed it when he responded, “And all I see is a pitiful clown pretending to be something he’s not.”

The hooded figure fore him smiled in an evil way. He was angry at what the scum in front of him implied but he had a mission to complete. He replied, “Really? Well I hate to disappoint you but there is a price on your heads.”

“Really?’ Kirabaros eyed his opponent. At that moment, Carth squeezed out a few blaster shots out to the side, hitting one of their attackers. Kirabaros drew his lightsaber and made way towards another.

The hooded figure just watched as his minions did their work against the adults. He kept his gaze on Kirabaros and Revan with a look of intense interest. His client was interested in other things but he was specifically instructed to give them a special gift. Kirabaros was fighting with his back against Atton and Michaela’s backs in a triad move. Revan was moving in unison with Carth. The fluidity as if they were one was amusing to watch. Admirable too.

There seemed to be no end to the attackers as they appeared out of nowhere and fought at them. Kirabaros saw a break and took two and broke the triad. The hooded one watched with amusement. He said, “Not bad. For a Jedi.”

Kirabaros glared at the hooded figure and started for him with his katana drawn. The hooded figure pushed back his hood and drew a sword of intricate design. They squared off. Kirabaros struck first with a swing towards the left. The attacker countered and parried. Kirabaros kept up a defense by keeping his left forearm raised while he swung the blade with his right.


Carth saw that Revan didn’t need his help. She was a Jedi after all. They had managed to dwindle their attacker’s numbers down enough to allow Kirabaros to attack the leader, which had been standing there, and watching them. He had followed Kirabaros’ lead when he mentioned that they were going to try to sneak attack them and had his blasters ready. He paused to watch Kirabaros face off with the leader of the group with fascination at the speed and agility in which Kirabaros moved.

Revan noticed Carth had stopped and paused to look at what he was staring at. She turned to watch occasionally batting away an adversary. Eventually Atton and Michaela turned to watch with astonished looks. They were distracted when some of the attackers who had been stunned got back up and attacked again. Kirabaros paused for a brief moment to glance at Carth before he was hit with a kick to the mid section. It was followed by several punches to the gut and face and ending with a crescent kick across his face. Then he was sent flying with a sidekick into some crates.

Carth had got the glimpse but didn’t move; he didn’t know what to do. When Kirabaros went down, Revan made a move towards the leader. He just stood there waiting until she got close enough and she was sent flying with a Force Wave. He watched as the leader turned towards Kirabaros who was struggling and said, “This was merely a distraction. I am after something more valuable. That which you value the most.”

Carth raised his blasters and fired. The leader dodged them and pushed him to the ground. The leader then spun and threw a small blade at Kirabaros who dodged as it embedded itself into the crates. With a flourish and a firm stride, the attackers left ass quickly as they arrived. Kirabaros was breathing heavily as he watched the attackers leave. He realized what they were after and scrambled up, oblivious to any pain he was in and took off down the street in the opposite direction of the hangar bays with the others following behind.

Another good Chapter JediMaster. I liked the battle at the end. I'm looking foward to more.

Thanks Pottsie though I am surprised you managed to read that fast. The next chapter will be more fun when I get done with the chapter in progress.

Thanks Pottsie though I am surprised you managed to read that fast. The next chapter will be more fun when I get done with the chapter in progress.

I scan the page. That is why I don't say much, unless something makes me read slowly.

Good chapter JM12. Nothing much to comment on except that small spelling error in the fourth sentence of the last paragraph (you must have held the 'S' key too long :D)

Thanks for that igyman. Now here is another chapter, one that involves the kiddies. It took me forever to think of this chapter and I have 3 Ninjas to thank for that.

Chapter 15
“Objection: You Hutt spawn are mocking my technological superiority!”

“Be quiet HK. Hold still while I finish this update on your actuator and your assassination protocols will be online.”

“Be still bad droid!”

Morgan, Lilah and Tulre were in an apartment waiting for their parents to come back from whatever they were doing. Tulre made good on his promise and began to bring HK-47’s dormant assassination protocols online. He was doing fairly well with an occasional piece of advice from HK. The pieces of advice were followed by Lilah spouting out that HK was a bad droid or to be quiet. Morgan just watched with amusement.

Lilah was busy playing with her doll that Revan had made and chatting with Morgan who talked about what it was like being at the Jedi Academy. He talked mostly of missing his Papa. He was saying, “I don’t want Papa to leave again.”

“My papa won’t let him,” Lilah replied. At that age, dressed in a cute little tunic with golden brown pigtails, she believed her papa could do anything. She had watched when he lifted things that were too heavy for her or her mama without the Force. As she looked at the boy sitting across from her, she said, “My papa doesn’t like it when he goes away. Your papa doesn’t either.”

Tulre was listening to their conversation with an open ear. He missed his Dada when he had to go do whatever he had to do. He was glad that he and Lilah had their mothers but Morgan didn’t have that. He was sad that Morgan didn’t have a mother to be there. He paused and walked over to Morgan, leaving HK’s panel open. HK protested, “Objection: I detest this intolerable treatment. I will suggest dismemberment for you when master comes back!”

Tulre ignore the protocol droid as he sat near Morgan as he was saying, “I’m scared for papa.”

Tulre replied, “I’m scared too. Don’t worry. Marmar will protect us and Aunt Reva.”

That brought a smile to Morgan for then the little boy felt welcomed. He showed it when Tulre went back to work and handed him a hydrospanner using the Force. The three of them giggled together while HK still continued to complain about Tulre damaging his parts.

They had been there for a little over an hour when Lilah began to say, “Hurry Tulre. Bad men coming.”

Morgan chimed in, “I feel it too.”

“Ok. You’re all done HK,” Tulre said, closing the last panel. He ran to the corner where he had left his pack and slung it on his shoulder. He said, “You know what to do and you better do it well or I’ll put in a pacifist module or Uncle Atton will put you in the scrap heap.”

“Observation: Out of all the threats you have given me spawn of the Handsome Meatbag that has to be the most cruel of all. I rather like that.” If a droid could smile, HK surely would have.

Tulre didn’t get to respond for there was a loud bang outside the door and a bunch of voices. He stood in the center of the room looking at the door as he could hear the tell tale sounds of a slicer working. Morgan and Lilah stood with him, Lilah grabbing his hand and Morgan holding onto his tunic. Morgan tugged on it and whispered, “Stay here. Trust me.”

Tulre nodded and continued to stare at the door. HK had retreated to a dark corner where he could pick off the enemy without being seen. The new modules that Tulre installed were working perfectly and allowed HK to dim his eyes so he couldn’t be seen. The three of them just stood there when the explosion sounded and the door popped open to reveal four men and one woman dressed completely in black. They stared at the three children who stood stark still in the middle of the room looking at them with wide eyes. The woman said, “Come here children. We aren’t going to hurt you.”

“Warning: Any attempt to touch the little meatbags will result in termination.” HK fired off a few shots and downed two of the men.

The rest started to turn on the droid who emerged from his corner and began to fire. The woman shouted protests, “Forget the droid, and get the kids!” Seeing that they were not going to listen to her, she gave up and took off after the children who ran in three different directions. She took off after the eldest, Tulre.

Tulre ran into one of the rooms and locked himself into one of the storage closets. With that buying time, he managed to open the ventilation shaft and crawl through it. By the time the woman opened the closet, he was already towards where Lilah was supposed to be.

Lilah was hard to convince to get in because she was afraid of the dark. She said that the dark made her mama cry out scared sometimes. Tulre responded in the soothing tones he used on his stallion at home and finally managed to convince her to follow him by saying that they needed to get Morgan. They couldn’t leave family behind. Lilah agreed after finishing her sobs and crawled in. Tulre shut the grate and proceeded to where the refresher was. At the end, Morgan was waiting for them with a bottle of liquid soap and a container of some powder cleaner of some sort. He smiled and said, “To help HK.”

Tulre nodded and lead the way through the ventilation shaft. Pausing near one of the openings, he could hear HK spouting, “Unnecessary Threat: Die you meatbag scum!” It was followed by shouts from the men as they continued their strike against the droid. At one point, they managed to knock over the droid and continue their search for the kids. They paused by the opening, calling for the kids to come out. Tulre spotted something on the ground. A broom had fallen over. Using what he could of the Force, he moved the broom with enough force to knock both of them off their feet. Smothering giggles, he told Morgan to take the kitchen.

Morgan clutched his wares and trudged along, getting lost once until he found the kitchen. He was overhead the floor near the counter. Getting down as quietly as he could, he jumped down onto the counter. Carefully squeezing the bottle, he squeezed it all over the floor, creating an invisible film of slip and slide. He then proceeded to put the detergent into little paper bags. Hiding the evidence, he made his way towards the door to where the two men were arguing. He said in a careful sing song, “Oh no. Bad men.” He then shut the door and ran the long way around to get back on the counter where the opening was.

The two men opened the door to find a three-year-old boy looking at them innocent eyed and standing on the kitchen counter. They came charging at him only to slip on the floor where he had poured the soap. With a giggle, he jumped down to find Tulre.

Meanwhile, Tulre was teasing the woman by dodging her grabs. It was like playing the old game with Uncle Carth and Dustil. He grinned mischievously at the woman, as she grew frustrated. She didn’t see Lilah hiding above until she was clonked on the head with something she dropped. When the woman fell, Tulre grabbed Lilah and went to find Morgan. Together the three of them managed to set HK right who was muttering at the indignities he had suffered and they hid behind him.

The three attackers came stumbling out to be greeted by a psycho killer droid and bombshells of detergent. It was enough for them as they headed out of the apartment and took off. HK spoke, “Warning: Come back again meatbag scum and I’ll finish the job.” The droid then did the unthinkable and locked all four of them in the closet muttering in a voice that sounded oddly familiar, “Mockery: HK you will protect them. HK keep them safe.”


Kirabaros came running up just as the three attackers left in a hurry. They were hunched over and thought that they had taken the children. He nearly wanted to cry out but forced himself to look in the apartment. He saw the body of one attacker and determined that HK must have got off a few rounds before being overpowered. What perplexed him was that there was no sign of the droid damaged or scrap. He scoured the apartment and found the detergent, and saw the slick floors and the opened air vents. It was then that he heard giggling and HK warning the little meatbags to be quiet or he would rip out their vocal chords. He followed the sounds to the closet they were in and banged on the door.

HK responded, “Warning: Back away or I’ll blast you meatbag scum.”

“HK open up, all clear,” Kirabaros wearily replied. When the door opened up, three children came bounding out all trying to tell of how the bad men came and how they bested them.

“Calm down all of you. I can see that you took care of things. I’m sure HK helped you.” Kirabaros was smiling at the three of them.

“Indignant Response: The three little meatbags insisted upon disobeying orders. Shall I attempt some form of punishment, possibly ripping out vocal chords?” HK emerged from the closet holding the sniper rifle that he was never parted with.

“No HK. Go scan the surrounding area,” Kirabaros replied. He checked to make sure the kids were ok when the others caught up to them.

Carth looked around at the mess in the apartment and asked, “Are the kids ok?”

Nice. I like the HK action and his comments. The only thing I have to nag about is that I don't think HK-47 uses prefixes like ''Unnecessary Threat'', or ''Indignant Response'', but rather ''Threat'' and ''Clarification'', maybe even ''Suggestion''.

Another good Chapter JediMaster12. I'm looking foward to more.

Actually igyman I believe HK does say something like that in TSL. Either that or I am confusing him for the inferior versions of him. The next chapter will be up soon.

I still think you are confusing him with HK-50s, but hey, it's your vision of him.

Chapter 16
He watched them as they fought. He especially watched the Jedi he was after. He’s good. He has a lot of heart, a thing not common in Jedi, he thought as he watched through the view scope of his sniper rifle. “You are as good as he says,” he muttered at no one in particular.

Jaqrand had tracked his Jedi ever since he left Coruscant, being crammed in a cargo hold with Force knows what to just watch a group of dissenters attack. At first he thought they were stupid or something because they made no attempt to kill the group and looked clumsy. The more he watched, the more he realized that they were toying with them. They’re after something else, he thought. At that, he pondered at what it could be.

The Jedi turned towards the leader of the group. They faced off with blades wielded. The poise was so perfect that they appeared to be statues. If Jaqrand wanted to, he could have taken a shot, a killing one. What he wanted was to get close. He wanted to smell the fear, the mercy; the look was what he wanted. The same look that the Jedi before had given him. The mere memory of the last Jedi he had killed gave him a surge of pleasure much like that of his girls in every spaceport.

His attention was drawn towards a scruffy looking male dressed in gray Jedi robes. Using his scope, he adjusted to get a better view of the face. He saw the brown locks, the hazel eyes and a face that had the look of a broken man but hid the familiar look of the lust for the kill. As he watched the man, Jaqrand let out a snort of disgust. So you have joined them then? Traitor. Traitor…

He was tempted to squeeze the trigger of his rifle and fire a shot. He wanted to kill the traitor to everything that they had done together. One thing was holding him back. The traitor was once a friend. Loyalty belonged to a friend though, not a traitor. He just kept watching the man through his scope. He was in his sights, just squeeze the trigger and he could be rid of a traitor.

All too soon, the attackers fled leaving his Jedi struggling to get up. He watched the worried expression on the Jedi’s face. It masked the true emotions: fear. So unlike a Jedi to have fear. Then again, that was how the others turned. Jaqrand was pleased. It would make his job easier in isolating the Jedi from the others. He watched with the eyes of a predator as the others followed the Jedi down the street. You will be mine Jedi. My prey.


“What do you mean you don’t have them?” The shouting could be heard in the next room. The figure slouching on the couch didn’t care though. He was amused and it showed upon his face.

“They were guarded by droid of some sort and the brats had us chase them,” the man on the comm replied with a firm yet sullen look.

“How hard is it to blast in and snatch three blasted children? It’s not like they can use the Force yet if they could,” Keegan spoke getting red in the face. He was beginning to wonder if their plan would work at all with all the bumbling idiots that they had running around for them.

“Actually they can. I think. One of my men reported getting hit with a flying broom or…”

“They’re children. They’re weak as newborn kith pups not full grown Jedi.” Keegan somehow managed to get his temper under control. His face was still red and showed his anger. He continued, “Look, you get those brats any way you can. Blast their pet droid into scrap if you have to but I want those kids NOW!” His fist pounded on the console making the comm shake.

The man looked at Keegan, gave a brief nod and replied, “I’ll report when I have them.” The comm went blank.

Keegan left the room with the comm to join Draconis who was lounging on the couch and looking as if he had just won a high stakes Pazaak game. Keegan was still simmering from the report he had received and the look Draconis was giving him wasn’t helping. Sure he learned enough how to torture the mind of an Avalonian but what good was it if he couldn’t penetrate the mind of Draconis? He said, “I’m not in the mood.”

“Of course you’re not. I wouldn’t be either if I just found out that one of my hired thugs failed to get their hands on three mere children. Then again they aren’t normal children anyway. All three have at least one parent that is Force Sensitive.” Draconis looked at Keegan with a bemused yet cold look.

“But they are kids. They shouldn’t be able to do anything significant yet,” Keegan replied, his temper rising.

“What you fail to realize my dear Admiral is that two of them are spawn of two powerful Jedi. Of course they will know a few things,” Draconis had stood up and patted Keegan’s shoulder as if he were a small child. He then crossed across the room to where the marble ball rested where he had placed it after Keegan threw it at him. He picked it up and held it in his hand looking at. All of a sudden it started to levitate and rotate like a planet would. He then said, “Harnessing the Force is not hard, if you know how to do it.”

Keegan looked on not knowing whether to be surprised or angry. It seemed that every time he thought he had Draconis figured out, he would do something to throw him off. He replied through clenched teeth, “But they shouldn’t be able to do what our hires went through at that age. They wouldn’t have learned control.”

“You don’t get it do you?” Draconis replied dangerously soft. He let the marble ball float back into his palm and he set it down. “The Force flows strongly between the three of them. It is no effort for them at all.” He then turned to face Keegan with a business like face, “Now about our bounty hunter?”

“No word from him. For all we know he burned sky,” Keegan replied still gritting his teeth. He had gritted any harder, he would have broken a tooth.

“No. He’s still on the job. The only reason I specifically asked for him was that he had…a past. A good one to boot, at least in terms of association,” Draconis smiled, once again revealing that he knew more than what was going on. Keegan knew that he was in for a very long game in this dangerous game of live dejarik. He wondered if he would be one of the pieces still standing. He knew he was a pawn and Draconis played him well. It made him wonder if Kirabaros were just like him, cold and calculating. It then struck him with the possibility that all Avalonians could be that way, always seeing five moves ahead.


The predator looked on through darkened eyes as he watched the Jedi search the room. His scope was trained on him, in the spot that he wanted and he watched. When he saw three children appear, he stopped. Children are a more interesting prey, he thought with malicious glee. Still he had one target, one prey. He didn’t let his mind dwell on the kids. Then he saw him.

The traitor had entered in the room. He had a look of concern, which broke into relief as he grabbed a small boy with hair that unmistakably was his. The hunter broke into a smile. He would have to modify his job involving the Jedi to extend to the traitor. The opportunity was too good to pass up. The stakes were higher and he was willing to bet the extra amount if only to make the traitor suffer as they had suffered.

The shadows hid him well as he pressed against the wall where he was leaning with his high-powered rifle. He heaved in a sigh and marveled at the beauty of this planet. Never before had he seen a place where so many men and women looked as if they were ready for war. There were also a few of them pussy types, the artisans; the ‘innocent civilians.’ No one noticed him for he was wearing dark clothing and had wedged himself in such a way that he couldn’t be seen unless you knew what you were looking for.

The view was good as he watched the others gather around and began to talk. The two women went towards some other rooms to get supplies while the men seemed to be talking. The brats weren’t around either. They must have been taken by their pet droid, he muttered. The Jedi began to assess the damage done to the door. He was talking to the other two who were looking around the room. Now was the perfect chance.

Aiming carefully, the hunter brought his trigger finger around the trigger gently. Almost as if not breathing, he gently squeezed the trigger and was met with the powerful recoil of his rifle. He didn’t miss. He knew it because he heard the shouts and the screams. He stood up slowly and began to walk away with a big grin on his face.

Jaqrand knew that this day wasn’t a kill day. It was a warning day. He had targeted his Jedi and sent a message. He had left a fairly good signature for the traitor as well. He will know. He will know that it was I, Jaqrand that sent that calling card. He walked away knowing that he had all the time in the world to follow them. Even if they lost him, he would find them again. He was good at finding things.

Another good Chapter JediMaster12. I'm looking foward to more.

A very, very good chapter, JM12. I really like the portrayal of the villains in the story. Keep it up.

On a side note: Due to college obligations, I don't know how regularly will I be able to check this fic in the future, but I'll try to give you as much feedback as I can.

I understand completely because this is a busy year for me as well. This is my senior year at college and I have lots of papers to do so it will be some time before I can get chapters up. Thanks for the comment on my villians. Personally I like the kind that are very calculating and devious. To me the most dangerous kind are the ones who can convey a different thought than the one they intend. It all makes for a good deception.

Well finally I was able to finish two chapters and will now post. There is one part that gives towards the mindset of an Avalonian warrior. I took some ideas from the philosophy of the samurai in which their ideals are based on.

Chapter 17
All was quiet on board. Too quiet. It made it seem as if it were a ghost ship. It was a good thing for it was nighttime according to the ship’s clock and almost everyone else was asleep. It didn’t help for the person struggling in his bunk on the portside of the ship. He wriggled in pain as he tried to get himself comfortable but sleep wouldn’t come. His wife was not with him for she was tending to smaller matters and left him in peace. Giving up, he got up slowly, barely wincing from the pain, and started a pacing ritual that would have put the most paranoid of pilots to shame.

He made his way to the cockpit where a familiar sight greeted him. He ran a hand through his blonde tinged hair and sat beside his friend in the copilot seat. He was greeted with a soft, “Can’t sleep?”

Kirabaros gazed at the blue streaks of hyperspace for a moment before saying, “No.”

“You still ache?”

“A bit.” Kirabaros paused before speaking again. He rubbed his left near his abdomen, trying to ease the soreness that didn’t seem to go away after two days and he was too stubborn to ask Revan to use Force Heal on him. He said softly, “Carth, I think someone is out to get me and I feel that this might endanger the mission. I know I made an oath but I might have to break that vow and leave, if only to draw attention away from you guys.”

Carth said nothing but watched his friend as he sat there. He watched him as he rubbed his abdomen and thought about what happened two days ago when they were attacked and the kids were nearly taken. He doubted then the wisdom of keeping the kids close but he didn’t now. He watched Kirabaros nearly tear himself apart these last two days while they were in space heading back towards the Republic. They had left immediately after a simple bandage job, insisted by a grimacing Kirabaros. Sitting there now, he saw that the worrying was getting to him and he looked…old.

“I know I looked something the kath hound dragged in,” Kirabaros said.

“You haven’t given yourself a break, not even before this mess,” Carth replied. “It shows.”

“Well, call me stupid if you like, but you, Revan, Lilah, well you are the family I never had. Remember when I told you about when my father died?” Kirabaros had stopped rubbing the tender spot and turned to gaze at Carth.

“Yeah but does that mean you don’t have to share the burden of looking after my wife and daughter? I mean I can do that too. It’s supposed to be my job,” Carth pointed out gently.

“I know but I don’t want to worry her too much. The less anyone knows save for you and Atton…”

“Better if we don’t know everything just to keep one step ahead. I remember playing dejarik with you. You think of the future,” Carth interrupted with an understanding.

Kirabaros paused. It had never occurred to him before that Carth would understand. Everyone, even Revan at times, would say he was too paranoid and disliked being left out of the loop. It puzzled him but then he realized that Carth was, in a way, giving his permission to do what he could to protect his family. He leaned back in the seat and stared straight ahead. He closed his eyes and slowly opened them again and said, “You still haven’t given your opinion on my leaving.”

“Do I have to? I know that you do what you think is right. Perhaps that’s why Revan respects you. You don’t back down but you aren’t stupid about your fights.” Carth ran his right hand through his hair. “You know how stubborn I am but to tell you the truth: when Jolee first told me about you on Citadel, I had this feeling that you had all the answers. When I met you, you gave me hope and eventually reunited me with my wife. For that I am grateful. If anyone owes anyone, it’s me.”

“I…I don’t know what say,” Kirabaros replied. He had sensed the sorrow, the pain of loss; that was what drew him to people in the first place long ago. He was attracted to pain and wondered briefly if he made things difficult to make it happen and wondered why. It disconcerted him and he wanted to get away but he was too polite to just get up and walk away without preamble.

“Thank you would be nice,” Carth replied with a grin. “Besides you do what you have to and we’ll help whenever and wherever we can. Now you might want to try to go to sleep. I doubt you want to pilot this thing in three hours running on empty.”

Kirabaros nodded and padded softly out of the cockpit. It was an amazing feat seeing as no one could be that quiet even without their boots on. When he got to the common room, instead of going back to his quarters, he turns toward the starboard to where he felt his feelings of tenderness rising up.

From the doorway, he could make out three distinct shapes in the dark. They were shapeless gray mounds to the naked eye but they each had their own aura. Picking out his son’s he walked towards him and gazed at the sleeping figure. Gently he brushed the loose strands of hair and smiled when they popped back into place. Aside from his wife, nothing meant more to him than his son. Children in general had the same effect on him. He had a lot of love to give and it would often be given to children not his own. As he watched his son sleep, he made a decision. He would stay by Revan’s side to ensure that no harm came to her. As for the children, he had something else in mind. With a last look, he placed a well-placed kiss on his son’s cheek and wished him good night. He made sure the other two were comfortable before he left to go back to sleep.

Padding softly back to his quarters after leaving the children asleep and guarded by HK and Kapu, who insisted on coming with them. He came to find Michaela asleep on the narrow bunk. Apparently she had gone back to bed after checking on the kids. Pulling off his shirt, Kirabaros slid into the bed next to her and just gazed at her with an intense look. It was as if he were searching for something before sleep overtook him and he fell asleep. Tomorrow his plan would begin to go into play. Tomorrow, the game was on and it would prove to be a very long game.


It was raining on Coruscant and it was night. It was calm and yet had a sense of foreboding to it. It could reveal intentions and it could hide them. The predator could strike or it would wait. That was how Rowan viewed the entire scene before him as he stood waiting for the arrival of his charges. Twenty years of being hardened to battle served him well when he went to strange places. As far as he knew, the first person to leave Avalon and come to this place was none other than Kirabaros.

He was waiting in the rain and watched as it gave a sort of cleansing to the whole planet, at least the side he was on. His posture betrayed no doubts, if any, and he refused to move from his spot. Trained for years with the Bushida warriors, the elites, he developed a great tolerance for discomfort and strove to teach that discipline to the new and younger warriors. With Caelos, he was succeeding. Though the boy was a Jedi, he was Avalonian. A good Avalonian must learn all that is expected of him including combat and stealth. It was important also to be balanced with those of a non-violent manner so he encouraged the reading of poetry from the great artists. A good warrior had to be in balance or he was doomed to fail in his missions.

Standing there, Rowan reflected on his time spent on the chaotic planet. He hated the planet and equaled it to being a pile of Bantha poodoo. There was too much chaos and inner harmony did not seem to exist. He wondered how the Jedi could stand it there being that there seemed to be no balance. It was a mystery to him and one he couldn’t understand. With the rain however, it seemed to wash away the grime, the imbalance, everything that made the planet a veritable hell and seemed to give a glimmer of hope. In a way Coruscant was like the tale of the floating lantern. Even though there were horrible things that happened like corruption, greed, everything that brought the worst out of sentients, the floating lantern stayed afloat to guide the lost souls back to harmony if they chose to take it otherwise it became a ship at sea.

Rowan was thinking of these lessons and stories when he received a beep on his comm. He responded to the call only to receive instructions in Avalonian or rather one of the dialects. He responded in the same language and pulled his cloak tighter around him. He was clearly drenched but he had his duty. If one thing his family was noted for, it was their fierce loyalty to duty and honor. Catching a glimpse of what he was waiting for, he lit a glow stick and waved it as if in the manner of a flight crew preparing a fighter for takeoff. He watched his surroundings as a ship, clearly of Avalonian design, made its way to the platform that he was standing on. He readied himself for any thing out of the ordinary for that was what a Bushida warrior did. They were always ready for whatever danger that that may come across their way. The way of the battle was their life. This he held on to as the ship landed and the ramp lowered to let out his charges.

Finally a Chapter. I didn't know if this was going to be finished or not. Anyway another good Chapter JediMaster12 and I'm looking foward to the next one.

Oh it will be finished. I'm in my last year at college and applying to grad school an on top of that I have massive papers to write. I also have my duties to the sorority and as the ambassador to the anthro club so my life is going to be a veritable hell at least for this fall. As for Heart of Deception, I have the plots worked out and I have strange dreams of certain scenes haunting them.

It's been a while, but you've still got it. For a moment there I thought I wouldn't remember what this fic was about up 'til now, but it seems that my memory is a lot better than I thought.
As a fellow college student I can understand the obligations, the lack of free time and the hard work that our status implies. Though I'm only in my first year, college has taken a lot of my time as well, almost every day I come home the first thing I want to do is get some sleep. Good thing I can spare the evenings to turn on the PC and play some games and take a look around the forums.

Thanks for the understanding igyman. As a reward, I am posting chapter 18. Yes I was slow at posting chapters because I have an Internet Nazi at home and I have dial-up there.

Chapter 18
The ship landed on a small strip away from the main center of the planet. The rain beat at its weathered hull with a pleasant rhythm as it lowered its loading ramp. The first to emerge was a hooded figure that pulled his robes tightly around him to try and shield himself from the cold. He glanced around to find a single solitary waiting for him. Keeping a sharp eye, he walked towards the figure that was also wearing robes to protect himself from the rain. Upon reaching the figure, the one that was waiting for him spoke, “Lovely weather we’re having aren’t we?”

Atton responded, “About as lovely as it gets kid. I have what I guess you’ve been waiting for.”

“Good. I have a friend who knows where to put it,” Caelos replied and led the way.


Rowan watched as a figure descended from the ship. He allowed himself a smile for the one person he had a close friendship with. Coming up to see his old friend better, he saw that he was flanked by four others, one obviously being carried, and the droid he had come to think synonymous with the term psychotic. He greeted his friend in a warrior clasp and spoke softly above the roar of the rain, “Weather’s good isn’t it?”

With a slight grin, Kirabaros replied, “Not as good as home I imagine. How’s the senator?”

Eying Kirabaros’ companions, Rowan replied, “Well. She showed me a place for the lady.” He indicated to Revan who was holding her sleeping daughter. Carth was trying to keep the rain off of them. The droid was scanning the area with a sniper rifle cocked and ready for anything and Dustil was just anxious but trusting of their group leader’s decisions.

Kirabaros moved his own eyes to scan around as he said, “We best get going. Things could change for this game.”

Rowan said nothing but instead nodded. Turning, he led the way to a transport that he had ready. Yes things were going to change. Still he was a warrior and he would keep his honor by fulfilling his oath. The first rule of a Bushida warrior was to uphold the oaths he or she makes to another.


The apartment looked like twelve people had lived cramped in it along with rats and other types of vermin. The floor was carpeted and surprisingly clean but badly stained. The walls bore signs of water damage and showed it in ugly brown stains. Caelos and his friend that he met after the war, a blue Twi’lek named Mission, stood and watched as their companions inspected what was to be their quarters for as long as things stood. Atton was holding a sleeping Morgan glancing around with a strange expression and Michaela was looking around with an amused expression. Tulre was sitting on one of the battered couches with Kapu nestled against him and he was dozing. Michaela, much to Atton’s surprise said, “This is fine. I’m surprised that you could find it on such short notice.”

Mission, glad that her hard work was being rewarded, replied, “Yeah well, it’s good to know who’s ‘renting’ and who’s selling and the like.”

“We aren’t gonna be found out are we Blue?” Atton asked calling Mission the nickname that Canderous, now Mandalore, gave her.

“Nope. The folks here don’t see nothin’ and they don’t hear nothin.’” Mission looked pleased with herself. Ever since the war ended, Kirabaros encouraged her to be legit in her dealings but also encouraged her to keep her skills in practice. She was grateful and never really got to thank him for telling her about the friend who was like a sister to her. Her way just happened to give him a hand.

Michaela for her part was grateful for Mission. She liked the Twi’lek when she first met her and taught some useful things like cooking, one that Mission liked to show off when she came to Avalon. Casting a warning glance at Atton, she replied to Mission, “This will be fine. After all, we are hiding out here at your expense and we are grateful.”

“Anything for Jac…er Kirabaros,” Mission beamed, momentarily forgetting that Kirabaros never went by his childhood name any more. She was glad to see Tulre again for he had a way of making her laugh. Not finished, she opened what passed for a closet and revealed clothing that would allow for them to pass as common citizens on Coruscant just in case they needed to make a discreet exit.

Impressed, Michaela said, “I see you thought of everything. Well it looks like we’re going to be all right.”

Caelos took his leave for he still had his duties towards the senator and he had to receive an update from Kirabaros. He gave a slight bow and left the apartment and took off leaving Mission to help them. He only hoped that Kirabaros wouldn’t encounter any other problems.


Senator Amstar greeted Revan with a sisterly hug and gave a polite peck on Kirabaros and Carth’s cheeks. Dustil she looked at with a smile and greeted him with a handshake. Her differences in her greetings were nothing unusual for she gave them as she saw them; whatever made her guests comfortable. She insisted on holding Lilah who woke up and asked to see the pretty lady much to the amusement of her parents. Sitting down on a long couch, she motioned for the others to sit. She spoke in a good-natured voice, “I trust you will enjoy your stay.”

“Oh yes,” Revan piped up equally cheerful. “Thank you for letting us stay.”

“No problem. I’m sure this is even satisfactory for Kirabaros.” Senator Amstar held Lilah who was getting drowsy again. “Anyway, I could use with the company.”

Meanwhile Kirabaros had gotten up quietly and made his way around the apartment. Rowan followed him to help along with HK. Revan had seen him get up to walk through the various rooms. He had told her that he would be handling security since he didn’t trust green Republic recruits, no offense to Carth. She kept to the conversation with Senator Amstar and replied, “Yes. With all the security round, I am sure we will go in and get out without any mishaps.”

Senator Amstar smiled. Kirabaros had asked her if she wouldn’t mind. He stressed that it would be a big risk for her but she liked the Onasi family. After what they did for Avalon, well there were many who would consider it an honor. That was something not mentioned for it was passed along the wind that they wanted to live quietly and it was respected. She changed the course of the conversation by addressing Dustil, “Tell me, young Dustil, how goes the engineering job?”

Surprised that the conversation was directed at him, Dustil stammered and got a little flustered. Revan hid a smile for he looked like Carth when he was nervous. Dustil went into a brief description as to what he was doing. The conversation lulled a bit and that was the signal for Senator Amstar to show them to their rooms. It was a testament to how spacious the apartment was by the amount of rooms and their spacing. If anything it seemed as if the Republic wanted to keep the Avalonians sweet since they were new to the Republic. Carth kept that thought to himself as well as the conversation he had with Admiral Dodonna before landing requesting a meeting.

Later, with their daughter asleep in the adjoining room, Carth told Revan his apprehensions about what was going on. He said, “I don’t know Gorgeous but I have a feeling that the Republic has a hidden agenda. As much as I don’t want to believe it, that feeling is there.”

Snuggling close to his warm body in their bed, Revan could sense how this whole thing was tearing him apart. He was loyal to the Republic, the ideals that it was supposed to stand for. The very thought that the Republic would be wont to cause harm to one person was disturbing. She couldn’t help but feel the same way. Knowing that Carth valued her honesty she replied softly, “I know but I think that it’s not the Republic as a whole. Maybe it is someone with ties to the higher ups.”

The conversation continued into the night until husband and wife fell asleep, each thinking of the challenges they will face. Eventually their sleep became peaceful creating a sense of calm that could be sensed by every Force sensitive nearby.

Don't like the sound of that Internet Nazi. Anyway good Chapter JediMaster12 and I'm looking foward to more.

Good chapter. Interesting view on Mission, she being the one to arrange the safe house and all.

Well yeah. Mission knows the ropes of the underworld. She didn't survive on Taris for nothing. I have a few ideas for her later. As I finish chapter 20 I can post 19. It's hard because I just picked up my other story about an arachaeologist, a female one and am beginning to edit and change the storyline a bit. Thanks for all the loyal readers.

Well finally I finished chapet 20 and can post 19. Iam in the process of writing 21 and it looks like the plot will step up. I sense separation and and another familiar character coming up soon. Sorry Pottsie but it looks like I get to still hang my manuscriot over your head.
*waving manuscript still over Pottsie's head*

Chapter 19
He had wounded the animal and yet he was still kicking. Jaqrand saw that his quarry was not like any of the Jedi he had hunted before in those days. He had sent the shot that would have probably killed anyone not trained in the ways of a Jedi. It was a perfect shot. It was one that would have crippled any ordinary Jedi and he was sure that it would have done the same to this Jedi but it didn’t. It unnerved him when he found out how quickly the Jedi left the planet but he quickly regained his composure and made arrangements to follow them off.

Back home he was on this cesspool they called a planet. Even though he found it a pleasant place when he wanted a good time, he hated the place. Nal Hutta was better along with NarShadaa and that was where he got the best bounty assignments. Sitting in the apartment that he kept for his visits he thought about his current assignment. He knew changes would have to be made in order to complete the job but there would be time to think about later. Right now he was going to enjoy some company.


Keegan watched as the rain continued to pour down upon the glittering lights of Coruscant. He was not a patient man and he was a temperamental one at best. The hires to grab the kids were laying low when they found out that they were no longer on the planet and Jaqrand commed to say that he was taking a break and that the target wasn’t going anywhere. That wasn’t the reason for his discontent. It lay deeper within the very depths of his soul. He stood there in his darkened apartment washing the rain as he muddled through the thoughts and memories that he had kept for so long.

He remembered the Mandalorian wars. The brutes were raping and pillaging the worlds within the Outer Rim. The Republic was struggling to keep them at bay and the Jedi abandoned them save for her. It was the Jedi Revan who led Malak and the others who decided to go against the wishes of the Jedi Council to victory against the Mandalorians. It was the greatest of victories at Malachor V. It broke the spirit of the Mandalorians, their clans were disbanded; the Republic was safe once again.

She then betrayed them. She turned against everything that she stood for and began to finish what the Mandalorians began. She conquered worlds and turned many against the Republic. The hero became the traitor. Like all traitors, they must be destroyed. Keegan didn’t believe that the Jedi reformed Revan like they said. He intended to get revenge for his homeworld and he was surprised that Admiral Onasi didn’t already but then again he married the schutta and they had a daughter. In Keegan’s mind, that counted as a double treason. Traitors are dealt with accordingly and those plans were already in motion.

So Keegan stood watching the cleansing rainfall over the darkened skies. It had a calming effect upon him. He felt his rage smolder into a controllable flame. He would have his revenge. He would have it once and for all.


Count Draconis was kneeling in front of his altar honoring his ancestors on his knees and sitting on his heels. His hands were folded in prayer as he gazed at the tablets with the names of his ancestors. The room was dark save for the candles that were lit near the altar. His dark eyes glistened in the candlelight as he repeated the prayers to honor his family. He thought about the time-honored traditions of Avalon. His people were in danger and he had to preserve that which had existed for millennia.

It all centered around the legendary Kirabaros, the Heart of the Guardian. His spirit lived on through time appearing when the People needed him the most. Imagine his displeasure when Kirabaros revealed himself in a Belosian boy, and a Jedi no less. Jacen Cirrus challenged the working order of the Avalonian system and in so doing brought war and destruction. He tainted the green plains with the presence of Republics and then further tainted the land and their traditions by encouraging Avalon to join the Republic.

If anything, Kirabaros is a blight upon our people. He has betrayed the tenements of our people by disbanding the time-honored traditions. Draconis was thinking this as he sat kneeling in front of the altar. He believed that the tribesmen had no right in the fate of Avalon. He believed in the distinct barriers between the nobles and the commoners. Kirabaros had undermined that when he encouraged conclave that fateful night when the Blood King sent his warriors.

His prayers done, Draconis bowed low towards the altar and said, “For our honor, I shall restore Avalon to her former glory.” He then stood up and turned towards the windows to watch the rainfall. His dark eyes glittered with life and the unusual gleam that spoke of the thirst for blood. He knew that Kirabaros had made the choice to walk into the kinrath den and he did so willingly. He knew Kirabaros would do whatever it took to protect the taint he brought to Avalon. That can only add to the fact that he was a traitor to his people. Soon all will be revealed and then we shall see if you truly are the great Kirabaros.


The table was littered with datapads and weapons and leftover remnants of a meal. Three sentients were sitting at the table checking the various weapons on the table and making sure that they were charged and ready to go. They had failed to obtain their targets the first time and they received a yelling from the Republic admiral. Feeling sore at that, they had set to work keeping tabs on the three children. They had run into a problem.

Of one they were sure of and the other two, they weren’t. One was definitely here on Coruscant with her parents. Unfortunately the droid that dispatched two of their men was with them and they weren’t anxious to tangle with it again. The other two seemed to disappear en route to Coruscant. They knew they got on the ship but there is no record of their arrival. They updated their client as to where they were but didn’t report that they had lost two of their quarries.

The leader was checking the power pack of a custom upgrade rifle when his daughter spoke, “With the droid around, we will be hard pressed to grab her. We should probably take him out first.”

“Agreed but even with the droid down, we are dealing with Jedi here,” her brother countered.

“Jedi that can be easily distracted with the right shots,” the girl replied as she adjusted the scope on a hold out blaster.

The leader had finished the rifle and was preparing a speeder’s worth of grenades. He had schooled his children well in the art of bounty hunting and mercenary work. He smiled a bit as he watched them discuss methods on how to snatch the Jedi’s daughter. They would have their work cut out for them when they went to retrieve her and find the other two brats. The droid would be a problem as well as the Jedi and any other security that they would have to fight. Brushing that aside, he thought of his first encounter with the Jedi Kirabaros. He was impressed and would have liked to have the pleasure of being the one to kill him but he knew that another was already pursuing that route. That didn’t matter. They were going to do their job. They recruited new men and they would scout and surveillance. They would wait until the opportune moment. They couldn’t afford to do anything stupid.

*waving manuscript still over Pottsie's head*

JM12, I order you to get rid of that manuscript! Anyway good Chapter and once again I thought this Fic had died. I wonder who this familiar Character is. Could you give us a clue?

No :D
*still waving manusript over Pottsie's head*

You have to wait like everyone else :lol:

*still waving manuscript over pottsie's head*

Chapter 20
The streets of Coruscant could be merciless or pleasant, depending on what level you were on. There were some areas that were worth going to and others that were fit for the scum in the universe. You could either blend in or stand out but it was better to blend in. That was the goal of the woman walking briskly through the streets to the nearest cantina. Dressed like a smuggler, she gave the impression that she was not to be messed with. That was certainly the feeling when she entered the Hunter’s Bounty, a shady cantina that was known for conducting all types of business.

The air was dank and heavy with the smell of cigarra smoke and the vintages of several alcoholic beverages. The woman’s nostril’s flared slightly at the smell but she gave off a content smile and headed towards the bar. The barkeep, upon seeing her, brought out a bottle of rare spirits. She called it saruke but he knew it as Shreyite brandy and that it came from Avalon. When she laid down the credits for the brandy he gave a slight nod and motioned his eyes to a corner. Taking her cue, the woman gave a smile and sauntered towards a booth near the rear. She was greeted by a familiar sight that greeted her with a smile.


Kirabaros was a nervous wreck though he was much too prideful to show it. After being kept in the dark for the past week, he and his sister would finally appear before the Senate. It had taken Senator Amstar that long to convince the senators that they weren’t going to cut and run and to not badger them. He knew that there were some senators who disliked him because he was adamant in his last session with them and that he was a Jedi. It irked but didn’t surprise him that there were some who still didn’t trust Jedi at all. Not that he blamed him. Then there were the others who thought him to be a hero, like the senator from Ryloth. None of that mattered except for the feeling of dread that he had ever since he accompanied Senator Amstar to Coruscant.

He was staring out the glass window, watching the air traffic flying along as if nothing were out of place. Watching the organized flow reminded him of, of all things, the organization of the fleet that he planned during the war. All he saw was the grace and the dance that came when they flew in, out and about. It was magnificent to see but hanging at the back of his mind it was a dance of death. He was watching the sight when he was brought out of his reverie by a gentle touch to his shoulder and a pleasant voice asking, “Hey, you awake?”


“Today’s the day Lethe. They will be heading to the Senate.”

“What would I do without you Mission?” Michaela, or rather ‘Lethe,’ asked with a smile.

Mission just beamed at Michaela. For the past week Michaela met with Mission regularly to get an update on what was happening. She knew that Mission had a way of finding out things and visited the senator when the chance presented itself. It was a lot of work but it was better than not knowing what was going on. Mission knew this and did it willingly. She gazed at the woman that she hardly recognized as the cultured woman she had met four years ago and said, “Yeah it took a lot of the usual greasing the wheels but he’ll be able to better keep an eye on things. He asks about you and I tell him that business is good.”

Michaela smiled at the blue Twi’lek across from her. She took a polite sip of the brandy that she had picked up and replied, “Tell me, does the droid know what to do?”


It was a lonely ride to the Senate arena, and it didn’t help that Rowan insisted that Kirabaros maintain a meditative state to keep a sharp eye out for trouble. Revan felt lonely since Kirabaros ended up shutting her out and Senator Amstar was too deep in her own thoughts to be much of a conversational companion. Instead Revan turned to her own thoughts.

She had found Kirabaros staring out the window wearing that look he always wore when mesmerized by battle. She had first noticed it when he dueled with Jolee long ago. It was then that she realized that he was different and that he would never be the same. She was thinking this when she asked him if he was awake. He just turned and smiled at her and said, “Well, today’s the day.”

“Yes it is,” she replied.

“Ready?” His eyes were searching her person as if trying to determine if something were wrong.

Looking him up in the eye, she smiled and said, “Talk nice with the senators. Piece of cake.” She then turned to say good-bye to her daughter and husband but not before she noticed the etched lines of worry near the corners of his eyes.

Revan had mixed apprehensions about leaving Lilah at the apartment alone since Carth had to report to the High Admiral’s office and then he was going to watch the proceedings. She didn’t have to worry for HK-47 was left with Lilah and Caelos would be coming from the Temple to keep an eye out along with Dustil who declined to attend the proceedings. Recalling that Kirabaros had ‘fixed’ a few things as well as she, she relaxed and concentrated on her surroundings. It was then she felt a warm feeling, a feeling of reassurance.


“I suppose all the arrangements are made for the cargo?” Michaela asked Mission. It had become necessary to refer to Kirabaros and Revan as if they were cargo or a smuggling job. It was less risky since all sorts of business like that were conducted there anyway.

“Yeah. Don’t worry about it. You do your job and I’ll do mine,” Mission replied.


Kirabaros had to shut Revan out if only to center himself when Rowan urged him to but he realized that she was apprehensive and sent a warm feeling of assurance. During his meditation, he received a spine prickle at the back of his neck. It was the same feeling that he felt the split second before being hit with the blaster bolt to the abdomen. He had a feeling that it was getting closer. He immediately cut his thoughts off and started thinking of some nonsense or other for Revan was looking at him with an inquisitive look. She said softly, “I know that that face.”

Kirabaros looked at her and attempted brevity, “What face?”

Not fooled by it, Revan responded, “That face that says something is bothering you. Specifically the one that you get when you have a feeling something is going to happen.”

“There is no face. Just my face,’ Kirabaros replied with a serious face that given other circumstances would have brought laughter.

“You know what I mean. You try to hide it but it shows.” Revan gave a kind look but it held a deadly serious look, the one that she used when she commanded the armies. It was a compelling gaze and would take a strong will to not be intimidated by it.

“Just being my usual paranoid self,” Kirabaros replied, mimicking unconsciously Carth when he teased Revan. He briefly wondered why Revan chuckled at him and took it to mean that she realized that he was joking. He smiled at her and turned to watch as the transport landed at the port. He was unaware that he was in a hunter’s sights, the hunter waiting for the shot. This time it was to wound.


Michaela and Mission left the cantina, stopping to give some friendly advice and exchange some news. Mission was telling Michaela that Kirabaros missed her and Tulre and hoped that everything would go well in the Senate. Neither of noticed how a group wound their way around them until Michaela turned around and saw the same men that had attacked them before they left home. Mission was hidden behind her so they didn’t see her push a button on a comm to signal Atton. The leader of the group said, “Well the Force be praised. It took a while to find you.”

“What do you want?” Michaela replied firmly withdrawing a katana that she had with her. Mission had drawn her vibroblade and was poised to attack.

“Now don’t be hasty. Perhaps we can settle this in a mature fashion. You hand over what we want and you can go on your merry way,” the leader responded with a smile.

“We know what you want core slime and you ain’t gettiin’ it!” Mission blurted out.

“Oh, I always get what I am after. You are merely extra baggage,” the leader had a sadistic grin on his face. He made a motion and his men began to move in. “You see, we already know where they are, all three of them.”

Undisturbed by the comment, Michaela drew up her blade. She had known that they couldn’t hide forever here in the Core Worlds. Mission knew that too and had brought back every piece of information that she could get. As the group closed in, they twirled blades ready to fight.


The entourage had been met up with the Fleet brass for pleasantries and Kirabaros hid his boredom at pomp and circumstance. He greeted Carth with the proper respect and recognized Keegan from when he was first there. Something was off about him but Kirabaros couldn’t figure out what yet. They all turned to go into the Senate building when Kirabaros felt it. With a quick dive, he pushed Revan and everyone in front of him down, out of the way before the transport exploded. Rolling on the ground, Kirabaros unsheathed his lightsaber and scanned the horizon.

Jaqrand watched as the Jedi made his move. He was amused and surprised that he could move that fast. He fired a few more rounds to watch as Kirabaros deflected most of them. The others hit the building hard and sent debris and sparks. He watched as Kirabaros directed everyone inside while facing out. Now it was time to get serious.

Another good Chapter JM12. I didn't notice this, but when did Kirabaros have a sister? Anyway, looking foward to more.

Very nice, JM12. Good to see that this fic is still active when it comes to new chapters. Keep it up.

Thanks igyman. Pottsie, Kirabaros has only one sister: Revan. They aren't blood related but are bonded ie Force Bond.

Here is the next chapter. For some reason I think my creative genius is getting out of hand. Just to let you know, I will do a time leap in a later chapter. I haven't decided yet why but it has to do with eventual escapes and tensions and near war breaking out, blah, blah. The good guys will win of course, just not the way you think. Hint hint for you Pottsie since you are dying with anticipation and me waving my manuscript over your head.

Chapter 21
Caelos was pacing throughout Senator Amstar’s apartment feeling ill at ease. He would stop often to watch Dustil play with his sister in a game or some other and the sight would make him feel a little better. He had told Kirabaros to be on his guard because of a bad feeling and that there had been suspicious activity at some of the cantinas. The Jedi Council didn’t seem concerned but that was only because they hid their feelings well like Kirabaros. Jolee was the only one though who made the attempt to reassure him. Right now his thoughts were consumed with his friend Mission who was out meeting with Michaela, a job that he didn’t like her doing but he consoled himself with the knowledge that Mission knew what she was doing. He was brought out of his musings when a little hand tugged on his robes. Looking down, he saw Lilah holding onto his robes and asking, “When Momma come home?”

He was saved from answering when Dustil came over and picked her up and answered for him, “She’ll be back. She has to go talk to all the Senators.” There was no mistaking the look of affection in Dustil’s eyes for his younger sister. It was obvious that Lilah had that way of twisting even the crustiest of men around her little finger.

Caelos added, “Your Papa will bring her back and then we can all go home. How about you go play with the holodisc that Kirabaros gave you?”

Agreeing happily, Lilah wriggled out of Dustil’s grasp and tottered to go play minding her mother’s instruction to stay near HK. HK for his part was in a powered down mode but the new sensors that Kirabaros installed would alert him to any threat and he would respond instantly. Watching her play Caelos whispered to Dustil, “ I have a bad feeling about this.”

“About what?”

Caelos’ answer was cut off when the security alarms went off. Caelos had his lightsaber in hand and crossed towards the security cameras.


Morgan and Tulre were playing a friendly game of pazaak, Republic Senate Rules. T3 was beeping happily and giving out pointers much to Atton’s annoyance. He tried to discourage it since he didn’t want Morgan to start hustling people like he used to. It took Tulre, a four year old, to convince him that they were playing for fun and that it was a good counting game. All that week they played pazaak and alternated it with dejarik, a game that Morgan was really good at for a three year old. The two of them had become fast friends when Morgan was old enough to be played with and even more so now that they got to see each other every day.

The two were playing their game when Atton received a beep from his comm. He recognized it as the alert signal and made swift movements throughout the room. In gentle tones, he told Morgan and Tulre to stop playing and head towards the back room. T3 warbled out a response that was greeted with, “Yeah I know what to do but do you, little trash compactor?”

Tulre and Morgan burst into a fit of giggles at what T3 said. Tulre said, “Nice one T3. I’m sure Uncle Atton would like that one.” He then took Morgan by the hand and they went to the back room with T3 following them. Even though T3 wasn’t a combat type, he had a pretty good defense system for an astromech thanks to Kirabaros. It had become a necessity since Avalon was more of a country bred farm planet and there were all sorts of wildlife that were not tamed that lived there.

Atton allowed himself a slight grin at the boys but then got serious as he said, “Stay there and keep quiet ok?”

“ ‘Kay Papa,” Morgan piped up as Tulre led him to the back room. It was just like the practice that they had been doing the past week. He then turned to Tulre and whispered, “The bad men are coming.”

Tulre whispered back, “ I know. I think they know where we can hide.” They were interrupted by a loud bang and the hum of a lightsaber filled the air. Tulre, feeling more scared than brave pulled Morgan with him and headed towards a door that he had found two days ago.

They were almost there when the door opened revealing a person that they hadn’t seen before who said, “Come with me.”


The windows exploded in a shower of glass at the high rise apartment sending Dustil to grab Lilah who took refuge behind HK’s durasteel body. The psychotic droid cocked his rifle and said, “Ready!”

In an instant, the invaders came through the windows firing their rifles. Caelos had his lightsaber activated and deflected the blaster shots and he pushed everyone towards the outer rooms, sealing the doors. Once inside he said, “That will hold them but not for long. Of course they will come through the front door. Yes this is going to be easy.”

“Observation: It would appear that we are outnumbered. Query: Shall I engage in necessary bloodshed?” HK had his rifle cocked.

Dustil muttered something about a crazy droid while Caelos spoke clearly, “No HK. Initiate protocol 2-2-beta-charlie.”

“Weary Resignation: Of course Jedi Meatbag. I shall indulge in the Handsome Meatbag’s whim. Statement: The Handsome Meatbag mocks my superior assassination technology. I was looking forward to some unadulterated violence,” HK replied. With a deft movement, he pushed Lilah through a door that was well hidden while saying, “Statement: My programming is mocked by having to baby-sit you little meatbag.”

Dustil watched them go with a worried expression. He asked, “Are you sure this is a good idea?”

“Don’t ask me. Kirabaros is the one that programmed him.” The thump on the door distracted them. Caelos unclipped a spare lightsaber and tossed it to Dustil, “Here. Revan told me you were good with one even though you’re not a Jedi.”

Dustil looked at the lightsaber in his hand. He seemed frozen in time as if trying to determine if the thing would bite him. In a strangled voice, he replied, “I can’t.”

“Can’t what?” Caelos asked looking puzzled.

“I can’t use this. I …I …” Dustil was struggling what to say.

“Afraid?”

Dustil nodded.

Caelos sighed, “Now is not the time.” Looking at Dustil in the eye he continued, “I know that you haven’t touched the Force ever since that Sith academy business. I would feel the same but it’s what you do right now that will make a difference. A Bushida warrior doesn’t run away. He faces each day as if it were his last and he fights with honor.” He put his hand on Dustil’s shoulder in an attempt at reassurance. “Do it for her?”

Dustil slowly nodded and activated the lightsaber just as the doors slid open. Together he and Caelos charged head on.


Tulre looked up at the person who was looking at him and Morgan. He knew that this person wouldn’t hurt him. He wasn’t like the bad men fighting Uncle Atton. Still he wasn’t stupid and didn’t move immediately. He was reassured when a familiar sight stepped into view and said, “Come on sonny. Don’t keep an old man waiting.”

Tulre broke into a grin and would have ran towards Jolee but he was held back by Morgan. Morgan didn’t remember Jolee and he was afraid. Tulre looked at Morgan as if to speak but he didn’t. He just looked at him with a kind look with his green eyes. Morgan gave a slight nod and followed Tulre towards Jolee. T3 beeped and followed them out.

Once outside, they were stopped by more of the attackers who drew blades. It was obvious that they were more likely mercs. Some drew their blasters and began to fire. Jolee drew out his green saber and began to deflect the blast bolts. Tulre and Morgan pressed against the building scared at what was going on. T3 aided the situation by using a droid flamethrower to slow them down. Looking on, the boys had their eyes wide open with one saying , “Please come,” and the other, “Help us.”

It must have worked for Atton burst through the back shutting the door. He didn’t have time to survey the scene as he immediately began to help Jolee and the Jedi that had accompanied him. In the middle of the chaos, the bad men burst through the door, scaring the boys into running. They took off scared through the streets of the sector they were in. Atton noticed them run and was going to go after them when he was hit from behind. All he heard before blacking out, “Forget them get the kids.”


For a droid, HK proved to be a good driver of speeders. It was a good thing since Lilah was firing of questions in between demanding for her mother and father. She even cried for Dustil until HK made a comment, “Statement: Master put me in charge little meatbag but I am under orders to protect you. If had the command I would gladly rip out your vocal chords right now.”

Lilah choked a sob and replied, “Bad droid. No feelings.”

Nothing more was said until they reached the area where the safe house was for the boys. HK didn’t make it however for his photoreceptors spotted the boys running. He directed the speeder towards the boys just before their pursuers came around the corner. The boys were frightened badly but HK whipped out his prized rifle and began firing. Once the boys were in the speeder, HK took off. It wasn’t until they were a distance away that Morgan demanded, “What about my Papa?!”

Very nice. HK's lines are really good, there's only one that I didn't quite like because, in my opinion, there were too many 'meatbags' in it. Otherwise, really good. Keep it up.

Another good Chapter JM12. Looking foward to more. And that damn manuscript!

Sheesh igyman. Picky picky over a stupid walking tin can! Yeah I know I love him too. That's why he's not on the scrap heap yet. See I kept up my promise and made him babysitter :xp:

He's not stupid, he's just... different. :crybaby:

I know. HK's just misunderstood. Don't cry igyman. I was thinking of having him come save the day. Saving whom, I know but won't tell. I do this to kill Pottsie more. Hehehehe.
*clears throat*
Anyway I can say that it is not Revan he will be saving and I think it outrageously funny if he rescues Atton...so you can see where my sanity ends. :lol:

I know. HK's just misunderstood. Don't cry igyman. I was thinking of having him come save the day. Saving whom, I know but won't tell. I do this to kill Pottsie more. Hehehehe.

Somebody out there doesn't like me :crybaby:. :lol:, Anyway I'm still awaiting the next Chapter and the end of your sanity JM12.

Oh I like you Pottsie. I just enjoy dropping hints and watching you squirm egging to know more. You wish me to be insane? Well Directrice Jae saw to that. Now I am trapped within a little white room and banging my head on the wall. It's all in me head :lol:

Another chapter finally. The next few chapters might not make sense but it does involve a passing of time and I was thinking how I am going to keep the kids in it. They might run away, I don't know yet but it's coming along.

Chapter 22

Atton opened his eyes to a bright light and a face with kind brown eyes staring down at him. At first he thought it was Mira but the picture came into focus to reveal Michaela. She smiled, “There you are. You had a nasty bump on the head.”

Atton sat up wincing and found that he had been dragged back into the safe house. Jolee was busy with his Jedi friend and Mission was working on T3 who had suffered some blaster damage. He looked around and asked, “The boys? Morgan?” He failed to notice that Dustil and Caelos had arrived looking worse for the wear with Caelos looking concerned and Dustil looking content.

“Gone,” Michaela replied softly. She restrained him to explain better, “Not them.”

“We found a few bodies of the guys that jumped you,” Mission added.

“Any idea where?” Atton asked. He was worried but something told him that everything was all right. He wasn’t sure if it was the headache talking or what. “My head feels like that trash compactor rolled on it.”

T3 beeped indignantly making Michaela smile. She replied, “No but judging from the damage done to the bodies I have a pretty good idea where they are at.”


Kirabaros felt numb but he was secure. He managed to get through the emergency session after the attack which left him confused. After all there was an attack outside the Senate chambers and that was a big thing in of itself. The senators were very persistent, at least those from the Outer Rim. His biggest problem was the fact that Revan was to be moved to a high security building. Carth masked his irritation well but it didn’t fool Kirabaros who relied on his empath abilities to really sense what was brewing. He didn’t mention it until afterwards with his, “You’re getting better at hiding your irritation.”

“I don’t understand how the Republic could think that Revan is a criminal. I mean she’s a hero,” Carth replied looking helpless.

Kirabaros gazed at Carth and felt pity for him. He didn’t like this at all either but Avalon had to show that they could be another contributing and law abiding system. He replied, “Well at least I’ll be there for her.”

“That’s a relief.” The statement was simple but held a lot of meaning between the two. Carth then let out a sigh and said, “Admiral Dodonna requested my presence at HQ. For what I don’t know but somehow I get the feeling that this isn’t over.”

“No it isn’t,” Kirabaros replied looking out at the landscape. He seemed to be thinking to Carth that he didn’t want to interrupt him. He waited until Kirabaros said, “Well I got to go if I’m going to boss the security around.”

Carth saw him to the transport and said, “Take care.”

Kirabaros smiled and said, “Don’t worry. They’ll be all right.” He watched as Carth smiled a smile of relief and turned to go towards his transport. He didn’t go far before Kirabaros called softly, “Watch out for Keegan. He’s not all that he appears to be.”

Carth looked at him in the eye and nodded.


Draconis had been watching the holonet and saw the footage that had been captured of the attack. That bounty hunter is good, he thought as he saw the shot that started the explosions. He watched as Kirabaros rolled and deflected the shots that followed. He’s toying with Kirabaros.

He watched Keegan fall back. Keegan was good at pretending to be afraid and the like but Draconis had the sneaking suspicion that Kirabaros would figure it out. He didn’t know of Kirabaros’ special ability but he figured that since he was a Jedi he would be able to sense something. Draconis just watched with an amused look on his face. The results of the Senate amused him even more. For the moment nothing seemed to put a damper on his amusement. At least not until the bell rang.


Jaqrand hated toying with this Jedi but Coruscant was no place to kill a Jedi. There were too many there anyway. He was impressed however at how quickly Kirabaros reacted. He learned his lesson from the last time, he thought and it pleased him. Jaqrand enjoyed a challenge but what he really wanted was the traitor. Still he had a job to do and the sooner he took care of it, the sooner he could catch the traitor.

After firing off the rounds and the explosion, he holstered his weapon and retreated to where he left his speeder. He packed his weapon with care in the special holder and jumped into the pilot’s seat. He received a message telling him to give up the hunt for the Jedi. A sad thing indeed but after the meatheads his client hired to grab the kids, it probably would be the best.

He took off in his speeder and disappeared into the crowd of air speeders with a look of firm satisfaction on his face. Things were going good. It made being a bounty hunter all the worthwhile.


If there were headache pills for droids, HK could have used it right now. After Morgan’s outburst demanding for his papa, Lilah started bawling for her mother and Tulre was trying to get a hold of the pilot controls to try and go back. HK finally barked out, “Irritated Statement: Hutt spawn of the Handsome Meatbag I order you to stop of this shall result in permanent silence.”

“Fine you walking tin can,” Tulre burst out in a fit of temper. He turned his attention to Lilah and Morgan trying to calm him down. When their sobs subsided, he directed his attention to the droid and demanded, “Listen up HK. Tell us where we are going and no lies or I’ll be forced to take a hydrospanner to you.”

“Commentary: One would hope that you would become as harsh a taskmaster as the Handsome Meatbag.”

“HK.”

“Statement: Protocol dictates that I tell you that I am taking you to a secure location. It does not however require that I tell you anything of the meatbags responsible for you.”

Tulre paused trying to think about what HK just said. He knew that his Dada made some modifications to HK with Aunt Reva’s permission of course. Lilah and Morgan were looking at him questioningly and he had no idea what to say to them. Instead he decided to try a carefully worded question, “Where is this secure location?”

“Statement: You stay with me though why, I cannot understand. You meatbags produce too many complications.”

Seeing that no adequate answer was to be given, Tulre glanced at Lilah and Morgan with a look on his face that held a statement. They nodded and settled down. They had a vague idea that HK would protect them but as to where they were to go, that was something they would eventually found out. The three of them huddled on the backseat and fell asleep, exhausted from the rush of adrenaline and all the running.

Another good Chapter as always, JM12. I'm looking foward to more.

Yeah sure Pottsie and for that I'll give a new chapter and wait two weeks before posting the next ;P

Chapter 23
The accommodations brought back memories, bad memories. The bunk was comfortable, if you liked the feel of hard metal on your back through the thin mattress. The room itself was plain containing the bunk, a refresher and a writing desk. No attempt had been made to make it comfortable and its purpose was made clear. The only difference was that the force shield didn’t have to be on. Still it was afar cry from the pleasant home at the villa near Jasilyn.

Revan sat outside the cell looking out the window of the main detention area, thinking about what had happened and most important: where her daughter was now. She had listened to the Senate proceedings with little attention but enough to realize that they weren’t going to let her go that easily. She knew she had to answer for all the crimes that she committed so long ago but there was a part of her that wished that she could be back home. Just being there brought back memories, the feeling of imprisonment. The bright side was that there were no torture cells. Revan paled when the thought crossed her mind for she could still hear the screams, Carth’s screams begging for mercy.

Kirabaros found her looking like this and reached out with his senses. He guessed at what may have been bothering her and chose the words, “Imprisonment is no fun but at least you don’t have to stand in one place for long.”

Revan looked at him with a smile and said, “Always looking for a bright spot don’t you?”

Kirabaros sat beside her, “Well Pretty Girl with all the trouble you cause, I need to find it.”

The little chuckle was endearing to him as she smiled and turned away from the window. She asked, “Everyone else?”

“What would you say if I told you everyone thinks differently?” Kirabaros looked at her with a questioning look.

“I would have to say that you know something but I won’t pry,” Revan returned his gaze with confidence. “So any idea when I can leave this gray box?” she changed the subject.

Kirabaros hid his amusement and laughter behind a smile and replied, “You know as well as I that I can bully security to let you go anywhere provided I go with you and you don’t leave Coruscant.”

“Much like your time on Telos?” she teased.

Kirabaros flushed a color, “You had to bring that up didn’t you?”

“Come on let’s go for a walk. I need to stretch and you can tell me all about how you met everyone,” Revan egged, pulling on his arm.

Kirabaros marveled at how well Revan took to the situation. He had asked her to let him handle everything in his own way. Heck she even approved of the protocol he developed for HK though he gave credit to the assassination protocols to his son. He found out after he had been hit by the sniper rifle and had been impressed with his ability. What really impressed him was Tulre’s affinity to the Force. Combined with Lilah and Morgan, he had watched the three of them play and at times often speak with only an occasional word between them and had seen the Force swirl around them. He could only wonder how the three of them would get along with the droid in the place that he arranged. He said nothing as he held out his arm and guided Revan out.


Carth stood in High Admiral Dodonna’s office feeling confused and annoyed at the whole situation. He wasn’t alone though. Admiral Keegan was there as well and he remembered what Kirabaros said. It was hard for him because he had known Keegan for a while and while they weren’t friends per se, they were members of the Republic fleet and they were colleagues. He thought back to when he voiced his doubts to Revan about the Republic. He knew that Kirabaros wouldn’t lie to him either. He just kept cool as he stood at an at ease position and listened to Dodonna breaking his silence only to voice, “Admiral Dodonna, I don’t understand why it is necessary to place extra security. Kirabaros is perfectly capable…”

“If I may, it looks as if this Kirabaros doesn’t have the necessary skills that a Republic soldier has,” Keegan interrupted with a certain smugness.

“Carth he is right. Jedi or no this Kirabaros seems to attract trouble wherever he goes,” Dodonna replied.

“If I recall Admiral, civilian recruits have been used as part of the fleet. We went as far to use smugglers and scouts,” Carth countered.

“If you are referring to a certain scout that was recruited at the Jedi’s request, I’d say that you were lied to,” Keegan responded. “Weren’t you the one distrusted Jedi and yet here you are vouching for one.”

“Things change Keegan.” Carth felt as if he was in front of a board of inquiry but he had to stay strong.

“Right. You even married one. One that I remind you was a former Sith Lord,” Keegan rubbed it in Carth’s face.

“She’s not that person anymore,” Carth replied through gritted teeth.

“Yes. Very convenient that she should have amnesia,” Keegan replied with an obvious hatred. “She deserves to be imprisoned.”

“Enough you two,” Dodonna replied but a little too late.

“You have no idea what it’s like for her, waking up from nightmares that are really memories,” Carth looked scarlet but he kept his voice steady. “You have no idea Keegan.”

“Enough,” Dodonna replied more firmly. Carth and Keegan eyed each other warily with their tempers flaring. “The issue here is the incident that happened. It is obvious that there are those that feel that Revan is still a threat and want to take it out on her. The fact that they have been targeting the Avalonian senator also is disturbing. It is necessary that there be extra security.” Seeing Carth was about ready to protest, Dodonna held up her hand, “I will personally select the officers responsible for security. Should something happen here on Coruscant, we can proceed from there. Dismissed.”

Saluting, both men took their leave only to have Carth be halted by Dodonna’s ‘Carth a moment.’ Keegan left however and started down the hall. He was satisfied knowing that he got under Onasi’s skin about Revan. Even though he couldn’t hit Revan directly, at least he could hit her husband. As much as he admired Onasi for his heroism, he couldn’t help but feel betrayed that Onasi would marry the schutta and to top it off, have a kid. It didn’t matter; the three that Draconis hired should have the kids by now. Things were looking good right now as he headed towards the count’s apartment.

“Carth, I know how you feel about the whole thing,” Dodonna was speaking after Keegan had left. “Believe me when I say this, I know that Revan is not the same as she was ten years ago. That’s why I feel it is necessary.”

“I know that Admiral. I agree but I can’t shake the feeling that someone from the Republic is behind this,” Carth replied looking tired.

“Is that your feeling or rather your friend’s?”

“Both.”


Atton was pacing like a demented rooster at the new accommodations with everyone else. Caelos was with Dustil and encouraging more use of the Force. Jolee and that Jedi went back to the temple to explain the situation and Rowan and Michaela were conversing in Avalonian or one of those dialects with T3 in the corner powered down. Atton was worried for Morgan. He trusted Kirabaros but the psycho droid was another story. It was no secret that he didn’t like droids, the exception being T3 though he wasn’t going to admit it.

Atton stopped pacing and stood staring out the window. Kirabaros was supposed update them or something. He felt lost. Morgan was all he had left in the galaxy after Mira died. He remembered when she told him in her last transmission to take care of Morgan and to tell him that mommy loves him. That last bit he felt lousy at because he was not one to say sentiments. He was internally beating himself with regret and worry so much that he didn’t see Michaela approach him until her voice was in his ear whispering, “It’ll be all right.”

“Can’t help it. My kid is…”

“I know. But he’s with my son and HK is the best choice.” Michaela tried to use the voice she used to soothe Tulre when he was hurt.

“It’s not that. The problem is not knowing where they are,” Atton replied with a burst of temper.

“I don’t know where they are either but you do trust Kirabaros don’t you?” Michaela returned with a little fire.

“A good Bushida warrior knows to trust his brother in arms. To even have a hint of losing faith is dishonor,” Rowan joined in.

Atton wanted badly to roll his eyes at Rowan and his Avalonian teachings but he respected Kirabaros too much. He knew that Kirabaros was doing what he thought was right. He told him that he trusted him. The least he could do was have faith. He nodded at Rowan to tell him he acknowledged him but he said differently, “I do trust him but I have to know,” and made his way towards the door.

“Where are you going?” Michaela asked.

“I don’t but I am going to find my son,” Atton turned back towards the door.

“Don’t leave yet,” came Michaela’s voice unusually firm. She stood tall and imposing, dressed like her Handmaiden sisters. Her eyes had a hard glint in them; much like that she had during the war. She waited until Atton turned to face her and said, “You can’t venture into the Outer Rim without help. I don’t know about you but I am coming with you.”

“As is I,” Rowan replied, “A fellow warrior needs backup even on the simplest of missions.”

Caelos and Dustil stood up. It was Caelos who said, “We’ll help too. We can keep an eye on things here. Whoever has been after Kirabaros and Revan more likely were after the kids. That’s why he sent them off. The mastermind is more than likely trying to spark distrust between our people and the Republic and Revan is the best choice.”

“Well said Caelos,” Michaela replied. “I hope you inform the Council at least as to any threats and anything you think necessary?”

“Of course honored wife of Kirabaros,” Caelos replied giving full respect to Michaela. “Good luck. By the way Atton, the Ebon Hawk is in the sector near where the old safe house was.”

“Thanks kid,” Atton replied giving the first smile he had in a long time.

Michaela looked at the people in the room. Of course T3 will stay. The little astromech was very fond of Kirabaros and Revan. Besides he would be of more help there anyway. She knew that Kirabaros must know that they couldn’t just sit there and wait yet she couldn’t help but wonder if he was completely out of it. She was driven by the fatherly emotions Atton was projecting and she wanted her son back. Kirabaros had asked her if she was willing to do what it takes and this was one of those moments. She smiled and said, “Let’s go.”

Another good Chapter as always and I'm looking foward to more. Oh I also didn't mention this, but nice new Avatar and Sig. The John Cena (Don't like him that much) Avatar was getting on my nerves.

Two very good chapters, JM12, both story-wise and grammar-wise. There were a couple of missing commas, nothing too serious and conspicuous, except this one thing at the end of Chapter 23 - unless it is intended as a speech flaw, it should be ''As am I'', not ''As is I.'' :)
See you in two weeks :D (unless you were only joking with Pottsie)

Pottsie: You don't like Cena? :xp: ;P
Anyway thanks for the compliment on my siggie. I designed it a while back and I have another that I have to resize and the like.

igyman: That was an intentional speech flaw. Everything written here is intentional unless it is a silly spelling mistake. As to the two weeks, I was trying to torture Pottsie and get him to post more but he did admit he is lazy about it. The waving the manuscript won't work anymore unless...

A character is going to die and it is going to not be an accident and it is a character from one of the games! Who it is I won't tell and I will leave you squirming like a worm. Oh and there might be some form of dismemberment. :xp:

Eh, I have pity on Pottsie though he is offline now so I will post the next chapter. this one has some shockers and some references to The Return of Kirabaros who's last words are in my siggie. Some of these ideas I got from other fics and the scene playing out is based upon Memoirs of a Geisha since I did mention that the kiddies would meet Mamesa again. Well here ya go and don't bother me anymore until I post a new chapter. :lol:

Chapter 24
The ship had landed in the middle of the night and the port was quiet save for the occasional rustle of the trees around. Standing on the ground floor two figures were standing waiting for the ship’s ramp to drop. The taller of the two signaled the pilot and the ramp dropped and the door opened. At the top of the ramp stood a figure that they both hoped to not meet again for a long time. It was confirmed when the figure spoke, “Observation: The Mandalorian Meatbag does not appear to be pleased. Perhaps a Bothan stunner will set it to rights?”

“HK-47, it’s been some time but not long enough,” Canderous replied with annoyance.

“Statement: While that is true I myself have missed the months of carnage we shared and hoped that we might engage such sport again.”

The person who was with Canderous let out a giggle at that and said, “I doubt that.” She hid her smile behind her hand.

“Pleasantries aside, did we come here for nothing or do you actually have something for use. I have no time or patience,” Canderous said gruffly.

“Uncle Candy?” a small voice piped up. It was followed by three shadows coming into sight followed by the pilot who pushed them down.

It was the woman who went to them. She kneeled in front of them and told them everything would be everything all right. Morgan, peevish demanded, “Where is my papa?”

Sarna looked at the little boy with a look of tenderness. She whispered, “Your papa is on Coruscant. He sent you here so you can be safe because he loves you.” She wiped way his tears with a gentle hand while Canderous picked up Lilah and gently pushed Tulre down the ramp. She continued, “We are going to take you to some friends who will watch out for you in a place where you can hide. OK?” She held out her hand.

Stifling his sobs, Morgan reached for Sarna’s hand. He allowed her to pick him up and carry him to the speeder that was waiting for them. He stuck his tongue out at HK for telling him that his papa was a fool or something. He clung to Sarna who soothed him. He had no idea where he was but he sensed that she and the one that Lilah called ‘Uncle Candy’ were good people.

The three kids settled down along with the droid, they took off deep into the forests of Amshrey. They were quiet, struggling between wakefulness and sleep until Sarna turned to them and said that it was all right to sleep. Encouraged, they drifted to sleep with HK scanning the landscape with his sensors. Sarna leaned against Canderous who was driving. Resting her head on his shoulder, she said, “I wonder what Kirabaros was thinking when he thought of this.”

“He was thinking like the tactician he is as only a good warrior can. The boy should have been born a Mandalorian,” Canderous replied, the pride obvious in his voice. “Defiant yes but fearless.”

“But to send them here to Amshrey to the hamachi? It’s as if he doesn’t want them to be found. Makes you wonder if something is up.”

“Kid knows what he’s doing. You gotta give ‘em credit.” He said nothing more until they reached their destination.

The hamachi was a peaceful looking village, not unlike the tribal villages but it was characterized by a constant soothing sound of music and singing. This particular hamachi housed some of the greatest of geisha, maiko and, of course, the rare geima. Before the hamachis became permanent villages, they traveled frequently to find ideal settlements and it was evident by the number of draigons, stallions and transports that this one was quite large. Canderous stopped at the outside of the largest of huts and jumped out. Together, he and Sarna roused the children and walked them to the door when it opened to reveal a painted lady stepping out towards a transport followed by an elderly woman who stopped to look at them. She asked, “These are them?”

“Yeah,” Canderous replied. “I expect them to be treated well.”

“Of course Mandalore. The Heart of the Guardian is the most honored,” she replied and motioned them in.

The children were hesitant until Sarna told them that they would be taken good care of there and that she and Canderous would visit as often as they can. Only then did Tulre took the step forward with Lilah’s hand clenched in one hand and Morgan’s in his other. The elderly woman ushered them in leaving Canderous and Sarna standing outside. They headed back to the speeder with HK in tow.

On the trip home, Sarna spoke, “I hate leaving them there alone. They are only children.”

“They need to grow up,” Canderous replied, “No use babying them too much.”

The resounding smack to his arm made him jump and nearly swear at her. She retorted, “Heartless Mandalorian.”

“And you love it.” He grinned at her, “Don’t worry about it. The kid’s got it planned out. When he needs to, he’ll tell us.”

“ I do worry. What if it were one of ours?” Sarna asked.

“What do you mean? We don’t have any,” Canderous replied.

“We will soon.”


Tulre was nervous but he had to be the brave one. His Dada told him once that there would be a time that others would have to look up to him and he had a choice to make. He could either turn tale and run or bury his fear and lead. It came to mind as the elderly woman led him and Lilah and Morgan through the hut to a main room. The lady was saying, “You three no speak. I’ll answer for you.” She then kneeled outside a sliding paper door and called, “Mamesa.”

The noise from the other side beckoned them in. The elderly woman opened it and pushed the children in, ordering them to kneel and not look at her in the face. Mamesa responded with, “It’s all right.” She got up from her seat and padded towards the children. She looked at them and marveled at the likeness that they had to their parents. Her eyes lingered on Tulre and noticed his eyes. She gently grabbed his chin and asked him to look at her. Her face didn’t give anything away when she said, “So much earth.” Then looking at Lilah’s eyes, “Too much fire,” and Morgan got, “So much wood.” She then backed away and looked at all three, “You will stay here.” Then to the elderly woman, “Take them to their rooms.”

Minutes later the boys were put into one room and Lilah was placed into another room with another little girl named Kimiko. Morgan didn’t stay on his bed but instead sat next to Tulre and asked, “Everything goin’ to be OK now?”

Tulre thought for a moment, “Yeah. That lady is nice.”

“Will Papa know I am here?”

“I think so and he’d want you to stay here. Get some sleep.”

Morgan padded to his bed and snuggled under the blankets. It wasn’t until he was asleep that Tulre got up and proceeded to find Lilah. He found her in the next room with another little girl and asleep. Satisfied that she was fine, he crept for his room and went to bed. Now that they were on their own, he had to watch out for his friends. He fell asleep sure that Mamesa would look after them.

Meanwhile Mamesa was in deep conversation with an old friend. “They have arrived safely. Your friend brought them a few minutes ago.”

The image nodded and with a smile gave thanks. If the transmission were in color, she would have sworn to see the old flicker of green in them much like when she first met him on Mikkado. He said, “Mamesa, you are like a lantern in the dark.”

“You are most kind,” and Mamesa bowed. “I shall endeavor to keep them safe though I am sure that their parents will try to come.”

“True which is why I hope their exploits on the Outer Rim will detract attention.”

“Isn’t that manipulation?”

“Sadly yes, but there are some demons that must be met and eventually my sister and I will need to make a run for it.”

“I see.” The conversation ended with Mamesa bowing and wishing her friend farewell. She reflected on how Karas first approached her. She had warned him that the hamachi would move frequently and he readily agreed. Even her old friend agreed. It wouldn’t be unusual to have children around the hamachi. Geisha and maiko were often brought in at young ages, often sold by their families or orphaned. She went to bed thinking that tomorrow would start the first lesson.

Morning found the children, with the exception of Kimiko, being scrubbed clean separately by the maids in the hut. Mamesa herself brought their new clothes, cotton like kimonos, to each of them telling them, “Outside you wear these,” and she held a pair of sandals, “Inside these,” and motioned with a pair of socks. Then pulling the robes on she continued, “We don’t show our bare feet like Shreyites. This is a geisha and maiko house. Remember to always honor this house by listening and learning.” Once she tied the sashes she motioned them to get to work, sending the boys to the maiko and the girls to handle chores around the house.

Tulre felt stiff in his new clothes as he tugged on Morgan’s hand to head to where the maiko were practicing. It shocked him at the manner Mamesa put them to work but he didn’t expect that it was to be easy. Morgan followed because Tulre was going, not a good thing but at least he would stay close. Together they looked like brothers but certainly weren’t treated that way when they were greeted by the adult maiko teaching the new ones. They were immediately put to work lugging blades or cleaning things, a difficult thing for Morgan since he was little but he had his father’s scoundrel luck and spirit, meaning that he never gave up. They were placed with other boys that were a few years older and under consideration for Maiko School.

Lilah was only two so she couldn’t do much in terms of work so she was placed with the elderly woman called Tante, meaning ‘auntie,’ in simple household chores and learning how to fold the many kimono that belonged to that house. Kimiko, being five, could do more and was left with the brunt of the harder chores but she did them cheerfully and teaching Lilah when she asked to learn. Kimiko enjoyed telling Lilah about geisha and what they did.

It became a routine with the boys heading out in the morning to Maiko School and Lilah and Kimiko working in the okiya, or their house. At night, the boys returned tired but they were made to eat their evening meal and to bathe and then go to bed. Only on festival days did the boys not have to go to Maiko School for the maiko were performing and only the apprentices could help. On those days, they helped Kimiko with the cleaning of the okiya. Tante would tease Tulre and say that the earth needs to be firm because of his eyes. Sometimes Mamesa would help them after her time with the books. She loved the children and made sure that they were healthy and would ask often if they were happy. They were to continue that routine for the next few months until the boys became a year older and Lilah turned three.

It was then that the three of them were to go with Tante and Mamesa along with a few geisha and maiko to the capital city Miako to entertain the people. It was there that they met Mandalore or Canderous again who didn’t recognize them until Lilah tugged on his arm. He hadn’t been to the hamachi but Sarna had as often as could be spared and she told him how they were. It was there with HK that he was able to give news to them about their parents. Afterwards, they went back to the okiya feeling happy yet sad that they couldn’t go home yet. Mamesa told them that they should not be sad but to keep busy. They trudged along back to routine learning what they could at the hamachi until they moved entirely to a new planet.