The Endless Night (Star Wars fanfic)

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Ghost Rider
Spirit of Vengeance
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Post by Ghost Rider »

Derith walked down the hall, noticing that the statue of Master Durandal had finally been erected. The Padawans that helped Verilon rushed off to their respective masters.

“Beautiful, is it not?” Verilon said looking at the pristine features.

“Certainly fits him.”

“How so, would you say?” Verilon asked as tall man in a white tunic and cloak walked behind the two of them.

“The size for starters, certainly a large enough statue for his boundless confidence.”

“The Derith I trained would’ve said that the statue is far too small; this but represents a mere fraction of a molecule of my hair’s supreme ego is what that rash boy would have said.” The man said. With that Derith turned slowly around and expressed a beaming smile.

“Master Durandal!” Derith said hugging his former master.

“I take it you haven’t had much luck with the women of any species.” Durandal said parting with Derith at arms length, smiling.

“Ha, ha…well…”

“Ah, my young apprentice, one technique you never learned from myself or Stravo.” Durandal said as they walked down toward the hanger.

“Perhaps, though I could never equal up to the master himself in quantity of men he has tried to bed thinking they were women.”

“True, Stravo has gone blind in his old age.”

“Perhaps, but at least he never tried to bed a gundark while drunk.”

“Very astute, my young apprentice.”

“So why were you not the one that summoned me to the council chambers? Master Wong rarely, if ever has an audience anymore.”

“Because my young friend, I am no longer Master Durandal.”

“What, they expelled you?!”

“No, no. Nothing so dramatic or hasty. I just found myself between serving the Jedi Council or serving the people of the Hapan confederacy. I chose my people.”

“So you’re…”

“The new lord of the entire Hapan Confederacy.”

“Ah.”

“Oh, do not look so disappointed. You and I will likely see each other again. In fact your current mission, while something I never really trained you for, is something of a favor for me.”

“It is?”

“And I expect nothing less then success from my best student.”

“Mas…Lord Durandal, I sincerely believe that it’s ending may not be particular for what you view as success.”

“Are you saying that you doubt yourself?”

“In matters I am ill-equipped for? Perhaps.”

“Oh tosh, you have always performed every duty to the finest of your abilities and for this one, you will find the best solution.” Durandal said as they stopped in front of an Aethersprite. “Though I give you a word of caution, there is something out there; It has killed twelve Jedi. The last being Master Steve. Do not overestimate what you will face.”

“Thank you, Lord Durandal. And as for this threat…I am simply better.” Derith said as Durandal was staring at his space craft.

“Still using that old thing? I’m still in awe that you even found it.”

“Well, the chassis design is old certainly, but a few modification in where it counts.”

“Ha, ha…ah you were always better with machines then women.”

“Aya is proof that I’m much better with women then machines.”

“True. Now go my friend, and may the Force be with you.”

“Always.” Derith said as he lounged inside the cockpit. The boards lit up and the engines roared to life. Durandal stepped a few meters back as the fighter effortlessly leapt away from gravity’s pull and within few seconds escaped his sight, streaking towards the stars.

On a skyscraper overlooking much of Coruscant a lone figure stared as the craft flew away.

“And so it begins, Jedi.”


*****

Upon exiting of hyperspace, the small Aethersprite sliced through space effortlessly towards the sapphire blue planet of Isolder74. Derith had sent the requisite code both identifying him and his purpose. He noted when waiting for the return signal, twenty dagger like shapes orbiting the planet. No matter the time, no matter the government, they had only one name that ever fit them, Star Destroyers. Derith noted as he effortlessly passed close to one that it was a Imperator Mark four. Bristling with weapons at every port, and a cold gray color that seem to enhance it’s purpose. Derith shifted uneasily in his chair, not for fear of himself, but fear for what this bode for any sort of negotiation. He flipped on his comm screen for confirmation.

On his the view screen of the main Star Destroyer was the head of the Shinji Corporation, Lord Darkstar. A small blue Twi’leck was dressed in lavish robes and many jewels on both his lekku and fingers. His entire head seem to glisten in the light of the ship’s bridge, and his face wore a perpetual sneer. It seem to denote him as to a position of some importance but gave him the air of a being who was one thing but another entirely.

“State your name and the nature of your business.”

“Jedi Knight Derith Rider, I’ve come on behalf of Lord Durandal to act upon behalf of the Jedi Council as an ambassador.”

“Indeed.”

“With all due respect, I believe my authorization code as well as my standing are not in question. I request to land immediately”

“Of course.” Darkstar said as an aide whispered something into his ear. “Very well, you made land in the capital of Krechet. Enjoy our hospitality.”

With a flicker, the blue image evaporated into the ether, and Derith let a snort exhale from his mouth. This was not going to be a fun trip. He had read the data that Master Wong had downloaded into Aya about the situation. Apparently the dispute was a little deeper then just merely a king and a corporation head. The contract had a few shady hints to that it was something deeper of the Shinji corporation since while it had power, for some reason the person who sponsored the contract between Lord Poe and the Shinji Corporation was the repudiated Prince Vympel. Many rumors circulated about this person, but the truth of the matter was that, Vympel was the owner of a multi-system corporation that had it’s hands in everything from candy to starfighters. There was also the rumor that Vympel is a Vigo in the Black Sun crime syndicate. What disturbed Derith the most was that the Shinji corporation or Black Sun, if the rumors were true, rarely had the backbone to display such a show of force. Somehow they have found a backbone. He pondered the how of this as his craft glided into Isolder74’s atmosphere.

His craft gently settled to the platform and noticed an entourage awaiting him. He climbed out of the cockpit and let Aya down from the side port he was lodged in, as a radiant woman approached him with three handmaidens flanking her

“Jedi Master Derith Rider.” The lady said.

“Correct name, but hardly a master. Jedi Knight Derith Rider at your service, Lady Tevar, I presume?” Derith answered with a slight bow.

“Indeed. I am glad that you could make it so quickly” The situation has become quite volatile, and you came with Lord Durandal’s greatest assurances.”

“Indeed.” Derith said not making eye contact. “Could you illuminate for me how the situation has become where it needs a Jedi's attention?”

“I assume you have seen the small armada above us?”

“Of course.”

“That is how far the situation has declined.”

“When did this happen?”

“About a week ago.”

“Hmm, very recent. Any particular reason why?”

“Have you ever met my husband?” Tevar said as the door to the palace proper opened.

“No.”

“Then you’ll soon understand, he does not take threats…lightly or well.”

“Wonderful.” Derith said with a low sigh exhaling from him.

As they entered the palace, Derith was greeted by a hallway that seemed to extend into the sky itself. Windows gazed upon the city proper, which seemed to be nothing more then something of a holocard from this distance. The main hallway was bathed in sunlight but even with it’s mighty window could not cover the entire passage. He noticed a few tricks in the archways as he walked with the queen through the main hall. They gave an appearance of being much larger then they really were to the untrained eye. The palace could oppress or impress any would walk it’s corridors. As they walked up the stairs to the main doors of the throne room he noticed the delicate handiwork on the doors, as well as their size. The doors swung inwards with not a noise. On the far side of the building stood two thrones and in one sat Lord Nitram. He stood up as Lady Tevar approached him, and Derith made a simple bow of his head and outstretched his arms and his hands palm up.

“Lord Nitram.”

“Hmmm, I see you’re versed in Hapan traditions.”

“My former master, Lord Durandal taught me how to at least present civility when required.”

“Hmm…nonetheless I do hope you can help us with our current plight, Jedi.”

“From what I have gathered, I am unsure of all of why your plight is happening.”

“Why would say that?”

“Given what a coward Shinji is…I sincerely doubt any amount of cajoling or insulting on your part would ever convince him to initiate a blockade.”

“Perhaps, but the facts stand. He initiated the blockade.”

“True, now exactly why did you request that a Jedi be sent here?”

“What would imply that?”

“If I may speak freely?”

“You may.”

“Given that Lord Durandal’s reputation as well as influence, he could’ve brought a investigative commission from the Senate proper, but instead he comes to the Jedi Council and requests for a Jedi Knight.”

“And you find this unusual, how? You are repudiated as guardians of peace and justice.”

“That we are, but it’s rare that we involve ourselves in any sort of particular political dispute such as this one has become. This is a dispute over who owns a particular part of a heavily used Hyperspace route.”

“Ah, so you that this is too specific to your nebulous goals of helping the people?”

“Yes and no. Your situation is one we do handle, but the overall point is more to personally helping you and your people for goals for a specific system, not just helping people.”

“Ah, so when confronted with complex goal, you retreat that my personal goals are what is interfering with a decision of greater thinkers?”

“Maybe, but I am hardly a diplomat, thus my view of the situation are as such.”

“So this is beneath you?”

“I never said that.”

“You implied it with your statement that this should be handled by others.”

“Perhaps, but I was also speaking the truth, your majesty. This situation would be better handled by those trained for this. I will do my best, but I am not the best choice.”

“Then for that I am glad for your curt approach. You give me little confidence of the outcome, but at least you are honest of your skills.”

“I will do my best.”

“Indeed, now that the pleasantries are out of the way, I will have my wife show you to your quarters.”

“Thank you for your hospitality, Lord Nitram.”

With a simple bow Derith walked out the room as Nitram slumped back into his throne. Tevar lead him past the great door and down the hall.

“May I ask a simple question, Lady Tevar?”

“You may ask.”

“Is he always so…”

“Curt?”

“Honest, if I may be so diplomatic.”

“Yes.”

“Ah.”

“Do you see what I mean you will understand?”

“Perhaps, but even with his…honesty, nothing short of a Sith demon would convince Shinji Corporation to act they way they have. The oft chance that this catches wind in the Senate would drive them into uproar against their company.”

“Do you honestly believe that?” Tevar said as they enter a turbolift.

“On some level, it would be ignored, but on many, it would not be.”

“Why?”

“Because any system would instantly associate what is happening to your world with theirs. While they do not hold sway as some of the larger systems, the smaller ones do have the lobbyist and backers. It would be an unprofitable move.”

“Exactly.”

“Pardon?”

“Now you understand why Lord Durandal requested a Jedi, he knew of these facts, we all did. There is nothing reasonable or rational behind these actions. What we wish to find out is what is behind it, and unless you’re naïve, you know full well an investigative committee would take weeks to even form an opinion of what is happening.”

“I see, well as I said to Lord Nitram, I will do to the best of my abilities.”

Tevar nodded as the turbolift stopped. They walked in silence until she reached the end of the hallway.

“Your quarters.”

“One thing.”

“Yes?”

“Was this a lovable ruse by Nitram to divine why I am here or to see whom I would side with?”

“Perhaps, could you not just take what you want from my mind?”

“Myself? No, too painful.”

“Ah. I suggest you draw your own conclusions since you’ve done so well so far.”

“I will, and if I may; I request my droid sent to my quarters and access to the contract that is currently being debated over as well.”

“Of course, a servant will bring the droid shortly and we’ll load he information within him.”

“When will you require my services?”

“Tomorrow, the final proceedings are then.”

Derith looked about the room and then closed his eyes and felt anything he should or should not feel within the room. Nothing; good, he thought. At least it’s bed looks far more comfortable then his own. He looked outside the window and noticed the waterfall that extended from the palace itself. A knock on his door and a handmaiden had shown his small red astromech the way in. He bowed his head slightly in thanks and closed the door.

“Tweet, boot, beep.”

“Thank you for telling me she touched you there.”

“Bweet oop.”



Within the bowels of the flagship of the Shinji fleet, a meeting was taking place. Darkstar nervously paced about as the hologram erupted to life. His aide, Stewart, stood next to him rubbing his hands. The cloaked man stood before him, face unseen, nothing to denote he was human except his mouth protruding from the depths of the hood.

“My lord, I am honored by…”

“Silence, report on the situation at hand.”

“We are nearly complete with the negotiation but there are few minutiae to be worked out.”

“And would this minutiae relate in any way to the fact that Lord Nitram has not signed the treaty?”

“We are merely in the final stages of the negotiations, there is…”

“Silence, fool. You were to handle this more then a month ago; I want this situation resolved, tomorrow.”

“There are…complications, my lord.”

“Complications?”

“For one, we were assured that he would instantly capitulate once my grand armada appeared before his world.”

“You were given no such insurance, this action is nothing more then your inept buffoonery.”

“Nonetheless an additional problem has arisen. A Jedi has arrived for Lord Nitram to settle the matter.”

“Ah, the true complication.”

“My lord, this may mean that we cannot complete…”

“Be silent; I have arranged for a suitable solution to our Jedi problem.” The dark lord said. “All you have to do is simply not fail, me.”

“Yes, my lord.” Darkstar said lowering his head as the hologram dissolved. Stewart shuffled to his side. He raised his head and stared at the empty space that the hologram once occupied.

“This is completely out of hand.” Darkstar muttered. Thinking that all he wanted was a prominent trade route through the heart of the Hapan empire and what was rightfully his. He did not enter these negotiation so he could be the lackey of a Sith lord and risk all that he had.

Derith opened the small doors to the library with Aya following closely behind. The place had a dead feel to it. The data pads that lined the shelves glowed and blinked in unison. As Derith walked through he spied not one living soul, in fact not one droid. When he finally reached the center of the small maze, he thrusted himself in, he saw a small woman sitting inside a circular desk happily tapping away.

“If you have any data discs you like to return please place them over to the left of the counter.” Said the brunette as she relentlessly continued tapping at her keyboard.

“Excuse…”

“I said to the left.”

“I need your hel..”

“Pardon?” with this the woman stopped tapping and looked up. Derith flashed her his nicest smile. “Oh, your looking to take out something out, right?”

“You don’t get many visitors, do you?”

“Oh no, Lord Poe visits constantly.” She said as she looked around aimlessly “Though of late I haven’t seen him; do you happen to know what may have happened to him?”

“He’s…been on affairs off planet.”

“Ah, well he shouldn’t leave his darling boy alone; who knows what trouble the child would get into.”

“Yes, of course; I will need a set of records in relation with Lord Poe and a contractual agreement he had with the Shinji corporation.”

“Do you have the proper authorization?”

He tapped Aya’s head lightly, with which he spat out a data card. He handed the woman, who inserted it into the adjacent terminal.

“Hmmm, states here that you have full access to our files.”

“It’s for something rather important.”

“Must be, Lord Poe is ever so jealous of anything of his being looked upon outsiders.”

“Right, well if you’ll perform the information dump into my astromech, I will delay you no longer.”

“Oh pish, you are the first person I’ve seen in…weeks, months, I’m not honestly to sure when I’ve last seen anyone.”

Derith nodded slightly as he grimaced a bit. Aya cheerfully chirped with the strange woman as she attached a cable to his frontal control panel.

“Tweet, tooop, bop, boo.”

“Hmm, do you want a snack?”

“No…he’s just,” Derith looked as his astromech bobbed back and forth slightly “Commenting on your beautiful eyes.”

“TWEET, Tooph”

“And your hair.”

“boop.”

“Ah, all done.” The small woman replied. “And you have beautiful eyes too, you cute little droid, you.”

Derith suppressed a laugh and calmly escorted his astromech out the door as the woman once again descended into her work, oblivious of their passing. The small droid chortled away as they walked back to their room.

“You wanted me to tell her, to dip her breasts in lubricant and smear them all over you?”

“Bweet, tppt.”

“Too bad, never will happen.”

“Breet.”

“Yeah, and if you could, you would’ve done so long ago.” Derith said as walked into the turbolift.

A silver vessel came ripping from Hyperspace into orbit around Isolder74. The small craft charged towards Darkstar’s ISD and the pilot silently awaited for approval. Darth Fearghul looked upon the armada that had assembled and let out a derisive snort. This mission was at best beneath him, at worst an insult of his talent. He should be hunting Jedi and ensuring their order’s light was extinguished, not catering to his master’s sycophantic toad. Though a small part was intrigued that he would be facing a Jedi of some possible caliber, and to test his abilities would be enjoyable diversion. The last one died so foolishly. That particular Jedi truly believed as long as the lesser people escaped death, his would have meaning. When one engages in battle, one fights to their limits. To engage in such lesser thought dilutes one’s potential and makes one unworthy. He looked over to his side wall as the tractor beam slowly tugged his craft in. Eleven unworthy foes, and on his belt number twelve. Perhaps this one will be either his first worthy, or yet another lightsaber to his growing collection.

His ship serenely docked within the ISD main hanger bay and was approached by Darkstar and a cadre of troops. They stood waiting at the foot of the ship as the maw opened and Fearghul’ black frame briskly escaped the vessel.

“Ah, finally you arrive. I am most displeased the situation has come to this and demand that it to be rectified immedia…”Darkstar stopped as he clutched his throat.

“Do not presume you have any authority. As of this moment I am in command and I speak for my master.” Fearghul said as he held his gaze upon the slowly dying Darkstar. “And my first order of business is you address me in my proper title.”

“Ye…s, Lo…rd Fe…argh…ul.”

“Good.” And with that the pressure subsided and Darkstar fell to his knees massaging his throat. “Now for my second order is to disperse your fleet, except this ship.”

“WHAT?”

Fearghul clutched his hand into a fist and exerted true pressure upon Darkstar’s lungs, throat and eyes. Darkstar scrabbled his hand wildly upon his throat, his men stood there frightened and hoped that this being would not divert his attention to them.

“Did I ask for your approval?”

Darkstar shook his head violently from side to side.

“Exactly.” Fearghul released his hand, and Darkstar collapsed in a heap, huddling on the floor. “I will expect when I proceed to the planet that my orders are obeyed. My master is most displeased that you created this situation.”

“I…had no choice.” Darkstar whimpered.

“Of course you did, you just accepted the most foolish course of action.” Fearghul said and with that he walked back to his ship.



Inside his room Derith was reading the files at inhuman speeds, scanning for anything that would give his case any meaning. He massaged his eyes as he finished another volume. He looked outside and noticed that all the light that now existed was glowing from the city below and from abroad.

“Who would’ve thought it to be over two hundred volumes.”

“Bweet toot”

“Only 45 done?”

“Twipt beet”

“Hmm…Aya contact the Master Stravo, he should still be on Coruscant.”

“Twerp boop”

“I don’t care if you don’t like how it feels, just do it.”

“Vreet.”

Aya popped up a small compartment on top of his head and a small array expanded over him. Within seconds a small blue image of a stately robed man stood before Derith.

“Master Stravo.”

“Knight Derith.”

“Master, I have a small…”

“Men?”

“Pardon?”

“I will have you know that I have never once…”

“Master, now is hardly the time, I have a…”

“So the young knight forgets the time wherein he decided that a certain Twi’leck’s coat was more then particularly attractive?”

“At the time it escaped my notice, but now is hardly the time.”

“Perhaps, so how may I help you young knight?”

“I am embroiled in conflict of contracts, and I wish to utilize your infinite wisdom to help me divine a possible solution.”

“Ah, so you’re reading a four hundred volume contract?”

“Perhaps.”

“Nonetheless, what specifically are you wanting to…divine?”

“Have there been any cases in court about contractual disputes over hyperspace lanes?”

“Derith, try to simplify your search by something less the last twenty six thousand years.”

“Very well; then any contractual disputes between the Hapan confederacy and interstellar companies?”

“A few, why?”

“The mission I am on is one about Lord Poe’s contract with Shinji corporation and so far I have yet to find any such loophole.” Derith said his hand on his chin. “I am curious if Nitram has any real dispute, aside from Darkstar’s inane reaction of setting a tactical threat on his doorstep.”

“Hmmm…there was one case that had some bearing to this; I’ll send the case to you, though I must warn you it’s another 50 volumes.”

“I have all the time in the world.”

Stravo’s image pressed a few buttons that Derith couldn’t see and Aya replied with a confirmation beep.

“There, young one…and try to resolve this without slashing through an army.” With that Stravo’s image dissolved and Derith stood there shaking his head.

“Alright Aya, cross reference all known case factors involving Poe and Shinji Corporation between the two and give them to me volume by volume.”


Off in the distance a ship landed and deposited it’s cargo. Twilight was emblazoned with gold and red throughout the night sky. Something in the air was rushing through aiming itself for the palace, invisible to all but hearing the ship glided itself until it halted a number of miles away. The aft hatchway opened and Darth Fearghul steeped out onto Isolder74’s land. He had kept his armor and robes since he was in full preparation for battle. Fearghul looked upon the terrain with his electrobinoculars and surveyed the scene. The palace to his eyes was just a situation of will and planning, except a small twinge he felt.

Ah, A Jedi he thought, yet not quite a master. Still one should always test their prey. He pressed a small button on his arm module and three black balls hovered behind him. Choosing the commands he wanted he silently gave them their commands and let them towards the palace. Darth Fearghul let a small smile pass his lips. Soon, so very soon.

****

Derith continued to scan the files for many hours as the lights in the city began to dim and dissolve, until he saw something of distinct interest. The contract case that Lord Poe arranged was of a favor to the Shinji corporation but had allowed him to retain rights to the Hyperspace route solely in his possession. Quite literally Darkstar had no bearing upon his argument that he had any rights to said route, but this nugget was lodged within the depths of hundreds of volumes of pointless rhetoric that virtually no one remembered or cared to remember. Interesting tactic he thought to himself, simply pound the opponent into submission because they wouldn’t know where to look. It bore marks of a idiotic cunning, of no true skill except to be very loud when needed be.

“Good work Aya, now save this file onto something I can present to both Lord Nitram and Darkstar so we can resolve this mission…” Derith trailed off as he felt something amiss in the Force. He felt the air get heavy. He shook his head in effort to clear it, but it continued to cloyingly pull at his lungs. He walked over to the window and he gently slumped to the floor. Aya chirped once to no avail.

Outside three black droids hovered into the palace corridors, having full access to the systems, and began a methodical search. Men had slumped onto their guns and other had just fallen onto their faces. The three followed their master’s instruction and avoided all contact until they had reached the fifteenth floor. They scanned the area and then approached Derith’s room. The door swished open, with Aya frantically prodding the cloak to no response, and swiveled his head to see the three droids. He chortled a string of beeps only to receive a arc of electricity that emitted from the nearest one, shutting him down. The three hovered and in silent agreement, opened a small compartment and a small blaster was unsheathed. They aimed and fired at the prone figure.

“Perhaps you were not as powerful as the master thought you were, a pity.” Fearghul snorted as he boarded his speeder.
Last edited by Ghost Rider on 2004-05-04 03:55pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Zaia
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Post by Zaia »

Ahhh....good, good stuff. Is it wrong how much I enjoy the bits where you knock Durandal's ego? *grins*

Oh, and I like the lube/breast line too... :lol:
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Post by Kuja »

Poor Derith. Every time he needs info, he ends up entangled in a ocnversation with a nutball who keeps cutting him off. :lol:
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Post by Rogue 9 »

Zaia wrote:Is it wrong how much I enjoy the bits where you knock Durandal's ego? *grins*
Three syllables: Bwa ha ha. :D
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Post by Crown »

“You wanted me to tell her, to dip her breasts in lubricant and smear them all over you?”

Bwwahahahahhahaha!

:lol:

Loved it!
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Post by haas mark »

I still need to read the last third of that one, but there's too much dialogue between Derith and Nitram. Needs to have a bit of what they're doing while they're talking thrown into the mix.

To me, it's like a couple of stick figures standing there with speech balloons over their heads. :P

And this, I just find funny:
Derith walked down the hall, noticing that the statue of Master Durandal had finally been erected. The Padawans that helped Verilon rushed off to their respective masters.

?Beautiful, is it not?? Verilon said looking at the pristine features.
;)
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Post by Dalton »

Huh huh huh, erected.
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Post by Ghost Rider »

The three black probes gave each other a silent stare in agreement. The first moved toward the cloak and then three stone shards screamed through the air, piercing into it. The other two began to frantically scan the area when the bed collided with them. As their body sputtered downward to Aya’s feet, a figure leapt down from the ceiling.

“Cheap machinery, never once gave me a full scan.” Derith said as he looked at Aya.

“Boorp”

“Good at least you’re not completely gone.” Derith tapped lightly on Aya’s head. A lightsaber extended upward from a small compartment. He grabbed the saber and lightly patted his droid as he ventured out. Staring from side to side he noticed no one was about, at each post a guard was slumped down. He walked towards the turbolift.

Outside Fearghul looked at wrist panel and noticed three lights blink out and gave a tight smile. Good he thought, perhaps this Jedi would last as long as the few others, the first two he hunted did not have even the decency of doing that. Such soft fools he pondered, at least Steve, and phogn had the will to fight and resist such a simple diversion. The speeder abruptly halted in front of the palace steps and he debarked with vigor. Climbing up the stairs he eyes flashed as two guards coming down. Accursed droids, for every department they showed usefulness, they unerringly showed signs of complete stupidity; worthless machines.

“Halt! Identify yourself!” the first said as the second raised his weapon. Fearghul proceeded forward.

“No Further.” Fearghul’s steps merely increased in speed.

The guard made a hand signal and a battery of fire erupted from the other’s rifle and Fearghul raised an eyebrow and the first guard intercepted the bolt. The first guard gave his chest a stunned look. The second guard fired again and again as the figure proceeded upwards; all the bolts being intercepted by different parts of his friend’s body. He looked down onto his gun and clicked the rifle to full power when the Dark Lord was upon him. Without even a second glance from his attacker, he crumpled onto the ground as blood erupted from his eyes and mouth. The doors to palace protested as the flung inward. Fearghul took note of the size of the palace. Such a waste he thought; all this impotent power to cow lesser beings. He halted in the middle of the main passage and reached out with his dark power, it’s claws invading and probing every living subject. He snorted as he sauntered to the turbolift.


As it had reached the top of the palace he released his grip on the internal controls as the object sputtered and died, the lift falling to whatever depth it came from. He looked at the passageway before him, and felt nothing. That gave him pause. He should have detected some thing, someone; but there it stood…nothing. The air was still, and yet he felt some thing in front and around him. He didn’t smell the air nor felt any breeze. His eyes could see but nothing passed through his ears. His cloak made no movement. Very cunning, my friend, very cunning, he thought. He closed his eyes and then a second later the windows roared in pain from the stress played upon them and shattered. The ground that encircled him rippled, and still nothing moved on Fearghul; not a single shard of steelglasse meet him or a single breeze ruffled his long mane. Enough, this parlor trick will not stop me boy, he roared through his mind. He shut his eyes and drank deeply into the dark side, letting his hatred overflow any thought. The durasteel support struts beneath twisted incoherently; the duracrete of the entire corridor buckled and erupted violently. Then as suddenly as it started air had reached his lungs. His cloak flapped as it reacted with the sudden gust, and Fearghul smiled. His Jedi did not wait for him to initiate an attack; he struck first and with intent. Even Steve, went to the defense for all that one’s bezerker rage and powerful style. He strode down the twisted corridor. The delicate paintings and fixtures had not survived the battle in anything that resembled the form the originally were in. Fearghul stood before the doorway, the door barely hanging on their hinges. He stood at the destroyed archway. He peered inside the enormous room both with his perceptible senses and imperceptible. Nothing. This disturbed him; a Jedi of any level of ability should not be able to mask his physical presence to him. He could feel him mentally and no alarms went off but he had trained years, and some wet eared neophyte was doing something only his master should know of how to do. After he vivisected the Jedi, he would ask his master more about this.

Derith emerged from the shadows, the darkness peeling away from him. Fearghul casually ignited his purple blade.

“Recognize it? It was, your friend’s. Now, I am coming for yours.” Fearghul said as he assumed a classic stance with the blade held high.

“Recognize it? This will be last thing you’ll see. I am coming to reclaim my friend’s property.” Derith said as he assumed a lower stance.

Darth Fearghul had destroyed ten other Jedi in combat, had slain two masters and here, this whelp, believed he was going to last against one such as him. The focus the boy had was one he had to admit was keen to a point he had only seen in one other being; his master. This battle is one he finally savored, all the little jabs they had played to this point were nothing.

Derith focused himself as he had done so hundreds of times against a galaxy of opponents. Finally he had a chance to prove himself against an equal, one who’s timing, skill, and strength at least matched his own. His former master was right, this opponent had killed a master of a blade form that most Jedi never mastered; this was not a being to underestimate.

Their eyes flashed slightly, and the incandescent blades collided. They continued to flash as their feet moved inhumanly fast, circling the small room. Derith felt every blow, parry, and clash to his feet. The floor beneath felt as if it would give way if they clashed any harder. Fearghul kept pressing his opponent closer to the main window of penthouse. With one fearsome push he knocked his opponent off balance for a fraction of a second, all that he needed. Inside him he felt the Dark Side pulse forward. Derith felt his body being flung effortlessly through the air, and through the window. Fearghul turned his back and walked away.

“Pity; perhaps you are not as powerful as my master foretold.”
The glass shattered instantly with thousands of scintillating shards shimming around him. He felt gravity inevitable pull holding onto him. He focused and let the Force flow through him, performing the action required. The shards connected and melded themselves into an unnatural bridge. His body contorted so that his toes would touch the very edge of this bridge. He flung himself to the empty window with inhuman speed, his clothing whipping around him.

“Time will tell.” Derith said as he leapt into the air, saber behind him held high. Fearghul turned around since at this point no voice should be so clear and saw that the Jedi was lunging directly above him, the air sizzling upon his approach.

“Impressive, most impressive.” He said as he brought his blade a second before it came crashing into his head. The force of the blow made Fearghul lose his sense of balance for half a second. Derith took advantage and pressed forward with series of lunges and slashes, each parried but with less force as the last.

“I feel the hate flowing through you, indeed I will remember this battle.”

“Feel whatever you wish, when this is all over, you will be nothing more then a poor taste in my mouth.”

“We shall see, Jedi.” With that a small chair smashed against Derith’s head. Fearghul took advantage and lunged with a thrust to the chest. Derith barely parried the blows aside as a box was hurled into his sword arm, this time it was deflected aside but the ground gave underneath him. Fearghul continued to press the attack, as the room itself seemed to snap and bite at the Jedi. Another chair came underneath and clipped Derith at his knees, making him lose his balance. Fearghul raised his sword high.

“Any words, Jedi?”

“Duck.”

Fearghul ignored the comment; as the bed imprinted itself into the Sith Lord’s face. The object continued to press him until they had left the room. In the corridor he shoved it aside with the Force. He shook his head momentarily as he saw Derith’s blue lightsaber scream towards him. He brought his own, with no fanfare and they held their respective ground. The blades sizzled as they stared down each other. Derith smiled. He pressed the attack with a swift overhand strike, the Sith blocked it effortlessly, as he did many other times; but this time Fearghul got hit by a piece of stone that was dislodged by his earlier display. Fearghul stepped backwards as another and yet another piece kept assaulting him. It took all his concentration and power focused upon the renewed Jedi. Derith then parried Fearghul’s blade wide and thrusted his leg straight into his opponent’s chest. Fearghul took the momentum imparted onto him and back flipped into the empty shaft behind him and soared down like a black bird. Derith stood above the shaft’s entrance. He extended his senses, and felt Fearghul was down there. He let out a small breath and stepped off.

He soared down and as he approached the bottom, allowed a small pocket receive him. He was at the bottom of the palace, below the waterfalls, into the Cliffside itself. He let his mind flow outwards and saw a small shaft. He activated the controls and slowly ascended. The tunnel lit up and showed him the path. The doorway opened automatically and before him was an immense room. It was filled with canisters of some unknown substance and a bridge dividing the room. Standing on the far side was Fearghul. He stood motionless and seemingly unaware of Derith’s presence. Derith accepted the situation, and raced forward as a small canister came hurling towards him; he automatically slashed it aside. The canister exploded with immense force, and knocked him aside. Fearghul then opened his eyes, smiling as another canister went hurling towards Derith’s prone form. Derith’s eye went wide and he leapt away from the projectile. Fearghul activated his saber and lunged at him, Derith barely brought his saber to bear.

“Now, only in the end, do you see the truth. Your powers are no match for the Dark Side!”

Another series of slashes were exchanged, and Fearghul sent a projectile between them. Instead of avoiding Derith slashed at it when it came between them, hurling both backwards. Fearghul was knocked off his feet, unprepared for the blow; Derith just merely absorbed the heat and pressure and lunged forward with new vigor. Fearghul sent another couple, both of which were intercepted by other canisters. The explosions knocked Fearghul back even more so. Derith pressed his current advantage, slashing with vigor. Fearghul pushed him back to nearly the edge of the bridge and then lowered his blade. Heclosed his eyes, and stood still. Derith took this as a sign of defeat and lunged yet felt something in the air around him change. Fearghul then just started laughing, louder and louder. The walls seem to reverberate with the increase in his voice. Derith then realized what Fearghul was doing and ran for the exit.

“Until another time, Jedi.” Was all Derith heard as he leapt and bounced off wall in the turbolift as the explosion rocked the palace. Derith got to a stable floor and shook his head. It was not over.


The next day, Lady Tevar came to his room.

“Enter.”

She noted that he had a few bandages, and was trying to repair his astromech.

“I’ll presume the explosion and you forcing us out of our room was because of that intruder?”

“Yes.”

“So what was he?”

“A legend.”

She pursed her lips in thought as he continued to bang on his droid a bit.

“And our problem?”

He shook his head a bit and tweaked his spanner a bit. Aya perked to life with a few loud chirps.

“BREEET, VREWT!”

“I don’t care how you feel right now, just give me the disk.”

“Twort.” And with that he expelled a small silver disc. Derith gently handed the object to Lady Tevar. She eyed it with curiosity.

“And this is?”

“The proof you need to send Darkstar away.”

“If that is true, then you are everything Lord Durandal said you were.”

“I can only hope.”

With that; Tevar left, and he looked at Aya again. He noted what things he would have to replace.


A few hours later he proceeded down the hall leading to the landing area, he saw on the far end, Darkstar stamping his feet. Nitram threw his head back and clapped his hands as Darkstar was escorted his shuttle. Derith shook his head and continued his way. Behind him he could hear footsteps; he turned around to see a beaming Nitram.

“Very cunning, my friend.”

“How so?”

“You found a small loophole that Sith spawned bastard tried to exploit but did not have. Indeed Durandal was correct that you would work wonders.”

“I can only hope.”

“And for that nothing will be levied against you in regards to the destruction that befell my home.”

Derith shook his head slightly. “Thank you, Lord Nitram.”

With that Nitram walked back towards his palace. Aya quietly followed him until they reach the Aethersprite. He hooked Aya up and the droid looked at him.

“Voot?”

“Do I think it’s a success? I have no idea.” Derith said as he snuggled into his fighter, grimacing at his wounds. “The Sith have returned, and with them, there is never true success until they are gone.”

“Boooooo.”

He flicked a few buttons and fled to the stars. His ship jumped to Coruscant.


On Darkstar’s shuttle he tracked the ship as it left and cursed it, and activated the holo.

“You said it was all taken care off! All your pe…” Darkstar never completed his sentence. Instead he stared at a glowing red saber in the middle of his chest. The saber then retreated and he fell, eyes staring into nothing, his mouth expelling nothing. Fearghul looked up at the holo.

“My master.”

“You’ve done well my apprentice; now tell me, what do you see in Derith?”

“He could be strong but is tainted by their weakness.”

“Indeed, he could be a great asset.”

“Doubtful, his role interfered with our mission here.”

“Hardly, in fact he did what I expected of him and insured that war will come about. Vympel will not take this slight lightly.”

“I don’t understand my master.”

“You don’t have to, you just merely have to serve me.”

“Yes, Master Durandal.” Fearghul intoned as he bowed low.
Last edited by Ghost Rider on 2004-05-04 03:55pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Post by Crown »

FIRST TO POST!

Now to read ...


Ooooooohh! Shifty!
Last edited by Crown on 2004-05-04 01:22am, edited 1 time in total.
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Post by Zaia »

Ahh, good. I missed this story! :D
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Post by Zaia »

Crown wrote:FIRST TO POST!

Now to read ...
Dork.

...

Cheater!



...Cheating dork! :P
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Post by Kuja »

Cool chapter. I had my suspicions about Durandal...

Can't wait for what's coming next. :wink:
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Post by Crown »

Zaia wrote:
Crown wrote:FIRST TO POST!

Now to read ...
Dork.

...

Cheater!



...Cheating dork! :P
Green is an unflattering colour on you my dear! :P
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"Science is one cold-hearted bitch with a 14" strap-on" - Masuka 'Dexter'
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Post by Zaia »

Crown wrote:Green is an unflattering colour on you my dear! :P
LOL, as if! Posting before you actually read the story--what's the point, I ask thee? What is the point! :P :D
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Post by Crown »

Zaia wrote:
Crown wrote:Green is an unflattering colour on you my dear! :P
LOL, as if! Posting before you actually read the story--what's the point, I ask thee? What is the point! :P :D
To post first ... what, you need a diagram or something? 8)
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Post by Zaia »

Crown wrote:To post first ... what, you need a diagram or something? 8)
But that's CHEATING if you post before actually reading the--oh, you are so lucky you are 10,000 miles away from me right now! *grumbles*

:P :D
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Post by haas mark »

Great job, Dennis. Keep it up. Would normally critique, but no time..
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Emergence

Post by Ghost Rider »

Emergence


The overhead dawning sun caressed his face as he walked up the steps of the Jedi with vigor. The breeze that wafted around the Jedi Temple were pleasant enough but they were not why the brown haired boy was so elated. His cloak whipped about the stairs, his black tunic and pants in immaculate conditions, his boots shining. He looked to the sky in some vain attempt to see something that he knew he would not be able to see, but it did not matter. A few Knights and Padawans waved at him, with which he simply nodded. A couple women gave him a smile or two, to which he responded with a smile. Any other time he would’ve stopped and flirted, even if he was committed; but as of now, those thoughts barely registered. The young Padawan’s beaming face spoke volumes of his innermost thoughts. He would present the result of his case he presented to the Jedi Council all those weeks ago. Today he was certain he would be what he should…no, is meant to be.

He opened walked into the open doors of the temple and it still held awe for him. The magnificent pillars that adorned the interior seem to stretch to hold the sky. The openness of the main area embraced everyone in a warm embrace, everywhere Padawans with masters. He saw Verilon pass with a group of Padawans with a new piece to be assembled elsewhere. He looked up at the ceiling murals that stretched across the entire length of the temple depicting the legends of old, before the Great Purge. Thousands of separate mural also adorned the walls each of events stretching from as early as Qel-Droma, Revan, to Skywalker and the Vong and to current times. He knew of all their stories as he passed each. One day he wished his name would be spoken in the same breath as these legends. Many of his masters had said he was special, talented…but only in qualities of speaking nature. A gifted diplomat, a eloquent speaker, but in his eyes that was not enough, would never be enough. He stood before his favorite mural, one that showed Skywalker victorious against the Sith lord who brought about the purging, Palpatine. A beautiful woman glided next to him as he absorbed ever line of the mural, burning it into his mind.

“Kuja.” With that he turned and smiled. He looked at her lithe figure and wondered how did he ever attract her those months ago. Her blue robes were unassuming yet somehow the outlined her curves. A few simple words and they became friends, but she never really talked about who this person was before. A couple guarded words, and she always left it that. Sometimes when he asked now, he could see a warmth in her eyes when she spoke his name, sometimes. He looked into her sparkling eyes and his smile became softer. She kissed him on the lips and looked at the mural he was so intent on imprinting into his mind.

“You and this lust to be known.” Zaia said resting her head on his shoulder lightly playing with his single braid that lazily hung from his head.

“You know it’s not that at all.” He said shaking his head.

“Care to enlighten me, oh great Jedi Master?” she said lightly nudging her elbow into his ribs.

He smiled and shook his head. “We’ve been over this a thousand times, and I’m not changing my mind.”

“I don’t know. I could try, last night you seemed most enthusiastic at my changing your mind about studying.”

“That was because something else was on my mind.”

“So enlighten me, Kuja.” She said looking at him as he continued to be absorbed in the mural.

“You still don’t understand.”

“I…don’t?” Zaia said with an eyebrow raised.

“Now, don’t get that way,” Kuja said as he placed on of his hands on her cheek, lightly caressing it. “It’s just that I feel I could do so much more…”

“By being some all powerful brute who’s only method is to smash his personal view into everything?” She said as she stepped back.

“He’s nothing like that at all.” Kuja said with a slight frown. “I feel at times a clouded view of what he truly does.”

“A clouded view, you say?” Zaia said shrugging her shoulders. “Fine, young Padawan, educate me on one Derith Rider.”

“You truly let your emotions cloud your judgment on the matter.”

“Of course, I dated and had a deep relation with the man, if anyone aside from Master Durandal know the man better then most.” Zaia said with her arms crossed. “And I will state again, he was many things but his job, his whole reason of being a Jedi is basically a very brutish tool.”

“But I believe because of that he can make me into a more complete Jedi.”

“So you can what? Kill more efficiently?”

“No, understand an aspect I never fully understood.”

“Combat?” Zaia said as she raised an eyebrow “You want to get in touch with your mean, ugly, stupid side?”

“No, it’s the aspect of the Force that one enters when one is such a combatant.”

“Right, that nice glazed over look one has when they are in a killed or be killed situation.” Zaia said as she looked directly at him. “You do know we having training droids?”

“Just drop it, This is going nowhere.”

“No, I do not want to drop it, because your morbid obsession of seeing how a combatant lives so you can what, better understand them?”

“It’s not that at all!”

“It isn’t?” Zaia said stepping forward. “Can you sum it all up into one phrase?”

“I want to help people.”

Zaia just shook her head slightly, walked up and kissed Kuja lightly on the cheek. “You do not have to become some warrior to do that.”

“For you maybe, but for me, I feel I must.”

“Perhaps.” She said and with a light sigh she walked off to perform her duties as a teacher. Kuja turned and gave the mural one last look before he walked of to meditate.


An Aethersprite tore itself into space; casually inserting itself into one of Coruscant’s heaviest travel hyperspace lanes. The ship expertly eschewed and weaved amongst the cruiser he had barely dodged. The pilot gave little concern as the com blared alive with screeches in a variety of languages of what violations he had done and what rules he had broken. He had programmed the nav computer to enter this pattern since it would buy him some extra time, time he believed would be better spent informing the council rather then dispense with courtesies.

He adjusted into one of Coruscant’s lesser traffic lanes as he began his descent. The bustling congestion did nothing to adjust itself for this new intruder, and honestly did not care. The pilot adjusted his heading to coincide with the regular traffic of vessels entering the atmosphere and swiftly glided to the temple with his dire news. He shifted a bit when he tried to absorb the knowledge; a Sith Lord, alive and a killer of twelve Jedi. This did not bode well for any future. He hoped the Jedi Council would have some answers. The small craft glided itself to the Jedi Temple’s landing pad where a solitary figured waited. The pilot swiftly adjusted his descent, and the small craft comes to a soft landing. The tall blue skinned figure approached the cockpit as the pilot leapt out, his droid sputtering a bit as it was lowered.

“Jedi Derith.”

“Master Prec’row’nadan.”

“You mission was a success?” He said as he looked over the slightly battered Jedi. He noted that his cloak was no longer with him and he had many cut abound him. He took note of the bandage on his head.

“Perhaps, but I do not bring any good news or more importantly the cause of my current condition.”

“Indeed.”

“If I may be excused for a couple hours before I present my report to the Council.”

“Granted, it will take nearly as long to assemble my peers.” Crown said. “We will retrieve you.”

“Thank you, master.” Derith said as he bowed. Crown walked slowly back into the temple proper, Derith went over to Aya and shook his head a bit. The poor droid was sputtering a little worse since he had only cursory repairs since his return back from Isolder74. He pushed the little droid along as it tottered next to him.

Inside the temple he went straight for the repair station where he saw other tooling with variety of droids and craft. He walked over to Lee, who just shook his head.

“Ah, what did you do to him?” the large Yuzzem intoned, his fur rippling slightly.

“Don’t get you fur hackled, Lee.” Derith said, smiling at the large cat-like creature. “Aya just got a bit shocked that’s all.”

“Hssss, Chitter!” Lee roared as a small Titinian Dwarf scuttled into view. “Get a tool kit and a station set up for our esssteemed Jeeedi.”

“Thanks.” Derith said scratching behind Lee’s ear, who purred lowly. Chitter grabbed the astromech on a repulsorlift trolley and moved it to the workstation. Derith waited till the small rodent like creature was done, and shook it’s head a bit and left. He looked at himself in the mirror. Perhaps a time in the fresher wouldn’t be too bad as well, after he patched up Aya a bit.

An hour later, he closed the final panel, and Aya whistled happily and freshened up, he adjusted a new cloak he had gotten from the temples storehouses. He looked up and saw small Padawan waiting for him.

“Yes?” Derith said smoothing out his new tunic.

“The Council is ready to see you.”

Derith nodded, and looked over Aya a bit. “You okay?”

“Breet.”

“Good.” He said as he proceeded to the council chambers. He swiftly passed through the main hall to the lift to the upper chambers, a sandy brown haired Padawan rushed up to him.

“Master Derith?”

“N…yes, Padawan?” Derith said as he looked over the young man, noting the beaming smile. “I’m in a bit of a hurry, so how may I help you?”

“Mast…” and as he uttered the words the lift’s door open and Derith walked in. He turned and looked at the Padawan who simply bowed his head “I’ll wait until your business is done.”

Derith just raised an eyebrow as the door closed.


In another part of Coruscant, a well built man looked upon the mid-morning horizon. He was dressed in impeccable taste and his office was spartan yet the few trinkets he had about spoke of the power he wielded. A small tone from his desk indicated visitors.

“Enter.” The man said.

“Vigo Alyeska, you requested us?”

“Yes.” Alyeska said as he turned, and raised a single eyebrow as the pair tried to sit. “I did not say, you could make yourself comfortable.”

The two Trandoshans stood still as Alyeska walked over to his desk. He pressed a key and a hologram leapt to life. Derith’s image hovered there in the blue hue.

“Your task is relatively simple, kill him.”

The first of the pair looked over the image, examining the hair and eyes. The second looked directly at the human. “He is Jedi?”

“Yes, and?”

“More.”

“You make demands of me?!”

“Jedi, require more then just blasters.”

“Do you know who is contracting you?”

“Black Sun.”

“Exactly.” Alyeska moved closer to his desk pressing another series of buttons. “And if you wish to leave here alive, you will agree to the price of two million.”

“Three.” The first said as he flashed his teeth.

“Two.” Alyeska said as twenty grey armored men entered the room. “I will give you leeway to hire out others to assist you, but no more.”

The two looked at each other, and spoke is light hisses.

“We agree but we will need many men.”

“My lord has allowed to let you have any number of men, all you have to do is kill this man.”

The two Trandoshans bowed their head low and quietly passed between the men. The doors closed after them, and beep was emitted from the desk. Alyeska pressed a button.

“Well, Vigo Alyeska?”

“It is done, Lord Vympel.”

“Good.”


Derith stood in the middle of Jedi Council chambers, encircled by the five masters. These five were the greatest and wisest Jedi of their time, and at one time he thought, Master Durandal stood with them. He was never truly comfortable in their august company more by his attitude rather then their ideas of his abilities.

“Most grave, indeed this news is.” Master Wong said as the others began to ponder.

“Rwarr.” Master Dalton said as he tilted his head slightly.

“I understand, but I can see no other choice to what this being is.” Derith responded.

“But a Sith?” Master Wilson said as he rested back into his chair.

“He was extremely skilled in the Jedi arts and wielded Master Steve saber.” Derith said as he faced Wilson. “I sincerely doubt he just asked to borrow it.”

“No one is contending your observation was ill met, just that a Sith Lord bodes ill for the Order.” Crown said his hands pursed next to his mouth in thought.

“Indeed, young one.” Master Wong responded. “Jump to presumption far too much.”

“I apologize, but there was no mistake of what this was.” Derith said.

“Did he survive?” Wilson asked.

“I cannot say.”

“Because?”

“He literally ignited the entire explosive cache, and when they investigated the next day; nothing.”

Wilson nodded as he looked to the other masters.

“We will discuss this matter into further detail, and pursue a course of action.” Master David said. With that Derith bowed his head and turned to leave.

“A moment, young one.”

"Yes, Master Wong?”

“A request, most unusual was asked of us.”

“And this pertains to me?”

“To you the request was made.”

“Of?”

“A Master.”

“Someone wants to learn under me?” Derith said unable to halt his smile.

“Is there something particularly humorous, young knight?” Crown said raising an eyebrow.

“Just, well…me?”

“Are you implying that you are unable or unwilling?”

“No, it’s that I don’t, well, I, maybe, yes.” Derith said rubbing his hair. “Can I at least ask who?”

“Matter, this does?” Master Wong asked.

“I just don’t see why anyone would request to be my Padawan.”

“Rwarr, rwwwar, rhmph”

“Perhaps, Master Dalton, but I cannot see why.”

“Nonetheless, your choice this will be. Met him soon, you will.”

“I’ll train him under the condition that I am allowed time to at least test him before I enter a formal agreement.”

“Two weeks, have you.” Master Wong said.

“Thank you.” Derith said, and with that bowed again and left the Council chambers.

At the entrance of the turbolift, Derith exited and saw the same Padawan waiting for him.

“So did you hear their request?”

“Pardon?”

“I presented a request two weeks ago about becoming your Padawan.” Kuja said. “I had hoped to hear your answer.”

“You?”

“Yes, I’m…”

“Kuja, I know.” Derith said as he walked down a bit and looked back at Kuja. Kuja titled his head nervously as he looked back. Derith walked back up the stairs. “May I ask why?”

“I wish to be your student.”

“My student?”

“I understand the request may be quite odd, but…” Kuja said as Derith raised a single hand, with which Kuja fell silent.

“Why me?”

“Because you are the best at what I wish to learn.”

“Do you even…know what I do in particular?”

“Of course, I’ve heard all the tales about your adventures.”

Derith nodded and turned and walked down. Kuja swiftly followed at his side. He looked at Derith an apprehensive expression.

“Did I say something wrong, Master?”

“First, I am not your master.” Derith said as he continued down the stairs. “And secondly, no.”

“Then?”

“I believe you are entering this under some false pretenses.”

“Such as?”

“The tales spread about me are exaggerated, heavily.”

“To what extent?”

“Do you really believe I took down twenty thousand men, to reach the Bothan captain, and woo his wife to save the entire Corellian sector?”

“No…well…not really.”

“Well you would be mostly correct then, I just had to do the first two parts.”

“Really?” Kuja said as he stopped. “No…can’t be.”

“Hmmm, nonetheless this is what is spread amongst the Padawans.”

“Well, mostly, but is not why I want to learn underneath you.”

Derith stopped and looked at Kuja again, raising an eyebrow.

“What do you wish to learn?”

“You are considered after Master Wilson and Master Durandal, the most consummate master of combat we have.”

“Then why not ask for Master Wilson?”

“His swordsmanship is excellent but I have more interest then just swordsmanship.” Kuja outlined. “I believe you are the more consummate warrior.”

Derith nodded lightly, with an apprehensive smile crossing his lips.

“Nonetheless, I wish to expand my skills.”

Derith was about to say something as he saw Kuja rush past him down the stairs. He saw a lithe figure approach him and he walked down the stairs.

“Zaia.” Derith said.

“Derith.”

“So.”

“So.”

Kuja stepped a few feet back. “Is this a bad time?”

“No, not at all.” Zaia said. “I’m glad to see you are alive and back so soon.”

“Mmmm.”

“You never make this easy.”

“What?” Derith said raising an eyebrow.

“Last time, was not how it should’ve ended.” Zaia said as she smoothed her hair a bit. “We cannot return to what we were.”

“I assumed as much.”

“No, I mean that I should have told you earlier but I am not just simply free, but seeing someone else.”

“Ah.”

“Ah?”

“Well, I assumed that because you had given the plant away, so I’m guessing you’ll introduce me to your new paramour?”

“He’s right beside you.”

Derith looked Kuja over again, the Padawan fidgeted slightly. He mouthed silently “Isn’t he just a little young?”

“Oh is age an issue now?” Zaia mouthed back.

“No, just isn’t he just a tad young?” Derith mouthed with Kuja clearing his throat.

“Yes, Padawan?” Derith said.

“I can read lips.”

“You can? Good.” Derith said. “Isn’t he just a little young for you?”

“Why is age even begun to be an issue?” Zaia said with her hands on her hips.

“I am just saying…”

“Oh I see. So if you’re in some relation with some like oh, four years younger, like myself, it’s okay?”

“It’s not that, I’m just saying you don’t understand…”

“I understand what you’re saying.” Zaia said and with that gripped Kuja head and gave him a fierce kiss. Derith stood there mouth slightly open. She released him and looked at Derith. “Maybe you just don’t understand women as well as you think you do.” She walked off giving a slight sway to her hips. Kuja stood there blushing.

“If you think that made me jealous at all, woman!” Derith said waggling his finger at Zaia’s disappearing figure. “I’ll have you know, you know nothing!”

“Uhhh…”

“You’re still here?” Derith said “Blasted insufferable woman. Padawan, your datapad.”

Kuja absently gave him the pad, eyes still focused on Zaia. Derith looked down, pressed a few buttons and handed it back to the Padawan. Kuja looked down at, and his eyes widened.

“Master, why so early and why there?!”

“You wish to learn under me Padawan?”

“Yes.”

“Then your first lesson, is to follow your first order.” Derith said as he stomped off, his cloak swishing, leaving Kuja just shaking his head.
MM /CF/WG/BOTM/JL/Original Warsie/ACPATHNTDWATGODW FOREVER!!

Sometimes we can choose the path we follow. Sometimes our choices are made for us. And sometimes we have no choice at all

Saying and doing are chocolate and concrete
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Crown
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Post by Crown »

FIRST TO POST! AGAIN! :P
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Η ζωή, η ζωή εδω τελειώνει!
"Science is one cold-hearted bitch with a 14" strap-on" - Masuka 'Dexter'
"Angela is not the woman you think she is Gabriel, she's done terrible things"
"So have I, and I'm going to do them all to you." - Sylar to Arthur 'Heroes'
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Zaia
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Post by Zaia »

I pulled a Princess Leia! I pulled a Princess Leia!!

...Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. 8)

PS~CROWN YOU SUCK!!!!!!! :P
"On the infrequent occasions when I have been called upon in a formal place to play the bongo drums, the introducer never seems to find it necessary to mention that I also do theoretical physics." -Richard Feynman
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Kuja
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Post by Kuja »

I feel so used...


...but I like it! :mrgreen:
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JADAFETWA
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Crown
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Post by Crown »

Zaia wrote:I pulled a Princess Leia! I pulled a Princess Leia!!

...Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. 8)

PS~CROWN YOU SUCK!!!!!!! :P
No my dear, Prec'row'nadan quite clearly rules! :D :P
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Η ζωή, η ζωή εδω τελειώνει!
"Science is one cold-hearted bitch with a 14" strap-on" - Masuka 'Dexter'
"Angela is not the woman you think she is Gabriel, she's done terrible things"
"So have I, and I'm going to do them all to you." - Sylar to Arthur 'Heroes'
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Sarevok
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Post by Sarevok »

Great chapter. Keep up the good work Ghost Rider.
I have to tell you something everything I wrote above is a lie.
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Dalton
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Post by Dalton »

You know, considering that Derith and Zaia are both Jedi, it would make more sense to, ya know, have a telepathic conversation instead of mouthing to each other.

But that's just me ;)
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To Absent Friends
Dalton | Admin Smash | Knight of the Order of SDN

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mod you so hard, you'll wish I were Dalton." - Lagmonster

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Ghost Rider
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Post by Ghost Rider »

Dalton wrote:You know, considering that Derith and Zaia are both Jedi, it would make more sense to, ya know, have a telepathic conversation instead of mouthing to each other.

But that's just me ;)
Oh I have a reason why, one I do reveal...and hinted very little in the first story.
MM /CF/WG/BOTM/JL/Original Warsie/ACPATHNTDWATGODW FOREVER!!

Sometimes we can choose the path we follow. Sometimes our choices are made for us. And sometimes we have no choice at all

Saying and doing are chocolate and concrete
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