Something caught Durrel's mind, "Wait. You said that the Dark Realm must defeat the Champions of the other realms. What champions are these? Perhaps we can get this to work for us."

Kajumo nodded an agreement, but he knew that this would go much deeper than just Champions and combat. They were dealing with something much darker and fouler than any Sith Lord...or even the Dark side of the force for that matter.

"I don't know," Jun-la honestly replied, "The last tournament held called for Light of Courage and a Jedi of this realm. Of Miako I have no clue."

"Maybe they are chosen by the Force?" Matton offered suprising Jun-la. Not that he believed in the whole thing but he wanted to show that he was willing to help no matter how crazy it was.

"I don't know. The first time that this realm interferred on Miako was 4000 years ago. Before that, nothing," Jun-la replied, "However this rule of three that has occurred seems to have connected itself. Since the Blood King is directly from that realm and created the first Sith...that is possibly the connection. The other two swear allegiance and gain power so it draws the two realms together." Jun-la was aware that she was rambling now but it started to come together. She just needed to think and started off towards the middle of the Shreyite Enclave lost in thought.

Tulre watched his sister go. She always was one to figure through logic and it was best to let her follow through. To appease Andorra he said, "Why don't you come with me and explain what exactly happened when your mother was taken?" He looked at Tonatius and gave a slight nod.

Tonatius understood and said, "I think we should come away for now. Too many thoughts at once will bring us no closer to a solution."

Durrel nodded and motioned for Kajumo to follow him outside the Enclave. The two Mandalorians walked out to the entrance and stood, thinking on the next battle.

"Kajumo, what do you make of this?"

The Knight thought for a moment, "Well, Captain, I think we've involved ourselves in a much deeper plot of events. We're dealing with something that will involve all of our efforts...but to what effect? That, I don't know."

Durrel nodded, "Well, I imagine that this Jedi and her friends may make good allies if we continue with this."

"Indeed, Captain, indeed. Have we recieved word from Mand'alor?"

Durrel checked the comm channels, "Yes, apparently Admiral Barek has been contacted, we'll have more men soon, much more."

Something came to Kajumo's mind, "These 'champions' they speak of, I think they may have a few in their midst. Just a feeling though."

Durrel looked up at the Star Destroyer lingering in the sky.

"Kajumo, tell Krek to get a defensive perimeter set up around this Enclave. It's easily defended it would seem, but I think we'll be dealing with an invasion force soon. Be quick."

The Mandalorian knight nodded and sprinted to Krek's position.

Durrel turned back toward the Enclave to see if the Jedi may be able to spread some strategic light on the situation.

"I seriously don't know. I went to sleep, and I woke up to Kalla shaking me and telling me that my mother had been kidnapped. That, and I found this portable transmitter in my pocket. I didn't tell anyone about it, but it contained a message from Darth Virul instructing me on how to send him all of Avalon's tactical data. Fortunately, I never got the chance to use it." Andorra explained. She still didn't like to talk about it, especially when she admitted to having it. She had even feared her relationship with Kalla was over.

"It's just a coincidence, really. There couldn't possibly be a connection." Kalla told her brother.

"Yes, of course." Komad replied, stepping through the door, still cautiously holding his lightsabers.

Tulre took the transmitter and examined it. He then deftly removed a wire from it and handed it back saying, "This will prevent other parties from activating it. It is two way accessible." He then motioned her to follow and he continued, "Your relationship is not over. We all have seen and suffered much so she will, actually has forgiven you." HE could see though that Andorra was not convinced and changed the subject, "Perhaps some training in combat will help. IF we come up with a plan, you will need to be prepared."

**********

Andros looked at his sister and replied, "Maybe Kal but Master Starlighter believes in it and I have read in the histories of a Master Starlighter and Master Kenobi leaving sometime during the Clone Wars out towards the Unknown regions, beyond Avalon. Maybe." Andros then shrugged his shoulders, "Perhaps we better go with Tulre. He may have something for us to do while plans are being thought of."

**********

Andros didn't draw his lightsaber but his hand stayed by the blade that Masomoto, the swordsmith crafted for him. It was in likeness to the one that his daughter carried but it was not like it. Still it was a fine weapon for it had brought judgment like Xyadie, his son's blade. It didn't have a name yet but it would be clear when it did have one granted.

Andros walked ahead through the corridors not taken in by how the shrubbery of the forests took over the place. He could feel the Force pulse through as he went through. At a massive pair of doors, he paused to yank them open. As he walked in, he felt something stir within and could hear something whistling through the air. He turned to see Komad in the line of fire and pulled him down and he bent backward to let the weapon pass.

He stood up straight and watched the weapon fly back to its owner who did a twist as he caught it and placed it on his head. The thing was a hat!

The figure stood looking at the group and asked, "By what right have you to enter these halls?"

"We intend to use this facility's defenses to protect this world, as they did in the days of my ancestor Revan." Komad told the figure before him. He wasn't particularly fond of name dropping, but it seemed worth a shot. He was still cautious about the ruins. He had heard tales of ruins like this filled with ancient droids, their programming so deteriorated that they become hostile to anyone or anything, not to mention the indigenous wildlife that manages to creep its way in. Countless scavengers and archaeologists alike met gruesome ends in places like this.

"It seems like a good idea. Do we have any double-bladed swords, by any chance?" Though Andorra abhorred violence, she understood that sometimes, there was no other way, and when the need arose to fight, such a weapon had always appealed to her. "I suppose all of our swords are made from cortosis to offer resistance against lightsabers, right?"

"I was referring to mom's midi-chlorian count being relevant, but yes, we should speak with Tulre." Kalla replied, walking over to where Tulre was speaking to Andorra about her predicament.

Tulre laughed a genuine laugh and replied, "Our swords are made to withstand lightsabers but not of cortosis they are. Well some of the old masters used different materials. My sword Xyadie was made of something different and had withstood lightabers." He led the way to a training area. He studied the array of blades on the wall before selecting one. He took it down and held the sharp blade in his bare palm with the handle extended towards Andorra. He explained, "Since you have a light hand and have not had much practice, this might be good. Has good balance for beginners or nonpractioners."

"Maybe Mom's count is relevant though I think my namesake would know that since he trained Jaden Korr," Andros replied. They had neared where Tulre was holding a sword from the wrong ended at Andorra. Andros stopped and asked, "Kal, what is he doing? Those blades are super sharp."

**********

The man looked at the intruders and said, "You do not need the defenses since defenses are being formed. You have another purpose in mind."

Before Komad could spat off an answer, Andros cut in, "Yes we have. I sense that you are not from here, nor the one who greeted us outside the ruins. By what name do we call you?"

"Another asked me the same question years ago. She was clever in diplomacy," the man replied, "Do you know of her?"

Softly Andros replied, "My mother."

The demeanor of the man changed greatly. He then said, "Then you have come for a different purpose and brought others as well. This is good. I am Ken-Lui of Miako."

"Then might I ask, what is your purpose here?" Komad asked, curious about the seeming guardian of these ruins.

"I think he's intending to give her some level of combat training. She could really use it." Kalla commented.

Andorra took the sword in her hand and almost immediately after, Kalla asked. "Mind if I help?"

"That's not the point Kal," Andros replied, "Avalonian blades are notoriously sharper than Republic standard issue. They are in most cases better than a lightsaber." Then he added just in case his sister didn't understand, "Men have been known to cut their own limbs off from misuse."

Andros then looked as Tulre released his hold on the blade as Andorra took it. He followed his sister to go see if any help would be needed.

Tulre looked at Andorra with a bemused expression as she took the sword from him. He noted how careful she was when she gave a tug on it. It had been clear that she had been taught how sharp the blades are. He said, "You asked for a double but this will give you good balance. You may find that you like this one as it can move faster than a double."

He turned to see Kalla and her brother coming towards them. He listened to Kalla asking if she could help. He knew the feelings between Kalla and Andorra and thought it would be a good idea to teach a lesson. He replied to Kalla, "Yes you may help. We will practice sword techniques so no lightsabers." He turned back towards the swords and selected a long blade for Kalla saying, "Let's see if you can handle this one. It has a long reach so you can get a blow in with minimal energy but can be slow on the swing and requires some strength." He held the sharp blade in his bare hands towards her while he said to Andros, "I know you know how to handle a blade. You choose."

Andros chose a short sword like Andorra's. He preferred speed but he also preferred balance. He was still nervous at Tulre's show of bravado at holding the sharpened blades as he did. Still he saw a reason for the shoosing of the blades and decided to help in that lesson. He said, "Take it Kalla. This is part of the lesson."

**********

Ken-Lui looked at Komad with a thoughtful air, almost as if he were trying to read something. He replied, "I am a protector of Miako. I have traveled here to find the protectors of this realm to warn them."

"Warn us from what?" Andros asked though he knew it wasn't going to be a good answer.

"The Dark Realm has a long reach and has Explorers like yourself here. However the milennia old master of darkness here has made a pact with the ruler darkness. This Blood King as you call it is an abomination of two realms."

Durrel walked into the room where the others were and observed quietly. They were probably about to engage in some sort of practice duel it would seem. To Durrel, this would be most interesting to see, not only for the fight itself, but he'd be observing techniques that may come in use.

Durrel stood silently, watching the practice duel unfold.



Garrick couldn't help but be slightly confused at this situation. He should've familiarized himself with the history of the planet before coming. Well, he knew he'd learn anyway. He was beginning to gain a hold onto what was happening though.

"What makes these Dark Masters so powerful? Are they force-users? This threat can be handled easily if that is so."

Garrick thought to himself on the thousands of possibilities. He knew that this went deeper than a fight of flesh and blood, but still, an epic fight would always these kind of situations.



Admiral Velerc was getting impatient, very impatient.

"Ensign, what is taking the invasion fleet so long?"

The Ensign looked up from his post," Sir, they have encountered engine troubles, and a few collisions. The invasion was planned correctly, at least in their case."

Velerc scoffed,"Leave that to General Corusar, it's his planning, but I gave an order for this attack, and it must occur. See if any speed is possible at this point."

"Yes, Admiral Velerc."

Velerc stared again into the wave of approaching Republic ships. Then another wave of Capital Ships came out of hyperspace. But they weren't Republic.

They were Mandalorian.

And Velerc recognized one of the ships as that of one of his former pupils.




Barek lurched forward as the Mand'alor's Marev came out of hyperspace.

"Mr. Serevic, begin targeting all Sith vessels and provide a firing solution. Mr. Volrum, commence order 71 and give the green light for all squadron to begin tactical manuevers at point 089, immediatley."

The Deck officers moved as quickly as they could and the bridge became a bustling hub of activity as battle neared.

Barek looked at the Super-Star Destroyer ahead of him. He recognized the distinct Black Skull and the name beneath it.

"Ahhhh, so now we get to meet an old teacher of mine. Prepare for the fight of your lives men."

The Mandalorians on the bridge chuckled and began providing coordinates for a broadside attack.

"I heard of this thing you call the Force. Is it your form of sentou?" Ken-Lui asked.

History lesson time again. Andros raised his head and replied, "The Force here in our galaxy began here at Avalon. Our legends tell us that we, Avalonians came as explorers from our homerealm of Miako."

"What the Explorers had, they took with them," Tiye said in understanding. It was much like colonizing or conquering: you brought what you had with you.

"Yes and we brought sentou though we called it by another name: the Force," Andros finished.

"Ah yes," Ken-Lui replied, "The Explorers had sentou but preferred diplomacy over combat. Yet I can see that it is not forgotten otherwise you wouldn't be here." To the one who asked about the force users, he said, "The abomination is a combining of sentou powers, dangerous and often fatal. It is not easy to defeat sentou once you tap into it." Ken-Lui then made a quick move that left a blue trail and was gone. He appeared next to Garrick. "Anyone in tune with your Force can tap into their sentou. Even you." He then did his little trick and reappeared in front of them.

**********

Tulre noticed the Mandalorian and reached behind him. He grabbed a blade that was heavy and flipped it so the handle was in his hand. He then shouted, "Watching but not doing doesn't tell as much," and tossed the heavy sword towards the Mandalorian. "Where is your sentou?"

Garrick was caught by surprise by the Ken-Lui as he appeared next to him.

The ideal of sentou was still new to Garrick. But it sounded quite intriguing, he would definately listen to this very carefully.

"How would one tap into such a power? I thought it was limited to all except a few?"

Would this mean Garrick was force-sensitive? Garrick did not know, but he felt he was grasping the utter largeness of their situation and what was happening.


Durrel caught the blade," Sentou? We Mandalorians know only the warrior spirit."

Durrel understood what the man meant though. Garrick had told him many times that tasting is better than observing, and it will lead you into new understandings.

Durrel unsheathed it and looked at the brilliance of its design. A practice duel would definately be more effective than observing.

He dropped into a defensive stance.

Tulre was up to the challenge and it was good to show the others what to expect. He withdrew Xaydie and held it ready. It's blade gleamed from the sun as if it were divine. It had been proclaimed a sword of justice by its maker and that is what it did, even in practice duels. He beckoned the Mandalorian to the line in the center of the circle and he approached his. To his audience he said, "We practice with blades first. Best way to understand an opponent's killing power."

It sounded vulgar but it was the truth. The way a person speaks with a blade can tell you how much a person was a killer, if they were. He assumed the Lin Qin position taught to him by the Air Benders. He motioned for Andros to give the call to fight.

Andros looked at the situation and thought Tulre to be foolish. He was going up against a Mandalorian with more experience than he. Still he would obey and shouted, "Fight!"

Tulre launched himself forward executing a series of fast slashes. It was a practice yes but even they looked for real. He landed on his knee and pivoted around til he was in a launching position. One boot was pointed forward while the other was back and ready to spring. "Find sentou he spoke to the Mandalorian."

**********

Ken-Lui replied, "Sentou," and he pounded a fist against his chest, "is from within."

Andros added for Garrick's benefit, "The Jedi say the Force is in all of us and it surrounds us, penetrates us and binds the galaxy together."

Ken-Lui nodded in agreemet, "Yes. Sentou is within. Come, the others are waiting." He motioned for them to follow and he headed deepere into the ruins.

Andros looked slightly pained as he looked at Komad. "You wish to follow?"

Durrel watched the man move into the attacks.

The Mandalorian simply parried the strikes, forcing the charge to the side. Then Durrel pushed the man from behind using his sword's hilt.

"I will try to find this Sentou, but remember, the Warrior Spirit always follows me. We will see what is better."

He settled again into a defensive stance.


Garrick nodded as he was spoken to. He understood, Sentou was inner-strength, obviously, but is connected to the force as the force was connected to all things. It may take him awhile to fully master the understanding, but he had to start somewhere. He waited for the group to begin the move. He also noticed something about one of his captors, somehow, this area caused him pain. But for what reason? Perhaps an old battle, or sad memories? Garrick would wait and see.

Though much of the style between a lightsaber and a sword were the same, Kalla still had to get used to the weight of the blade. It didn't take long, and she was soon able to swing it as easily as a lightsaber. "Let me try to teach you a few techniques." She said to Andorra. Andorra then got her sword pointed at Kalla. "Here, take a swing at me." Kalla told her. "Alright." Andorra cautiously replied, swinging her sword at Kalla, only for her to parry it. "That's called a parry. It's similar to blocking, but it stops the attack with more equal momentum." Kalla explained. "Another thing is how you swing the sword. You don't simply move the sword with both hands. Instead, you push with your upper hand, and pull with the other, it gives you more momentum, and a more powerful attack."

"Yes." Komad replied, following Ken-Lui deeper into the ruins, still curious what they were going to find down there.

Andros had been watching Tulre and the Mandalorian fight. He motioned, "Kal, I think we should watch. My master's brother is teaching something. Watch." He pointed at the way Tulre looked at the Mandalorian.

Tulre was pleased that the Mandalorian responded. Channeling his power he did a complicated sword maneuever that made him seem to disappear and then reappear closer to land a few strikes with his sword on the Mandalorian. He did something similar to make him move back to his original place.

He then circled with the Mandalorian and with a huge leap, he jumped over his opponent's head, forcing him to turn and he gave a back slash. "Sentou is from within. You channel it, feed it and control it. It becomes who you are."

**********

"The reason I ask Young Komad is because once you take this step, you must go all the way," Andros said. "Sentou is not easy to tap into and it takes exceptional students to master in a span of weeks."

"This is true," Ken-Lui added while continuing forward, "Yet there is confidence in children of previous champions." He then stopped in front of a stone door. It looked like no one was going through by Ken-Lui had other ideas. Placing his hand upon the door, it slid open.

This fight was angering Durrel. The man was moving fast, Durrel sometimes couldn't track his position. He would have to work on his awareness.

"Your Sentou is agile and quick, yes? It is no match for the sheer power of the Warrior Spirit."

Durrel summoned all his strength and more. He moved quickly, roaring his war cry, he smacked the blade to the side and charged, using his hand to further the defence. He moved to grab the man's shoulder,readying his blade for a horizontal strike.

"I am willing to do what it takes." Komad responded, though not understanding why this further training was necessary or practical. A New Imperial Super Star Destroyer loomed over the planet, and the Governor of the System was still being held captive by the New Empire. These things couldn't wait. He began to wonder if others in the Kaltas line before him but after Revan had undergone this training. If Revan was even the champion Ken-Lui referred to.

Sentou and the Force were technically the same thing, as far as Kalla could tell, but she still noticed a difference in how they were applied. The Force seemed clearly supernatural to the uninformed, with its rapid healing, telekinesis, and lightning. Sentou on the other hand, seemed to focus more on augmenting one's physical ability. "Impressive." She commented. "How exactly to we differentiate between the Force and this Sentou?"

Tulre made a move and disappeared only to reappear at a more advantageous position to counter the horizontal strike. The resounding clang was satisfying as he locked his blade. In a quick deft movement, he ran up the front of the Mandalorian, applying enough pressure to make it feel like a kick leaving a bluish blur where his feet were.

He flipped in a perfect backflip to land on his feet. He bounced slightly on the balls of his feet as he settled for another move. He said, "Warrior Spirit, from within. Sentou from within. Where do you think it comes from?"

**********

Andros had his eyes fixed on the fight in front of him. He noticed that some of the Belosian warriors were watching as well as the Shreyites. The stood, well, respectful. It was as if they all knew some secret and he was trying to learn it. He said, "I think you are right that the Force and Sentou are the same thing. After all it is said the Force came from Avalon and the Avalonians came from Miako."

**********

Ken-Lui let the stone door open but did not go through. He stood with his back towards his followers and said, "Chimeteiki no sentou is what keeps our two realms safe. Many warriors have been chosen to defend here and our world against the Dark Realm.

"Your world was brought in four thousand years ago when a group of the mightiest warriors was summoned to our realm. They were led by an Explorer and a Jedi. Together they fought the forces of Tsung Khan and became champions. Since then one warrior from either two have competed. The last was a generation ago."

"You refer to my parents," Andros replied as a statement rather than a question.

"Indeed. But now we have those from both champions and two who can see all things," Ken-Lui finally turned around to face the group. "This is not a matter of ancestral pride but I hope you understand how you are connected. One does not need to be a Jedi to be part of this battle." He then turned and walked in.

In the room were four people standing there looking as if they were waiting. Ken-Lui walked up to them and turned around to introduce then, "These are some of the mightest warriors of Miako and they will help you understand what you face. They are Son-ja, Ja-xor, Joji Chan and Katarina."

"So it's simply a matter of a different culture's interpretation and application of the Force. That makes sense." Kalla commented. Lke her father, she considered the Avalonian belief that the Force began on their homeworld to be part of their culture's mythology. It was scientifically impossible for the Force to have begun at any spatial point and spread out. It had existed as long as life itself had. It was an integral part of life, and at the same time, a by-product of it. It would be more logical to say it began everywhere.

"Tell me, did the Jedi from the Republic four thousand years ago go by either the name Revan or the name Kale Kaltas?" Komad asked, also wondering, if the both the Kaltas family and the Starlighter family were descended, who the Explorer was, and who their descendant here was. "If they are willing to teach, I am willing to learn."

"Maybe. It could be more than that," Andros agreed with his sister. "I know you don't believe that the Force began in Avalon but maybe you take it too literal. You know hope Master Starlighter plays with her words."

**********

Tyrannus looked at his opponent with a murderous gleam in his eyes. He countered the punches and kicks, laying equally hard ones of his own. It had continued until the opponent was dizzy.

"Finish him!"

Tyrannus listenend to the voice and with a deft movement of his hand, he reached for his short sword and swung it out quick and fast. The opponent's head fell off, still wearing the stunned look on its face. Tyrannus stood and faced his master and at teh same time cast a smug look at Virul.

The Blood King, aware that his two best warriors hated each other, fed that hatred with his selective praise. "Well done, Tyrannus. I see you have been practicing and found your sentou." He then turned to Virul, "And what of you Virul? You learned anything besides taking over bodies?"

**********

Ken-Lui looked at Komad and replied, "We know not of any Kaltas but we know of Revan. Twice he visited the other realms but this time he became a champion. His Explorer friend became a champion also as well as becoming a protector of your world. It is a shame that he died."

At that moment, Riyusaan appeared admist lightening. He said, "You have found your guide. This is good. Now you must all learn to find your sentou. The others at the enclave will receive their help as well."

"Revan and Kale Kaltas were one and the same. It was centuries before they found his body and he was interred with his descendants on Rhen Var." Komad told Ken-Lui. "I asked because you said Children of Champions, and like Master Starlighter, my lineage traces back to him. After that, our families diverge from different descendancy."

"That is but one thing I am capable of. I, in this body at least, prefer to turn my enemies against each other, then I fight the exhausted victor, easily defeated. Stealth and illusions are another strength. Let me demonstrate." Virul replied, vanishing, and in his place, were several of him filling the room. "Weaken them before engaging them in combat, through fear, preoccupation, or any other means."

"I don't take it literally either." Andorra told Kalla. She always had her doubts about the mythologies of her people, but it seemed like one more thing she kept to herself. "It's always good to throw some doubt at what you believe every now and then." Kalla replied

Andros gave a slight elbow to Komad, "They know of Revan. We know he was one and the same but that is how they viewed him and Kirabaros. No need to insult their intelligence."

It was Ken-Lui who said said, "We know of Revan and of the Explorer we named Sanglumina. Both were exceptional warriors and their ancestors as well as mine are honored. You are fortunate to come from such warriors. Tsung Khan fears the descendants of these two champions as much as he fears myself and the other warriors. For centuries his agents in your realm have hunted down members of your line. Sometimes he succeeds and other times he was thwarted."

Katarina came forward with Son-ja while Ken-Lui retreated and said, "Much has been told to you but you must discover the rest for yourselves. Come we have wasted enough words. What we teach you will seem like days but in reality it will be hours."

Son-ja continued, "That is the first lesson. Nothing is as it seems. We are defined and bound by rules that are breakable or redfined." She then did a quick move into an attack position and let loose a pink cloud.

Katarina dodged it and drew out two fan blades like the geima practiced with and moved them. It created a force that lifted Son-ja off her feet. She then set Son-ja down and withdrew her weapons. "Nothing is as it seems."

Andros looked at his companions, especially the Mandalorian who was drinking in everything that he was seeing. He then came forward and placed his palms together and bowed. "I accept. I accept as the descendant of the champion Sanglumina."

Katarina nodded and looked at the others. "Do you accept this? Your friends at the enclave will be asked the same thing."

**********

Tulre was impressed by the Mandalorian's quick use of illusion. In response he sheathed Xaydie and pressed his palms together and concentrated. His eyes were closed, a big fat no for a warrior. First rule was to keep your eyes open. Tulre disregarded this as he closed his eyes.

Centering himself he focused. It was similar to an exercise that the Air Benders taught him. Returning to the basics of life helped you to focus and concetrate your energy. Slowly he began a kata like maneuvering before returning back to his initial position. He then brought his fists up to defend himself and did a sweep kick at the Mandalorian's legs with no intention to harm except give a good sting on the arse. He then did a twirl into a fighting stance.

Jun-la had been watching the exchange and went over to her padawan and his sister and asked, "What lesson is this?"

Andros looked at his master and said, "Well Tulre was going to teach Andorra how to use the short blade and somehow he ended up dueling the Mandalorian warrior."

Jun-la looked again as she saw her brother sweep kick the Mandalorian and twirl back into a fighting stance, Xaydie sheathed. She then looked back and replied, "He was teaching her. If you noticed, Xaydie is a short blade. What he is teaching you now is lesson number two."

"Number two?"

Jun-la nodded. "Lesson number one is bringing all that is you into balance. Lesson two is that nothing is as it seems."

Andros was slightly confused and asked, "Kal, have you heard of this technique?" He asked since his sister specialized in forms and was a diligent student in lightsaber forms.

Durrel took the sweep kick hard on the leg armor. But luckily, he remained standing after a few steps backward. He took the blade and shoved the tip into the ground outside the alleged 'ring.' He then began to circle, his head slightly tipped to one side, watching his opponent closely. This was a technique taught to all Mandalorians for the past thousand years. It had been perfected through those thousands as well. Durrel was considered one of the best in the art.

He then broke into a combat stance and moved quickly to disable the opponents movement, or otherwise, get inside their personal space, and continue to strike vital points continuously.



Garrick stopped short a few feet behind the group as the events unfolded. He had a bad feeling, a very bad feeling. He somehow felt something dark and unknown about the ruins. He looked around, but could see no reason for such fear. He believed that the very aura of this place was twisted with some sort of taboo evil. Something Mandalorians should avoid. Garrick shrugged the feeling off and began following again.

"Well, balance is the main focus of Niman, which incidently is the one I prefer. Things not being what they seem, well that is a principle which in itself doesn't directly apply to combat, but it indirectly applies to everything." Kalla explained to her brother. "I have a question: Wouldn't a hands-on approach be better for teaching me how to fight?" Andorra asked, not sure why Tulre would offer to teach her sword fighting skills, then duel someone else.

"I accept. I accept as the descendant of the Champion Revan, and of the Twi'lek clan Secura." Komad replied, following Andros' lead. He also bowed, placing his palms together. He wondered how what they would learn could seem like weeks, but take only hours. Temporal manipulation was something that no scientist, nor any Force User, could even begin to attempt. Neither the wisest of the Jedi, nor the most feared Sith Lord, had ever bent the fabric of reality like that.

Tulre did his disappearing act again leaving a trail of blue to avoid the first strike. He then reappeared closer to block the Mandalorian's strikes and counter with strikes of his own. They were carefully calculated to inflict a sting but not harm. He backed away gracefully and assumed a fighting stance. He said, "You are good. You have sentou."

**********

Katarina nodded at the Mandalorian when she turned her head quickly. She said, "Something is here."

Riyusaan, looked upwards and replied, "Karaka hordesmen."

"How did they get here?" Son-ja demanded.

"It is this place," Andros replied, "It was once the fortress of the Blood King and the site of his end when my ancestor defeated him. There is still residual evil here and it must draw them."

"I had hoped that it would mask ours and your presence," Riyusaan replied, "I was wrong. Instead of you must train while you fight."

"We will not fail you Master Riyusaan," Katarina bowed before Riyusaan left. She turned to everyone else and said, "We must get up to the viewing level. Follow me." She then took off running.

**********

"You should know Andorra that part of learning is watching and observing," Jun-la replied, "Besides he is ready to give you practice lessons." Out loud she called, "I think it is fair to say that it is even."

Tulre, enjoying the bout agreed. He then stood and bowed, "You have done well. Now others need a lesson," and walked towards the group. He asked Andorra, "What learn you?"

Durrel was still amazed on the speed of the man's attack movements. He was honored to fight with such a skilled warrior. He returned the bow and grabbed the man's shoulder. He then did a small head butt to him, a greeting common among the warrior's of Clan Derekil, a great honor indeed.

He then wrenched the blade out of the ground and handed it over, handle toward the man.

"Vode an."




Garrick was barely grasping the situation with the Blood King currently. He moved quickly with the group, he knew that time was of the essence.

Though he still longed to be where the fight was, but he was probably required with the others.

Komad activated his lightsabers while running, and quickly linked them together to form a double-bladed lightsaber. Where as other Jedi focused entirely on one lightsaber form, he learned as much as he could about all of them. The result was that he was able to easily switch between forms, but he was neither proficient nor deficient in any particular one. It was like a much bigger form of Niman.

"I think I understand the idea behind sentou, though I don't think I'm particularly Force Sensitive." Andorra replied. Though she had the makings of a Jedi in body and mind, she lacked the potential in the Force, as far as she knew. Otherwise, things would have been very different.

"Lies!...Lies!!!" Wrath yelled in rage, " I may be a sith lord but I am no lying coward. I am General Wrath and I am proud to call myself that. I will not tolerate being called a cowardly liar!"

Katarina led the way. They were in a hall when ugly creatures came out. They were hideous. She sahouted, "Karaka's hordesmen. Fight!"

Andros did not go for his lightsaber or his sword. With speed that would seem impossible for a man of his years, he charged forward to grab one of teh creatures that lunged itself at Tiye. With the momentum he built up, he spun quickly and threw the creature into the wall.

He recovered enough to block another creature who swung with it's blade like claws. He gave a series of punches and kicks that sent the creature flying high in the air. At one point he grabbed a creature and put its claws under his boot and broke them off causing the creature to yell in pain. "Komad, go for the claws," he said.

**********

Tulre didn't take to the head butt but was too dazed to do anything. It was Jun-la, not understanding the intention, that reacted with a ball of white energy and fire directed at the Mandalorian. It was enough to stun and leave a singe on the armour. She stood looked annoyed and said, "Cheap shots. No sentou."

Tulre managed to gain his feet and said, "Ok enough sis." He held his hand to the Mandalorian and said, "I think we are even, no?"

Jun-la still gave a steely glance before returning back to the onlookers. She said to Andorra, "Sentou is from within so yes you would be right."

**********

Greea replied calmly, "You say that yet you delude yourself. I don't lie. I state what I see."

As one of the creatures lunged at him, Komad twirled his linked lightsabers, effectively severing all of the creature's front claws at once. He then slammed the hilt into the creature's head, knocking it out. He then split his lightsabers apart, and stabbed backward into another one of the beasts behind him. Sensing another running toward him, he quickly Force Pushed it aside and into the wall, incapacitating it.

"Still, you don't need the Force or Sentou, or whatever else it might be called to be able to fight." Kalla told her. "The people who destroyed the Second Death Star weren't Force Sensitive, that didn't stop them."

Durrel was caught by surprise by the Jedi's hostile move. He recovered quickly and returned the glare. But then he pushed the feeling away, and reminded himself that he was not among the battle-hardened warriors of Clan Derekil.

He shook the man's hand, "It has been an honor."

He then put a finger to his armor and watched his finger carefully as a small plume of smoke rose from it. He'd have to be more careful.



Garrick tried to activate his guantlets, but quickly realized that they had been powered down since his capture. But he was still a weapon.

He stuck an armored boot into one of the creature's eyes. He then used it flip on top of the beast, pummeling it from above as it tried to claw him off. He then used the sharp point of armor to shove the creature's eye in, green blood flying everywhere. He then stuck a hand into the creature's socket and began searching for the vitals.

His strategy was very gruesome, but very effective.

Tulre took the Mandalorian's wrist and gave a shake. He said, "You see what happens when you channel sentou. It is the same as your warrior spirit." He turned to listen to Jun-la's discussion with the others.

"The Force is in all of us though for some it is a barely measurable whisper," Jun-la replied gently.

"That is exactly what Sanglumina said when he tried to explain the Force to us," a voice sounded.

Jun-la turned to see two men standing in the middle of the enclave. One was wearing a hat that looked like one hgraine rice gatherers wear. They both looked the same age but one held more oldness in his eyes. She asked, "And pray tell what would a sword tell you?"

Andros explained to Andorra, "Sanglumina is the name of my master's sword. It's blade is set to burn like a cold fire. Icy to the touch but burns."

The one without the hat said, "It was the name of the sword he carried when he came to our world. When he fought, it was the same way thus he was named so. His given name was Kirabaros."

At this time Matton and Tonatius came around and strolled up. They noticed the two strangers and Matton asked Jun-la, "What do these guys want?"

The one with the hat spoke, "Ah the sons of the scoundrel, the children of Pazambique and Sanglumina all in the same place. This is good."

"Look if you're going to spout off any more of that destiny and Force stuff, already had the lecture," Matton said.

"You misunderstand us," the other replied, "I am Li-Shang and this is Ken-Lui. We come from Miako to aide you in your quest to protect your world and ours."

Andros had his eyes wide open, "Now I know I must be dreaming. These are the protectors of Miako; they are supposed to be a myth Kal."

*********

The fight was bloody, a thing to be expected. Andros only whipped out his sword once and threw it into one of the creatures. The creature was still moving when he reached out with the Force and pulled the sword with the creature towards him. He gripped the handle and flung the creature, slicing it internally and killing the beast.

With a deft move, he did something similar to Ken-Lui to disappear and reappear from the air and came down with a hard fist to another creature. He was knocked over by another creature and almost impaled when a bolt of electricity blasted the creature off.

Riyusaan had appeared. He said, "More are on the way. You must get higher. Li-Shang and Ken-Lui will bring others." He then disappeared.

Andros rolled his eyes slightly. He used the Force to knock cretures out of the way to make his way to Komad. He said, "Follow me higher. The others will follow," and began making his way to the upper levels.

Tiye followed behind Komad after giving a flying kick to he opponent. She brought out mini spinning blades that were rigged to explode. It could buy them some time. She shouted to the Mandalorian, "Follow the others!" She made ready to throw them.

Durrel thought back on the fight. The lesson made much sense. He would definately take it to heart, and learn.

Durrel eyed the strangers carefully as they announced themselves. Apparently, they were a myth, if the Jedi and her friends were correct. But Durrel would soon see, after years of combat, Durrel didn't give trust easily. But the strangers made their objective quite clear, it was just a matter of seeing what they would do. Which would be quite interesting in Durrel's opinion.



Garrick watched the Avalonian women very peculiarly for a short second, trying to analyze the situation. He then caught on and nodded, sprinting towards the others as they continued up.

"Apparently not. They're probably titles passed down from generation to generation. Not even Avalonians live that long." Kalla commented. "Except that one is missing: my father." She knew enough about the three bloodlines to understand what Ken Lui meant. Although, she didn't know what it would mean for all six to be together here and now.

Komad quickly followed Andros up the stairs, fleeing the beasts, but at the same time, gaining the high ground. Due to the narrow stairway, he was able to Force push one of the beasts into the rest once the others were up, causing them to topple like dominoes.

Wrath stood there in complete shock and rage. It wasn't lying to him, he was following an order as all soldiers do. He was a general, not a coward.

"You... I'll make you pay for that... I'll... I'll," Wrath said, feeling the anger build up in him.

Wrath activated his lightsaber and pulled out his vibrosword again.

"I'LL CRUSH YOU!" Wrath yelled with rage as he charged Greea.

"Actually Petronius lived four thousand years. He was Lore Master and became Senator of Avalon when Master Starlighter's mother was a Jedi," Andros replied to his sister, "And technically I am a descendant of Revan too." He was kept from saying more.

"Our names are not titles. We are Ken-Lui and Li-Shang," Ken-Lui replied, "As reward for competing and becoming champions, we were granted long life."

"But now we must not discuss this. We came to tell you of the danger that your friends are in," Li-Shang said, "Karaka's hordes men have overrun the ruins there."

Jun-la asked, "Why there?"

"The dark energies must have drawn them there," Ken-Lui said, "It confirms that there has been an evil alliance made between the two realms. Your Blood King and Tsung Khan have made ann alliance."

"Then we must go. Dad is there!" Andros said anxiously.

Jun-la used her hand to calm the boy and said, "We will go and help but not everyone here understand sentou."

"It is the same as your Force. Your forbearers brought it here in ancient times and left its mark with the energies of this realm." Li-Shang looked at the girl. She and her brother looked like the last pair that came to compete in the tournament. "It is a matter of concentrating and focusing it to shape beyond reality."

It was lost on Andros but he trusted his master and he suspected that Matton did as well. Well the feelings went beyond trust. Still he couldn't help but whisper, "I know we need to help Dad right now but what good is it learning to move like Tulre or controlling fire like Master Jun-la?"

**********

Greea leaped leaving a white trail with her feet as she leapt and ran across the wall behind the charging intruder. "I do not lie. You tell your own version of the truth but it could be seen as a lie to others."

Durrel continued to watch everyone as they went about their teachings. He said nothing though, it was not his place to speak. But surprisingly, another Mandalorian did. Durrel hadn't noticed, but Kajumo had walked back into the room, probably for the next report. But Durrel also knew that Kajumo was very bold and wasn't afraid to share his experiences with people whose trust still needed to be had.

Durrel watched Kajumo approach the boy, "The reason for such teachings have a much deeper value, ad'ike. If you listen and learn, you will come to understand that depth, it will make you wiser. It will make you stronger, and more prepared for the time that these teachings are most needed. Everything has a reason, I'm sure many here would agree."

Kajumo nodded to the boy and walked back towards Durrel. The Mandalorian Captain, not surprised by Kajumo's actions, still sat at least a tad surprised.

"Lieutenant Krek sends his regards, Captain. 1st and 2nd platoons have established a perimeter around the Enclave. Further orders?"

"Good job, Kajumo. No further orders need to be distributed. I'll use the cross-com for the rest."

Kajumo nodded and relaxed again back on his Katana blades, probably thinking.




Garrick stopped midway before reaching Komad and the others. He had to make sure everyone made it forward. Even the Avalonian who claimed to be Mand'alor. He was with them at the moment, they were comrades, it's good to treat them as such.

He shook his head and turned around, starting heading back towards the Avalonian women.

The Blood King laughed at Virul, "Impressive. Still I would like to see how my two generals fare. If I am to take over this pathetic realm I need able generals. Tyrannus, Virul, FIGHT!"

Tyrannus grinned as he took his place opposite of Virul. "I'm going to enjoy this." He assumed a Tai Son position.

**********

"You have most unusual friends daughter of Sanglumina. Still we have no time. We must get to the ruins," Li-Shang said.

"Then we go. The forest paths are quicker," Jun-la replied. She turned to the Mandalorian, "You are welcome to come but we need someone to watch the enclave."

Durrel stood, "I have brought enough men to split my forces into two groups. Kajumo and I could lead one of the groups to the battle with you, while the other group stayed behind. But it all depends on what the plan is. We Mandalorians would love to fight, but if our presence is needed here, we will do our duty."

Kajumo stepped next to the Captain, in support of whatever order given.

"Likewise." Virul replied, and he quickly faded out of sight. Of course, he was still somewhere in the chamber. However, where his voice came from gave no indication. "Your eyes deceive you, don't trust them." He said hauntingly to Tyrannus, each word coming from a different part of the room. Fear was just as much a weapon for him as his lightsaber was.

Kalla and Andorra quickly followed the group, Kalla's hand close to her lightsaber. "What exactly are Karaka's Hordes? I'd rather not get into a fight without knowing what to expect." Kalla asked. Though a Jedi should seek the peaceful solution first, there were often times when fighting was necessary, and knowledge was an invaluable defense.

Katarina led the way to the main keep. They were able to barricade the doors and there was the vantage point of slowing down the horde. Sure strangglers would get in one way or another but not enough to overwhelm them.

When Andros stepped inside, he felt familiarity in that place. He knew he was in the place where his ancestor fought the Blood King. Stories told of a great battle of the Force. His ancestor came away victorious but worldly. He looked around at the high vaulted ceiling and said in Avalonian, "A world of old resides in here."

Tiye, who managed to get up the stairs after blasting the hell out of the lower chamber, agreed, "Yes and stories live in memory." She then looked around and spotted a creature come out. With a deft movement she whipped out a metal, ring like blade. With a deft skill she threw it at the creature, lopping its head off before it returned to her.

There wasn't time to celebrate though. Son-ja shouted, "They're climbing the outer walls."

Sure enough they were but not in the horde they were below. Andros looked at Komad and said, "Then we fight. Help will come."

**********

It was Tonatius who managed to join them that answered Kalla's question, "The legends speak of Karaka's Horde as armies of creatures. They are said to be the violent half of Miako, a twisted abomination. They have sharp blades that can extend and retract at will."

"Sounds like suicide to take them on," Andros commented.

"A hordes man can be defeated," Ken-Lui said, "The key is in the blades."

Jun-la said to the Mandalorian Captain, "We don't know the numbers at the ruins. It would be best to bring at minimum a squad. Just be careful. These creatures don't play by conventional rules."

**********

The Blood King, amused by Virul, said, "Now we do this right. Even the gods take exception to the rules. Start out visible and then you can play your tricks."

Tyrannus would have protested but instead said, "Even we "Sith" have some rules we follow."

Durrel smiled as the Jedi completed her sentence.

"They don't play by conventional rules? Neither do we. We will be watchful nonetheless."

Durrel sent a rally point for the remaining 3rd and 4th platoons to gather.

"We are ready to go when you are."



Garrick was once again surprised at the Jedi's skills.

"Help is coming? How do you know this?"

He mentally told himself that they were Jedi, and that they did things like that, and he dismissed it.

His HUD began to show the infra-red scans of multiple hostiles gathering not too far away. It would be a big fight before any reinforcements showed up.

Jun-la nodded and led the way to where there were some speeders. "This way."

Ken-Lui and Li-Shang followed without demur. They were used to riding some of the strange contraptions in this realm. Besides their main mission was to bring the champions together and if battle was the way to do it then so be it.

Jun-la jumped in one and motioned for Matton to man the other. She trusted his piloting skills and knew he was capable of some impossible feats. She also signaled her brother to ride with him.

She turned to the Mandalorian beside her and said, "Blasters may be good but the hand to hand will be your friend as well as a blade."

"Then they'll need help." Komad replied, and quickly went into a Battle Meditation Stance. Though that ability had been in his family since Revan's time, it did not come from Revan. Though it would mean that he could not directly fight the hordesmen, and he would need to be protected, it would tip the scales in their favour.

"I'm going then." Kalla told them. "If these ruins signify what they seem to, then I should be there anyway, and I can hold my own in a fight."

"Very well." Virul replied, fading back into view. "Your move, old friend." He sarcastically said to Tyrannus.

Durrel nodded to the Jedi. On this unknown planet, her wisdom would indeed help. Mandalorians didn't like being caught unprepared.

"Blades and hand-to-hand combat, thank you, Jedi, we will fight hard."

Durrel did a small salute and went to grab his men.

Lieutenant Krek and Kajumo came to him as he walked towards the group of Mandalorians.

Krek spoke first, "Orders sir?"

"Get the third platoon on a fast march formation and follow the Jedi. Keep your blasters, but use them as a last resort, swords and fist will be more effective with the enemy."

"Yes sir, right away." Krek began sending these orders to his men.

Durrel looked to the Mandalorian knight, "Kajumo, gear your pack up and get the 4th platoon to do the same. You will travel to the target zone via the air. Your support will be vital, so stay sharp."

Kajumo bowed his head for a second and went to the fourth platoon grouped nearby.

Lieutenant Krek had already assembled the men, so Durrel joined the large group. They then moved into position behind the Jedi and her comrades.

Suddenly, the roar of jetpacks was heard, and Kajumo and the "Flying Fourth," took their place as air support.

Durrel looked to the front and smiled as he knew with the confidence of a proud leader, that the enemy didn't stand a chance.

Wrath roared like some kind of carnivorous beast. He turned around as the rodian flipped over him on the wall and lunged again. He jumped at the wall and than shot at her direction swing both the lightsaber and the vibrosword.

Andros kept close to Komad but not before he mentioned, "Wait until they are here. They are just leaving." He took up position and managed to grab a hold of a hordes man who came too close. With deadly precision, he snapped the neck.

**********

Jun-la activated the speeder and took off at an alarming rate of speed. An inexperienced person would crash and burn at that rate of speed. She zipped along narrowly missing huge trees. Li-Shang and Ken-Lui said nothing but held on.

Tulre held on with Kalla and Andorra. He said, "I know you can handle a fight. This will not be like a traditional opponent. Think of what you learned in the enclave."

**********

Tyrannus looked at Virul as he moved in a fighting position. He then said, "Oh I always let my guest go first."

Virul may have his illusion tricks but Tyrannus was good as well in his own right.

"Nice try. If you allow me to strike first, you'll lead me into a trap. If I allow you to strike first, I'll lead you into a trap. We are at an impasse." Virul replied. It may seem like a ploy, but he was right. Each could predict the other, come up with a counter strategy, only to predict the other's, and so on and so forth.

Komad could not hear him. He was too busy focusing and preparing his Battle Meditation. One cannot enter into it in the heat of battle, but must anticipate it, and begin ahead of time. That was the trouble with it, and in retrospect, what led to Revan's redemption.

"Come on." Kalla told Andorra, and the two of them hopped into another speeder. Navigating a dense forest like this was nothing compared to navigating through the traffic on Coruscant. Having driven through the airways of Coruscant several times, she had little difficultly following after Jun-la.

Durrel watched as the Jedi and her friends sped off.

He looked at the column of Mandalorians behind him.

"Alright, fast march!" He shouted.

He motioned forward and the column sprinted, moving at an unusually fast pace.


Garrick used his gauntlet as a knife to handle a creature that got too close. It caused an ugly mess, but the enemy was down one more. He'd caught a little bit about these 'Karaka's Hordesmen.' He didn't know who or what they were, but he'd kill any nonetheless. He'd ask later on this history.

Garrick noticed Komad closing his eyes and going into some sort of trance. He didn't know what the Jedi was doing, but he sure hoped it helped. He moved into a position to defend Komad.