Star Wars: The New Order (2 of 3)

[Coreworld]

Peridea, 142 years ago. A Polan - 717 Jedi Transport sits in parallel orbit.

Torrential rain sweeps the surface of the planet. An ominous range of mountains rise into the sky, seemingly like a mythical leviathan attempting to claw its way from the planets mantle. This is the Iron mountain.

Inside the mountain, a figure kneels before a ghostly apparition.
The Father: "What do you seek?"
Joruus C'baoth looks up, his eyes filled with fire. His voice resonates around the chamber.
Jorrus: "I have travelled far....I seek answers."
The Father: "Are these answers you seek to be used for wisdom or self gain?"
Jorrus: "For knowledge."
The Father: "I sense much deception, you are not as you appear to be."

In the myriad cave network, two Jedi Knights approach the main chamber.
Indara: "I sense his presence, he is close."
Sol: "Along with a power I've never felt before, we must be cautious."

Sensing the Jedi's entrance, Joruus spins around.
Jorrus: "You should not have followed me here, my 'friends'."

Sol: "Surrender yourself into our custody, Jorrus."
The Jedi ignites their blades to enforce Sol's statement.

Jorrus: "Young fools, you will not stop me...All you have done is sealed your fate."
The dark Jedi unleashes a torrent of force lightning.

Sol's Lightsaber absorbs the strike as Jorrus descends the stairway, drawing his own Lightsaber.
Sol: "Indara, now!"

Indara leaps up high and flips over Jorrus, taking the high ground.

A battle on two fronts opens up.


Jorrus summons the force and sends Sol crashing into the cave wall.

As a winded Sol picks himself up, a voice that's like a whisper halts his advance.

Sol communes with Indara through the force, telling her to keep Jorrus busy and climbs the stairway. The form of The Father appears before him.
The Father: "Why are you here, for wisdom or self gain?"

Sol: "I seek to apprehend a former friend and show him the error of his ways."
The Father: "Let me show you the path of your friend, this is what i see in his future"
Sol's eyes widen as The Father reveals the fate of Jorrus if left unchecked.

The last remnants of the Jedi rebellion on an outer rim world confronts the dark Jedi in a final showdown.

They are hastily despatched and Joruus stands above the inert bodies of the fallen Jedi.

Snapping back to reality, a shaken Sol looks to the apparition.
Sol: "He cannot be allowed to continue."
The Father: "You are not strong enough to defeat him, i can imprison him here, but you must vow never to return to Peridea again."
Sol: "You have my word as a Jedi."
The Father smiles.
The Father: "You have chosen...wisely."
Below, sparks fly from the clashing Sabers.

The fabric of the cave wall shimmers as a Guardian emerges...

Jorrus turns and sees the approaching spectre.
Jorrus: "No!"

Jorrus is gripped by the astral form, no attempt by Jorrus has any effect, force lightning passes through as does the blade of his sword, the Guardian draws him back into the cave wall, the only mark left is a grotesque mask of Jorrus embedded in the rock. Sol looks around, The Father has disappeared and silence descends on the chamber.
The duo study the only remains of the dark Jedi.
Indara: "What just happened?"
Sol: "He came here in search of power and is now it's prisoner. Contact Jord, we need to leave....now."

In orbit, the landing craft of the Jedi Transport seperates and heads planetward.

Emerging into bright sunlight, the two Jedi head to rendezvous with the approaching shuttle.
Sol: "This place must never be visited again, we must wipe our navigational charts before we get back to Coruscant."
Indara: "How do we report this to Master Yoda?"
Sol: "We tracked and eliminated Jorrus after he resisted all attempts to return peaceably, no mention must be made of this planet."
Indara: "Understood."
The sun glints off the hull of the approaching shuttle.

Inside the chamber, the cave wall trembles and the eyes on the face of Joruus C'baoth begin to glow...

End of prologue. To be continued...

Copyright Lucasfilm/New Line Cinema. All rights reserved.

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Your shots are incredible. I’m truly hooked

 

[Coreworld]

Your shots are incredible. I’m truly hooked

Thank you so much!

 

[Tulgah]

And the writing! I love the idea that Order 66 should’ve been foretold through the Force. It’s a great use of figures and characters we might not otherwise see together. A++!

 

[VaderJay]

If only The Acolyte had used this story line instead!

It would have been great.

Joruus was always one of my favs in The Heir to the Empire novels.

 

[Coreworld]

If only The Acolyte had used this story line instead!

It would have been great.

Joruus was always one of my favs in The Heir to the Empire novels.

Thank you so much!
I would have included Jord but he's a holdout of the wave he's in, so he sadly didn't make the cut,
I've loved the character of Jorrus since the nineties, as soon as this figure was revealed he was in this story no matter what!

 

[Coreworld]

And the writing! I love the idea that Order 66 should’ve been foretold through the Force. It’s a great use of figures and characters we might not otherwise see together. A++!

Thank you Tulgah! I'm hoping to really move the force in new directions with this trilogy, so pleased you enjoyed it! :]

 

[Coreworld]

Peridea.

On the planet's surface, a team of Imperial troopers search the downed Firehawk.

The troops emerge carrying the unconcious form of Sabine Wren.

Squad Leader: "Get her onto the transport, any sign of others?"
Trooper: "None sir, the main canopy was smashed, its possible they escaped through there."
Squad Leader: Contact the transport and have them despatch a speeder patrol."
Trooper: "Yes sir."
The Shoretroopers carry Sabine towards the Walker and fit her into the transports cradle.

And rise into the hold of the giant war machine.

The AT-AT begins it's journey to the Imperium.

Elsewhere.
Huyang: "Lady Tano...?.....AHSOKA!?

Ahsoka's eyes flicker open.
Ahsoka: "Huyang?"

Huyang: "Thank the force! We are in a sight predicament."
Ahsoka shakes her head, still stunned from the crash.

Ahsoka: "What are you...Oh."
The duo are hanging onto the cliff face and Huyang's grip is slipping.
Huyang: "A display of your Jedi abilities would be greatly appreciated right now."

Ahsoka: "Sure, no problem."
Ahsoka gains a hold and using the force flips upward,catching an outcropping."

Ahsoka: "See...? Nothing to worry about."
The canyon fills with the familiar high pitched whine of a speeder bike.
Huyang: "You were saying...?"
The speeder approaches the duo at rapid speed.

The speeder unleashes a flurry of blaster fire towards Ahsoka, who activates her Saber and deflects the blasts."

Ahsoka lowers her Saber and summons the force...

Stopping the speeder dead, sending the scout trooper flying to his doom below.

Ahsoka: "Get on, we have to rescue Sabine."
Huyang: "Do you have a fix on her position?"
Ahsoka: "I know exactly where she is."
Ahsoka guns the engine.
The AT-AT crosses into a narrow ravine.

Ahsoka stands above, she inhales deeply and leaps off.

Landing on the roof of the Walker, Ahsoka quickly draws her Saber and begins cutting through the hull.

Within, the Squad Leader looks in alarm at the rapidly forming cut in the ceiling.
Squad Leader: "Weapons free, shoot on sight!"

Blaster fire rings out as Ahsoka moves with blinding speed.

Taking out the troopers with ease.

With the troopers taken care of Ahsoka leans down over her apprentice and connects with her though the force.
Ahsoka: "Come on Sabine..."
A relieved smile breaks out on Ahsokas face as Sabine's eyes open.
Sabine: "Master?"
Ahsoka: "Welcome back."
Sabine: "Where are we?"
Ahsoka: "At the moment, aboard an Imperial Walker, but not for much longer."
Ahsoka keys a transmitter attached to her belt.

Opening the outer door, Huyang pulls up with the speeder bike, Sabine climbs aboard, reaching to her belt, Ahsoka hands Sabine her Lightsaber.
Ahsoka: "Here you will need this."
Sabine: "You're not coming with us?"
Ahsoka: "No, my destiny lies along a different path, get back to the ship, fix it and get ready for my signal. May the force be with you."
Sabine: "And with you, master."

Huyang pulls back on the throttle and the bike zooms off, in no time arriving back at the crash site.
Sabine: "We have to move fast, how bad is the ship damaged?"
Huyang: "We will be ready for Ahsoka's call, only the basics have to be fixed the rest can be done later."

Huyang whirls around as a creature emerges from the nearby rock wall

Sabine: "What the..."
From the other side, a dark cloaked figure steps forward.

To be continued....

 

[Tulgah]

I love that forward-facing AT-AT! Great stuff, as always!

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Man, that Legacy AT-AT is fantastic! I really have to get one. I’ve got one of the older ones. Great pictures as always, can’t wait for the story to continue

 

[Coreworld]

The icy planet of Golan lies in front of the N-1 as it emerges from hyperspace.

Inside the ship, Din scrutinises the sensors.
Din: "We are here."
Leia: "Lovely."

Leia: "Why are we here?"
Din: "A source within the Republic tipped me off to the warrant issued against Grogu, they asked me to meet a contact here and alert them to what was going on back on Coruscant."

An alert beacon begins flashing on the console.
Din: "Looks like we have contact."
Setting the ship down, the group disembark. Din pauses.
Leia: "What is it?"
Din: "Although i trust the source, i still have a bad feeling about this, stay alert."

Din: "It looks like a storm is coming, lets move."
The group enters an ice cave.

Cautiously moving through the cavern, Leia observes the many footprints embedded in the floor.
Leia: "Looks like a well travelled place."
Din: "It's a world used by many smugglers."

A sudden noise from behind makes the trio whirl around blasters drawn.

To be met by a familiar face.

Cara: "Still as twitchy as ever, i see?"
Din holsters his blaster.
Din: "I find i live longer that way."
Leia walks over to the former shocktrooper, noticing the teardrop tattoo adorning her face.
Leia: "You're from Alderaan?"
Cara: "Your highness, I'm Cara Dune, part of the New Republic's outer rim Rangers. It is an honour"
Leia: "The honour is mine, there are so few of us left."
The two women share a moment, the emotion from their shared loss apparent, a moment that is swiftly broken.

As Grogu leaps out of his hoverpram, overjoyed to see his old friend.
Cara: "Whoa, hello little one, you been taking care of him?"
Grogu giggles and lets out a stream of chatter.
Cara: "I'll take that as a yes."

Cara: "So why all the mystery?"
Din: "How long has it been since you were on Coruscant"
Cara: "A long time, things have been busy in the outer rim of late."
Din: "The Empire?"
Cara: "Empire, Imperial sympathisers, take your pick."
Leia: "It looks like the web of Imperial influence has infiltrated the highest levels of power. Chancellor Mon Mothma has been placed under arrest and myself and Grogu had to flee Coruscant after warrents had been issued to have us both detained. "
Cara: "Who's in charge now?"
Leia: "Xiono.
Cara: "Great, one of the most vocal opponents against any investigation into suspected Imperial activity is elevated to the highest position, that doesn't sound suspicious at all."
Din: "That's why were meeting here."

Outside, as the storm has fallen an Imperial shuttle descends.

A squad of Stormtroopers in arctic battle gear exits the ship. The Squad leader checks the scanner and locks in the position of the trio.

Squad leader: "Got them. Set blasters to kill, no survivors."
The team moves out.

Inside the cave, Din stands up pulling out his blaster.
Din: "We have company. I'm tied into the ships sensors, they've just picked up a Lambda class shuttle setting down outside."
Cara: "Dank ferrik!"
Din pulls a comm device out of his belt and hands it to Cara.
Din: "Follow this comm signal, there is someone i trust with my life waiting, get to Coruscant and get Mothma out of there."
Cara: "Understood, what about you?"
Din: "I do what i do best."

The Stormtroopers enter the cave.
Squad Leader: "Spread out."

Leia hides behind an ice column.

Trooper: "Over there!"

The troopers seperate down the myriad tunnels, one of them catches sight of Grogu, who lets out a squeal and runs down a tunnel, the trooper pursues.

Rounding a corner, Grogu turns and uses the force.

Sending the unfortunate trooper flying over the edge into a crevasse.

A trooper who chases down Leia doesn't live to regret it.

Din rises up from the permamist and unleashes his whistling birds.

Finding their mark in two unfortunate troopers.

A scream rings around the cave, the Squad Leader rushes towards the area from where the sound originated and finds...

Pulling his blaster forward, the Squad Leader moves towards the edge of the cave.

Din swiftly moves from behind an ice pillar and activates his flame unit.

Engulfing the Squad Leader.

Leia and Grogu join Din.
Din: "Thats the last of them."
Leia: "Let's get out of here."

The storm has cleared as the group get back to the N-1, looking to the horizon as Leia climbs aboard, Din lifts Grogu into the ship.
Din:"We have one more job to do."

The N-1 lifts off and lets loose a twin volley from her front blasters.

The Imperial Shuttle explodes in a firey conflagration.

Din: "Now we are done here."

Clearing the planets atmosphere, Din engages the drive and the sleek starship jumps to hyperspace.

Leia: "Where now?"
Din: "Mandalore, we will be safe there."
Leia: "I'm starting to wonder if there is such a place left in the galaxy."
Din: "Bo Katan has purged the planet of all Imperials, you are part of our clan and will be treated as such but don't expect the niceties of Coruscant there."
Leia: "I'm ready for anything."
Din: "We'll see."

Peridea. A shuttle arcs through the sky on an approach vector with the Imperium.

Inside, Morgan Elsbeth kneels at the feet of her master, Grand Admiral Thrawn.
Morgan: "This is a moment long awaited, Master."
Thrawn: "Indeed, you have done well my servant. to have secured a way to this forgotten speck of a world. Tell me, what is the state of the Empire?"
Morgans eyes fall downwards.
Morgan: "Dire, the Emporer was defeated by a Jedi and the Empire fell. We have managed to regroup and now have control of Coruscant but our forces are divided, we have Moffs who squabble, each only concerned how to consolidate power for themselves."
Thrawn: "Then the time is right for my return."

Galen Marek watches closely as Thrawn stands.

Morgan: "The way back is prepared, Master."
Thrawn: "Good, we have one more task to perform here and then we will be underway."
Morgan: "Long live the Empire."

To be continued....

 

[Tulgah]

I love it when characters say “dank ferrik”! I like how you are able to incorporate so many characters from different corners of the saga. Keep it up!

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Another fantastic part of the story. Bravo!

 

[Coreworld]

Wayland.

Awaiting word from Han and Lando, Chewbacca cooks his freshly caught Monkey lizard.

Nien is scouting the area, familiarising himself with the nearby locale.

Moving into a dense forest area, he picks his way carefully through the heavy woodland.

A claw drifts silently down from above, hovering behind the unaware Sullustan.

It strikes Nien sharply in the back, who falls limp, the appendage lifts Nien high up into the jungle canopy to reveal the fearsome Brakka.

The Brakka takes Nien into a cave network, laying him down next to a cocoon that is seemingly growing out of the cave wall Sensory vines snake out from the cocoon and attach themselves to the paralysed Sullustan, the cocoon begins to emit a glow and split open.

A gloved hand breaks free followed by an exact duplicate of Nien.

The doppleganger steps out of the cocoon, removing the sensory organs that gave him life.

Elsewhere. An Imperial patrol is on its routine perimeter check.

Watching from nearby, a smile crosses Han's face.
Han: "That's our way in."
Lando: "Looks like our best bet."
Han looks over at Artoo.
Han: "We need a distraction."

A whistle catches the scout troopers attention.

Moving into the bank of trees, the trooper sees Artoo, who rolls towards him, promptly extending his electro prod and zapping the scout with enough charge to make him unconcious.

Han pulls the other trooper into the bush and knocks him out.

A quick change later.
Lando: "Not a bad fit."
Han: "As long as it gets us through the front door pal, ready to play prisoner?"
Artoo beeps and whistles.
Han: "Let's get the kid back."

With Artoo bringing up the rear, Han and Lando approach the tank.
Lando: "We found this droid in the jungle sir."
Squad Leader: "What's happened to your voice Griff?"
Lando shoots a glance at Han.
Lando: "Had to chase this little critter, tripped and fell. I think i damaged my helmet."

Squad Leader: "Alright, get it checked out when we get back to base, load him up."
Lando: "Yessir!"
Lifting Artoo onto the tank, the patrol heads off towards Mount Tantiss.

Back at the Falcon, the doppleganger approaches Chewie. The wookiee barks an acknowledgement, 'Nien' nods back.

Suddenly turning towards Chewie, the sensory organs that created him begin to emerge from his fingertips.

The Wookiee sniffs the air, sensing something amiss, he whirls around to see the imposter racing towards him.

Using his makeshift cooking tool as a weapon, Chewie drives the wooden stake into his opponent. The corpse begins to dissolve, leaving an acrid stench.

Chewie enters the Falcon and grabs his Bowcaster, putting supplies into his pouch as well as a medkit.

Venturing out into the jungle, the Wookiee uses his tracking skills passed down to him by his father on Kashyyyk, he soon picks up Nien's trail.

Finding the area where Nien was taken captive, Chewie picks up the strange scent of the Brakka, which tipped him off to the doppleganger back at the Falcon. He tracks it until he comes upon an opening into a cave, the Wookiee lets out a mournful wail and enters the cavern.

Chewie moves deeper into the cave, as a claw emerges from behind the rock...

The now familiar scent of the beast fills Chewie's nostrils, he moves out of the way just as the claw strikes!
The Brakka emerges from his hiding place, it's face contorts with fury, letting out a high pitched screech.

The Wookiee roars back.

The Brakka launches it's paralysing claw, sweeping over Chewie's head, the Wookiee deftly rolls under the huge beast..

And unleashes an explosive bolt from his crossbow into the unprotected underside of the creature.

The Brakka lets out a hideous scream and collapses onto the floor.

Chewie moves into the cave and finds Nien, helping him up the Sullustan utters his thanks.

Making their way to the cave mouth, a roar of pure rage fills the cavern behind them, it appears the Brakka was not alone...

To be continued....

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Amazing! Every new piece of the story is a real treat. What monster is that? I feel like I’ve seen it before.

 

[Coreworld]

Amazing! Every new piece of the story is a real treat. What monster is that? I feel like I’ve seen it before.

Thank you so much! It's from 'The Witcher' by Macfarlane toys, as soon as I saw it, i knew I'd found my Brakka.

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Thank you so much! It's from 'The Witcher' by Macfarlane toys, as soon as I saw it, i knew I'd found my Brakka.

Yes, of course! It works perfect! I’m always searching for items and parts from other toy lines, for parts for customs or just to flesh out «a galaxy far, far away…»

 

[Tulgah]

Han in disguise looks really good!

 

[Coreworld]

Peridea.
Sabine: "Who are you?"
Wulfgar: " I am Wulfgar, i saw your ship come down from the other valley and came to see if you needed help."
Sabine: "You're a native?"
Wulfgar lets out a roaring laugh.
Wulfgar: "No, I've been here for a long time but i wasn't born on this world."

Sabine: "How did you get here?"
Wulfgar: "I see a Lightsaber hanging from your belt, you are a Jedi?"
Sabine looks down at Ezra's Saber hilt.
Sabine: "I'm training to be one but this blade belongs to another."
Wulfgar: "I was part of the Jedi order long ago."

Sabine: "How long?"
Wulfgar: "Let's just say this planet has special properties which can prolong life amongst other things."
Wulfgar looks up to the sky.
Wulfgar: "We must leave, patrols check this quadrant all the time."
Sabine: "Leave? For where? We have to get the ship fixed and -."
Wulfgar: "Your Droid can see to that, there is someone you must meet."
Sabine's pulse quickens.
Sabine: "Another Jedi?"
Wulfgar: "He has waited for a long time also."
Sabine: "Huyang, carry on with the repairs."
Huyang: "Are you certain about this, Sabine?"
Sabine: "Yes, it's Ezra, i know it....i can feel it."
Huyang: "Very well, may the force be with you, mistress Wren."
Sabine: "May the force be with you Huyang, I'll be back before you know it."

The planet Vash.
A Star Destroyer begins it's descent into orbit.

Within, a Comms officer looks up in alarm.
Comms Officer: "Sir! A disturbance has been reported at Serenity Base."
Admiral Thorne: "Despatch fighters immediately!"

Two TIE Fighters launch and speed towards the planets surface.

In an area known as Serenity Valley amongst the badlands lies an Imperial base. Outwardly it appears deserted as the harsh desert wind batters the complex.

A sudden explosion rips open the side of the main tower.

An Imperial transport leaps through the burning remnants and hits the ground, a speeder bike in close pursuit.

Hera: "How's it looking Zeb?"
Zeb: "I dont think they're happy we took their files!"

Blaster shots strike the hull of the fleeing transport.

Hera: "We could use some covering fire!"
Zeb: "I'm on it!"
The rear cargo door on the transport opens and Zeb lets loose a barrage of shots from his rifle.

One of the shots taking out the pillion rider.

The scout trooper guns the speeders engine.

Coming alongside the stolen transport.

Zeb: "Hera! On your right."
Hera looks at her console seeing the speeder trying to slip around.
Hera: "I dont think so!"
Hera pulls on the steering yoke, ramming into the speeder bike, sending iut smashing into the canyon wall. The scout trooper makes a desperate leap for the transport and grabs onto the side.

Hera: "He's on the roof!"
Zeb: "Not for much longer."
Zeb climbs up onto the roof, the scout trooper pulls out a baton that extends, electrical energy pulsing from both ends.
Zeb reaches back and pulls his own rifle, switching it to quarterstaff mode.

The duelling pair parry blows.

Zeb sees an opening and sends the trooper flying over the edge.

Alarms flash on Hera's console.
Hera: "We've got company, two TIE Fighters incoming!"
Zeb: "Great, how far away are we?"
Hera: "Not close enough, Chop? Come in Chop."

A sandstorm batters the Razor Crest.

Chopper detects the signal and extends his antenna.
Hera: "Chop, we need you to come to us, we've got some unwelcome admirers!"
Chopper unleashes a torrent of chatter.
Hera: "Just do it Chop!"
Throwing up his arms, the little Droid rolls up the cargo ramp.

Settling into the pilot's seat, he begins flicking switches, grumbling to himself over the current state of affairs.

It doesnt take long for the Crest to find the fleeing transport.
Zeb: "Chopper!"

Hera: "Chop, no time to set down, there's a cliff edge just ahead, set the Crest just off it! Zeb, get in here!"
Zeb: "Oh, I've got a bad feeling about this!"

Hera: "Zeb, get on the rear cannon and hold on!"
The Razor Crest lowers ahead of the cliff edge.

Zeb lets loose a few shots as the transport flies over the cliff...

To land with a thud onto the roof of the Crest, Hera and Zeb quickly exit the vehicle.

Blasts from the rapidly gaining fighters rock the ship as Hera and Zeb climb into the Crest.

One of the fighters ventures underneath the Crest as Chopper lurches the ship to one side.

Sending the transport hurtling off the deck of the Crest, narrowly missing the fighter below.

Hera takes the controls.
Hera: "Thanks Chop, now lets get out of here!"

Hera guns the Crest through the canyon.

The fighters stay in hot pursuit.

Zeb: "Time for some of those special modifications..."
Reaching up, Zeb pulls a lever, which engages a panel to slide back and a twin cannon to raise up.

The Crest passes under a stone arch, still buffeted by the pursuing ships firepower.

Zeb: "Just a little more...Now!"
Twin blasts shoot out from the rearward cannons.

Taking out the two fighters.

Hera: "Nice shooting Zeb!"
Zeb: "Where next?"
Hera: "We need to find a safe port, to make repairs and contact the Republic."
Zeb: "Got somewhere in mind?"
Hera: "Bespin, its not too far away and the Administrator is loyal to the Republic."

Hera flies the Crest close to the canyon floor to avoid detection from the orbiting Star Destroyer.

To be continued...

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Perfection! This story just keeps getting better. Your storytelling is masterclass. I’m very happy the wait between parts isn’t that long
By the way, the background in the ISD command pit, is that a 3d printed piece or digital background?

 

[Coreworld]

Perfection! This story just keeps getting better. Your storytelling is masterclass. I’m very happy the wait between parts isn’t that long
By the way, the background in the ISD command pit, is that a 3d printed piece or digital background?

Thank you! I'm so happy it's being well received.
The ISD Command pit is by our very own Muftak AKA 'Cardboard Galaxy', creator of many fine playsets!

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Thank you! I'm so happy it's being well received.
The ISD Command pit is by our very own Muftak AKA 'Cardboard Galaxy', creator of many fine playsets!

Thanks, it looks great. I’m hoping for a ISD bridge playset, Haslab or other, somewhere in the future

 

[Tulgah]

The shot of Hera in the cockpit is absolutely brilliant!

 

[Coreworld]

Peridea. Sabine and Wulfgar sit astride the howler, Warrigul.
Sabine: "So how did you end up here?"
Wulfgar: "There are three planets that form a trinity in the force, Peridea is one of the three and the most powerful. Every thousand years, the three planet's orbits allign and a gateway opens, it was this event which led to the inhabitants of this world, known as Jeed'ai, migrating and bringing the force into 'our' galaxy, Upon arrival, they became known as the Prime Jeed'ai and were revered by the galaxy, creating a settlement at a planet called Ach-To, over the centuries refining into the now familiar Jedi. They travelled the galaxy acting as Marshal's, settling conflict with negotiation rather than aggression and brought an unprecedented age of peace..Until the 'Purge'."

Sabine: "The Purge?"
Wulfgar inhales deeply, a look of sorrow crosses his face.
Wulfgar: "One of the Prime Jedi became obsessed with immortality and was dissatisfied with the more peaceful nature of his brethren, fully believing they should seize control of the galaxy for themselves, his name was D'Arth. The Jedi had spread across the galaxy and formed relations which resulted in the birth of force sensitive children, D'Arth bided his time, delving into the darker aspects of the force, forbidden by the Jedi and sought out the children of the force, twisting their minds with promises of power and eternal life creating an army known as the Sith, they turned on the Jedi and so begun the Sith War, nearly wiping out the Jedi, only the emergence of a Jedi and his two children, a son and a daughter, overthrew and defeated the Sith Lord."

Wulfgar: "The Jedi Council despatched a pathfinder mission to locate Peridea during a time of allignment, i was on that team, what we found when we arrived led to several fatalities and other's driven to madness."
Sabine: "You elected to stay?"
Wulfgar: "There are forces at work on this world you could not comprehend, even the amount of time i have spent here, I still do not believe things i have witnessed."
Warrigul comes to a stop at the entrance to a cave.
Wulfgar: "We are here."

Sabine looks around the encampment. A wry smile plays across her lips seeing the scout trooper helmet laying atop a generator.
Sabine: "Some things never change."

Above in the shadows, a watcher moves...

And leaps down, knocking Sabine onto the floor.
Ezra: "Hi Sabine! Long time no see."

Sabine: "Ezra Bridger!"
Sabines mock anger breaks almost immediately and the pair embrace
Sabine: "You haven't changed!"
Ezra: "How long has it been?"
Sabine: "Fifteen years."
Ezra: "Fifteen!?! Wow."
Sabine: "I mean really, it's like this could be the day after you left, you look exactly the same."
Ezra: "It's here, this cave i mean...Wulfgar says it has properties that stop you aging. He's 150 year's old."

The pair take a seat and begin to catch up.
Ezra: "So what happened after i left?"
Sabine: "We won, the Emporer was defeated and the Empire fell."
Ezra: "Great, yay for our side! Hera, Zeb and Chop?"
Sabine: "All fine, well the last time i saw them...."
Ezra: "What is it?"
Sabine: "The Empire is back, they've been operating in the shadows...Ezra, they came here to free Thrawn and he's to spearhead a resurgent Empire."
Ezra: "Wulfgar and me have been doing hit and run strikes on his forces, he has to be stopped."
Sabine: Ahsoka has gone to confront him."
Ezra: "Ahsoka's here? We have to go."

Ezra gets up, Sabine stops him.
Sabine: "Ezra, wait...I have this for you."

Ezra: "Keep it, that weapon belongs to you now."
Ezra leaps atop Warrigul, looking over at Wulfgar.
Ezra: "It's time."
Wulfgar: "That it is young Ezra, be careful out there."
Ezra: "I will, you going to be alright?"
Wulfgar: "I was here long before you arrived, I'll be here long after you leave."
The two share a look of camaraderie.
Ezra: "Let's go Sabine."
Wulfgar watches the pair depart and whispers..
Wulfgar: "May the force be with you."

Wayland.

The Imperial Tank arrives inside the facilities main hanger.
Squad Leader: "Take that Droid to the Security wing and get that voice unit fixed."
Lando: "Yes Sir."

The group move over to a nearby alcove.
Han: "Plug into the Imperial network and find out where the kid is."
Artoo whistles and logs into the terminal, soon locating where the Jedi prisoner is.
Han: "Alright, stay here and keep comms open and a low profile."
Artoo beeps as the rescue team heads off.

Elsewhere within the mountain fortress, the aforementioned Jedi awakes.

A deep voice sounds out.
Snoke: "Welcome young Skywalker."
Luke: "what is this place?"
Snoke: "You are in the dark dimension, a unique prison."

Luke looks around the void, no sign of escape is apparent.
Snoke: "Let us have a contest, which is stronger...Light or darkness?
Snokes mocking laughter echoes all around.
A light envelops Luke, as a seam appears in the centre, splitting the Jedi into two...

The two versions of Luke study each other, one representing his light side, the other his darker half.

Dark Luke: "I will destroy you!"
Luke: "You're gravely mistaken."
A sneer crosses the dark Luke's face, igniting his Lightsaber, he leaps high into the air, as Luke activates his own blade.

The dark Luke leaps in front of the light from a nearby pulsar.

Momentarily blinding Luke...

Recovering to parry the vicious onslaught.
Luke pushes his darker half back.

Neither half getting the upper hand.
Fury contorts the dark Lukes face.
Dark Luke: "You will not defeat me!"

As the blades clash, the dark Luke forces Luke onto a back foot...

Causing him to lose his balance, the dark Luke looms over him..

Luke sees an opening and uses the force to repel his opponent...sending him plummeting off the edge of the rock.

Recovering, Luke looks up to see Snoke standing before him, Luke casts his Saber over the edge.
Snoke: "Young fool, let this be the end of the Jedi!"

A gesture from Snoke sends Luke over the edge, he just manages to grab a hold.

Snoke: "Just like the Jedi, maintaining a tenuous grip on a crumbling foundation...Time to die, Skywalker."

A voice sounds out from behind Snoke.
Yoda: "Not if anything to say about it, have I."

Snoke: "Master Yoda...Come to see your apprentice fall?"
Yoda: "The face changed it may have, the intent always the same."
Snoke: "Arrogant as ever, even death hasn't wrung that out of you....Let this be a final battle!"

Snoke unleashes a masive amount of dark energy, which Yoda repels...

Luke continues to hang onto the rock as Yoda's voice enters his head.
Yoda: "Luke, your instincts, trust in them."

Luke closes his eyes and lets go his grip...A portal opens up underneath him and he disappears!

Snoke continues to pummel Yoda relentlessly, drawing on ever more darkside energy.
Yoda: "Escaped Skywalker has, Your very anger, trapped in a prison of your own making you are, the end for you this is!"

And with that Yoda disappears in a blinding flash of light, leaving Snoke alone, who quickly realises the gargantuan amounts of dark energy used has transported the very fabric of his being into the dark dimension. his scream of anger fills the void.

Luke's eyes snap open.

Han: "Kid! Are you okay?"

Luke: "Han? How are you here?"
Han: "Long story, we have to get out of here, can you walk?"
Luke: "You better believe it."
Luke gets out of the restraining device and stumbles.
Lando: "Luke!"
Luke: "I'm fine, just a little woozy."

Han looks over to Lando.
Han: "Keep an eye on him."
Lando: "Will do."

To be continued....

 

[Wullf Yularen]

This just keeps getting better. Incredible stuff

 

[Tulgah]

Great use of accessories throughout the whole chapter!

 

[Coreworld]

Mount Tantiss. The peaceful exterior gives no indication what is happening within...

Blaster fire rings around the corridor.
Lando: "I think they know we're here!"
Han: "Really/ I'd never have guessed!"

Han's shot takes out one of the troopers.

Throwing off his now useless disguise, Han pulls out his comlink.
Han: "Artoo? We need some help!"

In the hanger alcove, the little droid whistles and dutifully locates the blast door of the section currently under siege.

Bringing an abrupt end to the firefight.

Han: "Good, alright find us a way out of here."

Elsewhere in the facility, R4-I9 detects unauthorised activity within the system and reverses the prior command.

The blast doors reopen, much to the surprise of those assembled.

Han: "Wait, what?"
Blaster fire resumes.

Artoo overrides the command sending the doors slamming shut again.

Back and forth, the doors open and close!
Han: "This is ridiculous!"
Agreeing completely, Artoo locates the Imperial Droid's position and sends an electrical charge through the system, frying the circuits of his opponent.

The doors remain sealed, Han breathes a sigh of relief.
Han: "Open the connecting blast door to the hanger."
The doors cycle open.
Han: "Chewie? Were gonna need a pick up, pal"
An affirmative bark responds over the comlink.

In the forest, The whine of the Millennium Falcon's engines fills the area, along with an otherworldly scream.

In the cockpit of the Falcon, Chewie preps the ship.

As a nightmare emerges from the jungle!

The creature leaps onto the Falcon

Chewie reaches up, flipping a switch...

Sending an electrical charge running through the hull.

Stunned the creature falls back, grabbing frantically onto the rising ship, finding purchase over the rear engines...

As Chewie engages the sublight drive, the creature bursts into flame and falls towards the jungle canopy.

The Falcon blasts away.

Inside Mount Tantiss, Han, Luke and Lando have made their way to the hanger.
Lando: "I've not seen this type of fighter before."
Han: "Looks like They're cooking up something new."

The Millennium Falcon bursts into the hanger, the quad cannon sending destructive energy bolts all across the bay.

The Falcon touches down and the trio race across the hanger towards the lowering ramp.
Han: "C'mon, move it!"

Inside the control room, an Imperial Officer finds the incapacitated droid, checking the sensors, his eyes widen at the devastation being caused by the Corellian freighter. Quckly activating the ray shield over the hanger entrance.
Officer: "All squads! Assemble on Hanger Three!"!

Settling into his seat, Han looks over at his Wookiee co-pilot.
Han: "Thanks buddy."
The Wookiee roars in alarm at the recently raised shield.

Artoo whistles from the hold.
Han: "You found a way out?"
Artoo transmits a holomap to the cockpit.

Han: "Just once, I'd like to leave through the front door! Okay, lets get out of here!"
The quad guns blast away at the hanger wall, revealing one of the labyrinth lava tunnels that flow throughout the dormant volcano that is Mount Tantiss.

Behind the Falcon, a heavy assault Fighter lifts off.

In the Falcon's cockpit, Han explodes.
Han: "You did what?!?"
Artoo meekly beeps back.
A scowl forms on Han's face.
Han: "Well that's just great!"
Chewie barks a question.
Han: "Oh, our little friend back there decided to leave a parting shot while he was in their system and overload the main reactor, this place ain't gonna be around for much longer!"

The Falcon races through the lava tubes, the fighter in close pursuit, blasting the tunnel walls with explosive fire.

Emerging into the heart of the volcano.

Nien returns fire from the quad guns, which are deflected by the TIE Fighters shields.

Blasts rock the Falcon.

As the core reactor overloads, causing a chain reaction, the long dormant tubes fill with lava!

Rapidly gaining on the two ships.

Han sees a venting lava plume.
Han: "Gotta time this right."
The TIE Fighters targetting system locks on the Falcon.

Banking the Falcon, Han deftly manoeuvres his ship over the volcanic outcropping, passing through unharmed, the fighter is not so lucky!

Han: "There! That's our way out."
Racing through the tunnel, the Falcon outpaces the pursung lava...

Punching out of the tubes vent!

Mount Tantuiss erupts!

The Star Destroyer, too slow to react is engulfed in lava and in turn explodes.

Han lets out a victory cry. The Falcon leaves the atmosphere.
Han: "Punch it Chewie!"

The stars turn to streaks as the Falcon enters hyperspace.

To be continued....

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Another great chapter. Bravo

 

[Tulgah]

There’s Han again somehow just barely getting out of trouble! Go team! I also really like the new Han head sculpt. You angle it out to look really good.

 

[Coreworld]

Peridea, The Iron Mountain.

Guided there by the force, Ahsoka looks up at the mountain range.

Within the main chamber, Thrawn consults with Morgan Elsbeth.

Morgan: "I feel uneasy about this Master."
Thrawn: "You say the Jedi are not extinct, then fire must be fought with fire."
Morgan looks over to Galen Marek.
Morgan: "We have a formidable force already Grand Admiral."
Thrawn: "I have studied the history of this man, always a maverick, who finally saw the Jedi for what they were. It was they who imprisoned him here, which i discovered after much investigation. The Jedi attempted to hide all evidence of his incarceration but they have failed. It is this hatred of the Jedi which i will manipulate and use as a tool to destroy Skywalker and his kind. You will begin the process and release him."

Morgan: "Very well Master, as you command."
Morgan summons Erin Ro.
Morgan: "Are you prepared for what is about ot happen?"
Erin: "I am sister."
Morgan: "Take your position."

Climbing onto the rigging, Ro struggles to contain her fear.
Thrawn: "You will be remembered in the annals of the Empire."

Morgan approaches Ro, a ball of energy glows..

Morgan: "For one to be released, another must be sacrificed, do you give yourself willingly?"
Ro: "I do sister!"
The sky above the Iron Mountain fills with energy.

Ro's screams echo around the chamber, as the death mask of Joruus C'baoth begins to glow...and move.

Energy moves around the chamber until it coalesces into the form of C'baoth.

Stormtroopers raise their blasters at the new arrival.

Morgan looks back at the rock wall and sees the frozen face of her fellow sister, trapped for eternity.

C'baoth rises shakily to his feet. Thrawn cautiously approaches.
Thrawn: "Master C'baoth?"
Jorrus: "Who are you?"
Thrawn: "I am Grand Admiral Thrawn, not only your liberator....But an ally."
C'baoth's eyes fill with a cold fury.
Jorrus: "The Jedi?"
Thrawn: "They were on the verge of extinction, however there has been something of a rebirth."
C'baoth takes in his surroundings, a look of confusion crosses his face.
Joruus: "The power that once emanated from this place has diminished.....Reborn you say?"
Thrawn: "Yes, they are led by one called...Skywalker."
Jorrus: "I sense the presence of one nearby."
Thrawn: "Ah yes, one of his acolytes, that would be Ahsoka Tano. We are ready for her, if you would care to join us."
Jorrus: "What can you offer me?"
Thrawn smiles darkly.
Thrawn: "Revenge."

Later, Ahsoka enters the main chamber.

Ahsoka investigates the remnants of the Imperial encampment. A cold chill passes down her spine, seeing the death masque of the Sith assassin.

The attack comes from above and all sides!

Twin Lightsabers ignite and deflect the blaster fire.

Ahsoka moves with blinding speed, deflecting away laser fire and returning the onslaught....

With interest!

Ahsoka surveys the aftermath.

Aboard the Star Destroyer, Morgan intones an ancient Dathomiri spell....

On Peridea, the sound of bones cracking fills the chamber.

The fallen rise!

Ahsoka reacts swiftly...

As fast as Ahsoka cuts the troopers down, they stand back up and re-engage.

Ahsoka rapidly withdraws from the chamber and races down the corridor, followed by the dead troopers.

Running through the labyrinthine corridors, a feeling sweeps through Ahsoka showing her the way like a beacon in the night.
Above Peridea, the Star Destroyer approaches the Hypergate.

In the crewpit, a comms officer gives an update.
Comms Officer: "Hypergate up to full power, Grand Admiral."
Thrawn: "Execute."

On Peridea, Ahsoka sees an opening and makes for it, with the dead troopers in close pursuit.

Reaching the edge, Ahsoka leaps, with the troopers falling.

And is caught by Ezra!

Ezra: "Hi!"

In the cockpit, Huyang looks up from the sensors.
Huyang: "We have Ahsoka onboard."
Sabine: "Good, hit thrusters, lets get out of here!"

The Firehawk lifts away from the Iron Mountain.

Inside the hold, two old friends reunite.
Ahsoka: "Its good to see you."
Ezra: "You too Ahsoka, it's good to be back."

Ahsoka reaches over to the comm.
Ahsoka: "Sabine? Thanks for the collection. We have to stop that Star Destroyer."

Sabine: "Already on it Master, hit it Huyang!"

Aboard the Star Destroyer, a deck officer shouts an alarm.
Deck Officer: "Grand Admiral! I'm detecting an incoming ship, approaching rapidly."
Thrawn looks at Morgan.
Thrawn: "They will be too late."

The Hypergate opens and the Star Destroyer enters.

Travelling through the Hypergate, the ship emerges from the other side.

As the sensors clear and resume, Morgan turns to Thrawn.
Morgan: "Welcome home, Master."
A cold smile crosses Thrawns face.

Entering space, Huyang studies his instruments.
Huyang: "We appear to have missed our opportunity."

In the gunnery position, Ezra keys the comm.
Ezra: "Sabine? I'm sending you new coordinates."

Sabine: "These coordinates don't make sense Ezra."
Ezra: "Trust me."
Sabine: "Huyang...Do it"
Huyang: "It appears we have little option, very well."

The Firehawk jumps to hyperspace.

To be continued....

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Amazing shots, and the story, just wow

 

[Tulgah]

The scene in which Ezra catches Ahsoka is possibly your best yet. I also love the shots of Thrawn on the bridge. Thrawn will regret freeing C’baoth, I fear.

 

[Coreworld]

Mandalore. The N-1 cuts across the sky above the remains of the capital city, lost during the 'night of a thousand tears.'

Leia looks down on the scale of the devastation, reminded of her own loss.
Leia: "Your people have suffered greatly at the hands of the Empire."
Din: "They wanted to set an example of what would happen if anyone stepped out of line to the rest of the galaxy."

The sombre mood is broken as the N-1 clears a mountain range to reveal a landing pad.
Leia: "That looks like an Imperial design."
Din: "It is, Moff Gideon had a base of operations here, after we defeated him, we repurposed their equipment for our own ends. Remember, from this point in, let me do the talking."

Touching down, the group disembark and are met by a Mandalorian.

Din: "We seek an audience with Bo-Katan."
Mandalorian Warrior: "Bo-Katan is off world, you will see the Armourer."
Din: "This is the way."
Mandalorian Warrior: "This is the way."

The group enters a doorway and is led down a corridor.

A hydraulic door snaps open and they emerge into an anti chamber.
The Mandalorian Warrior turns to Leia
Mandalorian Warrior: "Remove your weapons."
Din nods at Leia to comply.
The Warrior addresses the Armourer.
Mandalorian Warrior: "An audience has been requested."

The Armourer looks up from her Forge.
Armourer: "Din Djarin.It has been some time, what do you require?"

Din: "We seek sanctuary. Enemy forces have infiltrated the highest levels of the New Republic and have made an attempt on the life of Din Grogu, the foundling."
Amourer: "Din Grogu is a foundling and will be offered protection, another stands with you, present yourself.

Leia steps forward.
Leia: "I am Senator Leia Organa, daughter of Anakin and Padme..Representative of the New Republic."
Amourer: "You seek protection also"
Leia: "I seek to become a part of the clan and learn your ways."
Dins head snaps around in surprise.
Armourer: "Indeed..continue."
Leia: "For too long Mandalore has been kept at arms length by the New Republic, your people has been scattered in small enclaves throughout the galaxy, now you have a home, you need a voice. I offer to become a bridge between our peoples. It has become apparent to me the suffering our tribes have endured at the hands of a common foe, we must unite and face this threat together."

Armourer: "An interesting proposition. Are you sure you can endure what is to come in your condition?"
Leia: "My condition?"
Armourer: "You are with child."
Leia: "How...?"
Armourer: "I have brought enough children into the world to know the signs."
Leia: "I choose the danger."
Armourer: "Very well then. You will choose your armour and be sent on a mission with a Mandalorian Judge to determine if you are worthy of the armour."
Leia: "A mission?"
Amourer: "By coincedence, a signal has been detected emanating from the forbidden zone, an area of the planet where all manner of dangers lurk. You will find the source of this signal and determine the correct course of action."
Leia: "And if i succeed?"
Armourer: "You will return alive. This is the way."

Leia dons her armour and is led to an adjacent room containing escape pods. There, she is joined by the Mandalorian who will be her judge.
Din: "Use the armour as an extension of yourself, become one with it."
Leia: "Have you been to this forbidden zone yourself?"
Din: "Yes, you will need all your skill and your abilities to survive."

Leia: "Alright, let's get going."
Armourer: "Your Judge is Dred Priest, listen to his guidance...It will save your life."

Donning her helmet, Leia mounts the escape pod and seals the hatch, which is ejected out into the harsh sky of Mandalore. It crashes down in the forbidden zone, opening the seal, Dred helps Leia out, all the while scanning the surrounding area for any threat.

Using her inbuilt sensors, Leia tracks the signal to an opening.
Leia: "Here."
Dred: "Be alert, all manner of scavenger lies within ready to ambush the unwary."
Leia: "I'm ready."
Dred: "We shall see."

Using their jet packs, the duo descend into the ruins of the city.

They land deep down and make their way carefully through the wreckage.

Leia: "In here."

Inside, they find a comm device, the light steadily blinking, Leia switches it off.
Dred looks around.
Leia: "Was this a test?"
Dred: No, a trap"

Dred: "We need to leave, now!"

Both heads snap around at the roar that echoes from the back of the shattered room.

The Reek charges, Leia reacts swiftly, using the force to send Dred flying to the back of the chamber.

The Reek moves swiftly for a creature of his size and whips Leia with his tail, sending her crashing to the ground as the beast lunges forward again.

Leia rolls over and fires a wrist dart at the Reek.

Given its time spent in the forbidden zone, the Reek has mutated enough for its skin to withstand a blast which would have felled a normal type of its species and continues towards Leia. Dred fires his grapple hook and lasso's the creature.

Who is pulled off his feet and dragged along the cavern floor...

Distracting the Reek enough for Leia to summersault over the head of the creature...

Landing squarely atop the beast, Leia sends an electrical charge running through the beast.

Stunning the Reek into unconsciousness.

Leia moves over to Dred.
Leia: "Are you okay?"
Dred: "A little winded, but i'm alright."

Leia: "Come on, we need to get out of here."

Twin darts whistle through the air and find their target, Leia and Dred slump to the ground as a hidden door opens and light spills out into the chamber, a shadow falls over the fallen pair.

The Valynn nebula. The Star Destroyer 'Ravager' comes to a halt.

Within, behind a ray shield...The Shalka stares at his captor.

Thrawn turns to Galen Marek.
Thrawn: "Everything went according to instruction?"
Galen: "All proceeded as per your wishes, Grand Admiral. The beast is unharmed."
Thrawn: "Excellent, the Shalka is key to my plan going forward."
Enoch: "Grand Admiral, you have been summoned to the bridge."
Thrawn: "Accompany me."
Galen: "As you wish."

Thrawn : "Where is Master C'baoth?"
Galen: "Recovering in his chambers."
Thrawn: "Good, see to it every courtesy is extended to him but double the guard in his sector."
Enoch: "Consider it done, Grand Admiral."

Arriving at the bridge, Theawn is greeted by Morgan Elsbeth and Captain Gilad Pallaeon.
Pallaeon: "Grand Admiral, it gives me the greatest honour to serve you once again."
Thrawn: "It is good to see you once again, Captain and the honour is mine."

Pallaeon: "During the course of our search for you, we discovered something long thought lost."

Pallaeon: "After our losses at the hands of the Rebellion and later, the New Republic, our forces were decimated...What we have found more than makes up for this military deficit."
Thrawn: "And what have you discovered, Captain?"

Morgan: "See for yourself Master...."

Morgan: "Behold, the lost Katana Fleet!"
Lightning strikes across the Nebula, highlighting the silent armada.

To be continued....
Credit for all digital images of Dreadnaught class star frigate courtesy of Ansel Hsiao.

 

[Tulgah]

All manner of scavenger! I knew something good was coming. You make the reek look REALLY good. It’s aged well.

 

[Coreworld]

The Valynn nebula, an Imperial shuttle travels amongst the Katana Fleet.

Within, Grand Admiral Thrawn and Morgan Elsbeth confer.
Thrawn: "Where did you find this fleet."
Morgan: "In our quest to locate you Master, a Probe Droid was exploring the unknown regions and happened upon it. We have updated the vessels with newer technology and automation to allow less crew per vessel."
Thrawn: "Interesting."

The Shuttle banks on final approach to the lead Battle cruiser.

Upon docking, Thrawn and his entourage disembark to be met by the Fleet Commander.

Dedra Meero: "Grand Admiral, I am Fleet Commander Dedra Meero. It is my honour to present the Black Fleet, ready for your command."
Thrawn: "Good, i will transfer my flag to this ship during the coming operation. You will take temporary reduction in rank to my second in command until this crisis is over. Captain Pallaeon will take command of my Destroyer in the interim."
Dedra: "Yes Grand Admiral, may I take this opportunity to say how much I've admired your career and hope to play a vital part in the retaking of the galaxy."
Thrawn: "We are a spark that will light the fire that will consume the galaxy. Long live the Empire!"
The gathered troops shout out in unison and begin chanting "Thrawn!" as the commanders move on.

Entering the Bridge, Thrawn surveys his new command.

Dedra: "All ships specifications have been sent to your Datapad for your perusal, Grand Admiral. We have a refuelling and staging area prepared before our assault begins, we just await your word to engage."
Thrawn: "Execute."

In unison, the Black Fleet's engines roar to life.

Coruscant.

The Sun's dying light falls on the Senate building.

Within, the Chancellor is in conversation with two senators.
Om Free Taa: "Are we assured of a seat at the table of this, so called, 'New Order'?"
Chancellor: "You will be, my friend. It will not be a return to the old ways, a new dynamic is what is being offered."

Om Free Taa: "Then you have our pledge that our respective governments will not intervene when the time arrives."
Chancellor: "You have made a wise choice my friend...Order will once more control the galaxy."

Vale Yarrin enters the Chancellor's chamber.
Vale: "The Master has returned, the mission has begun."
Chancellor Hamato Xiono nods, a feeling of satisfaction at the turn of events.

Hyperspace.

Han: "How you doin' Kid?"
Luke: "Better now Han, thanks for getting me out of there."
Han "It's starting to become a career."
Luke laughs.
Luke: "Its good to see you again but what were you doing there? Last i heard, Leia had you on a mission looking into stolen tech."
Han: "We hitched a ride on a Star Destroyer and that's where it took us. Just what is going on, Kid? Black market Cloning tech, a massive hidden Imperial base...?"
Luke: "The Emporer is back Han."
Han: "What? How...?
Luke: "An ancient Sith discipline and your black market Cloning technology. He goes by the alias of Snoke and is more powerful than before, Han...This has been decades in the planning, Palpatines quest for immortatlity has given him the key to his resurrection."
Han: "Normally, i wouldn't buy into this, but some of the stuff I've seen lately..."
Luke: "What's our next move?"
Han: "While Artoo was in their system, he did some nosin' around, let's see what he's got."

Gathering in the Falcon's hold, Artoo begins his briefing.
Artoo details information regarding a Planet in the O'tega system, that is important to the Empire.

Han: "O'Tega? There's an enclave known as 'Smugglers Cove' located there.....What could the Empire want with that?"
Luke: "That's what we have to find out."
Han: "I don't know how they're gonna react to me showin' up after turning legit, I don't travel in those circles no more."
Luke: It's something we have to do Han, It may be key to uncovering what's happening."
Han: "Alright KId, the Falcon could use some lookin' at after all she's been through, the rest we'll figure out as we go."

In the corridor, Lando catches up with Han.
Lando: "Are you sure about this?"
Han: "I'm sure you're my ace in the hole. "
Lando: "I am?"

Entering the cockpit, Han flips switches and preps the Falcon for her change in course.

Chewie joins Han at the controls and lets out a questioning bark.
Han: "Yeah, i remember how we left that place last time Chewie but that was a while ago, it'll be fine...trust me."
The Wookiee rolls his eyes.

The Falcon continues on her journey.

Bespin, the Razor Crest heads towards Cloud City, a patrol speeder swiflty approaches on an intercept course.
Hera: "This is the Razor Crest requesting landing permission for repairs and supplies."

Cloud City Security: "Permission granted to land on bay three twenty."

Hera: "Copy and thanks."
Zeb: "Who's in charge here?"
Hera: "Administrator Sleedo, never met him but i know he's loyal to the Republic, Leia has vouched for him."

Hera pilots the Razor Crest over the city.

And touches down on Landing pad 320.

The doors of the landing bay portal open and an honour guard led by Administrator Sleedo approach the trio.

Sleedo: "Greetings and welcome to this facility, our services are at your disposal."
Hera: "Thank you, our ship could do with a once over."
Sleedo: "We shall see to it at once, allow me to extend you our hospitality."
Hera: "You're welcome."

Making their way through the city, Sleedo's voice lowers.
Sleedo: "Chancellor Xiono ordered the detainment of Princess Leia, she managed to escape off world with some help but we have not managed to regain contact with her."
Hera: "Understood."
Sleedo: "Enjoy some libations with us whilst we get new directions."

Later...

Zeb: "How can we present the evidence we have, if we dont know who to trust on Coruscant?"
Hera: "I know, they're clearing house..Something big is coming."
Zeb: It's starting to feel like the fall of the Old Republic...Spies and traitors on both sides."

A Protocol Droid comes up to the group.
K3-PO: "I have been sent by Administrator Sleedo with an invitation to join him."

The group traverse the corridors until the Droid pauses at a door.
K3-PO: "Here we are."

The door snaps open to reveal...

The sound of clattering armour sounds behind the group.
K3-PO: "Please surrender your weapons."
Zeb: "Karabast!"

To be continued....
Credit for all digital images of Dreadnaught class star frigate courtesy of Ansel Hsiao.

 

[Tulgah]

That’s my favorite one yet. There are just SO MANY figures featured. You really got a ton of mileage out of them that time. It really does feel like I’m binging a series.

 

[Wullf Yularen]

Wow, this is so amazingly good! So many incredible set pieces. I absolutely love it

 

[Coreworld]

Mandalore, the forbidden zone.

Inside the ruins, an operation is taking place...

The 'Doctor', a former top surgeon who was badly injured by a Proton terpedo blast during an Imperial assault long ago was saved by the grafting of mechanical limbs, this came at the cost of his sanity. His assistants, a reprogrammed FX-7 medical droid and Fitch, a scavenger who threw in with the motley crew in the name of survival, busy themselves about the chamber. Tubes extract fluids from the captive Mandalorian.

Upon completion of the process, the Doctor opens the cage containing Dred, whose body collapses to the floor, lifeless.

The Doctor: "This is such a good day! Food for us and Beskar for trade, Seven? How is the other one coming along?"
The medical droid turns its photoreceptor towards the erstwhile surgeon.
FX-7: "The subject is with child and also contains a high Midichlorian count."
The Doctor: "A force user! Oh, this is such a special day indeed! We must prepare the Vials, there is a buyer i know who will pay big credits for this, Fitch, despatch the remains of the other one and make room for our most valuable prize!"
The small scavenger quickly moves the body of Dred.

Outside, Din Djarin and Grogu are en route to the forbidden zone.
The little child squeals with delight.

Landing, Din surveys the area.
Din: "I don't see any sign pal, are you sure they are here?"

Grogu, looks around and emits a sound of certainty. The child heads off towards an opening, Din sighs.
Din: "Okay buddy, you lead the way."

Grogus pace quickens as he enters the cave.
Din: "Kid, wait up!"

Grogu continues deeper into the cave.
Din: "He never listens."
The Slavyyk emerges from the shadows...

Din realises just in time and rolls across the floor.

Din pulls his blade, it becomes a contest of strength as the nocturnal creature relies on stealth and surprise attacks to claim his prey.

A quick thrust upward and the creatures strength quickly fades, slumping into the cave floor.

Back in the 'operating room', FX-7 lifts the still paralysed body of Leia and moves towards the tubes of transference...
Placing her into the mechanical cocoon as Fitch resets the controls.

FX-7 joins the Doctor, the pair look on as the little scavenger finishes his work.
The Doctor: "Twice the prize, double the profit, i have a good feeling about this."

Din bursts onto the scene, blaster drawn.

FX-7 reacts with blinding speed, throwing a vial of combustible material at the Mandalorian.

Din manages to evade the explosion.

And returns fire, taking out the medical droid.

Grogu pulls Leia from the clamps of the machine.

Leia manages to lift her head as the child peers curiously down at her, seeing her move, Grogu lets out a yelp of delight.
Din drops down fast as the cybernetic arm of the Doctor sweep across...

Din sends the Doctor flying into his surgical equipment that pierces his torso, impaling him.

As Fitch pursues Grogu..

Grogu jumps up onto the surgical table, Fitch reaches to grab him.

Grogu turns and closing his eyes, concentrates...

Sending Fitch flying back into the machinery, sparks fly everywhere.

Leia manages to get to her feet and looks at the deceased Doctor.
Din: "He got the point."

Din: "Are you alright?"
Leia: "I'm getting there, thanks to you two."
Din: "He gets all the credit, we lost your signal when you descended to the lower levels, it was Grogu who sensed you were in trouble."
Leia: "Thank you Grogu."
Grogu: "Yup."

Later back at the Forge.
Amourer: "You acquitted yourself well with the armour."
Leia: "I failed the test."
Armourer: "You stand before me alive, how can this be a failure?"
Leia: "I didn't resolve the issue by myself, i had to be rescued."
Armourer: "Leia, the test was not of your abilities, they are well proven, the test was how you intergrated into the clan. I have seen the recordings from Dred's recovered armour. You saved him from certain doom against the creature. Your rescue by Din Djarin and Din Grogu was the essence of what it is to be a Mandalorian, a part of something much greater than ourselves."
Leia: "Then i am a part of the tribe?"
Armourer: "You are."

Leia exhales a breath she didn't realise she had been holding.
Armourer: "We have intercepted a signal from Administrator Sleedo on Bespin that is meant for you."
Leia: "I have a team on operations attempting to secure evidence to prove the innocence of Chancellor Mon Mothma, who has been wrongly incarcerated on Coruscant. They were to go to Bespin if they were successful."
Armourer: "The transmission was interrupted before it could be completed, i fear the worst."
Leia: "I must go there."
Armourer: "You shall....but not alone."
Din: "This is the way."
Armourer: "This is the way."

To be continued....

 

[Tulgah]

I haven’t seen Lord Dread in years! That’s SUCH a great character to cast as your doctor. Also, the line “twice the prize, double the profit” made me smile. I’ve always thought Dooku’s line is really dumb, which makes it endearing.

 

[Coreworld]

Coruscant.

The New Republic Penal facility designed to hold political prisoners and dissidents.

Within, former Chancellor Mon Mothma is one such captive.

Two troopers exit the turbolift.
Sergeant Krall: "This has to be done quietly."
Lt.Graz: "How are they going to explain this to the populace? Mon Mothma still has a lot of support within the Senate."
Sergeant Krall: "We don't have to worry about that, our orders are to eliminate her and they come from the Chancellor's office."

Close by, an unlikely ally stands ready.

In the skies above a modified Firespray closes in on the building.

Cara: "Fett? I'm in position."
Boba: "Copy that."

Fett moves fast, launching a wrist mounted rocket dart at one of the unfortunate troopers.

His blaster rifle silencing the other.

Boba deactivates the ray shield on the cell door.
Boba: "It's time to leave."
Mon: "Daimyo Fett! What's happening? "
Boba: "Your diplomatic immunity was about to expire...permanently."

Boba: "I have a ship standing by, let's go."

The duo make their escape.
Boba: "Wait."

Two troopers exit the turbolift.

Fett goes into action, launching a missile from his rocket pack..

Blowing a gaping hole into the external wall.

The troopers reel from the explosion, Fett moves with lightning speed.

Disabling one and using his knee darts to take out the other.

Boba grabs Mon and the pair blast out of the gaping hole towards Slave One.

Lowering the boarding ramp, Cara scowls at the instrumentation glowing red.

Cara: "Fett? We have company."

Boba: "So i see, their response time has improved."

Inside the cockpit of the New Republic E-Wing, Lt. Callahan surveys the scene unfolding ahead.

Callahan: "Kay? Give me a breakdown on that museum piece."
The Astromech beeps an affirmative and the technical specifications of the Firespray appear on her screen.

Callahan: "As i thought, an antique, this is going to be easy."
Boba settles into the pilot's seat onboard Slave One.
Boba: "An E-Wing, the new starfighters of the Republic, let's see what you've got."
Callahan's voice crackles over the comm.
Callahan: "Attention Firespray, deactivate all weapon systems and land on the building roof, you are being detained by authority of the New Republic."
Boba: "I don't think so."
Fett guns the engines.

The two ships fly through the Coruscant skyline, blasts rock the Firespray.
Cara: "Fett, i know her, she's one of the good ones."
Boba: "All right Princess, switching to non lethal rounds."
Another blast hits the ship.
Boba: "You might want to tell your comrade to do the same."

Threepio: "We're doomed!"

Boba: "Get below and look after our guest and shut that droid up, he may have given us the access codes to get into the building but my patience only goes so far."
Threepio: "How rude!"

Cara: "Chancellor, it's good to see you. "
Mon: "You too, Marshal"
Cara: "Oh, i think i can kiss that title goodbye after this."
Mon: "Another thing we have in common then."
The two women share a smile.

Boba: "It's time to go old school."
Slave One's headlights come on as she disappears into the underworld.

Callahan: "Where did she go? Kay, launch a full scan of the area."

Slave One blasts through the subterranean lair of the city planet.

Boba: "Wondering where we've gone?"

Slave One emerges from the other end of the shaft.

Right behind the pursuing E-Wing.

KE4-N4 beeps in alarm...

Boba: "Too slow."
The Ion cannon's on Slave One send out an electrical surge...

Disrupting the ships systems.

Inside the fighter, Callahan frantically struggles to regain control of her ship as it plummets downward.
Callahan: "Come on, come on!"
She just manages to pull the ship up before crashing into the ground.

Callahan: "That was too close, thanks Kay."
The droid whistles his own relief.

Callahan: "Rogue leader? I'm out of the pursuit."
Anton: "Copy that Green Three, we're on it."

Two X-Wings strafe the Firespray.

Boba: "The skies are getting too crowded, next stop, Mandalore."

Fett takes Slave One to full velocity, once clear pulls back on the lever to engage the hyperdrive, leaving the pursuing fighters in his wake.

To be continued....