STAR WARS - EMPIRE'S EDGEby ChadbaneChaptersChapter III - "A Phantom Menace"Chapter IV - "A Vision in the Dark"Chapter V - "The Strangers from the Stars"Chapter VI - "A Chilling Discovery"Chapter VII - "The Council of Friendship”Chapter VIII - "New Friends..."Chapter I - "A Narrow Escape"Chapter II - "The Calm Before the Storm"Chapter III - "A Phantom Menace"Chapter III - "A Phantom Menace" Agent Kallus stood on the bridge of the Resurgence with a handful of other Imperial Officers going over data from the space battle that concluded some hours before. As the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind them, Agent Kallus glanced over his shoulder and stood at attention as the Inquisitor walked in with his hands folded behind his back. "What seems to be the situation, Agent?" he asked, joining them at their table. "How goes the search for our two missing vessels?" "TS-25d has already begun transmitting coordinates, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus replied. "We will know of the location of the Ghost soon enough. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the rebel command ship that our tractor beam failed to capture. All attempts thus far to calculate its trajectory have proven to be futile." Admiral Konstantine cleared his throat and subtly tugged his collar. "...I see." said the Inquisitor as be began to stroke his chin. "Then we must focus our efforts on processing the rebel prisoners we have managed to capture while we await the final destination of the so called, 'Ghost'. Perhaps by then we will have extracted the information we need from them and located our final missing vessel." "If I may interrupt," came the voice of Admiral Konstantine. "Lieutenant Lyste has already secured the last of the rebel escape pods and begun transferring their passengers to the brig now. Shall I have them brought to you for interrogation?" The Inquisitor turned to Admiral Konstantine and waved his hand. "Go. Bring them to me." The Admiral gave a quick nod and went to do as he was told. "Agent Kallus," the Inquisitor said after a brief moment of silence. "These rebels you've encountered... what do you think of them?" Agent Kallus exchanged glances with a fellow Imperial Officer before switching his attention back to the Inquisitor. "They are brilliant and resourceful, Inquisitor." he boldly replied. "They will not surrender without a fight." The Inquisitor leaned forward and studied the holographic images of the Ghost crew as they came up on the projector table in front him. "Good..." he whispered to himself. "Very good..." The Ghost sailed through hyperspace as the doors to its lounge whooshed open, allowing Hera Syndulla and Sabine Wren to step inside. Kanan Jarrus and Ezra Bridger were already there, along with Garazeb Orrelios and C1-10p (who was better known as Chopper). As the two women made their way across the room towards the rest of the crew, Kanan nudged Ezra in the shoulder who in turn did the same to Zeb. "What's the word?" asked Kanan, straightening up in his seat as soon as everyone was paying attention. "Well," replied Hera, crossing her arms. "I have good news, bad news, and very bad news." "Lets start with the good news," said Kanan, leaning back in his chair. "The good news is, we're safely away from the Empire for the time being." "And the bad news?" "We..." Hera cast a glance towards Sabine. "Won't be for long." Hera pressed a button on the holo transceiver in front of her. A complete holographic schematic of the Ghost popped up along with a 3D rendering of the entire vessel a millisecond later. "Our systems have detected a bug on our hull," Hera pointed to a blinking red dot near the auxiliary deck of the holographic model. "The Empire is most likely tracking our signal. Soon they'll be able to calculate our trajectory and follow us through hyperspace." Ezra and Zeb exchanged glances as Kanan crossed his arms. "We can live with that." he said. "We've outmaneuvered the Empire before. We can do it again. What's the really bad news?" Sabine stepped forward and pointed to another area of the Ghost which instantly began blinking the moment her finger hovered over the location. "The Ghost's life support took a hit," she said. "In roughly an hour and thirty minutes, there won't be enough oxygen in here to keep any of us alive." "Okay..." Ezra began rubbing the back of his neck. "That's bad. Can we land somewhere and make repairs?" Hera put up her hand and stepped up beside Sabine. "That's not all," she said. "Our hyperdrive's leaking coolant. Once we manually jump out of hyperspace, we won't be able to recharge the hyperdrive and get back into lightspeed if the Empire catches up with us. Not only that, but we're losing power, too. We need a new motivator." "Great..." Zeb rolled his eyes. "I'm guessing that's just as bad as it sounds. Is there anything we can do about it?" "We're doing it." Sabine replied. "We need to discuss our options and come to a decision." "Okay," said Kanan. "What're our options?" "We can wait until our scanners pick up a planet in our flight path and jump out of hyperspace to make repairs," Hera replied. "But that's a gamble as we won't know if the planet we land on is inhabited or not or if it has the technology to assist us." "Wait," Ezra spoke up. "What about the Phantom? It has a hyperdrive too, right? Can't we use it to find help?" "Nuh-uh," Sabine shook her head. "The Phantom won't do us any good. It got hit during the pickup. Power's out." "Great..." Zeb rolled his eyes again. "So what you're all saying is that we need to either find a planet to land on within the time span of an hour and thirty minutes, or otherwise we all die?" Chopper made a comment in binary and gave a quick chuckle. "Yeah..." growled Zeb. "...everybody but Chopper." "Sleemo," muttered Ezra, banging Chopper on the head. The droid whipped out a taser extension from his roughly-cylinder shaped dome and zapped the youth in retaliation. Ezra yelped in surprised, but followed up with a kick to droid's side. Kanan rolled his eyes and moved to intervene, but something in his peripheral vision caught his attention. The blinking red dot that represented the tracking device on the hull of their holographic ship had begun to move. "What the...?" Kanan narrowed his eyes, leaning forward in his seat to get a better look. "Is that thing moving, or is it just me? Hera glanced away from the commotion between Ezra and Chopper and followed Kanan's gaze. She lifted a brow as the blinking red dot made it's way to the rear of the ship and stopped just above the engines. Before she could react, something happened. The Ghost suddenly dropped out of hyperspace with a violent rattle. "What was that?" asked Sabine cautiously as she picked herself off the ground after being thrown off balance by the troubling event. "Did we just drop out of hyperspace?" Hera scrambled to her feet and pointed in Ezra's direction. "Ezra, I need you, Zeb, and Chopper in the engine room right now! We need to know what just happened to our engines! Kanan, Sabine, you're with me!" As Hera rushed towards the cockpit, the members of the Ghost crew quickly exchanged glances. "Are we deaf?" Sabine shouted, looking around. "Let's move!" The crew burst into action and split up into their separate groups. As Hera raced to the cockpit along with Kanan and Sabine, the Ghost's artificial gravity gave way and sent them floating into the air. "Uh... Hera?" Kanan said. "I think something's wrong." "Ya think?!" Sabine cried, catching a bar on the ladder in front of her to prevent herself from floating down the hallway. "Keep pushing towards the cockpit!" Hera cried, using an indent on the wall to propel her forward. "We need to find out what's happening to the ship!" As the three friends made their way into the cockpit and hovered over the controls, Hera began to diagnose the problem on the ships computer. It didn't take long for the Ghost to highlight the root of the problem and relay it to the monitor. Hera narrowed her eyes as the information came up on her screen. The diagnosis made it clear what was happening. "Sabotaged," she muttered. "Come again?" said Kanan, looking up from the instruments in front of him. "That stealth fighter didn't tag us with a tracking device," Hera replied. "I think it tagged us with something worse—a small sabotage droid capable of disabling the Ghost by itself." "Sabotage droid?" asked Kanan, floating over to Hera. "You mean like a buzzdroid? Haven't had to deal with those since the Clone Wars. They can do some serious damage, if given the time." "That's not all they can do now," Hera replied. "These imperial buzzdroids have built in homing beacons. They can transmit a signal through hyperspace and lead Empire straight to us. If even half the things I've heard about them are true, we're lucky the hyperdrive is all we've lost so far." "Wait, wait, wait, Buzzdroids with hyperspace tracking beacons?" asked Sabine with an upraised brow. "That's some serious technology—even for the Empire." "I doubt they developed it themselves." Kanan muttered. "Probably extorted the CCN for its schematics during the Balmorran invasion some years ago. Whatever the case, this buzzdroid's going to strand us out here unless we do something. No doubt it's next move will be to kill the power." "Then we have to act now," Hera replied, narrowing her eyes. "If we're going to prevent a full system shutdown, we need to reset—" The lights and computers in the cockpit flickered off before she could finish her sentence. A moment later, the Ghost's engines followed suit. The ship was completely dead. "...So much for that idea." Hera muttered. She quickly turned her attention back to the controls in front of her and tried a few buttons. “Everything’s dead. We’re completely offline!" "What about the external scanners?" suggested Sabine. “Don't they run on a separate battery?" Kanan turned to Sabine and gave a confused look. "External scanners? What for?” "Sabine is suggesting we use the external scanners to locate the buzzdroid." replied Hera with a sigh. "Unfortunately, the external scanners share an auxiliary cell with the life support system. We can't use one without taking power away from the other." "But we could use it to locate the buzzdroid, right?" said Kanan, turning to Hera. "You're sure about that?" "Yes," Hera answered, rolling her eyes. "But as I told you, that would take away power from the life support system—which I'm sure you know is already low as it is!" "It won't use much power to operate the scanners," Sabine argued. "Besides, we need to deal with this Buzzdroid now, or we'll never be able to get the power back online before the Empire catches up with us!" "I agree," said Kanan. "Nothing we do here will matter unless we deal with that buzzdroid first. This is our only chance to save the Ghost." Hera closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "You’re right. We don’t have a choice. Sabine, access the auxiliary mainframe on the panel outside the cockpit. Once you've diverted power from the life support systems to the external scanners, I'll use the display up here to imitate a scan of the ship. Kanan will standby with a life-support suit to deploy once the buzzdroid has been located." "Sounds good," said Kanan. "I'll grab a stormtrooper helmet from Ezra's cabin. That should save me more time than putting on a spacesuit." "Good thinking, Kanan." Hera said, giving a nod. "Now let's do this!" Kanan and Sabine went to do as they were told. As Kanan floated down the hallway towards Ezra's cabin to retrieve a stormtrooper helmet, Sabine stayed behind to access the control panel outside the cockpit. When Kanan returned with a stormtrooper helmet a few moments later, he found Sabine working the controls of the mainframe in what appeared to be a successful manner. "How's it coming?" asked Kanan as he floated up to Sabine. "I just finished diverting power to the external scanners." Sabine replied. "Hera should see them coming online any moment now!" Kanan gave a smirk and put a hand on Sabine's shoulder. "Good work, Sabine. Let's see what Hera picks up on the scanners." Sabine nodded and followed Kanan as he floated back into the cockpit. There they watched as Hera worked on the controls in front of her. "What's the word?" asked Kanan as he floated behind the concentrating Twi'lek. "Did you find what we're looking for?" "No," Hera replied. "Somethings wrong." Kanan and Sabine exchanged glances. "What is it?" asked Sabine with a nervous expression. "I don't know," the Twi'lek replied. "I can't seem to run a scan on the ship. I'm picking up a lot of interference from a nearby planet." Kanan lifted a brow. "A nearby planet? That can't be right..." The ex-Jedi narrowed his eyes and looked intensely at the data coming up on the screen in front of them. "We've got to be at least a hundred parsecs from the nearest system. There shouldn't be anything out here but open space." "Yeah, well, tell that to the scanners." answered Sabine, crossing her arms. "Unless," the teenager continued, pointing to something outside the cockpit window. "You want to tell it to the planet itself." Kanan Jarrus and Hera Syndulla followed Sabine's gaze only to freeze at the sight before them. There, looming majestically beyond the viewport before them, was a beautiful planet all by itself with a miniature sun and a moon orbiting around it like a sattelite. As the three members of the Ghost made their way to window to get a better look at the unusual sight, Ezra and Zeb floated into the cockpit behind them. "Hera, we have a problem!" Ezra exclaimed as he and Lasat hovered over to the other members of the crew. "The engines are completely dead, and nothing we do--wait, what are you guys looking at?" The Lasat and the boy quickly exchanged glances before hovering over to the other three members of the crew and joining them in gazing out the window. "This planet match anything on record?" asked Kanan after a moment of awe-inspired silence. "Not that I'm aware of." Sabine replied. Ezra narrowed his eyes and lifted a brow. "Is it getting bigger, or are we getting closer?" The members of the Ghost exchanged glances. "Karabast..." Zeb muttered. "We're going to crash, aren't we?" "Everybody, strap in!" Hera cried, pushing them away from the window of the cockpit. "Get to your seats before—" The Ghost slammed into the planet's atmosphere. Immediately, natural gravity began to take affect on everything in the ship. Once the members of the Ghost crew had recovered from the initial impact, they scrambled into their respective seats around the cockpit and began to work the nearby controls. "We're burning up!" Sabine exclaimed as the Ghost shook violently in the planets atmosphere. "We have no shields to protect the hull!" "Shields are the least of our worries!" cried Hera from behind the ships main controls. "If we don't get that power back online soon, we won't have anything to slow us down before we reach the surface!" "You mean there isn't anything you can do to slow us down?" yelled Kanan. "No wind flaps? No emergency thrusters? Heck, not even parachutes?!" "No!" Hera snapped. "There isn't anything I can do! We're going to crash—and hard!" The members of the Ghost watched in complete horror as the Ghost barely made it through the atmosphere and began to plummet towards the ground. Through the viewport, they could see a large forest on the surface rapidly increasing in size as they screamed towards it. At the speeds they were going, death was most certainly imminent. As the Ghost continued to rumble and shake as it fell, Kanan closed his eyes and tried to find peace in the force. Master Billaba had said something about finding that all those years ago on Kaller. In peace, there was focus, and in focus; a plan. "Ezra," said Kanan calmly, opening his eyes. "I need you to help me with something." "Help you?!" The boy replied. "With what?!" "The Ghost is already falling too fast for anything to stop it—even if we did manage to get the power back online. But there is a way we can still save our skins! I need you to use the force! We're going to cushion the Ghost!" "What?!" Ezra cried. "Kanan, I can hardly cushion a person, not to mention an entire spaceship!" "Don't argue with me, Ezra! I need you to focus! Find the harmony beyond the chaos! Find the force!" Ezra took a deep breath and closed his eyes. As he and Kanan stretched out their hands, the Ghost began slow down in mid-air. It did not stop completely as Ezra willed to make it, but eventually the Ghost slowed down enough that it wouldn't vaporize the moment it slammed into the surface. "Kanan, we're leveling out!" Ezra cried, overjoyed. "We're actually doing it!" "Hang on!" Hera tightened her grip on the yoke. "It's still going to be a rough landing!" Kanan peeked open one of his eyes. The Ghost began to pull up as it approached the canvas of the large forest. As the ship skimmed the tree tops of the alien woods, Kanan reached out into the Force with all of his strength to cushion the inevitable impact of the Ghost as much as he could. Would it be enough? Kanan didn't know. All he knew is that he could try his best and wait to see if his efforts would be for naught. 'Five hundred feet...' Kanan thought, mentally preparing himself for the impact. 'Four hundred feet... three hundred... two hundred... one hundred!' He squeezed his eye shut. The Ghost touched down. Caleb Dume sat across from his Master, Depa Billaba, on the hard rocky floor of a cave beneath a battlefield withhis legs crossed and his hands folded across his lap. As the two Jedi attempted to meditate in the midst of the battle taking place above them, Caleb Dume peeked open one of his eyes to see if his master was doing the same. Master Billaba did not show any signs of weariness, causing the young padawan learner who was experiencing such things to sigh and rest his cheeks against his knuckles "Caleb Dume," said Master Billaba without opening her eyes. "I believe you're missing the point of this exercise." "I just don't get it," Caleb muttered. "Why are we trying to meditate beneath a war zone? Isn't the point of meditation to find peace?" Master Billaba's face remained neutral. "Beyond all chaos, there his harmony," she replied, her voice calm and quiet. "Beyond all discord, there is order." Caleb Dume rolled his eyes. "What is that supposed to mean?" Master Billaba opened one of her eyes and lifted a brow before closing it and continuing her meditation. "Chaos is a word we use to label that which we cannot associate with order. When something we perceive as random or chaotic emerges, we explain it away as unexplainable. This is not true with the Force. The Force explains everything that exists. It explains to us who we are, what we are doing here, and where we are headed on our journey in the galaxy. Everything has a purpose. Nothing is truly random. Everything exists collectively as part of a greater life force. No one can truly choose their own destiny, Caleb Dume. All is only as the Force wills it." Caleb muttered again. "I still don't get it." Master Depa Billaba smiled, but kept her eyes closed. "Nothing is an accident," she said. "Everything is in accordance with the Force's greater will. Always remember this, Caleb; There is no chaos, only harmony. There is no death, only the force." Caleb lifted a brow and continued to stare at his master. He could still hear the battle raging on the battlefield above them, but somehow Master Billaba was still deep in peaceful meditation. Caleb sighed to himself and took a deep breath. "There is no chaos, there is harmony..." he whispered to himself, closing his eyes. "No chaos... only the Force." Kanan Jarrus groaned as his eyes slowly blinked open, revealing the bottom of a bunk that he quickly identified as Zeb's aboard the Ghost. He sat up as soon as he was capable of doing so and attempted to calm the raging headache he had awoken with by grasping the sides of his head with his two hands. As his pain began to subside after a minute or so of doing so, Kanan scanned his surrounding only to find that he wasn't alone in the dimly lit room. Hera sat across from him in a chair next to a desk in the corner of the room with a solar lantern in her lap that appeared to be the only source of light in the dark cabin. The exhausted Twi-lek was resting her head agaisnt her arm on the desk—probably getting some shut-eye as she watched over Kanan. However, as the ex-Jedi attempted to slip out of his bunk without awakening her, Hera quickly took notice and got up with the lantern in order to stop him. "Easy," she said, placing her right hand on his left shoulder as he dangled he legs over the edge of the bunk. "You have a concussion. I wasn't sure you'd wake up anytime soon." "Ugh... I'm starting to wish I hadn't," the ex-Jedi replied, holding his temples. "Where is everybody?" "They're downstairs in the cargo hold. They're trying to restore power to the ramp so we can exit the Ghost." Kanan groaned again, leaning into his palms as his head continued to pulse. "I had a dream..." he said. "I saw... how long have I been out?" "Three hours, give or take a few minutes." Hera replied. "You're lucky we had a bacta pack nearby or else you might have been out much longer." "Yeah, lucky me." Kanan attempted to stand. This time Hera did not stop him. As the ex-Jedi began to feel his strength returning to him, Hera stood nearby ready to catch him in case he fell. "How go the repairs?" Kanan asked bluntly as he slowly started towards the door of the room. "I'm not very optimistic," Hera admitted. "But I could honestly care less about the Ghost. Everybody's okay. That's all that matters, as far I'm concerned." "And getting off the ship, apparently." Kanan smirked. "You're the only one who stayed to watch over me, remember?" Hera frowned, unamused. "You know that isn't fair, Kanan. Or funny." "Sorry. Just trying to make light of the situation." Kanan and Hera stepped through the doorway and made their way down the hall to a small catwalk above the cargo hold of the Ghost where Ezra, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper were working by another solar lantern on a control panel in the wall next to a button that functioned to lower the ramp when the Ghost was operational. "What's the situation?" Kanan asked, leaning against the guardrail of the catwalk as the remaining members of the Ghost crew looked up. "Kanan!" Ezra cried, a smile crossing his face. "You're awake!" "How's the head?" asked Sabine, putting down her tools as the ex-Jedi leaped over the guardrail and started towards them. "I'll live," Kanan replied, stopping in front of them and glancing towards the control panel they were working on. "You close to restoring the power yet?" "Not anytime soon," Zeb muttered. "Sabine's been trying to wire power over from one of the solar lanterns in order to lower the ramp, but we're gettin' nowhere, if you ask me. Ship's as dead as a sea born mynock. We're better off using the lanterns for warmth until we fix the climate controls in case this planet gets cold after dark." "I doubt it will," said Sabine as she turned back to the control panel on the wall and began to work on it again. "Before the auxiliary cells died, the scanners indicated normal temperatures outside. The air seems to be breathable too, which is a good thing considering our life support died hours ago. If it weren't for air leaking in, we'd be dead already. Now if only we could get this ramp down..." "Leave that to us," said Kanan, smirking to Ezra as he and the youth approached the ramp. "We can lower it if we use the force. You mentioned breathable air outside? What does that mean we should be expecting? Nothing toxic, I presume, right?" "Hard to tell," Sabine shrugged. "We could all be slowly dying, as far as I know. Based on the readings I got before the cells died, we're in some kind of forest or swamp. Judging from the view of the cockpit, it's either or. Honestly, though, Kanan, at this point it doesn't matter. We're not going anywhere even if we want to. Hera and I can testify to that." Kanan's smile vanished into a frown as the seriousness of situation began to get to him. "I'll be sure to lower my expectations then," he muttered. "Ezra, you ready?" The young Jedi took a deep breath then nodded. "Ready!" "Alright. On three. One... two... three!" Both the student and the teacher extended their hands toward the ramp and began to concentrate. As the Force began to effectively lower the ramp with relative ease, Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper rolled behind the forcer users and readied their equipment for the environment outside. They would need to be prepared for whatever existed beyond the ramp. Their very survival depended on it. At last the ramp creaked all the way open and came crashing down on a grassy, woodland floor. As the Ghost crew started down the ramp with Ezra and Kanan taking they lead, they took in the sight of a dark, murky forest surrounding them in all directions. "Okay..." said Ezra as he and the rest of the crew stopped at the bottom of the ramp, glancing in all directions. "This isn't creepy at all." "Not as creepy as that nest of Krykna Spiders on Atollon," Zeb muttered. "High marks for finding a close second, though." "Yeah..." said Sabine, upholstering her blasters. "I have a bad feeling about this." Kanan narrowed his eyes and took a few steps forward. A strange, unnatural fog seemed to cover the floor of the entire forest. It swarmed around his legs and sent a shiver up his spine. He knew the feeling well. "Ezra," Kanan asked, glancing over his shoulder at the boy. "Do you feel that?" "I-I think so," Ezra replied, walking over to Kanan. "What is it?" "It's the dark side." Kanan frowned. "The Force is strong on this planet. It's especially strong here with the dark side. We have to be on our guard." Chopper rolled up behind the two Jedi and began to use his scanners. After a moment or two of silence, the droid spoke in his strange binary language and let his comrades know what he found. "Hyperspace radio signals?" said Hera, lifting a brow. "Where from?" The droid turned around and gestured with one of his arms towards the Ghost. "The Ghost?" said Zeb. "That doesn't make any sense. She's completely offline!" Suddenly, the clanks of miniature droid legs on the hull of the Ghost caught the Ghost crew's attention. As the crew wheeled around towards the Ghost, a small black droid with three red eyes climbed over the wing of the ship and hissed at them as they spotted him. "Buzzdroid!" Sabine exclaimed, leveling her blasters at the mechanical pest. "Probably the one that took us down!" Kanan cried, reaching for his lightsaber. "Don't let him escape!" The imperial buzzdroid quickly dodged the first flurry of blaster bolts that Sabine hurled at it and jumped down onto the floor of the forest. As the droid took off into the woods using the fog on the ground as cover, Kanan ignited his lightsaber along with Ezra and started after it. "You guys stay here and set up camp! We'll go after that buzzdroid and stop him from sending a signal!" "Kanan, wait!" Sabine cried. But the ex-Jedi and his padawan had already taken off. "Blast it!" she swore, holstering her blasters. "They don't even know where they're going!" "As long as they stick together," said Hera, placing her hand on Sabine's shoulder. "They'll be fine. In the mean time, we better do as we're told and set up the camp so we have something to eat when they get back. Zeb, how soon do you think we can have a fire going?" "Let me check," Zeb replied, leveling his rifle at a bush in front of him. The foliage burst into flames when he pulled the trigger. "About two seconds," the lasat chuckled. "Who's hungry?" Kanan raced after the imperial buzzdroid through the dense alien forest he and his crew had found themselves in. With Ezra Bridger following closely behind, Kanan weaved through a mess of trees and greenery that would have otherwise proved to be quite the obstacles had it not been for his lightsaber. He used to his senses to guide him through the forest as it was virtually impossible to navigate through the darkness any other way. As Kanan sliced through a wall of tree branches in his path, he watched the buzzdroid ahead of him crest a miniature hill and disappear from sight. 'I'm really starting to hate this guy,' Kanan thought to himself as crested the hill himself and caught sight of the buzzdroid tucking in his legs and rolling away. "Ezra!" Kanan barked as his young padawan jumped over a root and landed some feet in of him. "The droid's curled up into some kind of rolling ball-thingy! Try to cut him off before he gets away!" The youth turned to his master and nodded before breaking right and disappearing into the woods. 'Now's my chance,' Kanan thought to himself as he took a deep breath and pushed forward. With a single burst of speed, Kanan nearly caught up with the buzzdroid who was now only a few feet ahead of him. As he slowly began to close the final gap between himself and the droid, the buzzdroid suddenly rolled through a gap between two enormous trees that was too narrow for Kanan to fit through. By the time Kanan had drawn his blaster and taken aim at the droid, it was already too late. The buzzdroid disappeared from sight. "Ezra!" Kanan cried into the comlink on his wrist. "I lost the droid! It's up to you now to stop him!" After the boy's voice came back in acknowledgement, Kanan dropped to his knees and began to catch his breath. Meanwhile, Ezra narrowed his eyes as he spotted the buzz droid rolling towards him and prepared his trap. The plan he had concocted on the spot was to cut the buzz droid in half as it rolled by him unsuspectingly. As the buzzdroid rolled past Ezra's hiding place, he leaped out of the bushes he was hiding in and swung his lightsaber. Although the executed move was flawless and should have rendered a clean kill, the droid made a slight deviation in its course at the last second and caused the surprise attack to fail. 'Great,' Ezra thought to himself as he rolled his eyes. 'So much for that idea.' Ezra took off after the droid once again, although now at a disadvantage. The droid was faster than Ezra could hope to keep up with, so he had to come up with something fast before the buzzdroid escaped him for good. At last he got an idea and planted his feet on the ground for a mighty leap. He knew he would only get one shot at the droid, but he figured if it worked, one shot would be all he needed. As he literally sprang into action, he came down with his lightsaber atop the droid and sliced him down the middle. The droid's two halves rolled together for a short distance before crashing into a tree and coming to a stop. As Ezra slid to a halt beside them, he took a moment to catch his breath before sighing in relief and contacting Kanan via comlink. "Kanan," Ezra breathed. "I got him." "Good work, Ezra," Kanan's voice came back over the com. "I'll meet you back at the camp. Use your comlink to lock onto Chopper's signal. I'll see you there." "Got it. Ezra, out." The youth switched off his comlink and put his lightsaber on his belt. He looked up towards to sky to see if he could tell the time, only to find that the few streaks of sunlight peering through the canopy overhead were fading slowly with every passing second. 'Must be some time in the evening,' Ezra thought as he prepared himself to leave. But something caught his attention in the corner of his eye before he had the chance to set out. A basket. That is what he saw. A primitive, straw-like basket made out of sticks and twigs. The basket was laying on its side with a lovely mess of flowers spilling out of it as if someone had dropped it in a hurry and simply left it there some minutes before. Ezra lifted a brow and approached the basket. He glanced around to see if there was anyone lingering about, but found no one in particular doing so. After scanning the area for about minute, Ezra kneeled down and picked up a pretty pink flower from the basket that reminded him of Sabine. He debated in his head whether or not he should present it to her, considering the fact that she was a Mandalorian and probably uninterested in such things. But still it was a flower, and although Ezra didn't know much about romance, he was pretty sure that most girls liked flowers. Ezra shrugged and made his decision. He took the flower and was about to be on his way when all of a sudden he was distracted by a pair of large, beautiful turquoise eyes peering at him from a bush just a few feet away from the basket. Ezra immediately dropped the flower and reached for his lightsaber, but he paused when he noticed the eyes in the bushes back away from him out of fear. Whatever it was, it was afraid. "Sorry," Ezra smiled, relieved that the creature meant him no harm. "I'm just a little jumpy right now, that's all." The creature stayed put as Ezra went on to pick up the flowers and put them back in the basket. As soon as he was finished, he set the basket down and pushed it towards the creature with a smile still plastered on his face. "Don't worry," Ezra chuckled as the creature retreated further back. "It's just a basket of flowers. See?" Ezra removed a single flower from the basket and breathed in its pleasant aroma. "Just a flower. Probably tastes good, too. Want one?" The creature paused. It inched forward after a moment, revealing the silhouette of a four-legged creature as it neared the light. "That's it. Nothing to be afraid of. Do you know who these flowers belong to?" The creature paused again. After another few moments, it slowly nodded its head much to Ezra's surprise. "Wait, you can understand me?" The creature nodded again. "Well," Ezra smirked. "if you know who these flowers belong to, then maybe you can return them for me." The creature shook its head and took a step back. "No? Well, I can't take them with me if they belong to someone. I have to get back to my camp before the others—" Ezra paused when the creature's eyes suddenly shrunk to the size of pinpricks and retreated back into cover. As Ezra lifted and a brow and moved to stand up, he felt a shadow cast over him which sent a shiver down his spine. Ezra was about to turn around to investigate what could be the cause, but all of a sudden a massive tail swiped him off his feet and sent him flying into the air. Ezra cried out in pain as he smashed into a tree and fell to the ground, holding his right arm. His comlink had been smashed to pieces from the impact, but that was of little concern to him at the moment. What concerned him more was the creature coming at him right now with murderous intent. Ezra couldn't believe his eyes. The creature was large—larger than many of the creatures Ezra had faced in his time. It's tail looked like that of a devaronian scorpion with a stinger as pointy as a sarlaac's beak. Its teeth were sharp and jagged, much like a lothian lions, but its eyes were what caught Ezra's attention the most. They were wild and fierce, untamed by neither man or beast. He doubted he would be able to make a force connection with it in time to save his life. He was doomed. "No, no, no!" Ezra cried as the creature began to approach him. "Stay away from me! Good kitty! Nice kitty! Ahh!" Ezra squeezed his eyes shut and prepared for the worst, but then something unexpected happened. A feminine voice, gentle with a stern tone, spoke up and caught both Ezra and the creature's attention. "You!" came the voice in front of Ezra. "Just who do you think you are, big mister?! Pushing those who are smaller than you around like that!" Ezra peaked open one his eyes and found a butter-yellow equine species hovering between the creature and him with a pair of wings on its back and pink flowing mane. "You should be ashamed of yourself!" the voice continued, evidentially from the equine. "Why, I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you've been up to! A large manticore like yourself shouldn't be hunting poor innocent creatures like the nice young boy you just assaulted! Now apologize right now and don't you ever let me catch you doing this again!" The savage creature, who at this point was nothing more than a whimpering mess, slunk away from the equine with its tail between its legs. It quickly replied with a low, apologetic growl, then took off into the woods without looking back. Ezra stared in awe as the equine creature wheeled around and landed next to him with a look of deep concern on her face. "Oh, my! You're not hurt too badly, are you? Oh, this is all my fault! If only I hadn't been so shy earlier I might have been able to stop that manticore from hurting you at all! Poor thing!" Ezra forgot about cradling his left arm and stared into the large, turquoise eyes of the compassionate equine standing before him. He pushed himself up a little using his legs to press his back against the tree behind him until he was completely at eye level with his rescuer. "Oh, my! Is your arm okay?" the equine gasped when she noticed that the device on his wrist was broken. "Let me look at that for you! I have more experience with arms than most ponies do!" The equine extended a hoof and took Ezra's arm to inspect it. She seemed puzzled by the comlink that had been destroyed on Ezra's arm by the manticore, but she was smart enough to notice that it wasn't an actual part of his body when she took a closer look. As she scanned up and down Ezra's arm with her gaze, Ezra continued to stare at her with awe and curiosity. Without a doubt, she was the most beautiful equine species he had ever laid eyes upon. She was also the only sentient equine he had ever encountered, too. He knew he should have said some word of thanks by now by, but for some reason his tongue was tied. At last he managed to say something as she plucked a large leaf from a tree behind her and began wrapping his wrist. "Uh... thanks." said Ezra, still a bit dazed from the whole experience. "I thought I was done for. Guess I owe you one." "Oh, no!" The equine shook her head. "You don't owe me anything! It's my fault you got hurt in the first place! If only I wasn't so shy, none of this would have happened!" Ezra relaxed slightly and offered the equine a comforting smile. "Hey, don't beat yourself up over it. I've had worse than that guy try to kill me before. Believe me. I've been through a lot" The equine paused and gave Ezra a sympathetic look before noticing his smile and responding in kind. "Well, If you say so... do... do you have a name, sir?" Ezra's eyes widened when he realized he hadn't introduced himself yet. "Oh! Sorry about that," Ezra apologized. "My name's Ezra. Ezra Bridger. And you are...?" "I'm F-Fluttershy..." she dropped her gaze and pawed the ground. "Are you.. are lost in the Everfree, Mr. Bridger?" Ezra looked at his wrist and found that his comlink was beyond repair. Without it, he knew he would be walking blindly, even with the force to guide him through the forest. "Yeah, seems like it." he muttered. "I was counting on my comlink to get me back to camp, but I don't think that's gonna happen anytime soon. I knew this was a bad idea!" "Camp? How far do you think it is from here?" "Honestly?" Ezra, tapped his chin. "Hard to tell. I can't remember which direction it is and I ran a good distance from it after that buzz droid over there. Maybe you could help me retrace my steps? You seem to know this forest pretty well." Fluttershy's eyes went wide. "You want me to lead you through the Everfree after dark? Oh, no! I can't do that! It's already getting dark! We better get inside before all the scary creatures come out!" "Scary... creatures?" Ezra lifted a brow. Fluttershy nodded. "You'd never make it to your camp in time to avoid all the danger. I was just about to leave myself before you frightened me and caused me to drop my basket. You're welcome to come with me back to my cottage though and spend the night. I mean... if you want to." Ezra glanced towards the canopy of leafs above him and watched the fading sunlight. There was no doubt in his mind that Fluttershy was right. It would be dark soon. Much darker than the forest already was. Ezra didn't like the idea of navigating blindly through the forest in the dark with only the force and his lightsaber to guide him. It didn't seem like a good idea, all things considered. "Yeah, I guess I can go with you." Ezra answered. "As long as we can set out first thing in the morning, that is. Thanks. That's two I owe you now." Fluttershy blushed and went to pick up the basket of flowers she had dropped earlier and avoided eye contact. "You really don't have to owe me anything," she said shyly, picking up the basket with her mouth. "I'm just trying to help a pony in need." Ezra smiled and started after her as she began to lead him in an unknown direction through the alien forest. He didn't know exactly what to expect next, but he was sure it would be interesting. Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper sat around a fire on the make-shift furniture they had created using the supply crates they had unloaded from the Ghost. They had been waiting for Kanan and Ezra to return for about an hour now, and the food they had just managed to cook was getting cold. "I don't like this," Sabine muttered, barely touching her food with her utensils. "It’s Jubar meat," Zeb chuckled, already on his second plate. "What’s not to like?” "Not the food, Zeb," Sabine rolled her eyes. "I mean the fact that Kanan and Ezra haven't returned yet! Don't you think they should have at least reported in by now?" Hera looked up from her food (which she herself had barely touched) and gave a defeated sigh. "Sabine... may be right. I'd be lying if I didn't admit I'm starting to get worried about them. It's almost dark now." "Oh, please!" said Zeb, finishing up the last bit of his second plate. "They've got that force thing they're always going on about. I wouldn't worry about them, too much. Uh, pass the Alderaanian seasoning, please?" Sabine gave Zeb a look before reaching over to the crate next to her and retrieving a bottle of spices for him. "Heads up," she said, tossing the spices to Zeb. "Heh, thanks." the lasat replied. Suddenly, the bushes some feet behind the ghost crew began to move. Zeb, Sabine, and Hera exchanged glances before getting up and drawing their weapons. "Kanan? Ezra? Is that you?" Hera called, leveling her blaster at the foliage. A short silence followed before Kanan suddenly emerged through the bushes and froze at the sight of his friends leveling their blasters at him. "Gee, it's great to see you too, guys!" Kanan smirked, raising his hands. "Those weapons are on stun, right?”" The members of the Ghost crew sighed in relief before lowering their weapons and allowing Kanan to enter the camp. "Good to see you, Kanan. We were beginning to get worried." Sabine said, holstering her blasters. "What'd I tell you?" the lasat smiled, crossing his arms. "Told you'd they'd be fine." "We have some rations for you by the fire," Hera said to Kanan, ignoring Zeb's remark. "Jubar meat and mashed potatoes. Hope you're hungry." "Starving, actually." Kanan replied, taking a seat by the fire. "After chasing that buzz droid through the woods, I wasn't sure if I'd be eating anytime soon. The forest is far more dangerous than I realized." "So you got the buzz droid then?" Hera passed Kanan a plate of food. "No," the ex-Jedi replied. "I fell behind. But Ezra got him. Thanks." He accepted the rations and was about to dig in when all of a sudden he paused and looked around. "Hey, where is Ezra?" Kanan asked, putting his dinner to the side and standing up. "Did any of you see him come in earlier?" Hera's face turned pale. "What?! You mean he's not with you?!" "We got separated!" Kanan replied. "I thought he was with you!" Hera shot up and began to look around. "Ezra!" she shouted. "Ezra, are you here?! Ezra!" "Karabast..." Zeb swore. "This can't be good!" Kanan frowned to himself and switched on his comlink. Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper turned to Kanan as he tried to contact the youth. "Ezra? Ezra, do you read? Ezra, come in, over! Ezra, do you copy?!" No reply. Kanan swore to himself under his breath. "He's not picking up his com. Something's wrong." "Then don't just stand there!" Sabine cried, shoving a lantern into Kanan's hands. "We have to go look for him!" "Sabine, wait!" Kanan replied, catching Sabine by the hand. "It's too dangerous to go looking for him after dark. We have to wait until morning." "What?!" "As much as I hate to leave Ezra alone out there tonight," Hera closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. "I have to agree with Kanan. It's too dangerous to go searching for him tonight. We have to wait until morning." Sabine frowned and violently pulled away from Kanan. "How can you make that decision?" she seethed. "He wouldn't do the same to you!" "He would if he was smart," Kanan replied. "Besides, I think you're giving his survival instincts less credit than they deserve. He was living on his own long before we even met him. He should be fine. In the mean time, we better get some shuteye so we can look for him in the morning. I'll have Chopper use his scanners to look for him all night." Sabine huffed and took a seat. "Fine. But we set out first thing in the morning. First thing, you hear me, Kanan?!" "Alright, alright!" Kanan replied, throwing up his arms. "You have my word. We all want him back as badly as you do, Sabine. You know that, right?" Chopper made a comment in his mechanical voice, causing the members of the Ghost crew to turn around and glare at him. "Shut up, Chopper," Kanan muttered, strolling past the droid towards the ship. "You can be a real jerk sometimes, you know that?" The droid chuckled to himself and went after the Jedi. Sabine shook her head and looked away from the others. She peered into the darkness of the woods and made a concerned expression. "Come home, Ezra," she whispered, her face now of utter concern. "Please. For my sake." "One sugar, or two?" "Two, please." Fluttershy smiled and dropped two cubes of sugar into a tea cup and put it on a tray. After pouring another cup for herself, she hovered over to Ezra and handed him his drink. "Thanks," said Ezra, accepting the teacup from the equine. "That's three I owe you now." The youth smiled and looked around the cozy wooden cottage that belong to Fluttershy. "Nice place you got here." Fluttershy blushed slightly and took a seat across from Ezra in a little green couch. "Th-thank you. It's nothing special, but it is cozy." Ezra agreed and took a sip of his tea. "Wow. Nice brew. To be honest, this is the last thing I expected to be doing on this planet. I expected our first night to be aboard the ship." Fluttershy lifted a brow and tilted her head. "Oh? Where are you from?" "Lothal. It's a planet on the outer rim of the galaxy. You probably wouldn't have heard of it, though. Not many people have." Fluttershy suddenly seemed to shift uncomfortably. "So, you're an... alien?" Ezra paused to think for a moment. He hadn't really thought about that before, considering the fact that he had been on so many different planets and none of the people had ever referred to him as an, 'alien.' "I, uh, guess so. I've honestly never thought about it. Do you not like aliens?" Fluttershy avoided eye contact and took another sip of her tea. "No, not necessarily. I've just never met an alien before. Do... do you come in peace?" She looked up at Ezra with those beautiful turquoise eyes and waited for an answer. "Honestly? We didn't even mean to come at all." Ezra replied, putting down his tea. "Our ship crashed a couple hours ago and we've been trying to make repairs ever since then. We haven't been very successful." Fluttershy slowly took another sip of her tea and looked away. Ezra could tell she was uncomfortable with the information she had just received, probably because she didn't know how to process it at the moment. If he was indeed the first alien she had ever encountered before, the very fact that he was an alien could explain why. His briefest mention of a sprawling galaxy beyond the stars had probably triggered her imagination. Undoubtedly her mind was filling with an innumerable amount of questions. Ezra quickly made up in his mind to change the subject. "So, Fluttershy," Ezra said, smirking as he picked up his cup of tea. "How did you tame that..." he searched for the name in the back of his head. "...manticore? Some kind of mind trick?" Fluttershy's head snapped in Ezra's direction. "Oh, that? Um..." a tint of pink appeared on her adorable yellow cheeks. "It was nothing, really... I just have a way with animals. More tea?" "Yes, please." Ezra placed his teacup back on the on the table in front of him and relaxed back into the couch as Fluttershy smiled and went to retrieve the teapot hanging over the fireplace. As Ezra watched the butter-yellow equine return and refill his teacup, he couldn't help but question the world around him. Based on what he had seen thus far, it was a strange world indeed; and he couldn't to learn some of the answers. "So..."Ezra said as casually as he could accomplish. "You guys have space travel?" Fluttershy put down the teapot and looked up at the youth with an upraised brow. "Space travel? Oh, no! We're not quite there yet. In fact, we won't be there for quite some time." she picked up her teacup and looked at the youth thoughtfully. "Space ships are mostly science fiction right now. Your species is far more advanced, from the sound of it. Although... to be honest, I'm even not sure what species you are. I thought you were some kind of hairless monkey at first, but I could be wrong." Ezra managed to laugh at that, even though the news that this planet possessed such primitive technology was upsetting. "I'm actually a human. There's a lot of us in the galaxy." Fluttershy's ears suddenly perked up. "You're a human? Twilight is always talking about your kind! She's been to your world many times before. Maybe she can help you and your friends get off world!" Ezra lifted a brow. "...What? I thought you said you didn't have space travel." "Oh, we don't. But Twilight has this magic mirror, you see, and she uses it to travel to your world all the time!" Ezra blinked, trying to make sense of the words Fluttershy had just spoken. "...Right." Fluttershy smiled and put down her cup of tea. As she got up to pour herself another cup, a little white bunny hopped over to her and tugged her tail. "Hmm? Oh, Angel Bunny! I'm so sorry! I forgot to tuck you in, didn't I? It's your bed time already!" The white rabbit nodded. "Well, hop along, then. I'll be with you shortly. Let me just get our guest settled in, first." Ezra smiled as the bunny hopped up a pair of stairs leading to the second floor of the cottage. He liked the way the cottage was designed. The animals at were there crawling all about were a nice addition to the place. 'She really likes animals, doesn't she?' he thought to himself. As Fluttershy put away the dishes and cups she and Ezra used for tea, the youth stood up and decided to look around the cottage before bedtime. With all the strange things he had seen that day, he didn't bother to ask himself any questions about the many pictures hanging on the walls. He instead resolved to ask them later when he was more comfortable with the planet. Right now he needed to rest. "Are you ready to go to sleep, Mr. Bridger?" Ezra wheeled around to find Fluttershy with a candle in her mouth and a blanket on her back. "Um... sure. Thanks. Just call me Ezra, by the way." Fluttershy nodded and led the boy upstairs where she gestured towards a bed right next to a basket where angel bunny was waiting for her to tuck him in for bedtime. "Why don't you sleep here tonight?" Fluttershy said after placing the candle stick on the night table on the left side of the bed. "I noticed the couch down stairs doesn't fit you, and I do want you to be as comfortable as possible." Ezra looked from the bed to Fluttershy and lifted a brow. "Where will you sleep?" Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, don't worry about me. You just get your rest for tomorrow morning." Ezra walked over to the bed and took off his boots. The room was by far the most restful he had ever laids eyes upon. "Thanks, Fluttershy." Ezra said warmly upon sitting on the bed. "That's four I owe you now, huh?" Fluttershy blushed and finished tucking angel bunny in. "Good night, Ezra." she whispered, avoiding eye contact to hide the tints of pink on her cheeks. "I'll... I'll see you in the morning." The boy watched the equine disappear through he door and close it behind her. "Wow," he commented now that he was all alone. "What a weird day. I wonder what tomorrow will be like?" Ezra kicked back and made himself comfortable. As he lay there on top of the covers resting his eyes, a fuzzy white body curled up on top of him and laid down. "Huh?" Ezra glanced downwards, only to catch angel bunny in the act of snuggling his chest. "Oh, hey, little guy. Bed not warm enough?" The little rabbit peeked open an eye and went back to snuggling. Ezra chuckled to himself before closing his eyes and relaxing. 'Okay, so this planet's a little weird. So what? I could think of worse places to be stranded.' With that thought in mind, Ezra slipped off into a realm of dreams and shadows. Chapter IV - "A Vision in the Dark"Chapter IV - "A Vision in the Dark" Canterlot glowed, set ablaze atop its holy mountain. Green fire rained down upon the city from the heavens above as Twilight Sparkle looked on. The sky was dark, the sun blocked by enormous triangular vessels in the sky. The streets were littered with bodies, both familiar and not, caused by the raining hell fire. Twilight Sparkle gasped in horror at the sight. Never had the alicorn seen such atrocities committed before. As the Princess continued to stare at the devastation in terror, white blurs rushed past her through the streets and began dragging survivors from the ruins, executing them on the spot. Twilight wanted to scream, but the only sound that could escape her mouth was little more than a quiet, breathless whisper that barely resembled the noise of distress. And then he appeared. Princess Twilight watched in terror as a shadowy being emerged from the fire of a nearby burning building and ignited a glowing red sword. The dark specter approached the trembling alicorn, towering over her with piercing yellow eyes. He raised his weapon to finish her off, but found his sword met with one that beamed like light. A second specter, this one clothed in white, emerged from the smoke just in time to clash with the dark figure and fend off his attacks as the green flames continued to rain down on the once great metropolis. Twilight Sparkle could only watch in horror as the two creatures dueled through the ruins of the city, locked in an epic battle for the fate of the Princess. For a time, it seemed, the battle would never end, but then a massive pillar of light fell from the sky and struck the ground with tremendous force. All of a sudden, the entire city—and the ponies that Twilight loved—were obliterated in the blink of an eye. Then Twilight woke up. "No!" Twilight Sparkle shot up in bed, panting breathlessly as she frantically looked around. The dark corners of her bedroom receeded as Spike, her adopted brother, lit a candle and rushed to her side to check up on her. "Twilight! Are you okay? What's wrong?!" Twilight breathed a sigh of relief as the candlelight illuminated the area around her, revealing the face of her faithful friend. "I-it was just a dream..." she stammered. "Just a dream..." Spike rested the candle on the nearby nigh table and gave a sigh. “The one with the creepy guy and the flaming red sword?” Twilight Sparkle nodded, quietly. Spike sighed the rubbed the back of his neck. “Twilight, m-maybe we should tell Princess Celestia. You know—since it’s been keeping you up so much lately.” Twilight wiped a bead of sweat on her brow and rested her head back on her pillow. “I don’t know, Spike. Princess Luna hasn’t sensed anything unusual. She’s says I sleep dreamless nights, untethered by luminous thoughts. If the Princess of the night can’t detect anything wrong with me, I don’t know if I should bother Princess Celestia about it.” “Well, what if it’s something else?” Spike suggested. Twilight Sparkle lifted a brow. “What?” “Your dream. What if it’s isn’t a dream at all?” Twilight sat up again. “What else do you think it could be?” Spike shook his head. “I don’t know. But if we don’t start exploring other possibilities we might never know what’s going on.” Twilight slowly nodded her head. “You’re right, Spike. We should analyze this. Study it. Perhaps it’s something else—a projection, or-or a misfiring neuron!” “Yeah, or maybe that cheese you’ve been eating all week,” Spike giggled, managing a small grin. Twilight giggled along. “Yes. Maybe.” Spike smiled at his sister for a few moment. After the two let the small banter sink in long enough, Spike picked up his candle and headed for his bed. “Welp! Glad I could help. Let’s continue this conversation in the morning!” But before Spike could make a get away, he quickly found himself engulfed in magic and brought alongside his sister who had jumped out of bed and began heading for the library. “Sorry, Spike,” The lavender alicorn said with a chuckle. “I’m afraid this can’t wait.” Spike gave a sigh and rested his scaly cheek on his claw. “Yeah, I figured.” With that, the two began their day, woefully ignorant of the threat soon to come to them from the stars... Somewhere, far, far away... The Inquisitor sat in his meditation chamber with his legs crossed and his mask resting on his lap. The dark side of the force flowed through his body as his bright yellow eyes opened in surprise at the connection he had just made through the force. Somewhere, out there in the farthest reaches of the galaxy, a being had seen his future and merged with his mind. “Interesting...” the Inquitor mused to himself. The connection he had made had only lasted for a moments, but he had seen enough to know something beautiful existed in his future. The dark side did not show such things without a promise that such fortunes could come obtained—provided the recipient was willing to do what was necessary to claim it. The inquisitor smiled to himself and moved to get up. Just as he stirred from his meditative position however, the doors to the meditation chamber whooshed open behind him. The Inquisitor paused as he heard an Imperial Officer enter the room. "Sir," said the officer, standing a distance from where the Inquisitor sat. "We've just received coordinates to an unidentified system in the unknown regions. According to the transmission, it appears the rebels are stranded there. We’ve got them, sir." The Inquisitor did not reply. Instead, he slowly turned his helmet around and put it on. "...Sir?" the Officer lifted a brow. "Is everything alright?" The Inquisitor stood up and turned around. "Take us to them," he replied. "The hunt begins." The officer gave a salute and went to do as he was told. Chapter V - "The Strangers from the Stars"Author's Note New chapters every week! Should be posted every Monday morning. Bonus chapters could spring up during the week, though! Depends on how much time I have to write. :) Chapter V - "The Strangers from the Stars" Chapter V - "The Strangers From the Stars" Ezra Bridger rolled onto his side in Fluttershy's bed as the sun peeked through the window in her room and lit up his hair like a fiery halo. As his eyes fluttered open at the warm touch of the morning sun, he gave a yawn and slowly sat up in bed allowing his long, raven hair to fall gracefully down his neck. The smell of fresh air mixed with greenery filled his nostrils as he took in a deep breath and sighed in contentment. The serenities reminded him of the wide open plains of Lothal where he used to spend his days just lying about or running with the loth cats through the grassy fields. Unfortunately, it was this very realization that brought Ezra back to reality. He wasn't on Lothal, anymore; nor was he in his own bed, for that matter. No, if he remembered correctly, he was stranded on an alien planet in a talking equine's cottage... ...with a giant brown grizzly bear snuggling into his chest. "What the—?!" Ezra cried, before realizing his mistake and shutting himself up. The room around him as well as the bed he was lying on was covered in alien wildlife sleeping together in perfect harmony. Fluttershy herself lay at Ezra's feet with angel bunny curled up in her hooves snoring quietly. Ezra considered himself fortunate that his initial verbal expression of surprise hadn't woken up any of the creatures around him, but he still didn't know how to react to the situation. Ezra's brain did its best, but the onslaught of visual information was hard to process. However, before complete bafflement could overtake him, Fluttershy's eyes blinked open and locked onto the teenager's in a way that made his heart stop. "Oh," Fluttershy whispered as she gave quiet, adorable yawn. "...Good morning." The boy's expression twisted into that of uncertainty as he tried to give the mare a proper answer. "Uh... morning?" he replied, staring into the equine's turquoise eyes. He looked away for a brief moment and glanced at the room around him before turning back to the yellow pegasus. "Umm... there's a lot of animals in my bed." Fluttershy's eyes went wide as realization struck her like a bolt of lightning. "Oh, my!" she squeaked. "I'm so sorry! Please don't wake them up! I tried to stop them last night, but they wouldn't listen! Could you give them five more minutes? I'm sure they would really appreciate it." Ezra glanced over to his left and felt the warmth radiating off the bear's body. The grin plastered on the big lugs face was all Ezra needed to see to understand what Fluttershy was asking. "Um, okay." Ezra smirked, relaxing backwards onto his pillow. "I guess five more minutes wouldn't hurt." With that, the boy closed his eyes and accepted his warm, cuddly fate. Meanwhile, Kanan smacked a mosquito on his neck and frowned. A small spot of blood stained his hand in the place where he whacked the pest, indicating that the insect had indeed stuck him with it's needle like beak and extracted a small portion of his internal red fluid. 'Here's hoping that I don't contract an incurable alien virus,' Kanan thought to himself as he pushed through a mess of tree branches. It was around eight in the morning, and Kanan along with the rest of his crew were trekking through the forest in search of their lost comrade who had disappeared the night before. "Ezra!" Sabine cried out in the front of the group. "Ezra, where are you?! Ezra!" Kanan shook his head. At this point Sabine might as well have been whispering. The alien forest surrounding them in every direction didn't carry their voices much further than the nearest tree, and the density of it made it hard to navigate through. "Sabine," Kanan sighed after she called Ezra's name for the hundredth time. "That's enough. We'll find him." "How do you know?!" Sabine snapped. "It seems to me like I'm the only one really searching for him! How can you be so calm when your own padawan is missing?!" "He's more to me than a padawan," Kanan replied with a frown. "You know that. The only reason I'm calm is because I know that he's alive and that we'll find him. We will find him, Sabine. I promise." Sabine huffed and looked away. "Kanan..." came the voice of Hera who was trailing behind him. "You know I trust your instincts... but how can you be so sure that we'll find him? Is there something you know that we don't?" "The Force," Kanan simply put it. "I have a strong connection with Ezra. I would have known if something happened to him." Hera nodded her head and continued to follow Kanan through the woods. As they proceeded through the dense alien forest, they came to a spot where Sabine suddenly stopped and went pale. "Ezra!" she cried, breaking into a sprint. "Sabine!" Kanan called. "Wait!" But Sabine didn't listen. Instead, she took off and disappeared through a bush some feet of head of the group and emerged on the other side. "Guys!" her voice called back a second later. "You might want to look at this!" The remaining members of the Ghost crew exchanged glances then broke into into a sprint. After making their way through the foliage, they glanced to their right and spotted the imperial buzzdroid that they had been in pursuit of the day before. Its two halves were laying on the ground beside an oak tree with a large noticeable slice down its middle and a piece of hardware spilling out of its left side. At first this was the sight that the crew gravitated towards, but after spotting Sabine kneeling over something a half dozen feet or so away, they made their way over to her and gathered around it. "What is it?" Zeb asked, leaning over Kanan's shoulder to get a better look. "It's Ezra's comlink," Sabine replied, picking up a few pieces of the broken device. "Or rather what's left of it." Hera gasped and covered her mouth as Kanan frowned and scanned the area around them for clues. "I don't see any blood." he mused. "Or much signs of a struggle. Whatever happened to Ezra's comlink must have been an accident." Chopper spoke up from behind the group in an annoyed, dismissive tone and interrupted their investigation. "No, Chopper," Hera frowned, glaring at the droid. "You cannot stop scanning for human lifeforms just because we found Ezra's com." The droid grumbled and reluctantly continued to use his scanners. "I don't think it was an accident," Sabine muttered, ignoring Chopper's comments as they continued their investigation. "I think something took him... " Kanan nodded slowly. His eyes drifted from the pieces in Sabine's hand to the ground beside them. "Something, or someone?" he remarked, running his hand over a strange indent on the ground. "These are unusual footprints, don't you think? Looks like they belong to an animal of some kind. Maybe a cow. They lead that way along with Ezra's through the bushes over there. Maybe he followed a creature to shelter?" Kanan closed his eyes and reached out his hand over the footprints. He inhaled once sharply then began to meditate. "Uh... Kanan?" asked Zeb with an uplifted brow. "What are you doing?" "Using the Force to read Ezra's footprints." the ex-Jedi replied. "Master Vos called it Psychometry. It allows a force user to read an object's past and predict its future." "Okay..." the Lasat watched Kanan work for a moment. "Have... have you ever actually used psychometry before?" Kanan opened one of his eyes and glanced in Zeb's direction before closing it again in order to concentrate. "No, but I'm optimistic." he replied. "How hard could it be?" The crew stood around Kanan for several minutes as he knelt over the footprints and concentrated. As the minutes rolled by, Kanan continued to stay perfectly still and give the impression he was truly deep in meditation. Finally, after a grueling five minutes or so, Kanan finally stopped and opened his eyes. "Well?" prompted Zeb, crossing his arms. "Nothing," Kanan muttered, standing up. "Not a blasted thing. Guess psychometry isn't all it's cranked up to be. Alright, plan B. We'll do this the old fashioned way. Let's follow the footprints." Sabine gave Kanan an unimpressed look. "Really, Kanan?" "Yes, really! You have a better Idea? Because I'm open to suggestions." Before Sabine could reply, Chopper rolled up behind the crew and got their attention with a whistle. "What was that, Chopper?" Hera asked. "You found something?" The droid replied with a sequence of words in his binary language. "What? You did?!" Chopper gestured in the direction of the footprints that Kanan had suggested they follow and gave Hera his report. "A human life form approaching from the north?" Sabine gasped. "Ezra!" Kanan smirked and gave the mandalorian teen a look. Sabine caught his gaze and gave a sigh. "Okay, shut up." she muttered. "I didn't say anything." the ex-Jedi replied. "Yeah, but you were about to." Kanan chuckled. "And here I thought I was the Jedi." "Alright you two--let's get a move on." Hera said, standing up. "The sooner we find Ezra, the better. Sabine, gather that buzzdroid's remains. They could still be useful if it's memory core is intact." "Sure. I'll be right back." "Thank you. Kanan, Zeb, have Chopper follow us. We'll need him to show the way." Kanan nodded. With these tasks completed, the Ghost continued onwards through the dangerous forest. Several hours later, the Ghost crew pushed through a mess of tree branches and scanned the area ahead of them. The footprints Kanan had suspected belonged to Ezra and another creature of some sort had vanished some time ago, but the human life form coming up on Choppers readings continued to read strong. Kanan couldn't feel Ezra's presence growing any closer, but he suspected that the forest had something to do with that. He knew there was something was off about it, but he couldn't quite put his finger on what. The dark side of the force was strong, but the light side was strong as well. There was almost a perfect balance between the two. It didn't make any sense, and Kanan didn't like it. "How much further is that life form, Chop?" Kanan inquired, turning to their droid as he rolled along. Chopper gave his reply and earned a disappointed sigh from Kanan. "'Life form?'" Hera frowned, lifting a brow at Kanan. "Not, 'Ezra?'" Kanan ignored the look Hera was giving him and replied, "I'm not so sure it's him anymore. I can't feel his presence. I'm starting to worry what we're going to find." Hera glanced ahead and watched Sabine tug along ahead of the group. "The scanners wouldn't be picking up on his signal if he were dead." Hera said, her voice just beneath a whisper. "We have to hope." "Hope?" Kanan chuckled. "We're stranded on an alien planet, the Ghost is dead, and you want us to hope?" Hera frowned. "Weren’t you the one saying the same thing to Sabine just a moment ago? Kanan took a deep breath and gave a sigh. "You’re right. I'm sorry. It's this place. Something about it is throwing me off. The sooner we find Ezra, the better." Hera offered a sympathetic smile and placed a hand on Kanan's shoulder. "We'll find him, Kanan. Just like you said.” Kanan smiled back and patted Hera's it hand with his own. "Thanks. I needed to hear that." Before Hera had the chance to reply, the crew stopped in their tracks when Sabine cried out in pain from the front of the group and fell onto her rump. "Ow!" she exclaimed, rubbing her forehead. "Who—" "...Sabine?" came a familiar voice. The mandalorian teen paused and looked up. Sure enough, there, in front of the group, was Ezra Bridger, likewise sitting on his rump and rubbing his forehead. "Ezra!" the Ghost crew exclaimed collectively. The young boy gave a goofy smile and stood up as Sabine did the same. "You're alive!" Sabine cried in relief, pulling Ezra into an embrace. "I'm so happy to see you!" Ezra blinked a few times before chuckling and returning the hug. "Uh, thanks. I missed you too, Sabine." Sabine smiled and held their embrace a little longer until she realized what she was doing. "Wait a minute!" she said, pushing away angrily. "I'm not happy to see you! Where have you been? Do you know how worried we’ve been?!" Ezra chuckled and took a step back to the foliage he had emerged from just moments before. "Oh, me? I was just, y'know... making a friend." Ezra pulled back a couple of branches and revealed the timid figure of a butter-yellow pegasus. Upon making eye contact with the unusual yellow equine, the rest of the crew froze and stared for an unsavory amount of time. "Uh..." Kanan managed to say after a few moments. "Hello." "Um... hello." the creature replied bashfully. "Wait a minute," Zeb lifted a brow. "That thing speaks basic?" Ezra nodded and took a step forward. "Everyone, I want you to meet Fluttershy. Last night she rescued from an angry manticore and gave me a place to stay. I think she can help us get off this planet.” Sabine gave a doubtful look and studied the equine from head to hoof. “She recused you from a manticore?” asked Sabine, raising a brow. “Hmm. Must be tougher than she looks.” “Did I miss something?” Zeb asked, looking around. “Or am I the only one who doesn’t know what a manticore is?” “Whatever the case,” Hera said, stepping forward to greet the timid equine. “We owe her our gratitude. Thank you for saving Ezra.” The equine managed a give a small smile and gave a nod. “Where did she come from?” Kanan asked, scanning the forest around them. “She live here in the forest?” “She has a cottage outside the meadow,” Ezra said. “Its a just few miles from here in that direction.” “So this is a civilized planet, then?” Sabine asked, crossing her arms. "That's... kind of surprising, to be honest. I’ve had Chopper scanning for radio signals since we got here. He hasn’t found anything worth mentioning.” “Sabine's right,” Kanan said. “Something feels off about this situation.” Ezra chuckled nervously. "Yeah, about that... I don’t think your definition of the word ‘civilized’ is the same as theirs.” Hera lifted a brow. "What do you mean?" "Well... let's just say that, uh..." Ezra rubbed his neck. "Y'know... they don't have space travel." The crew was noticeably taken back with surprise. “What?!” they cried together in unison. "No space travel?!" Kanan exclaimed in disbelief. "Oh, great! We're stuck here, then." "It isn't so bad," Ezra said. "This is planet is kind of nice." "It won't be nice when the Empire shows up." Kanan frowned. "We still have no idea if they've been able to track our signal or not." "I'm sure we'll figure that out when the time comes, Kanan," Hera said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "In the mean time, we should look for new ways to repair the Ghost. Maybe we can salvage some parts from the phantom to get her up and running again." "M-maybe I can help." Fluttershy spoke up. "One of my friends lives in the village not too far from here. I'm sure if there's anypony who can help you, it's her." The members of the ghost crew exchanged glances as Hera tapped her chin. "It's not the worst idea..." she said. "I agree," sighed Kanan, crossing his arms. "It's worth looking into." "Well, I guess it's settled, then." Sabine shrugged. "We're off to see Fluttershy's friend." "Seems like it," Zeb agreed. "Eh... I just have one question... can anyone tell me what a manticore is?” Ezra chuckled and gave Zeb a look. “Trust me, Zeb—you don't want to know." High above the planet, looming menacingly in the cold vacuum of space, the Imperial Star Destroyer the Resurgence buzzed with activity. Agent Kallus stood on its bridge along with a handful of Imperial Officers (including Admiral Constantine and Lieutenant Lyste), studying the images coming up on the holoprojector in front of them. As the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind them, the Inquisitor entered the bridge with his hands folded behind his back. "And just what do you have for me, gentlemen?" The Inquistor asked as he approached the hologram. "How goes the initial scans of our mysterious planet?" "We seem to have stumbled upon a primitive world, Inquisitor." Lieutenant Lyste answered as the Inquistor came up and stood beside him. "All initial scans of the planet below have come up inconclusive. The system doesn't match anything on record." The Inquisitor 'humphed.' "A new planet? Hardly a surprise, considering the vastness of the so called, 'unknown regions.' What of our rebels friends, Lieutenant?" The Lieutenant pressed a button on the holoprojector in front of them and brought up the image of a black buzzdroid. "According to the final transmission from TS-25D, the rebels seem to have crashed in a sizable mass of greenery on the planet in its western hemisphere. The area seems to be secluded from the thriving civilizations of the planet, but it is not uninhabited. We believe a detachment could easily swoop down and extract the traitors without detection." The Inquisitor nodded slowly. "Yes... a detachment will do, for now. Lieutenant Lyste, since you suggested the plan, I'm placing you in direct authority over the mission. You will accompany a platoon of stormtroopers to the planet's surface where you will be supplied with two light-division hover tanks. Utilize their weaponry to carve a path through the forest to the rebel's position and force them to surrender." The officers on the bridge exchanged glances. The Lieutenants face grew pale as he realized what he had just been ordered to do. "If I may, Inquisitor," Agent Kallus interjected, sensing the lieutenants fear. "Lieutenant Lyste is hardly qualified for this mission. It would be my honor to see to the matter personally." The Inquisitor regarded Agent Kallus with a cold stare. "I heard no objection's from the Lieutenant." the Inquisitor replied. He then turned to Admiral Konstantine. "Did you, Admiral Konstantine?" The Admiral swallowed hard. "Well... no, Inquisitor..." "Good. It's settled, then. Lieutenant Lyste, prepare your troops." Lieutenant Lyste nodded numbly. "Y-yes, Inquisitor. It will be done." "See that it does." Lieutenant Lyste bowed humbly and walked out of the room. Agent Kallus frowned in disapproval and turned to Admiral Konstantine as the cowardly man cleared his throat. "Begging your pardon for the injection, Inquisitor, but what of the primitive inhabitants of this backwater world? What should be done about them should they intervene?" The Inquisitor chuckled, eerily. "What is done to all those who stand in our way. Kill them." Once again, the officers around the hologram exchanged glances. "You're suggesting deliberate civilian casualties?" Agent Kallus asked, pointedly. The Inquisitor waved his hand, dismissively. "Rest assured, Agent Kallus, there will be no civilian casualties. Civilians are protected by the Empire. These creatures are merely primitives of a backwater world, nothing more. Do I make myself clear?" The Inquisitor turned to Agent Kallus, glaring at him with a look that dared him to push back. But Agent Kallus maintained a perfectly consistent expression. After a few moments, he gave a subtle bow and replied, "Crystal, Inquisitor. The primitives will be dealt with accordingly, should they intervene." The Inquisitor humped and turned around. "Good. In the mean time, Agent Kallus, I expect you to make yourself useful and gather what you can for me about this backwater world. I wish to have a full report by the time I return. I will be in my chambers. Do not disturb me unless you have news that renders my immediate attention." With that, the Inquisitor disappeared through the doors of the bridge and left it in silence. "Your wish... is my command." Agent Kallus growled beneath his breath. Back on the planets surface, Kanan, Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper followed at a distance behind Ezra and his new friend as they continued their trek through the forest towards what the equine had called "civilization." The group had been following the pair for several hours now and Kanan was beginning to question the sanity of their mission. “This is crazy, right?" said Kanan to his nearby companions as they trudged along. Sabine, Zeb, and Hera turned to the ex-jedi with upraised eyebrows. "What do you mean?" asked Hera. "Think about; here we are—stranded on an alien planet with absolutely no knowledge of its culture or species—and now we're trusting one of their kind to lead us to someone who can supposedly repair a starship, despite the fact that their "civilization" doesn't even possess the capability to space travel. I mean, that is crazy, right? Or did I miss something?" "No," chuckled Zeb. "That about covers it." "Besides," Sabine added. "I think the word "desperate" more accurately fits that definition." "Regardless," Kanan rolled his eyes. "It doesn't bother you? Any of you?" "I'm sure it bothers everyone just as much as you," Sabine answered. "But what are we supposed to do? It's not like we have a lot of options." Kanan scoffed. "Credit for every time I've heard that one before..." "I hear what you're saying; but Sabines right, Kanan." said Hera. "Whether we like it or not, this... Fluttershy is our best option. If she thinks she can help us—knowing everything Ezra has told her—then we should let her try. If for nothing else, as a sign of good faith. We could be stuck here for a while, after all." "I'm not disagreeing with you," Kanan replied. "I'm just saying it's crazy." "Crazy is jumping to lightspeed without a nav-computer," Sabine shot back. Kanan chuckled. "Okay, you got me there." "Hey, guys! Fluttershy says it's just up ahead!" Ezra called back to his friends, waving them over. "Come on!" The four members of the Ghost crew quickly exchanged glances before sprinting towards the pair. As Chopper lagged behind the five Rebels arriving at Fluttershy's side, the mare opened up a mess of foliage in front of them and revealed a charming rural road leading to what they could all make out to be a large village in the distance. Kanan whistled to himself in an impressed tone. "Alright. I'll admit it. It's not what I was expecting." "Heh, yeah," Zeb agreed. "You can say that again." "It's like a piece of art." Sabine concurred. "I'll second that!" Ezra added. "It certainly is more lovely than I imagined," Hera smiled. "You live in a beautiful village, Fluttershy." The yellow pegasus blushed and returned the smile with one of her own. "Thank you. Everycreature, welcome to Ponyville!" The group continued to stare in admiration. It was truly one of the most colorful, and beautiful settlements they had ever seen in their lives. Rolling green hills, coupled with dark purple mountains in the distance accentuated the village marvelously in such a way that it made it feel like the very heart of the planet itself. Dozens and dozens of the prettiest little houses any of them had ever seen peppered the town as well, along with a massive crystalline structure in its center which sparkled like a diamond in the landscape. "Wait a minute, Ponyville?" Zeb said to himself, registering the name of the village for the first time since he had heard it. "That name is a bit odd, isn't it? That's like calling a human village humansville or a Lasan village Lasanville." Sabine crossed her arms. "I kind of like it. Its nice." Zeb shrugged. "If you say so." "What's that big crystal tree thing in the middle of the village?" Ezra asked Fluttershy, pointing to it curiously. "Is that a castle?" "Mmmhmm," Fluttershy confirmed. "That's Princess Twilight's castle—she's the one I'm taking you to see right now. If anypony can help you, it's her." Chopper rolled up beside the group and whistled an opinion of his own before coming to a stop and chuckling. "Shut up, Chop." said Kanan, rolling his eyes. "Let's see what she can do before we criticize, shall we?" The droid whistled a reply in its strange binary language and crossed its extending mechanical arms. "Aww, is somecreature grumpy?" Fluttershy asked, trotting over to the droid with a friendly smile. "I'm sure you must be tired from all that hiking, but that's no reason to take it out on your friends." The other members of the ghost crew exchanged glances as the droid answered the Pegasus promptly as she patted his dome. "There, there. I know it can be frustrating not to be appreciated for all the hard work you do; but I'm sure deep down inside they love you just as much as I'm beginning to." The ghost crew exchanged glances once again as Ezra asked in fascination; "Wait, you can understand Chopper?" The mare gave a bashful nod and continued to pet the droid. "I may not understand everything he's saying word for word, but in a way I can feel him speaking to me like any other animal." "That doesn't make any sense," Zeb muttered, stubbornly. "Chops not alive. He isn't even an animal." "Uh, Zeb?" said Sabine, pulling the Lasat closer. "A word to the not-so-wise: Let people enjoy things they want to enjoy and believe things they want to believe." The Lasat rolled his eyes. "What? So I'm supposed to play along if Chopper starts believing he's a Jedi? Give me a break. He's only a few compliments away from actually believing that to be true as it is." "Be that as it may," Hera said," I think it would be a good idea for now. We need to put on a positive attitude in front of the locals here. We don't know how long we'll be stranded on this planet. Best if they think we're friendly." Zeb scoffed. "Fine. I'll play nice." "Good man," Hera said with a smile. "Speaking of playing nice..." Kanan said with a cough. "Hey, Fluttershy! Do you think we could get a move on? We're not getting any younger here!" Kanan flashed Hera a coy smile. The deliberate defiance was playful in nature but also communicated urgency. The Pegasus turned to the man over her shoulder with a soft, oblivious smile. "Hmm?" she asked politely. "I said, do you think we could—" "What Kanan means to say," Interrupted Hera sweetly, casting a glare at Kanan before turning to the mare. "Is that we're grateful to you for taking us this far. Do you think we'll be with your friend by midday?" The pegasus gave a nod. "Oh, yes! Ponyville isn't far from here. You'll be with Twilight before lunchtime." "Well, that's a relief." Zeb sighed, happily. "I was getting hungry." "I could go for something to eat, too." Ezra agreed. "Oh, my," Fluttershy remarked. "You poor things! We better get moving, then. Nopony likes to be hungry." "Thank you, Fluttershy." Hera said, casting another look at Kanan as he shrugged with a playful smile. "You're too kind." With that, the Pegasus started ahead of the rebels and began to lead them towards the village once more. In the hanger bay of the Victory Class Star Destroyer The Resurgence , Lieutenant Lyste oversaw the inventory for his mission to the planets surface with a worried expression. As a fellow Officer came up to him and offered him a datapad to go over, the Lieutenant waved him away in distress, saying, "Yes, yes, it's all fine, thank you." As the troubled man continued to begrudgingly carry out his tasks, Agent Kallus arrived in the hanger and made his way towards the Lieutenant. "Lieutenant Lyste!" Agent Kallus called out as he calmly approached the man. "A word, if you please?" The Lieutenant quickly waved away another officer and folded his hands behinds his back, formally. Although he was clearly doing this out of decorum, the expression that came over the Lieutenants face when he saw Agent Kallus was that of relief—a rare expression not often seen in the Imperial Navy these days. "Ah, Agent Kallus! Yes, of course. How may I help you?" Agent Kallus regarded the transports behind Lieutenant Lyste with a frown. The forces the Inquisitor was sending to the planets surface with the Lieutenant were minimal at best. If this is what the Inqusitor meant by "valuing" his resources, then Agent Kallus shuddered to think what the reverse would look like. "I see preparations for your mission are already underway," Kallus remarked as he arrived along side the Lieutenant. The younger man watched as a hover-crane loaded a light-division hover tank into one of the transports and gave a worried look. "Yes, well... this would be the first time I outfitted myself for a potential combat mission." He replied. "Unfortunately, with the limitations stipulated, I can only do so much so far as inventory is concerned. " Agent Kallus folded his hands behind his back and stood at ease. "I see. Then you will be relived to know that I've come to offer my services." The Lieutenants head snapped in the agents direction. "You what?" "I've come to offer you my services." Kallus repeated. "It isn't right that a supply officer would be put in charge of a mission this dangerous. Given that my new orders are to gather information on the planet and relay it to the Inquisitor, it only makes sense that I accompany you to the surface for a more thorough investigation." The Lieutenant nodded, thankfully. It was clear he was exceedingly grateful for the offer. "I... I don't know what to say..." he answered. "Thank you, Agent Kallus." "Think nothing of it, Lieutenant." Agent Kallus replied, placing a hand on the Lieutenants shoulder. "You're a good officer. I'm sure with our combined efforts we can complete both our missions simultaneously." "Yes. Yes, Indeed!" Lyste agreed. "However, I must inform you that our supplies are extremely limited for such an ambitious mission. I've only been granted a small platoon and two hover tanks per the Inquisitors instructions." "I wouldn't worry about that, Lieutenant," Agent Kallus smirked. "Since I will be joining you on the mission, I can request additional munitions. Those rebels won't know what hit them." Far below the Resurgence in the picturesque lands of Equestria, the Ghost Crew found themselves arriving in Ponyville at long last. The first thing the ragtag group of rebels noticed as they entered the village was the striking rustic beauty that existed around them within the architecture of the community. It seemed that these "ponies" were quite talented, in spite of the fact that they lacked opposable fingers and thumbs. Every structure was a work of art. The second thing the crew noticed as they went along was the population itself. A diverse range of colorful equine creatures greeted their eyes with curiosity as Fluttershy led the group through the village. With so many different shades of color and such a range of features like horns, wings, stripes, and mane, the Ghost crew could only further be amazed by the visual onslaught that assaulted their eyes. "Looks pretty civilized if you ask me," Zeb remarked as they walked through the village. "You were looking at a basket of fruit when you said that," Sabine smirked, bumping Zeb on the shoulder. "Hehe, yeah, well..." "There's so many of them," said Ezra as he scanned the many faces staring in their direction. "I don't think they've ever seen anything like us before." "Its more than likely they haven't," Kanan replied. "Most species don't evolve to walk on two legs, let alone without scales or fur." "I don't think that's the reason they're staring," Hera observed, tucking her personal blaster in the back of her jumpsuit. Kanan watched as Hera did this and did the same to his blaster, realizing the wisdom of her tactics. "They recognize we're carrying weapons," Kanan frowned, turning to the others. "Probably best if we cover them up." Sabine nodded and tucked away her blasters as well. Zeb did nothing as he felt his rifle looked more like a metal hiking poll, anyway. As soon as these things were done, several of the ponies began to gather behind the group and follow them through the village. "Uhh... Kanan?" said Zeb. "We're picking up a tail." The ex-Jedi glanced over his shoulder at the forming crowd and gave a small sigh. "It's fine, Zeb. Just ignore them." "Great idea, don't you think?" Sabine smirked, teasing Kanan as she followed his gaze. "Group of aliens, marching directly through the village? That wasn't going to attract any local attention at all." "Hey, I didn't come up with this plan." the ex-Jedi answered, defensively. "This one's on Ezra." "Technically, Fluttershy came up with the plan," Ezra rebutted. "But I'll take credit for it. These ponies are nice." The boy showed off a flower necklace around his neck. "Look at what one of the small ones gave me!" Kanan lifted a brow. "Uh, Ezra? Are you sure she wasn't expecting you to pay for that?" The boy looked over at the Pegasus who had given him the necklace and paused. The young filly was obviously selling the necklaces out of a basket on the side of the main road. "Uh..." Ezra chuckled, nervously. "I'll be right back..." The crew managed to laugh at that as they watched Ezra sprint back to the young filly to return the merchandise. Hera smiled proudly at the scene and hugged Kanan from the side. "We did good, didn't we?" Kanan looked down at the Twi'Lek in surprise. "...Huh?" "With Ezra," Hera clarified. "We did good, didn't we?" The Jedi chuckled, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. "Yeah, well, we got him to stop stealing, so that's a plus." "At least not from civilians," Sabine pointed out. "The Empire's missing a lot of gear these days." "Eh, I wouldn't call that stealing." Zeb said, somewhat more seriously. "More like, trophies won in battle." "If you say so," Sabine shrugged. "But most people just call that stealing." Zeb gave Sabine an unimpressed look. "Most people are stupid." the Lasat humped. As the crew watched on, Ezra sprinted back towards them and held up the necklace once again. "She said I could keep it!" he proclaimed, triumphantly. "Good for you," Kanan smiled. "Maybe that's a sign our luck is changing." "I think our luck started to changed when Ezra met Fluttershy," Hera pointed out. "Yeah, well, we'll see how our meeting with this Twilight Sparkle goes first." Kanan replied. "Ugh," Zeb groaned. "Please tell me that isn't her actual name." "What's wrong with her name?" asked Ezra. The Lasat frowned. "You telling me you don't feel a little ridiculous just saying it?" "Someone's getting hangry," Sabine chuckled. "What if I am?" Zeb muttered. "Haven't eaten since last night." Chopper laughed in his mechanical voice. "Quiet, you!" Zeb growled. "Everycreature, eveyrcreature!" Fluttershy said ahead of the group, excitedly. "We're here!" The members of the Ghost crew followed Fluttershy's gaze and found themselves approaching the massive crystalline palace they had seen in the distance a half-hour before. The sparkling structure was now but a few hundred feet away, glimmering brightly in the sun like a pane of stained glass. "Whoa," said Ezra as they approached it. "Kanan, do you feel that?" The ex-Jedi gave a nod. "I feel it, I just don't believe it." "Feel what?" asked Hera, turning to the man. "The palace—" Kana explained. "It's alive. It's like a giant Khyber crystal emanating the light side of the force." "I have a really good feeling about this." Ezra said with a smile. "You know what?" said Kanan, turning to his padawan with a smile of his own. "I'm beginning to feel that way, too." With that, the crew continued towards the crystal palace with a new and exciting hope. Inside the palace, the library was a mess. Twilight Sparkle had never felt so disorganized before. Having studied throughout the night with no discernable direction to take her inquires, the mare had decided to go through every book on strange magic and dreams she could find. However, as she went through a particularly dry section of the library, Spike had dozed off and fallen to sleep on one of the stacks of books the Princess had made as she was going through her erratic motions. "Nope..." The alicorn sighed, glancing briefly at a book before tossing it over her shoulder with a weak voice. "Nope... that's not it." Spike awoke quite suddenly as a book Twilight had carelessly discarded over her shoulder landed squarely on his head. Due to the smaller nature of the book and the thicker nature of Spikes dragony skull, it bounced right off his head and did little more than smack him awake. "Huh?! What?! I'm awake!" the young drake explained as he sprung into action. However, as he scanned the room and noticed that Twilight hard barely moved from her spot where she had been going through books the whole night, he gave a defeated sigh and made his way over to her. "Hey, Twilight? Maybe we should take a break. " Twilight snorted. "Take a break? Yeah, right. Good one, Spike." "I mean it," Spike frowned. "We've been at this all morning. The books aren't going anywhere! Let's order in and eat a nice brunch." The lavender gave a frown of her own. "Spike, we can't give up now—not when we're so close!" The young drake rolled his eyes. "Close to what, Twilight? Dying of exhaustion?" "No!" the mare protested. "To discovering the truth! It's obvious there's something that we're missing here. What do you say we go through the mysterious magic section one last time?" "Twilight, we've already been through the mysterious magic section!" "Yeah, but not twice!" Spike gave a defeated sigh and shook his head. Twilight read his expression and gave a sympathetic one of her own. "I'm sorry, Spike. I know how I must sound right now. It's just that, I don't know what to do! It isn't like the answers to my questions are just going to walk up to the front door!” At that very moment, a loud knock echoed throughout the castle. The two siblings exchanged glances. "Well, it could be the backdoor." Spike smirked. Twilight rolled her eyes, playfully. "Very funny, Spike." A few moments later, the pair was at the door to the castle, peeking it open slightly to see who had knocked. "Yes, can I help you?" Twilight answered. "Hello, Twilight." Fluttershy greeted timidly. "Fluttershy!" the alicorn exclaimed happily, opening the door a bit wider. "What brings you here so—" The mare froze in the middle of her sentence at the sight of a nervously grinning teen in an orange suit waving his hand. After pushing open the door the rest of the way, she was greeted by six alien figures and a crowd of ponies behind them. "Yeah, hi. Twilight, is it?" the tallest human said with an awkward smile. "We need your help." Agent Kallus held onto the handle above him inside the landing craft as he glanced over at Lieutenant Lyste. The inexperienced man was holding on for dear life as the craft shook violently, indicating that it had indeed entered the planets atmosphere and was beginning a quick descent towards the ground. As the man squeezed his eyes shut and whispered what sounded like a prayer, Agent Kallus chuckled to himself, observing the Lieutenants outfit. Most imperial officers had a vest and helmet that they were expected to wear during combat operations. Lieutenant Lyste wore his very own armor at the moment, although it was clear he had not worn it since officer school as he had forgotten to fasten one of the latches below his right elbow. "Lieutenant," Agent Kallus said, smirking. The officer peeked open one of his eyes. "Y-yes, Agent Kallus?" "Your armor is not properly fastened." The officer glanced down at his vest and gave a quick nod. "S-so I see. Thank you, Agent Kallus." The man quickly latched his vest and proceeded to hang on tightly as the vessel continued to shake. After a few more moments of terror, the young man observed Agent Kallus and made note of his neutral expression. "You don't seem worried," the Lieutenant commented. "It's not my first military landing," Agent Kallus chuckled. The Lieutenant nodded, nervously. "Do you think you we'll capture them?" he asked. Agent Kallus smiled to himself and reached into his utility belt, retrieving a small holoprojector. "Don't trouble yourself with thoughts of failure, Lieutenant," Agent Kallus replied. "Just focus on your job..." the holoprojector in Kallus's hand switched on, projecting a holocapture of a certain Lasat by the name of Garazeb Orrelios. "And I'll focus on mine..." Chapter VI - "A Chilling Discovery"Chapter VI - "A Chilling Discovery" A band of ponies pressed onwards in determination through an angry blizzard sweeping across the Crystal Mountains as the temperature around them dropped dramatically. With howling winds threatening to knock them over with terrific force and bury them under heaps of snow at any moments notice, they had to force themselves to remain strong and continue towards the objective. To communicate verbally over the sound of the raging storm was nearly impossible, so the ponies used hoof signals to keep others in the back of the line on track. Hour after hour they trekked on, letting nothing come between them and their quest to reach the top of the mountain range. The heavy layers of clothing on their backs made the subzero conditions bearable; the hard labor of trudging through the snow over uneven terrain helped warm them, too. After almost seven hours of slow progress, the leader of the caravan spotted the dim outline of a small overhang on the ridge ahead of them. He signaled to the others, an indication that the camp was on the other side. One by one his followers nodded and signaled back that they needed to pick up the pace. The leader of the caravan nodded his agreement. The light around them was fading as Princess Celestia’s sun—invisible through the storm—slowly set. The last thing they needed was to have to press on in total darkness. As they skirted around the base of the ridge of the mountain and reached the leeward side, the wind died to almost nothing. It was not long before they could see the soft glow of lights in the flat plain below them—indicating that the camp they were searching for was near. Joy swept over the weary band as more details of the camp gradually came into view. There were roughly a dozen small tents set up only a few meters away from a sheer wall of ice at the end of the plain where the start of another slope began. Set away from the tents was a large roughly-constructed shack; the leader of the caravan noticed a pair of steel furnaces hooked up to it, no doubt to provide power and heat, and he guessed it doubled as a supply center for any stores that would suffer if left out in the cold. Amongst the noticeable mining equipment that was scattered around the tents, several sleds laden with supplies awaited their riders in a way that indicated action. On the far side of the camp were four large, tarp-covered objects with drills fitted onto their sides. The tarp hardly protected their mechanical internals from the fury of the storm. “That’s far enough!” a voice—distinctly male—ordered from somewhere in front of the caravan. “Identify yourselves!” Four armored sentries rose up from behind some drifts, two on either side of the ponies traveling towards the camp. Armed with heavy mining equipment, they carefully trained their deadly weapons on the interlopes and waited for a reply. “I am Shining Armor, Prince of the Crystal Empire,” the leader of the caravan shouted. “And I order all of you to stand down!” From the instant silence that followed, it was clear that his name that gotten their attention. “How do we know you’re really the young Prince?” one of the sentries finally demanded. This was also a stallion’s voice, deeper than the first. “Well, Timeline,” Shining Armor replied. “I could buck you in the face until I straightened out that crooked muzzle of yours, but we’d probably freeze to death before I finished.” The sentry barked out a laugh, slung his weapon over his shoulder, threw his arms open wide, and galloped to enclose Shining Armor in a fierce hug. “It’s good to see you again, boss!” he shouted. “Come on, let’s get you out of the cold. We got a lot to talk about!” The other three sentries moved in to help the ponies in the caravan with luggage and supplies while Timeline led Shining Armor through the camp toward the supply shack in the center. As they passed the tents, heads poked out to see what was happening; in no time, a small crowed had grown in the newcomers wake. Shining Armor could hear a buzz of excitement building, but the blizzard was still too violent to get a good understanding of what was being said. At the door of the supply shack, Timeline stamped his boots clear of snow before going inside; his guests did the same. The first thing Shinging Armor noticed was the warmth. His goggles fogged up, and he was only too happy to remove them to get a better view of the interior. As he had suspected, the shack served as both supply hut and meeting room. There were seven or eight ponies already inside the shack when he arrived, lounging among the crates and packages, using them as makeshift furniture. In one corner, there was a massive pile of coats, scarves, and socks. Timeline was already stripping off his cold-weather gear and tossing it in the pile. Shining Armor quickly and gratefully followed suit. “So,” began Timeline after taking a seat. “I take it your presence here means you got my message?” Shining Armor nodded. “I did. Although, to be honest, I had a hard time making sense of it. You mentioned something about aliens?" The unicorn grinned. "Not just aliens," he answered, mysteriously. "Robot aliens!" Shining Armor lifted a brow. "It's true," a female pegasus said as she leaned forward in conspiracy on one of the crates. "We pulled them out of the ice just a few days ago. They crash landed in a ship—pilots, soldiers—everything." "Soldiers?" Shining Armor asked with concern. "So far as we know," Timeline confirmed. "They needed power. Energy. So we took them in—gave them what they wanted. In exchange, their leader gave us information." Shining Armor glanced around the room at the faces. "You mean... they're here? In the camp?" "All twenty-five of them." the pony said with a smirk. Shining Armor narrowed his eyes. "Show me." The metallic creak of a giant metal door began to ring out as Shining Armor stood outside in the blizzard with the rest of his crew, facing the giant climate controlled storage facility that the team had erected during their assignment. "We put them inside so their joints wouldn't freeze!" Timeline yelled over the howling winds. "We figured it would be a good sign of faith and hospitality!" Shining Armor ignited his horn. "Maybe you shouldn't have! Alien robot army? Doesn't sound like a good idea!" The unicorn laughed manically. "That's what I like about you Shining Armor—always on your guard!" Inside the enormous storage place, Shining Armor and the rest of the ponies wandered down a large open space shrouded in darkness. "Why aren't there any lights?" asked Shining Armor as he pulled down his snow mask used his horn like a floodlight to scan the walls. "We needed to divide the power between our camp and the climate controls in here. It was the only way we had enough power to charge them and keep us warm at the same time," Timeline explained. "But they're in here. They're all in here. Plugged in by the back wall." Shining Armor gave Timeline a look and approached the area stallion had described to him. As the magical luminance from his horn shined across the wall, it began to make out the dark silhouettes of dozen machines folded in a fetal position beside a softly glowing device of some kind. "What's that?" Shining Armor asked, breathlessly. "One of their generators." Timeline answered. "They had to retrofit it to work with our electricity. Seems to be doing the trick, though." Shining Armor continued to scan the pitch-black room. The frightening metal creatures that were plugged into the generator served to unsettle him, but not turn around and gallop in the opposite direction like he wanted to. "You said there were twenty-five?" Shining Armor asked after a few more moments. "That's right. Twenty-five two-legged metal skeletons." Shining Armor scanned the alien robots one more time. "I only count twenty-four. Where's their leader?" Suddenly, Shining Armor jumped back as a trio of orange lights ignited in the darkness in his peripheral. Almost immediately they arose to a towering height and began to approach the unicorn with foreboding heavy steps. "My designation is ST-013," an intimating electronic voice called out as the trio of orange lights approached the now frightened stallion. "But you may call me..." The lights stopped in front of the young prince, revealing a menacing droid with three photoreceptive eyes in the magical light of his horn. "Kalani." Chapter VII - "The Council of Friendship”Chapter VII - "The Council of Friendship" Kanan Jarrus had seen many wondrous things in his lifetime. As a young Jedi, Caleb Dume—the auspicious Padawan of Master Depa Billaba—had often explored vast alien worlds with his mentor. In their many travels and constant wanderings, Kanan had beheld the majesty of countless alien races; each with their own culture, history, and art. But all those twinkling stars, all those brave new worlds could hardly hope to hold a candle to what the ex-Jedi was seeing right now. The massive crystalline palace that was this "Twilight Sparkles" home was unlike anything he had ever seen before. The palace itself was a single gem, expertly carved by what Kanan had to presume was the finest craftsmen on the planet. Kanan could only imagine what thoughts were going through the heads of the other members of the Ghost crew as they walked through it, gazing in amazement at its architecture and beauty. Kanan wondered about Ezra Bridger, especially, who had hardly been anywhere at all except for the wide open plains of Lothal. Kanan watched him as his eyes wandered, twinkling like diamonds at the crystalloid structure as the crew followed the small purple dragon called Spike through them. "You're gawking," Kanan smirked, softly nudging Ezra on the shoulder. The youth regarded his friend and mentor with a large grin, replying, "Of course I'm gawking! Are you seeing this place? Its like we're walking through a living kyber crystal! Can't you feel all that lightside energy, Kanan?!" The ex-Jedi laughed. "Oh, I can feel it, alright. No need to remind me every ten seconds." "I guess it's like the old saying. You can never have too much of a good thing," Hera said with a smile of her own. "I only wish I could feel what you two are feeling right now." "Aren't we already?!" Sabine butted in. "This place is amazing! I've never seen a castle literally cut out of a single stone before!" The small purple dragon leading the group through the crystalline palace gave a hearty chuckle and proudly proclaimed; “If you think this is wild, you should see the Crystal Empire! The entire kingdom is made out of crystals—even the ponies!" The members of the Ghost crew exchanged glances. "Not like, LITERAL crystals, right?" Sabine asked after a few moments of dumbstruck silence. The dragon stopped in his tracks and glared at the alien visitors over his shoulder with a mischievous grin "—even the ponies!" he reiterated. Once again, the members of the ghost crew exchanged glances. "Oh, come on, you guys," muttered Zeb, crossing his arms. "The kids just teasing us. The ponies can't LITERALLY be made out of crystals. That's impossible." The dragon lifted a brow. "You’re a giant hairy alien and you have a hard time believing this?” Sabine chuckled and pointed approvingly at the young drake. "Point." Zeb ignored the girl and rolled his eyes. “Aliens I’ve seen before,” said Zeb. “Walking and talking shiny minerals is something I have not.” “Eh, no scratches on my scales,” Spike replied with a shrug. “But you stick around here long enough and I’m sure you’ll see a thing or two harder to believe than Crystal ponies.” The Lasat gave a scoff. “What’s harder to believe than that?” Just as the words were leaving his mouth, the young drake leading them through the castle threw open the large doors to a grand banquet hall complete with a long table just piled high with delectable food and pastries. The vast array of dishes was accompanied by a variety of beverages both familiar and not. "Whoa!" exclaimed Ezra Bridger. "Is all of this for US?" Spike nodded proudly. "Yup! When Twilight heard you were hungry, she asked Pinkie Pie to whip up something while she gathered the rest of the council. Enjoy!" Zeb chuckled and stepped forward, rubbing his hands together in anticipation. "Oh, don't mind if I do! Give the chef my regards." "That goes for me as well," added Sabine, following the Lasats lead. "It looks amazing!" "I think that goes for all of us," said Kanan, turning to Spike. "We're grateful to you and your friends." "Absolutely." agreed Hera. "We can't thank you enough. We're in your debt." "Ah," Spike smiled, waving his claw. "Its nothing! We're just getting you fed before you meet the rest of the gals." "Do you think it will take long for the council to convene?" inquired Hera, curiously. "I wouldn't worry about it," answered the drake with a wink. "When a problem arises, the council of friendship always assembles fast!" "We appreciate the haste." said Kanan. The ex-jedi paused then turned to Hera as the dragon walked away from them to join the others at the table for lunch. "Wait, did he say council of friendship?" Hera nodded. "I think I heard that, too." Kanan stared into the chamber at the ghost crew as they began to dig into the feast. "Somethings weird about this place." said the Jedi, crossing his arms. "Everybody's too nice. I think we should be cautious." Hera chuckled. "While I agree... wouldn't you rather discuss it over...?" the Twi'lek walked over to the table and picked up a round pastry with frosting and sprinkles on it. "...Whatever this is?" Kanan gave a chuckle of his own and smiled. "Alright. You win. Food now, questions later." The scene inside the throne room of Princess Twilights castle was very much alive with debate. Having all received the news of extraterrestrials from a galaxy far, far away, everypony was sharing their sentiments and excitement to meet the new visitors from the stars. Well, everypony except Rainbow Dash. The rambunctious mare had already voiced several objections. "Oh, COME ON, TWILIGHT!" the rainbow-maned Pegasus exclaimed as Twilight Sparkle finished conveying a brief synopsis of the current situation. "You're letting them stay in the palace?! And we know nothing about them?!" "Calm yerself down, sugarcube," Applejack, the country mare, suggested from across the table. "Ah'm sure Twilight was just being hospitable-like in the moment while she was figur'n out what to do. It ain't like she planned for space-folk to drop outta the sky for an unexpected visit." "I concur with Applejack,' Rarity, the refined seamstress, agreed. "It was only proper to offer them a place to stay for the night; what with Fluttershy vouching for them and all." "But we don't know anything about them!" Rainbow Dash protested. "All we know is that they're from outer space! Do you have any idea how many things could go wrong with visitors from outer space? The answer: A LOT OF THINGS! Haven't you girls read anything about aliens?!" "Really, Rainbow Dash!" Rarity exclaimed. "Just what have you been reading?" "What?" Rainbow Dash answered, innocently, "I'm not saying they're evil or anything! I'm just saying maybe we should be careful! We can't just blindly believe everything they tell us!" "And jest what have they told us so far?" Applejack raised an eyebrow. "We ain't even heard what they want from us yet!" "That's why I called you all here; to help me figure out what to do," Twilight Sparkle explained, standing up from her throne. The six mares in the room watched as the alicorn began to encircle the table, keeping her eyes glued to the floor in concentration as she continued; "There's something strange about these visitors for sure--something that goes beyond the fact that they're extraterrestrials. Several of them are humans--like the ones I've told you about on the other side of the mirror--only these ones don't seem to be affected by Equestiran magic. When a human passes through the mirror, a magical metamorphosis takes place, turning a human into an equine no different than us. But for some reason, that hasn't happened to these humans. It doesn't make any sense!" "Maybe the magic doesn't affect them because they're not from the other side of the mirror," Starlight Glimmer suggested from the place she was standing beside Twilight's throne. "You said that they told Fluttershy that they were from outer space. Doesn't that make them local? I mean, dimensionally-speaking?" "Oooh, I like that word!" Pinkie Pie commented. "DIE-MEN-SION-AL-LEE! It sounds made up, but I'm preeeeetty sure it's a word in the Oxford Dictionary!" "Ox-who now?" asked Applejack, shaking her head. "I don't know," said Twilight. "All I know is that something doesn't feel right here, and I'm afraid it could spell danger for Equestria." "M-m-maybe you could just ask them?" Fluttershy interjected, meekly. All six of the mares turned to Fluttershy, who bravely resisted the urge to shrink away from their gazes and forced herself to be more assertive for her new friends. "They seemed nice to me when I met them in the forest," she continued. "I think they're just looking for a way to get home. I'm sure if we asked them how we could help, they would be more than happy to tell us everything we want to know." "Ah agree with Fluttershy," Applejack said. "Ah think we oughta give them an honest chance to do some explainin' 'fore we decide to kick 'em to the curb." "I second that... most colorful notion, Applejack," Rarity agreed. "And let it not be lost on us that this is the second time Fluttershy has vouched for them. That would suggest to me that these, erm, other-worlders, made quite an impression on her during their time together. And if Fluttershy is willing to vouch for them so readily, then it would be most untrusting of us to ignore an endorsement from the element of kindness herself." "I third that," Starlight Glimmer added. "Fourthed!" exclaimed Pinkie Pie. "Ugh," Rainbow Dash grumbled, sinking into her chair. "Fine! But I'm going to keep a close eye on them!" "So that is it? Its settled, then?" Twilight Sparkled asked, looking around. "Nopony has anything else to say?" "Well, what else is there to say, darling?" Rarity asked. "I don't see how we can fairly pass judgement over these creatures without having ever met them before. Unless of course you have a bad feeling about them? I hesitate to say it, but it seems to me the idea of so readily accepting them is proving to be difficult for you, darling. Clearly something very serious is on your mind if even the Princess of Friendship is having doubts about these strangers." "Rarity's right, Twilight," said Applejack. "Somethin's eatin' you up. It's as plain on your face as that horn a'yours." "It's not just the arrival of these aliens, is it?" Starlight Glimmer probed. "Spike told me earlier something else has been bothering you." Twilight Sparkle gave a sigh. "Spike's right. Something has," the alicorn answered, defeatedly. "The truth is, I don't know what it is myself. All I know is that lately I've been having strange dreams—dreams that feel so real that sometimes I wake up and wonder if I'm still dreaming. I went to Princess Celestia to tell her about them—but something inside of me felt like it wasn't the right time. I don't know how to explain it. It just doesn't feel like something anypony can help me with right now. I think I have to discover what it is on my own." "That sounds plum awful, Twilight." Applejack offered, sympathetically. "Ah'm so sorry to hear that. Ah wish you didn't feel this way 'bout figurin' it out on yer own—but if you think that's the best way to handle it, then you do what ya got to, sugarcube. Jest rememebr yer friends are here in case ya need anything along the way. Aren't we, gals?" The six mares joined in a collective affirmation of their support. "Thanks, everypony," Twilight smiled, weakly. "That means a lot to me. Really." "So are you going to tell us about these dreams, or what?" Rainbow Dash asked, pointedly. "Spill the beans already!" "Now hold up there just a minute, Rainbow," Applejack chastised. "Twilight will share the dreams with us when she's good n' ready. Won'tcha Twilight?" Twilight gave another sigh. "Yes, I will. But now's not the time. Now's the time to deal with the task at hoof." "Alright!" Starlight Glimmer agreed. "Let's get to it, then!" Twilight smiled and gave a determined nod. "Yes, let's. Starlight, retrieve our guests, please. The council of Friendship is ready to see them now!" The alien forest was immensely thick—much thicker than Agent Kallus had imagined upon studying initial scans of the planet. There was also something distinctly... unnatural about it—something dark and perhaps even sinister; but Agent Kallus couldn't quite put his finger on what it was. Light from the planets strange sun barely pierced the thick canopy above the landing zone where the Lieutenants scout troopers had chosen a patch of dry ground to act as the mission staging point. Agent Kallus watched as his Imperial engineers began to clear the soon-to-be encampment with large forestry equipment, making way for the most essential part of the staging point—a laser-gridded fence. On a potentially hostile planet like this, seeing the laser fence go up was always a source of ease for the troops—especially Agent Kallus who couldn't shake the feeling of an ever pressing darkness. Perhaps he shouldn't have volunteered for this mission, after all. Agent Kallus folded his arms behind his back and watched as the progress on the landing zone unfolded rapidly. He had to admit, he was impressed. Lieutenant Lyste certainly knew his stuff. Although logistics had never been of particular interest to the Agent, he could appreciate the talent that the young Lieutenant Lyste had for his occupational specialty. Competence in the Empire was expected—but not always achieved—making it a somewhat rare commodity. Agent Kallus was pleased that there was at least one well-oiled cog in the machine running smoothly. "Agent Kallus, Sir," came the voice of a Stormtrooper as Agent Kallus continued to stare. "Lieutenant Lyste requests your presence at the command post. He wants to go over something with you from the briefing." Agent Kallus gave a nod. "You may tell the Lieutenant I will be there shortly." "Yes, sir," the stormtrooper saluted. As the trooper walked away, Kallus quickly glanced at the dark forest one last time and turned to follow him. However, as his eyes darted across the dark forest scape, a pair of glowing yellow eyes peered back at him from the shadows. Agent Kallus did a double take, but by then the eyes were gone. "Wait, Corporal?" Agent Kallus called back to the departing stormtrooper. "Yes, sir?" answered the well-trained solider, turning around. "Did you see that?" The stormtrooper gazed in the direction of his superior. "What are we looking for, sir?" the stormtrooper asked, returning to Kallus' side. "I saw something..." Agent Kallus and the stormtrooper stood silently for several moments, scanning the forest for the anomaly. "Well, whatever it was," said the stormtrooper finally. "I think its gone now. If it was dangerous, we're safe here within the perimeter. Once the laser fences go up, there won't be anything to worry about.." Agent Kallus frowned to himself. "I wouldn't be so sure, Corporal..." He turned to the solider and straightened his posture. "Well, I believe we were on our way to a briefing, weren't we?" "Yes, sir!" With that, the two began to make their way to the command post. Although Agent Kallus didn't see them when he stopped and glanced over his shoulder one last time, a pair of glowing yellow eyes continued to watch him from the shadows. The spirits inside of the hall just shy of the grand council chamber in Twilight Sparkles castle were high for the most part. Having just satisfied their hunger, the members of the ghost crew were awaiting the return of Spike to beckon them into the next chamber for their meeting with the council of friendship. Moments earlier, a lilac unicorn by the name of Starlight Glimmer had retrieved them along with the young drake, and now they stood just moments away from meeting the supposed rulers of this realm known as Equestria. Although injected with a newfound surge of sugar and excitement, Kanan Jarrus and Hera Syndulla did their best to have a collected discussion with their comrades about the upcoming meeting. "Okay, here's the plan," Kanan was saying. "We don't mention anything about the Empire. Our story is, our ship crashed after passing through a solar storm. We just need to get off this planet as soon as possible so we can return to our people." "Wait, we're going to lie to them?" Ezra Bridger asked with an upraised brow. "That feels wrong, Kanan—especially after how well they've treated us since we got here. I think they deserve the truth.” "I think it’s better for everyone if we leave the Empire out of this, Ezra.” Hera said. "We don't want to cause a panic to a peaceful civilization that has nothing to do with our war against the Empire." "But they could be in danger!" Ezra protested. "Don’t you think we should warn them so they can prepare for the Empire in case it was able to track us here?” "Ezra has a point," Sabine conceded. "Normally, I would trust your instincts when it comes to a situation like this, Hera, But if we don't tell these natives the truth—Ezra's right—they won't have a chance to prepare themselves for a defense against the Empire. Not only that, but we don't manage to repair the Ghost and escape by then—they're going to feel betrayed. They're going to feel like we used them as a diversion. They'll hate us." "Well, that's not a good argument," Zeb muttered. "They could end up hating us either way. The only difference is that they might hate us now rather than later if we tell them the truth.” "But at least this way they'll have a chance to do something about it, Zeb," Sabine shot back. "I know personally I would appreciate someone more if they warned me about a hornet in the room instead of waiting for it to sting me before saying anything about it." Kanan gave a sigh and glanced at Hera. "You're right. Both of you. Hera and I meant well when we talked about it, but it looks like honesty might be our best option here." "Are you sure?" Hera asked, cautiously. "You know I'll support anything you decide, Kanan." "Anything we decide," Kanan smirked. "We're in this together, remember?" "All of us," agreed Sabine. "Together!" said Ezra. "Eh, right. Speaking of togetherness, I'm confused," said Zeb, rubbing his forehead. "We're going to tell them about the Empire? What exactly are we going to say?" Chopper chuckled and gave an answer in the form of binary beeps and whistles. "I'm going to assume Chop didn't say anything useful," Zeb rolled his eyes. "You'd be correct," answered Sabine. "Hmm, Zeb brings up a good point," Kanan acknowledged, stroking his chin. "What exactly do we tell them? There has to be a balance between telling the truth and not giving them reason to panic." "Do you think it can be avoided either way?" asked Sabine. "I think that’s the risk we take by telling the truth." Hera admitted. "Maybe we're all looking at this the wrong way," said Ezra. "It seems pretty clear to everyone there's a downside to this—but we're choosing to ignore the good that could come out of it as well. Maybe there will be a small panic—or maybe they'll give us their full trust and agree to help us get off this planet as soon as possible! They've done everything they could so far to welcome us into their home. I think we should give them the benefit of the doubt. I think they’ll want to help us. It’s what they do!” "Hmm," hummed Kanan, giving a small nod. "Well said, Ezra." Hera smiled. "Well said, but it doesn't answer my question." Zeb muttered. "What exactly do we tell them?" "The truth, Zeb. The whole truth." Ezra answered, proudly. "Eh... right." Zeb frowned. "Well, I guess I should make peace with the fact that that was the last good meal I'd have on this planet." "Don't be such a pessimist, Zeb," Sabine chuckled. "I'm sure there's some delicious rations awaiting for you when we get back to the camp." "Whoopie..." said Zeb, unenthusiastically. Moments after this conversation had concluded, the doors to the chamber behind the ghost crew creaked open and revealed a sheepish lilac unicorn with teal and purple mane approaching them with an awkward smile. The crew immediately recognized her as the unicorn from before, Starlight Glimmer, and perked up in anticipation of her presence. “Hey, every, uh… creature! Sorry for the wait.” the unicorn chuckled. "The council will see you now!" The ghost crew exchanged glances. Hera gave Kanan a nod and Kanan turned to the unicorn to give a nod of his own. "We're ready." the man said. Starlight Glimmer gave her best smile and used her magic to open the doors to the chamber behind them completely. "Everycreature, I give you—THE COUNCIL OF FRIENDHSIP!" Starlight Glimmer announced dramatically. Inside the large, circular chamber, the members of the ghost crew were once again in awe of the scene before them. A large table, seemingly alive with a magical hologram of some sort, stood as the centerpiece of the chamber with seven glorious crystal thrones surrounding it—each occupied by a pony of different color, shape, and size. There were ponies with wings, some with horns, and some without either entirely. And right next to the throne that seemed to be at the very head of the table (despite the table being round) sat a small throne belonging to no other than the drake himself—Spike the dragon. "Whoa!" exclaimed Ezra in amazement. "You can say that again." agreed Sabine. "Welcome, everycreature!" Twilight Sparkle, the alicorn they had met briefly when they first arrived at the castle, stood up from her throne and addressed them, warmly. "The council of friendship has gathered here today in honor of your arrival. We hope that the following discussion will be fruitful and the beginning of a new friendship." The ponies on the council of friendship agreed and each gave a manner of their own greeting. Ezra smiled and waved back at the ponies while Kanan and Hera bowed respectfully. “Thank you, councilmember, Twilight,” Hera said. “We appreciate the councils time and the more than hospitable welcome.” “Oh, you don’t have to call me that!” Twilight said with a friendly smile. “Twilight is fine.” “Yeah!” A rainbow maned Pegasus said from her throne. “And its PRINCESS TWILIGHT if you're going to be all fancy about it!" “Rainbow Dash!” A unicorn with purple mane chastised. “Mind your manners! Our visitors meant no disrespect. It is unlikely they are familiar with our decorum. We should allow them courtly grace!” “We're honored at your consideration, councilmember,” Kanan answered. “But we understand ignorance is no excuse for this lack of decorum." the human turned to Twilight and gave another bow. "Forgive us, Princess Twilight." "It's fine...?" the purple alicorn answered confusedly, a bit thrown off by the humans formality. “There, you see?” The white unicorn with purple mane smiled. “They’re very well mannered. We ought to treat them with the respect they deserve.” “I wasn’t being rude!” The rainbow maned Pegasus insisted, innocently. “I was just saying that if you’re going to use a title, it might as well be accurate!” "Please excuse our friend Rainbow Dash, y'all." A orange pony in a cowboy hat said kindly. "She tends to be mighty suspicious of space folk." "I am not!" Rainbow Dash protested. "Are tooooo~!" a pink earth pony giggled from across the table. "Alright, quit yer yappin, y'all." the pony in the cowboy hat chuckled. "Ah'm Applejack. That there is Pinkie Pie and this here is Rainbow Dash." "Sup?" Rainbow Dash said. "Hiiii!" waved Pinkie Pie. "Um, hello." Kanan answered, surprised at the councils extroverted behavior. "Hello, Pinkie Pie. Hello, Rainbow Dash. Hello Applejack." Hera said, respectfully. "And you may call me Rarity," said the proper white unicorn with purple mane. "It is my deepest pleasure to make your acquaintances." "As it is ours as well, councilmember," Kanan concurred. "And I'm Starlight Glimmer," the unicorn beside Twilight Sparkle said. "Although, you probably knew that already. And I think you've met Fluttershy, Spike, and Twilight as well, right?" "We have," Hera said. "Hello again to you all." "So now you know our names," Rainbow Dash said, pointedly. "But what about yours?" Before Rarity could chastise Raindbow Dash once again, Ezra stepped forward and introduced himself, quickly. "I'm Ezra! Ezra Bridger." the youth said, proudly. "Thanks for everything so far!" Kanan gave Ezra a "let me handle this look" and turned back to the ponies. "Yes, we're all very thankful. Truly. My name is Kanan Jarrus. This is Hera Syndulla and Sabine Wren. The big guy is Zeb." The ghost members each nodded respectfully as Kanan introduced them (except for Zeb who gave a "Hmph" instead). Behind the group, a grumpy noise rang out as Chopper rolled forward. "Oh," Kanan rolled his eyes. "Right. And this Chopper." The droid whistled a greeting. "Ooooh," Pinkie Pie cooed from her throne. "A robot! That's pretty cool, huh?" "Eh, it's alright, " grumbled Rainbow Dash (although there was a subtle look of interest on her face). "Its a pleasure to meet you all," Twilight Sparkle said with the same warm tone from before. "We Equestrians love to make new friends—especially friends from such far away places. Whiiiich brings me to my first potentially invasive question," the mare chuckled sheepishly. "No pun intended. Where are you all from, exactly?" Each member of the ghost crew instinctively answered quickly with a variation of the term "it's complicated," and "that's a long story" before they all realized they had spoken at the same time and shut up. "Ahem," Kanan cleared his throat, giving the other members a look. "What everyone means to say, is we come from different parts of the galaxy. But our homebase is a planet called Lothal." "Lothal?" Rainbow Dash echoed. "It sounds like a cat." "You're just saying that because Lothal rhymes with Opal." Pinkie Pie said to Rainbow Dash with a grin. "Although, now to think of it—it really depends on how you pronounce it. If you say LOTH-AL you have to say OH-PAL for the two words to rhyme. But if you pronounce Opal as OH-PUHL like Rarity does, then they sound like two completely different words! Which, I don't know about you, but to me is preeeeeety funny when you think about it!" "Let's try to focus here, Pinkie," Starlight Glimmer said with a slight chuckle. "Although you've definitely given me something to think about later." "Eh, it's what I do," shrugged the pink mare with exaggerated poise. Twilight giggled at her friends antics and said, "Thank you, Starlight. And thank you for the thought, Pinkie Pie. I'm sure it's a thought all of us will take to heart." Zeb lifted a brow and turned to Sabine. "Is she for real?" The Mandalorian teen shrugged. "I mean... They do sound kind of similar." Zeb rolled his eyes at the tease. Meanwhile, Twilight addressed the group again, saying; "Pinkie Pie likes to share random thoughts sometimes. No offense to the name of your planet." "No offense taken, your highness," Hera answered as politely as ever. "We respect that everyone has a voice on your council." "Oooh, she's a little darling!" Rarity exclaimed. "And look at that marvelous green complexion. Simply divine! You must allow me to sew you a dress later, Miss Hera—I insist!" "Oh," the Twi'lek blushed, slightly, "I'm... flattered, really..." Kanan laughed, seeing his friend so flustered. It was a rare thing to make Hera Syndulla blush. "I think she'd like that," Kanan chuckled. "Thank you, Rarity—er, councilmember." "It's my deepest pleasure!" "I'm glad you're all getting along," Rainbow Dash frowned. "But let's hold off on the dress-making until we ask some serious questions, yeah?" The mare turned to the crew of the ghost. "Twilight and Rarity are too polite to ask—so I will. What brought you to our planet? Fluttershy said that you crashed. What's all that about?!" "Rainbow Dash!" Rarity cried in horror. "I know it's rude!" Rainbow Dash shot back "But these are important questions! The sooner they answer them, the better." "That question..." Kanan began to say. "is actually a very complicated one to answer." There was a pause as the eight friends exchanged glances. "Yes," Hera agreed with a sigh. "And, if we're being honest—before we were brought before your council—we debated whether or not we should answer it... But we think you deserve the truth." "Well, ah don't think any of us like the way that sounds, sugarcube," Applejack answered after a few seconds of silence. "Ev'n so, we appreciate you want'n to be honest with us. Ah think ah speak for the gals when ah say we want to know whats bothern' yah even if its somethin' you don't think we'd want to hear." "See guys? I knew they'd understand!" Ezra exclaimed, happily. "Hold on, Ezra," Kanan said with a frown. "Lets hear what they say first when we tell them before we start to celebrate." "Tell us what?" Fluttershy asked, meekly. "It sounds like you're talking about something scary..." Kanan gave a deep sighed. "I'm not going to sugarcoat the truth. It is." "I knew it!" Rainbow Dash cried, leaping from her chair as she pointed a hoof at the strangers. "Something smelled fishy from the start!" "RAINBOW DASH!" Rarity chastised, angrily. "REALLY! MANNERS!" "Don't give me that, Rarity! You heard them yourself!" "Oh, stop embarassin' yerself, Rainbow!" Applejack said. "Ah think we should let'em finish answer'n 'fore me make any assumptions." The country mare turned back to the visitors. "Sorry, y'all. We're ready to hear it." Kanan turned to Hera, then glanced at Ezra. The boy gave a reassuring nod. Kanan sighed once again and switched his attention back to the council before him. "This answer won't be easy to take. We're only telling you this out of good faith." "We don't want to start a panic," Hera added. "Agreed." Kanan nodded. "But unfortunately, the answer might make it impossible to avoid. The answer, is: War." The faces on the council became solemn. "War...?" Spike asked after a few moments of silence. "You mean fightn'?" Applejack asked. "You mean... killing?" mused Starlight Glimmer, worriedly. "Both." Kanan said, firmly. "Like I said, this wont be easy to hear—but my crew and I—we're part of a small rebel force in the outer rim of our galaxy called Phoenix Squadron. Our mission is simple—we want to free the people of the word Lothal from Imperial control." "Imperial?" Rainbow Dash asked, a bit more curiously than angrily. "The Galactic Empire." Hera clarified. "A galaxy-spanning tyranny that has already consumed thousands of planets." "And it consumes more by the day," Kanan added, sadly. "Planets like Lothal. Which his how we came to be stranded on your world." "We were retreating after a battle," said Hera. "Trying to escape an Imperial ambush. But in the haste of the retreat, our ship was badly damaged and we were forced to land here. It was our only chance at survival." "That's right. I wish I could say that's the only bad news, but the truth is, we don't know if the Empire knows we're here." "Kanan is eluding to is the fact that before we crashed on your planet, the Empire was tracking our ship after the ambush." Sabine spoke up. "We destroyed the tracker, but we don't know if the signal it was able to reach the Empire or not." "Which all goes to say one thing;" Kanan frowned. "You could be in danger. All of you. This planet, your people—everything." The eight friends at the table of the council of friendship all exchanged alarmed expressions. It was clear the news was troubling indeed. "Okay, that sounds reallllly bad. But they could also have not been able to track you, right?" Pinkie offered with an unconvinced, hopeful grin. "It's possible," Sabine answered. "But like we said, we don't know for sure. We wanted to tell you the truth now so you know how dire the situation is." "Which brings us to the point of why we're here," said Hera. "To ask you to help us to repair our ship so we can leave this planet and draw the Empire away from your world before it's discovered." The ponies cast slow, nervous glances at one another—unsure how to reply. Kanan took this as a queue and continued; "Its the best solution we can think of. You planet doesn't appear on any star chart we know of. We doubt the Empire is aware of your planets existence. If we act fast, we think we might be able to lead the Empire away before they even know you're here." "And you're certain this will prevent them from finding us?" Twilight Sparkle asked, solemnly. "We're not certain of anything." muttered Zeb. "That's what we're trying to say. Er, no disrespect, your highness..." There was a long silence. Finally, Twilight Sparkle said, "What else can you tell us about this Empire? Can they be reasoned with...?" "I don't think they can," Hera replied, sadly. "Many have worlds have tried—only to be consumed by its unquenchable thirst for power." "Hera is right," Ezra added. "The Empire stops at nothing to get what it wants. It murdered my family. I was an orphan until Phenoix Squadron gave me a home." "How terrible," Rarity gasped. "You poor thing." "Yeah..." sighed Zeb. "It's all terrible. Now you know why we're here." The Lasat stepped forward, boldly. "Like the others said, we're asking for your help. Now what do you say?" The council was silent once again. After the ponies had exchanged glances for the third time since the session began, the purple alicorn at the head of the table gave a frown. "We will take a brief recess to talk it over." she said. "You and your friends can wait outside." Elsewhere, in the thick of the Everfree Forest, Agent Kallus marched along side Lieutenant Lystes platoon of stormtroopers as the ever-anxious man commanded his forces from the hatch of one of their hover-tanks. The two light-division infantry vehicles that they had been provided made up the main column of the small imperial force, while stormtroopers made up the body around it. Although not the most strategic assembly, Agent Kallus had said nothing as the Lieutenant ordered the formation from the Imperial staging point just a few hours earlier. He knew the unseasoned Imperial Officer was afraid. Deathly afraid. 'As he should be', Agent Kallus thought to himself. Detailed scans of the forest had confirmed his hunch—the wildlife was incredibly dangerous. Monstrous creatures lurked behind every rock and tree—some with grotesque biology Agent Kallus could hardly believe upon analyzing the data for himself. He counted them fortunate that they had yet to run into any of these abominations on their mission thus far—but his senses told him there was a presence lurking in their shadow. From the corners of his eyes he could catch glimpses of it now and so often, but it had yet to make itself known in the flesh. Agent Kallus frowned. Whatever it was, it wanted him. And that sent a slight tingle down his spine like few things had ever done before. "A-Agent Kallus?" came the Lieutenants voice. Agent Kallus shook his head and quickly regarded Lieutenant Lyste as the man addressed him from atop his hovertank. "Yes? What is it, Lieutenant?" the Agent answered, promptly. "Something on your mind?" "Well, no, it's just..." the Lieutenant gave him a wary look. "...I was hoping you would contribute some of your expertise as we approach the rebel position? You seem to have extensive knowledge on such robust military operations. It is a wonder to me why you were not put in charge of this mission. I feel so... inadequate." Agent Kallus smirked—a bit surprised by the Lieutenants admission, but thankful for the chance to distract himself from the shadowy stalker. "Do not trouble yourself with such thoughts, Lieutenant." Agent Kallus replied. "I doubt the rebels will be expecting us. The element of surprise should provide sufficient advantage in our favor to make up for any inadequacies." "Is that how you handle such situations?" the Lieutenant asked, curiously. "You do not trouble yourself?" Agent Kallus managed a chuckle at that. "There are some things you cannot plan for, Lieutenant. Strategies rarely survive first contact. Especially when it comes to this... imaginative, rebel group." "Should that concern us?" the Lieutenant asked, hastily. "On the contrary," Agent Kallus replied. "It should strengthen our resolve. These rebels are only so creative when they are on the retreat. With nowhere to run, what will their clever tricks amount to?" "You make it sound so simple," the Lieutenant sighed. "Do you really believe it will be so easy?" Agent Kallus lifted a brow. "That all depends on what you mean by easy." "A word that I find difficult to define myself in this instance," Lieutenant Lyste admitted. "But I can't help but keep thinking... What about the Jedi...?" Agent Kallus chuckled to himself once again. "You might find the stories of these particular Jedi to be greatly... exaggerated." Agent Kallus answered, confidently. "In terms of their ability to inspire—it's indisputable. But in the way of raw power, they reserve themselves to lethal action only when necessary. I believe Kanan Jarrus and Ezra Bridger are more idealists than Jedi fighters. They go to great lengths to preserve life—even those of their enemies." "Of their enemies?" Lieutenant Lyste asked, doubtfully. "I always heard Jedi were merciless beats—responsible for massacres all over the galaxy during the Clone Wars. Did not many planets refuse to join the Imperial/Separatist Correlation—simply because they had seen the destruction of the Jedi first hand before Emperor Palpatine had them purged?" "I do not know the validity of such histories, Lieutenant Lyste," Agent Kallus answered, dismissively. "All I can say with confidence is what I've seen with my own eyes; and these Jedi are not particularly violent. I assure you, we are quite safe—if not in our numbers, then in their propensity to seek a peaceful solution within conflict." Color returned to Lieutenants Lystes face as he let out a sigh. "That's... a relief. Thank you, Agent Kallus. I think you are right. These rebels should be swift to surrender! They have nowhere to run... and I doubt even a Jedi can withstand a Platoon of the Empires finest!" Agent Kallus smiled in agreement. "That's the spirit, Lieutenant. Now onwards! Our rebels friends await." "Indeed!" With that, Lieutenant Lyste went back to his duties enthusiastically. Agent Kallus smirked. It was good that the Lieutenant had regained some measure of confidence. A leader always had to be strong for his men. But Agent Kallus still couldn't shake the feeling of something stalking them in their wake—just beyond his peripheral vision—lurking in the shadows with a piercing gaze. "Onwards..." Agent Kallus whispered to himself. But he wasn't so sure how far "onwards" would take them. He could only hope the answer was "far enough." Chapter VIII - "New Friends..."Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter I - "A Narrow Escape"STAR WARS EMPIRE'S EDGE Written by: Chadbane Chapter I - "A Narrow Escape" A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away... A modified VCX-100 corellian light freighter jumped out of hyperspace along with a small fleet of rebel star ships. Dubbed the "Ghost" by its captain, Hera Syndulla, the VCX-100 moved into attack position and locked onto one of the three Imperial freighters in the convoy coming up on its scopes. "This is Phoenix leader to Commando Sato," Hera said, her eyes fixed on the approaching targets. "We're in position now. Awaiting your signal." "Copy that, Phoenix Leader," Commander Sato's voice crackled over the com channel. "Commence the attack." Hera pushed the Ghost forward and dived between two of the Imperial freighters as a squadron of A-Wings followed suit. The Imperial convoy, although not defenseless, was completely caught off guard as the rebels initiated their attack. With the element of surprise on their side, the rebels needed to hit the convoy with everything they had before the Empire could retaliate. Unfortunately, the Imperial Officer in charge of overseeing the convoy was quick to respond to the threat. "Launch all fighters!" cried the Officer, bracing himself against one of the chairs in the cockpit as a barrage of laser fire shook his transport. "I want an immediate counterattack! Inform the nearest outpost we're in need of reinforcements!" Less than a minute later, several of the TIE fighters that had been docked below the freighters in the convoy deployed from their transports and began to engage the rebels in ship-to-ship combat. Soon the space surrounding the Imperial gozanti freighters was littered with TIE fighters chasing rebel star ships. Hera was impressed that the Empire's ability to retaliate had improved dramatically compared to their last raid. Initially, the main freighters in the convoy would have lost half their fighters by now. As Hera came around for another pass, Kanan, her longtime friend and co-pilot, chuckled to himself from behind the controls of the topside turret on the Ghost. "This is where the fun begins." smirked the ex-Jedi. "Fighters coming in at two-ten!” called Hera from the cockpit. "I see 'em." Kanan whipped his turret around and opened fire. A few moments later, a TIE Interceptor, one of the newer star fighter models being produced by the Empire, burst into flames as a second TIE fighter banked to the left in an attempt to avoid a similar fate. Although the pilot succeeded at first in his attempts to avoid Kanans laser fire, he had no such luck avoiding the rebel star ship that came up from behind. It quickly reduced him to space dust as Kanan watched on. "Hey!" he cried as he watched a familiar VCX-series auxiliary star fighter zoomed past his turret dome. "That was mine!" "Then try hitting him next time, will yah?" shot back the voice of Sabine, another member of the Ghost crew, over the com. "There's a targeting system on your console for a reason!" "Hey, you try knocking off a few fighters when your pilot is going this speed." "I heard that!" echoed Hera's voice from the cockpit. Kanan chuckled. "I know you did." The Ghost made a complete one-eighty and started its third attack run. By now, most of the TIE Fighters had been deployed from the Imperial fighters, leaving the space surrounding the convoys littered with A-Wings engaging them in dogfights. As Hera dodged an incoming barrage of laser fire from a trio of Interceptors, she barrel-rolled the Ghost over an Imperial freighter and knocked out two of its turrets with the Ghost's nose cannon. "Phoenix Leader to Commander Sato," said Hera, hailing the rebel command ship. "The center Imperial freighter is vulnerable. I'm starting my final attack run." "Copy that, Captain Syndulla," Sato's voice replied over the intercom. "Finish your attack run then pull back to a safe distance. According the the information we intercepted, that freighter is carrying a large shipment of coaxium! You don't want to get caught in the blast radius of a volatile fuel like that!" "Acknowledged, Commander. Phoenix leader, out." Hera piloted the Ghost though the glowing particles of another recently-disintegrated TIE Fighter and whipped the ship around. After aligning the Ghost's nose cannon with the Imperial freighter she desired, Hera opened fire—but not before a trio of enemy TIE's came up on her flank and did the same. Green lasers splashed against the Ghost's shields, forcing Hera to bank her ship to the left and break off the attack. As she skimmed the top of the Imperial Gozanti freighter that was her target, she pulled back on the Ghost's controls and launched the ship into a steep climb. Unfortunately, the pilots in the TIE fighters chasing her were not unfamiliar with this maneuver. As the Twi'lek reached the pivotal moment of her climb, each perusing fighter, one after the other, landed a direct hit on the Ghost within seconds. The result was a potent explosion that rocked the Ghost to its core. Kanan did his best to swat the fighters as they broke off their attack to avoid his laster fire, but the damage had already been done. The ship had lost something important. "Karabast!" Zeb, the Ghost Crew's local Lasat, swore. "They just took out our internal com systems!" Zeb was acting as Hera' co-pilot, even though he wasn't very good at it. To be fair, he had had some experience acting as a co-pilot thanks to previous engagements, but Hera doubted that he was the man (or in this case the Lasat) for the job of fixing the com systems. Wheeling around in her chair, Hera looked at the old C1 astromech droid they called Chopper and frowned. "Chopper," she said, staring intensely into the droid's visual receptors. "I need you to fix the internal com systems so can I can coordinate our attack. How soon do you think you can have that up and running again?" Chopper replied in the only language he was capable of speaking—binary. "No, that won't do at all." Hera frowned to herself. "If you can't fix the internal com systems sooner then that, then I'll need you to go down stairs and tell Ezra that I'm coming around for another pass. The nose cannon isn't responding to my controls up here. Can you do that for me, Chopper?" Chopper grunted and pointed an accusing metal claw at Hera's copilot, Zeb. "No, Chopper," Hera growled at the old grumpy astromech. "I need Zeb up here in case anything else goes dead. Now go—before I pull your battery!" Chopper muttered a curse beneath his metaphorical breath and reluctantly did as he was told. Although servitude to organics was the primary function of all astromechs, Chopper never found the task of being a messenger boy particularly appealing. As the rusty old astromech rolled into the cockpit of the nose cannon where Ezra Bridger was working the controls, he grumbled something in his binary language and approached the young man. "What is it, Chopper?" asked Ezra without bothering to turn around. "I'm a little busy right now." The droid scoffed and gave his reply. "The com is down?" Ezra turned around and looked over his seat. "Then why haven't you fixed it yet?" Chopper grumbled indignantly at the question then relayed the information he was asked to. "What? The nose cannon is in position! What do you think I've been doing down here?" Suddenly, the Ghost rattled as a flash of laser fire splashed against its shields. Ezra, who at this point was practically sitting backwards in his seat, fell rearwards against the controls as a TIE Fighter flew past the turret dome and out of sight. "Karabast!" Ezra swore, using Zeb's signature word out of pure instinct. "See what happens when you distract me? Now get back up to the cockpit and fix that com!" Chopper put his arms to his side and scolded the boy firmly. "I am watching my language! Now go!" The droid chuckled to himself and did as he was told. Rolling back into the cockpit a few moments later, Chopper plugged into a panel on the wall and begun to repair the com systems as quickly as he could. Hera, noticing his return, looked over her shoulder and smiled inwardly as she watched the droid reluctantly complete his tasks. She didn't usually say anything nice to Chopper--not even in private--but she reminded herself to thank him for his diligence after the mission was over. "Ezra," said Hera, testing the coms. "Ezra, do you read?" "Loud and clear." the boy replied after a moment of static. "What's the plan?" "I'm going to shake some of these TIE Fighters off our back. With some luck, I may be able to line up a few shots for Kanan," Hera raised her voice so that Kanan could hear her down the hallway. "so that he can finally hit something!" "Hey, I already told you you're going too fast!" the ex-Jedi's voice echoed back. "Besides, I just dusted three off our tail. You're welcome, by the way!" Ezra chuckled to himself behind the controls of the Ghost's nose cannon as his two favorite grown-ups went back and forth. As usual, their voices were light and teasing—they knew how to keep their heads cool in the middle of a firefight. "Maybe internal coms should have stayed offline." Ezra grinned, executing his own attempt at levity. "Then I wouldn't hear you two flirting so much." "Not now, Ezra!" both Hera and Kanan cried in unison. "Sorry." "Hate to interrupt your little chat," Zeb interjected. "But we just picked up another group of signals." Hera looked over her instruments and found that Zeb was reading them correctly. The scanners on the Ghost indicated that another five or six TIE Fighters had just deployed from the forward Imperial Freighter. "More fighters?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "That's unusual. They're engaging us instead of protecting their convoy. They're leaving their freighters vulnerable." "Maybe they know what the freighters are carrying." Zeb reasoned. "Coaxium isn't exactly something you want to be around when it goes off." "Who cares?" Kanan remarked. "Makes things easier for us." "I don't know about that," Hera replied with a smirk. "But I do know we'll be occupied with these fighters for a while. It’s almost like they're trying to stall us." Hera paused as her mind registered the words she had just spoken. "It's almost like they're trying to stall us..." she whispered to herself. Her eyes went wide. "They're trying to stall us!" "...Come again?" came Kanan's voice over the intercom. Hera ignored the question and turned to Zeb. "Zeb, pick up the long range scanners. Focus past the incoming fighters and tell me what you find." Zeb nodded and did as he was told. "Hera, talk to me," came Kanan's voice over the intercom again. "What's going on?" "I don't know yet," Hera admitted. "But I've got a bad feeling about this. Zeb, tell me you have good news." "Uh..." the Lasat rubbed the back of his neck with his right hand. "Don't know yet. Still trying to focus past the fighters. Hang on." Zeb began to twist a nob to the left of the screen in front of him. "Yeah, I don't think I'm gettin' anywhere with this. The red light means they're jamming our signal, right?" Hera's face went pale. "Zeb, how long has that light been there?" Zeb's ears went back. "Uh... ten minutes, I think? That's not bad, is it?" Hera's expression turned to that of sheer horror. "They knew we were coming..." she whispered. "They knew we were coming!" "What?" Zeb looked to Hera. "What are you saying?" Hera pulled up on the Ghost and dodged the enemy TIE Fighters coming at her head on. She didn't have time to explain. Right now, she needed to save as many lives as possible. "All ships, break off the attack!" cried Hera over the com channel. "Enemy reinforcement's inbound! I repeat, all ship's break off the attack!" Instantly the com flooded with chatter. "I get no reading," came Sabine's voice among a plethora of others. "You sure?" "All ships, pull out!" Hera repeated. "I repeat, all ships pull out!" "What? Hera!" Zeb turned in his seat. "What's going on?" Hera looked at Zeb with worry in her eyes. "It's—" She was cut off by the sound of three Star Destroyers jumping out of hyperspace. The large vessels approaching the battle cast shadows over the the rebels ships like a shroud of darkness. "Oh," muttered Zeb as he looked upon the Imperial reinforcements. "It's a trap." Agent Kallus stood on the bridge of the Imperial Victory-Class Star Destroyer the Resurgence and gazed out its window. As the warship jumped out of hyperspace, he folded his hands and concentrated on the occupied space before him. The upcoming battle required his complete concentration. The new Inquisitor had made sure to communicate that much. "Agent Kallus," one of the bridge officers working the controls of the Resurgence below him spoke up. "Star Destroyer's Maelstrom and Reclaimer have just jumped out of hyperspace and are in position to join us in the attack. Awaiting your orders, sir." "Good,"Agent Kallus replied, turning around. "The trap has been sprung. Lieutenant, launch all fighters then target their command ship. Maximum Firepower!" "Yes, sir." Agent Kallus returned to staring out the window as the officers below him relayed their orders. A moment later, a flash of green lights compelled him to wince as a plethora of turbolaser's opened fire. In virtually no time at all, a rebel star ship, distinctly that of a blockade runner, went up in flames and succumbed to the Imperial firepower. As the star destroyers locked onto their next target, Agent Kallus frowned as yet another rebel star ship threw itself in the way of the their command ship and sacrificed itself for the leaders of its cause. Although a suicidal tactic, Agent Kallus found it to be quite noble. 'So eager to die for such a futile cause,' he thought to himself. 'Why? What sense of purpose drives these traitors to give up their own live so cavalierly? How many more must perish before they see the error of their ways?' It was a question Agent Kallus found himself asking more and more. Though he would never admit it aloud, something about this small group of rebels made him question his own loyalty. Of course Agent Kallus was willing to give up his life for the Empire, but the more suffering he saw in the galaxy wrought about by the Empire, the more he questioned his place in it. For nearly his entire life, he had been told the Empire was established to maintain peace and justice in the galaxy; but if that were true, why did everything they do feel so... unjust? Agent Kallus gave a sigh. He didn’t know the answer to that. Or perhaps he did but it was hard to except the truth? In any case, he had to admit his confidence in the Empire had been shaken. It didn't help either when he found himself constantly under the supervision of Inquisitors—especially the inquisitor he found himself working beside on this assignment. "You have done well, Agent Kallus," a demonic voice amplified through the speakers of a mask came from behind. "The rebels are trapped. They will not escape us this time." Agent Kallus tried not to scoff. Typical Inquisitors. They always assumed too much. "Thank you, Inquisitor," said Agent Kallus coolly, turning around. "But had it not been for you approving my tactics, none of this would have been possible. Your leadership style allows for more flexibility than my previous superiors." Agent Kallus learned from his previous experiences with force users that most inquisitors had quite an ego. Whenever they got involved in imperial military affairs, there were bound to be aching toes in the ranks. To avoid this common outcome to the best of his ability, Agent Kallus had decided to exercise a new tactic he picked up called flattery. Regrettably, it wasn't working as well as he had hoped it would. "Yes...," the Inquisitor replied, folding his hands behind his back. "There is no doubt that our relationship thus far has been... beneficial. But do not presume by flattering me that you will achieve my favor. Although you will find that I value my resources much more profoundly than your previous superiors, I have no tolerance for those who fail me. You shall be treated as any other—regardless of rank." The dark figure standing before Agent Kallus was a human, but not completely organic. Cybernetics and traditional Inquisitor armor melded together to take the place of natural flesh and bone. A durasteel mask, fitted with electronics and two glowing red eyes, covered the cyborgs face like the lid of a coffin resembling the skull of an alien Kaleesh. The Inquisitor's appearance, like Darth Vader's, was designed to instill fear. But Agent Kallus was not afraid of him. Fear was not what drove him to do his job. His loyalty to the Empire was. "Of course, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus nodded, respectfully. "My apologies." The Inquisitor 'humphed' and strode past Kallus to gaze out the window. "Do not apologize, Agent," he replied, fixing his eyes on the battle taking place beyond the glass. "We've only just been acquainted two cycles ago. It would be a shame for you to get on my bad side so easily." To this, Agent Kallus did not reply. Instead, he took a step forward and joined the Inquisitor in gazing out the window. "They're a resilient little bunch, aren't they?" he commented, hoping to change the subject. "After the blows they've been dealt by Darth Vader and your fellow Inquisitors, their resolve to resist us is still as strong as ever. Impressive." The Inquisitor lifted a brow. "You admire them, Agent?" he asked, a hint of disgust in his voice. But the Inquisitor's tone quickly changed after he turned to Agent Kallus and studied his face. "...Interesting." commented the Inquisitor as he returned to staring out the viewport. "You have piqued my curiosity. Tell me, what do you admire about them?" Agent Kallus frowned to himself and considered how to reply. "There is only one thing, Inquisitor," he admitted after a moment of silence. "One thing I have never seen any other rebel possess so dearly." The Inquisitor paused, then looked at Agent Kallus very hard. "And what would that be, Agent Kallus?" Agent Kallus met the Inquisitor's gaze with his own. "Hope." The Inquisitor stared into Agent Kallus' eyes for a long time before silently turning to leave. "I'll have Admiral Konstantine join you on the bridge," he said. "Pay your rebel friends your final respects. Their crusade against the Empire ends today." "Jory!" cried Sabine as an A-Wing flying ahead of the Phantom burst into flames. "Blast it!" She pulled up on the controls of the Phantom and dodged the debris just in time. A plethora of TIE Fighters had just joined the battle minuets earlier, and judging by the rate Phoenix squadron was being depleted, it wasn't going to last very much longer. The airspace around Sabine's VCX auxiliary star fighter was becoming more and more congested. She needed to find a way out—and fast. "Phoenix Seven to Phoenix Two," Sabine's intercom crackled as she dodged a barrage of incoming laser fire. "These TIE's are all over me! I can't shake 'em!" "Hang in there, Phoenix Seven!" cried Sabine as she picked up her visual scanners, searching for her friend. "I'm coming around to assist!" "Hurry, Sabine! They just took out my starboard engine!" Sabine spotted a lone A-wing some distance away from her position with a squadron of TIE Fighters in hot pursuit. "I have you in my sights!" cried Sabine, pushing her vessel forwards. "I'm almost there!" "It's too hot! I'm taking too much damage! My shields aren't—Aggh!" Static came up on Sabine's intercom as a ball of orange flames erupted from the cockpit of the A-wing coming up on her scopes. "Phoenix Seven?" Sabine tried her com as the fighter began to spin and plummet towards a rebel freighter below. "Rubyn, do you copy?" There was no reply. Phoenix Seven was no more. "Hera!" Sabine panicked, her body instinctively operating the controls of the star fighter. "Things aren't looking good out here! Tell me you have a plan to get us out of here!" "Working on it, Sabine," Hera's voice came back over the com. "With all the TIE's I've got on my back, the only thing I think we can do is a thirty-two pick up. How are your shields doing up there?" "A thirty-two pick up?" Sabine cried, ignoring the question. "Are you crazy?!" "Now's not the time to argue, Sabine! Get the Phantom ready for evac!" Sabine cried angrily as she banked her ship to the left and dodged an incoming fighter. "Ugh! Fine! I'll rondevu with you on the other side of the center Imperial freighter. If it's transporting as much coaxium as our intel told us, I can't imagine these bucket-heads would risk wiping out the rest of their convoy by hitting it!" "Good thinking, Sabine!" Hera replied. "I'll see you there. Phoenix leader, out!" Sabine pushed the Phantom forward through the flames of a TIE Fighter and emerged on the other side. She still had a long way to go before she reached the central Imperial freighter on the other end of the airspace, but she knew she could make it; provided she didn't get blasted when she rerouted power from her shields to her engines. "Karabast," whispered the girl, using Zeb's signature swear word. "Here we go again!" The Ghost barrel-rolled through a trio of TIE Fighters as they strafed past the window of the cockpit and flipped around to join their comrades in pursuit of the Ghost. "Ezra!" Hera cried into the internal communication systems of the Ghost. "Kanan's going to keep those fighters off our back for as long as he can. I need you to prep the auxiliary deck for a thirty-two pick up! We're getting Sabine aboard now!" "A thirty-two pick up?" the boy's voice came over the intercom. "Oh! Right! You got it, Hera!" "Good man!" Hera replied. "Kanan, how are you doing back there? The shields are holding, but we're still taking damage!" "Not good!" the ex-Jedi responded. "There's more fighters back here than I can count! How soon before we reach the rondevu with Sabine?" "Just a few minutes! Now keep those fighters busy as long as you can!" "What do you think I've been doing?!" Suddenly, the Ghost took a direct hit to the stern. An explosion rocked the ship with a surprising amount of potency. "What the—" Hera frowned, looking to Zeb. "What did we lose?" The Lasat growled at the control panel in front of him. "I don't know! Can someone tell me what all these blinking lights mean?!" Chopper chuckled to himself as he rolled up behind Zeb and plugged into the control panel. "Agh!" Zeb snarled. "I hear one more word out of your rusty innards, and I'll shove that antenna spike right up your—" Chopper interrupted Zeb with an update for Hera. "Hyperdrive coolant? Are you kidding me?!" the Twi'lek cried. "Wheel on back to the engine room and see if you can't lock it down! We're going to need that hyperdrive operational if we want this escape plan to work!" Chopper acknowledged the order and turned to leave. "Ugh," Zeb face palmed. "I can't believe we have to rely on Chopper." "Not now, Zeb!" Hera cried. "I need you to focus! What's the status on those rear deflector shields?" "They're recharging," the Lasat replied. "At least, that's what this blinking yellow light means, right?" Hera glanced at Zeb's control panel and narrowed her eyes. "Right," she muttered, more to herself than her temporary co-pilot. "That's exactly what it means. Next time we're on a hit-and-run mission, remind me not to pick you as my co-pilot." Zeb shook his head. "Fine by me." Hera pulled up on the Ghost and spun the ship around, losing a couple of the TIE Fighters in the process. "Sabine," Hera tried the com-channel. "We're nearing the rondevu now. Is the Phantom ready for pick up?" "Ready as she'll ever be!" came back the voice of Sabine. "Good," Hera frowned, concentrating on the point of interest with narrowed eyes. "Then we'll see you there. Hera, out." Hera flipped the Ghost upside down and dived over the top of the Imperial freighter in the center of the convoy. Pushing the nose of the Ghost upwards, Hera piloted the Ghost down the side of the ship to the underbelly of the freighter where the Phantom was waiting for her. The TIE Fighters pursuing Hera and her friends were distracted by this maneuver just long enough for the plan to work, but not before a couple of their green lasers splashed against the Ghost and reverberated throughout the vessel. Hera grunted and pushed the Ghost forward before anymore Imperial lasers could make their mark. She would have to inspect the damage later. Hopefully they didn't lose anything too important.. "Ezra," Hera used the Ghost's internal communications system. "How's Sabine? Did she make it aboard yet?" "Safe and sound," Ezra replied. "But I, uh... I don't know about the Phantom. There's a lot of smoke." "Don't worry about the Phantom! Just make sure you and Sabine get to your stations! We're not out of this yet!" "Roger!" Hera looked out the cockpit window and scowled at the battle waging before her. Another swarm of TIE Fighters had just deployed from the Imperial star destroyer that was stopping the rebel fleet from escaping the ambush. At first, it looked like the rebels were trapped; but then Hera spotted an opportunity in the Empires defenses that she couldn't pass up. "Commander Sato," Hera said over the com-channel. "I can see an opening in the Star Destroyer's defenses directly in front of you. If you divert all your remaining power to your engines, I think you can make a clean getaway through that gap!" "Negative, Captain Syndulla!" Commander Sato's voice crackled over the com channel. "If we divert all power to the main engines, we'll be cut apart by the guns on those Star Destroyers! We need a new tactic!" "No, Commander, listen to me! If you divert all power to the main engines and head for that gap, I can draw the Empire's fire until you're clear of the fight! This may be the only chance you have to escape! The alliance needs you, Commander!" A brief silence followed. "Very well, Captain Syndulla," came Commander Sato's voice at last. "We're diverting all remaining power to the engines now. May the force be with you!" "You too, Commander! Phoenix leader, out!" Hera adjusted the direction of the Ghost and pushed it towards the Star Destroyer obstructing the rebels path. To any regular spacer with half-a-mind for self-preservation, the action looked like suicide. To Hera, however, the maneuver would only prove to ensure an opportunity. "Zeb," Hera frowned, gazing out the cockpit window in complete concentration. "I need you to go into the back and check on that hyperdrive. We're gonna need it!" Agent Kallus watched from the bridge of the Resurgence as the battle intensified outside. Another rebel star ship went down in flames as he looked on. "Sir," a deck officer below him spoke up. "Our scanners indicate that the forward rebel command ship has dropped its shields. We believe it may be attempting to flee." Agent Kallus narrowed his eyes. "A foolish tactic. Their desperation is going to be their undoing. Captain, target that vessel and open fire the moment they're in range!" "Yes, sir." Agent Kallus turned as the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind him. The Inquisitor stepped through along with Admiral Konstantine, who up until now had not overseen the battle from the bridge. "What's the situation, Agent?" the Inquisitor asked as he and the Admiral slowly approached Kallus with their arms folded behind their backs. "I trust everything is going as planned?" "The rebel fleet is nearly destroyed, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus replied. "We're dealing with the rebel's command ship now." A deck officer below spoke up and interrupted before the Inquisitor could reply. "Sir, we just picked up the signal of a VCX-100 corellian light freight heading this way. It may be trying to escape along with the rebel command ship." Agent Kallus turned to the window as the Inquisitor came up behind him and did the same. "It's the Ghost," Agent Kallus remarked. "The Jedi known as Kanan Jarrus is aboard that ship." "Kanan Jarrus? Then we should waste no time," remarked Admiral Konstantine turning to the officers below him. "Lock onto that vessel and open fire! I don't want a single ship to escape!" The Inquisitor frowned. "Delay that order, Admiral." he said, turning to leave. "It is but one vessel. I'll deal with these rebels myself." Agent Kallus and Admiral Konstantine watched as the Inquisitor exited the bridge. The doors closed behind him with a sudden hiss. "Agent? Admiral?" one of the officers below Kallus and Konstantine spoke up after a moment of silence. "Orders?" Agent Kallus frowned and returned to gazing out the window. "...Shields up." he muttered. "Contain the Ghost with a minimal amount of laser fire. The Inquisitor wants wants to play hunter; so let him play." Hera gazed through the window of the cockpit with narrowed eyes as the Ghost continued to absorb laser fire. Although the Ghost had already sustained a substantial amount of damage, Hera was determined to get the rebel command ship through the blockade even if it cost her her life. It was her reason to exist. Her purpose. But some aboard her ship did not feel the same way. "Remind me again why we're engaging an imperial star destroyer head on?" Kanan asked as he stumbled into the cockpit. "Usually we try to avoid these things!" "Kanan!" Hera frowned, glancing over her shoulder. "What are you doing up here?! You're supposed be on that turret repelling those TIE fighters!" "Zeb's handling it," the ex-Jedi replied, slipping into the seat next to her. "Thought you could use a co-pilot." Hera was about to respond when all of a sudden the flashes of green in the corner of her eye vanished. The guns on the Imperial star destroyer had stopped firing. "The guns," Hera whispered, unsettled by the immediate silence. "They've stopped." Kanan looked over the instruments in front of him and glanced in Hera's direction with a frown. "Fighters just broke off, too. Something's wrong." Hera narrowed her eyes. "Keep your eyes open. Watch out for any surprises." Kanan nodded. "Sure thing." Suddenly, a rapid barrage of lasers hammered the top of the Ghost. The whole transport shook from the volley. "What the—?" Kanan jumped up from his seat. "Zeb, what are you seeing up there?" "I don't know!" came the Lasat's voice down the hallway. "It's coming in too fast! Agh! Karabast!" Kanan began working a computer on the panel to his right. "Scanners aren't picking up anything. Could be some kind of stealth fighter." "They're trying to stall us," Hera muttered "They think we're trying to escape with Commander Sato." "And we aren't?" Kanan asked. He turned to make eye-contact with Hera, but froze when he saw her eyes already fixed on a target in the distance. "Uh, Hera... what are you planning?" The Twi'lek didn't immediately respond. Instead, she pushed the Ghost forward and locked the nose cannon in position with the push of a button. "You'll see," she answered. Agent Kallus lifted a brow as he watched the Ghost deviate from its original course and charge the bridge of the Resurgence head-on. At first he wondered if the the Ghost actually intended on firing on the bridge, but then something in his stomach told him otherwise. It didn't make sense for them to attack the bridge. Their shields were still up and the Ghost didn't carry the ordinance necessary to penetrate their defenses. If this was at all a serious tactic, then it was most likely nothing more than an attempt to distract them from other important elements of the battle. Unfortunately, Admiral Konstantine didn't seem to feel the same way—as evidenced by his immediate panic. "They're moving into attack position!" cried the stupid middle-aged man, taking a step back from the view port. "Ensign, double our bridge deflector shields, now! Transfer all power from our forward batteries!" Agent Kallus chuckled. He couldn't help it. Sometimes the stupidity of his superiors was beyond him. "I told the Inquisitor they were resilient." he remarked. In actuality, he wanted to say something to the affect of 'I can't believe how stupid you are,' but he knew that the easily-offended admiral would only take that as insubordination. If he truly wanted to convey the message he wished to effectively, he would have to do so in a clever manner. "We'll see how resiliant they are when they find themselves in my grasp!" Admiral Konstantine said with a frown. "You—officer!" The admiral pointed pointed to a Lieutenant in the control hub below him. "Warm up the tractor beam and lock onto the Ghost! We'll show those rebels imperial hospitality soon enough!" "Yes, sir!" the Lieutenant acknowledge with a quick salute. Agent Kallus chuckled again. "The tractor beam, Admiral? I thought you had learned to do better than that." Admiral Konstantine growled in reply. "And what would you have me do, Agent? Let them escape?" "Yes," Agent Kallus replied, coolly. "That's precisely what I'd have you do." Admiral Konstantine stopped in his tracks. He had not been expecting that answer at all. "...Explain yourself." "There are but five rebels aboard that ship. Six if you count the droid. If I were you, I'd disregard it altogether and target the command ship attempting to flee behind it. The Inquisitor can handle the Ghost." Admiral Konstantine went back to gazing out the window as he considered the advice. After a moment of careful contemplation, he made a decision and turned to the officers in the control hub. "Very well. We'll target the rebel command ship. Lieutenant, is the tractor beam online yet?" "Yes, sir," the officer below him spoke up. "She's ready now." "Good." said Admiral Konstantine, folding his hands behind his back. "Then all we have to do is wait." Agent Kallus frowned. "Your overconfidence in that device will be your undoing." "The rebel leaders are worth far more to us alive than dead," Konstantine replied with a smirk. "Without their turrets to defend them, they'll be ours before they can retaliate. Make no mistake, Agent. My confidence is well founded." Agent Kallus crossed his arms. "We will see, Admiral. We will see..." "Hang on!" Hera cried as another flurry of laser bolts flashed across the cockpit window. "That stealth fighter is causing a lot of a damage!" "You're telling me!" said Kanan as he looked over the instruments in front of him. "Rear deflector shields are down to five percent!" "We'll have to manage! Right now, we have more important things to worry about! Commander Sato, do you read?" "Copy that, Captain Syndulla!" Commander Sato's voice crackled over the intercom. "Is everything ready? We've already calibrated our computers for the jump to light speed!" "There'll be a brief window for you to escape as soon as I hit their tractor beam. You'll have to watch for it as I go in! Don't stop no matter what happens!" "Very well, Captain Syndulla! May the force be with you!" Hera narrowed eyes and pushed the Ghost forward. As she sailed over the Resurgence with the stealth fighter behind her in hot pursuit, she flipped the Ghost over and jerked it to the right. The Imperials didn't see what was coming until it was too late. The tractor beam exploded into a glorious ball of green and blue flames. "Commander Sato, you're all clear!" Hera said, leveling the Ghost out. "We'll see you on the other side! Jump now before it's too late!" "Copy that, Phoenix leader! Commander Sato, out!" The rebel command ship disappeared in the blink of an eye. Commando Sato and the rest of the rebel figureheads were safe and sound. "They made it!" Hera breathed a sigh of relief. "Now it's our turn!" Kanan remarked. "You ready?" Hera nodded. "Hello, lightspeed!" She pushed a lever to her right. Nothing happened. "Uh, Hera?" Kanan glanced over at the Twi'lek after a moment of silence. "I think we're in trouble." The Ghost rattled as the stealth fighter landed another barrage of lasers on their rear deflector shields. "Yep," Hera agreed. "Big trouble!" Admiral Konstantine watched as the rebel command ship jumped to lightspeed. The tractor beam had failed him once again. With Agent Kallus's accusing eyes watching his every move, Admiral Konstantine did his best to conceal his embarrassment from making its way onto his face. He failed gloriously, of course. "Perhaps," Agent Kallus muttered, breaking the silence. "There are things to be considered next time." Admiral Konstantine turned away and fixed his collar. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind." he said. Then he walked away and left Kallus in control of the bridge. "Try resetting the nav-computer!" Hera cried. "The computers can't calculate a jump without it!" Kanan frantically worked the controls in front of him, but to no avail. . "I did! It's completely offline!" Kanan replied. "I don't think I can reset it from here!" "Try fixing it, then!" Hera snapped. "I can't lose that fighter—it's too small!" Just then, Sabine stumbled into the cockpit and braced herself against one of the chairs. "Uh, guys?" she asked as sweetly as possible. "Is there a reason we haven't jumped to light speed yet? Because we're being destroyed back there." Kanan and Hera exchanged glances. Sabine's expression hardened. "Nav-computer's out, isn't it?" "Yup," Kanan replied, turning back to the controls in front of him. "And the motivator." "Don't forget the shields," Hera added. "Great..." Sabine carried the word to emphasize her sarcasm. "We're stuck, then." "Pretty much." Kanan confirmed. "Unless..." A pause followed as Hera and Sabine fixed their eyes on Kanan. "...We jump without the computer." "What?!" Sabine cried. "Are you crazy?! Kanan, that's suicide!" "No, staying here is suicide!" the ex-Jedi exclaimed. "At least this way we have a chance!" "A slim chance." Hera pointed out. "But a chance." said Kanan "You have a better idea? " The Ghost rocked from another barrage of laser fire. Hera inhaled sharply and let out a deep breath. "No. Sabine, strap in." Sabine took a seat and did as she was told. "Ooh, boy!" she breathed. "Are all Jedi this reckless?" Kanan smirked. "Just the good ones." He hit the lever. The Ghost jumped. Author's Note And so that's how STAR WARS: EMPIRE'S EDGE begins! Not too shabby, eh? A lot of effort went into this thing trying to make the characters as accurate as possible to the characters from the show. I know I didn't get any of them perfect, but hopefully you can forgive me and enjoy the story nonetheless! Feedback and constructive criticism is always appreciated! Don't forget to rate, comment, and check back regularly for updates! Cheers! Chapter II - "The Calm Before the Storm"Chapter II - "The Calm Before the Storm" Stars twinkled in the quiet moonlit sky above the majestic towering spirals of Canterlot City. A gentle breeze caressed Princess Celestia's face as she gazed towards the heavens and admired her sister's beautiful night. Beside the regal monarch of Equestria stood the lavender alicorn Twilight Sparkle, peering through a golden telescope on the edge of the balcony at the same starry canvas as her mentor. "...And that's Star Swirl the Bearded!" The purple alicorn exclaimed, a large grin adorning her face. "You can tell it's him by finding his hat and making out the rest of him from there!" Princess Celestia smiled to herself and cast a glance in her former student's direction. The moonlight glistened around the curves of the mare's face. Truly, Princess Celestia thought, like herself—Twilight Sparkle embodied the signature beauty of a princess. "Well done. Your many years of star gazing have paid off. But tell me; can you find Princess Platinum's crown from that spot without adjusting the telescope?" Twilight Sparkle turned to her former mentor and gave a smirk. "Are you kidding? Last week I can beat Gallopleo's star-gazing record without batting an eye. I think I can find a simple twelve-star constellation without a problem!" Princess Celestia chuckled in reply. "I'm not so sure Gallopleo is known for holding any star-gazing records." "How do you think I beat him so easily?" The two friends shared in a heartfelt laugh. It had too long since either of them had enjoyed some friendly company. As the two alicorn's laughter began to die down, Princess Celestia composed herself and produced an affectionate smile. "How wonderful it is to hear you laugh again, Twilight Sparkle." The Princess of the Sun mused with much fondness. "In light of our kingdoms most recent challenges, it is good to see you are in high spirits once again." Twilight Sparkle gave a small blush. "...Princess?" said the young alicorn after a short pause. "I just wanted to say... thank you. For all of this. I really needed something to get my mind off of everything that's happened recently. These past few months have been pretty crazy." Princess Celestia wrapped a wing around the smaller princess and gently pulled her in for a warm embrace. "We both did," she whispered softly. "With Princess Luna attending to her duties, there's nopony I'd rather spend an evening with star-gazing than my favorite student." "Student?" Twilight grinned. "Ex-student," the princess corrected herself with a smile. "How could I forget?" Twilight Sparkle giggled and snuggled into her former mentor's chest. "Thank you, Princess. You don't know how much this means to me." "Think nothing of it, Twilight. You will always hold a special place in my heart." The two friends held their embrace for a long time. When at last the two parted, Princess Celestia noticed a sad glimmer in her former-student's eyes not for the first time that night. Princess Celestia noted the look, but continued to smile. If her former-student had something to share with her, she was confident she would share it in her own time. "Princess..." the younger alicorn said after a short pause. "This has been wonderful... but there's another reason I came to Canterlot besides to see you." The sun-goddess lifted a brow. "Oh?" The purple alicorn nodded. "But it's... hard to explain..." Princess Celestia offered a reassuring smile. "I had a feeling there was something more to our visit than you initially described. Please, feel free to collect your thoughts before you decide to share them." The purple alicorn opened her mouth to reply, but was swiftly interrupted by a firm knock on the doors to Celestia's chamber. "Um, Twilight?" came a muffled, yet distinctly familiar voice from beyond the set of doors. "Are you in there?" Twilight Sparkle and her former mentor turned to the doors. "That... sounded like Spike." Twilight chuckled sheepishly. "I suppose he wants to know why our "meeting" has been taking so long." The taller alicorn nodded in agreement. "It would not be wise to keep him waiting. I hear dragon's have quite the temperament." Twilight rolled her eyes. "Spike? Yeah, right. But I guess you have a point. I should probably get going. I have a meeting tomorrow morning with Mayor Mare and I need to be fully rested if I'm going to make it on time. Hopefully Starlight Glimmer and Trixie haven't burned down the castle while I was gone. Those two can be quite the hoofull at times, if you know what I mean." Princess Celestia chuckled and began to escort the younger princess off her balcony. "I'm certain that your pupil and her friend have conducted themselves appropriately in your absence." she said as they made their way towards her chamber doors. "Now, I believe you were in the process of telling me something?" Her former student's eyes went wide. "Oh. Right. It's... nothing important, on second thought." The older alicorn lifted a brow. "It didn't seem that way mere seconds ago." "It's nothing, Princess, really. I'd rather not talk about it right now and ruin a perfectly good night." Princess Celestia withheld a skeptical look for several moments, but honored the younger's request by giving a firm nod. "Very well. But promise me that you will share your concerns with another should they continue to bother you. I am always available to hear whatever it may be that is on your mind should you need an ear to listen." Twilight Sparkle gave a smile. "Thank you, Princess. That means a lot to me." "Think nothing of it. I'll always be here for you should you need me." Twilight nodded thankfully and followed the taller alicorn to her chamber doors. As the sun princess opened them for her former student, Twilight was greeted by her faithful assistant, Spike the dragon. The young drake was flanked by a twin set of royal guards. "Hey, Twilight! I didn't get you at a bad time, did I?" the dragon asked, thoughtfully. The lavender alicorn shook her head. "You were just in time. Princess Celestia was just about to retire for the night. Your timing was perfect!" The dragon breathed a sigh of relief and gave a smile. "Hiya, Princess!" he waved at the taller alicorn standing behind Twilight Sparkle. The princess smiled back and gave a nod. "Spike. And how are you this evening?" "Ah, I can't complain. Picked up some coffee and donuts from Donut Joe's on the way over here. I'll probably be awake for a few days!” Princess Celestia chuckled and gave the young drake a wink. "That should make for quite the interesting dilemma when you and Twilight retire for the night. I suppose that means I should leave you to it. Goodnight, Spike." she turned to her former student and gave another smile. "Goodnight, Twilight Sparkle." The purple alicorn smiled back. "Goodnight, Princess." With the pleasantries exchanged, Princess Celestia closed the doors to her chambers and left the two alone with the guards outside in the long, empty hallway. "Let's go Spike." Twilight said as soon as the doors had closed. "It's probably best if we hit the hay sooner rather than later." Spike waved a claw nonchalantly and began walking. The royal guards silently followed suit. "Eh, I'm fine. Sugar rush won't wear off for a couple of hours. So how was your meeting with Princess Celestia? Did you go over important friendship lessons for the summer school program you're planning next semester?" Twilight cleared her throat and replied; "We, uh... talked about it for a little while..." Spike raised an eyebrow. "Is that princess lingo for 'we got bored to death and decided to do something fun instead?'" Twilight's eyes widened as a shade of pink adorned her cheeks. "It wasn't like that!" "Aw, c'mon, Twilight!" Spike said thoughtfully. "You've got nothing to be ashamed of! If there's one pony in Equestria that needed a quick vacation, it's you. You've been on non-stop princess duty since Star Swirl the bearded and his crew got back from limbo! Not to mention the fact that you opened a school only a few weeks after the Storm King invaded Equestria. Honestly, I'm more surprised it's taken you this long to schedule some free time for yourself. Well, mostly free time, anyway." The Princess regarded her assistant with an uplifted brow. "Mostly?" "Yeah, well... you talked to the Princess about that thing you mentioned to me, right?" Not for the first time that night, Twilight's eyes went comically wide. "Oh. Well, we, uh..." The princess gave a sigh and hung her head. "Forget it. No, Spike, I didn't tell her about the dream." Spike gave his sister a look of genuine surprise. "Really? I thought that was the reason you came to Canterlot to see Princess Celestia in the first place." The lavender alicorn gave another sigh. "I know, Spike. It's just... I had this weird feeling about it, that's all. Besides, it was just a dream." The young drake gave a frown. "Just a dream? It's been keeping you awake for days." "If it continues to bother me, I'll talk to Luna!" Twilight snapped in a near-growl. When the dragon blinked in surprise, the alicorn cleared her throat and said; "I'm sorry, Spike. I shouldn't have snapped at you like that. I'm just tired, that's all. We should get to bed as soon as possible. We have a big day tomorrow starting with that meeting with Mayor Mare. We'll need plenty of rest if we're going to make it through the day alright." Spike managed a nod. "Okay, Twilight. I-if you say so." With that, the two friends allowed themselves to be escorted by the guards to their guest chambers where they spent the rest of the night fast asleep, blissfully unaware of the turbulent events happening in space...
Chapter III - "A Phantom Menace"Chapter III - "A Phantom Menace" Agent Kallus stood on the bridge of the Resurgence with a handful of other Imperial Officers going over data from the space battle that concluded some hours before. As the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind them, Agent Kallus glanced over his shoulder and stood at attention as the Inquisitor walked in with his hands folded behind his back. "What seems to be the situation, Agent?" he asked, joining them at their table. "How goes the search for our two missing vessels?" "TS-25d has already begun transmitting coordinates, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus replied. "We will know of the location of the Ghost soon enough. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the rebel command ship that our tractor beam failed to capture. All attempts thus far to calculate its trajectory have proven to be futile." Admiral Konstantine cleared his throat and subtly tugged his collar. "...I see." said the Inquisitor as be began to stroke his chin. "Then we must focus our efforts on processing the rebel prisoners we have managed to capture while we await the final destination of the so called, 'Ghost'. Perhaps by then we will have extracted the information we need from them and located our final missing vessel." "If I may interrupt," came the voice of Admiral Konstantine. "Lieutenant Lyste has already secured the last of the rebel escape pods and begun transferring their passengers to the brig now. Shall I have them brought to you for interrogation?" The Inquisitor turned to Admiral Konstantine and waved his hand. "Go. Bring them to me." The Admiral gave a quick nod and went to do as he was told. "Agent Kallus," the Inquisitor said after a brief moment of silence. "These rebels you've encountered... what do you think of them?" Agent Kallus exchanged glances with a fellow Imperial Officer before switching his attention back to the Inquisitor. "They are brilliant and resourceful, Inquisitor." he boldly replied. "They will not surrender without a fight." The Inquisitor leaned forward and studied the holographic images of the Ghost crew as they came up on the projector table in front him. "Good..." he whispered to himself. "Very good..." The Ghost sailed through hyperspace as the doors to its lounge whooshed open, allowing Hera Syndulla and Sabine Wren to step inside. Kanan Jarrus and Ezra Bridger were already there, along with Garazeb Orrelios and C1-10p (who was better known as Chopper). As the two women made their way across the room towards the rest of the crew, Kanan nudged Ezra in the shoulder who in turn did the same to Zeb. "What's the word?" asked Kanan, straightening up in his seat as soon as everyone was paying attention. "Well," replied Hera, crossing her arms. "I have good news, bad news, and very bad news." "Lets start with the good news," said Kanan, leaning back in his chair. "The good news is, we're safely away from the Empire for the time being." "And the bad news?" "We..." Hera cast a glance towards Sabine. "Won't be for long." Hera pressed a button on the holo transceiver in front of her. A complete holographic schematic of the Ghost popped up along with a 3D rendering of the entire vessel a millisecond later. "Our systems have detected a bug on our hull," Hera pointed to a blinking red dot near the auxiliary deck of the holographic model. "The Empire is most likely tracking our signal. Soon they'll be able to calculate our trajectory and follow us through hyperspace." Ezra and Zeb exchanged glances as Kanan crossed his arms. "We can live with that." he said. "We've outmaneuvered the Empire before. We can do it again. What's the really bad news?" Sabine stepped forward and pointed to another area of the Ghost which instantly began blinking the moment her finger hovered over the location. "The Ghost's life support took a hit," she said. "In roughly an hour and thirty minutes, there won't be enough oxygen in here to keep any of us alive." "Okay..." Ezra began rubbing the back of his neck. "That's bad. Can we land somewhere and make repairs?" Hera put up her hand and stepped up beside Sabine. "That's not all," she said. "Our hyperdrive's leaking coolant. Once we manually jump out of hyperspace, we won't be able to recharge the hyperdrive and get back into lightspeed if the Empire catches up with us. Not only that, but we're losing power, too. We need a new motivator." "Great..." Zeb rolled his eyes. "I'm guessing that's just as bad as it sounds. Is there anything we can do about it?" "We're doing it." Sabine replied. "We need to discuss our options and come to a decision." "Okay," said Kanan. "What're our options?" "We can wait until our scanners pick up a planet in our flight path and jump out of hyperspace to make repairs," Hera replied. "But that's a gamble as we won't know if the planet we land on is inhabited or not or if it has the technology to assist us." "Wait," Ezra spoke up. "What about the Phantom? It has a hyperdrive too, right? Can't we use it to find help?" "Nuh-uh," Sabine shook her head. "The Phantom won't do us any good. It got hit during the pickup. Power's out." "Great..." Zeb rolled his eyes again. "So what you're all saying is that we need to either find a planet to land on within the time span of an hour and thirty minutes, or otherwise we all die?" Chopper made a comment in binary and gave a quick chuckle. "Yeah..." growled Zeb. "...everybody but Chopper." "Sleemo," muttered Ezra, banging Chopper on the head. The droid whipped out a taser extension from his roughly-cylinder shaped dome and zapped the youth in retaliation. Ezra yelped in surprised, but followed up with a kick to droid's side. Kanan rolled his eyes and moved to intervene, but something in his peripheral vision caught his attention. The blinking red dot that represented the tracking device on the hull of their holographic ship had begun to move. "What the...?" Kanan narrowed his eyes, leaning forward in his seat to get a better look. "Is that thing moving, or is it just me? Hera glanced away from the commotion between Ezra and Chopper and followed Kanan's gaze. She lifted a brow as the blinking red dot made it's way to the rear of the ship and stopped just above the engines. Before she could react, something happened. The Ghost suddenly dropped out of hyperspace with a violent rattle. "What was that?" asked Sabine cautiously as she picked herself off the ground after being thrown off balance by the troubling event. "Did we just drop out of hyperspace?" Hera scrambled to her feet and pointed in Ezra's direction. "Ezra, I need you, Zeb, and Chopper in the engine room right now! We need to know what just happened to our engines! Kanan, Sabine, you're with me!" As Hera rushed towards the cockpit, the members of the Ghost crew quickly exchanged glances. "Are we deaf?" Sabine shouted, looking around. "Let's move!" The crew burst into action and split up into their separate groups. As Hera raced to the cockpit along with Kanan and Sabine, the Ghost's artificial gravity gave way and sent them floating into the air. "Uh... Hera?" Kanan said. "I think something's wrong." "Ya think?!" Sabine cried, catching a bar on the ladder in front of her to prevent herself from floating down the hallway. "Keep pushing towards the cockpit!" Hera cried, using an indent on the wall to propel her forward. "We need to find out what's happening to the ship!" As the three friends made their way into the cockpit and hovered over the controls, Hera began to diagnose the problem on the ships computer. It didn't take long for the Ghost to highlight the root of the problem and relay it to the monitor. Hera narrowed her eyes as the information came up on her screen. The diagnosis made it clear what was happening. "Sabotaged," she muttered. "Come again?" said Kanan, looking up from the instruments in front of him. "That stealth fighter didn't tag us with a tracking device," Hera replied. "I think it tagged us with something worse—a small sabotage droid capable of disabling the Ghost by itself." "Sabotage droid?" asked Kanan, floating over to Hera. "You mean like a buzzdroid? Haven't had to deal with those since the Clone Wars. They can do some serious damage, if given the time." "That's not all they can do now," Hera replied. "These imperial buzzdroids have built in homing beacons. They can transmit a signal through hyperspace and lead Empire straight to us. If even half the things I've heard about them are true, we're lucky the hyperdrive is all we've lost so far." "Wait, wait, wait, Buzzdroids with hyperspace tracking beacons?" asked Sabine with an upraised brow. "That's some serious technology—even for the Empire." "I doubt they developed it themselves." Kanan muttered. "Probably extorted the CCN for its schematics during the Balmorran invasion some years ago. Whatever the case, this buzzdroid's going to strand us out here unless we do something. No doubt it's next move will be to kill the power." "Then we have to act now," Hera replied, narrowing her eyes. "If we're going to prevent a full system shutdown, we need to reset—" The lights and computers in the cockpit flickered off before she could finish her sentence. A moment later, the Ghost's engines followed suit. The ship was completely dead. "...So much for that idea." Hera muttered. She quickly turned her attention back to the controls in front of her and tried a few buttons. “Everything’s dead. We’re completely offline!" "What about the external scanners?" suggested Sabine. “Don't they run on a separate battery?" Kanan turned to Sabine and gave a confused look. "External scanners? What for?” "Sabine is suggesting we use the external scanners to locate the buzzdroid." replied Hera with a sigh. "Unfortunately, the external scanners share an auxiliary cell with the life support system. We can't use one without taking power away from the other." "But we could use it to locate the buzzdroid, right?" said Kanan, turning to Hera. "You're sure about that?" "Yes," Hera answered, rolling her eyes. "But as I told you, that would take away power from the life support system—which I'm sure you know is already low as it is!" "It won't use much power to operate the scanners," Sabine argued. "Besides, we need to deal with this Buzzdroid now, or we'll never be able to get the power back online before the Empire catches up with us!" "I agree," said Kanan. "Nothing we do here will matter unless we deal with that buzzdroid first. This is our only chance to save the Ghost." Hera closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "You’re right. We don’t have a choice. Sabine, access the auxiliary mainframe on the panel outside the cockpit. Once you've diverted power from the life support systems to the external scanners, I'll use the display up here to imitate a scan of the ship. Kanan will standby with a life-support suit to deploy once the buzzdroid has been located." "Sounds good," said Kanan. "I'll grab a stormtrooper helmet from Ezra's cabin. That should save me more time than putting on a spacesuit." "Good thinking, Kanan." Hera said, giving a nod. "Now let's do this!" Kanan and Sabine went to do as they were told. As Kanan floated down the hallway towards Ezra's cabin to retrieve a stormtrooper helmet, Sabine stayed behind to access the control panel outside the cockpit. When Kanan returned with a stormtrooper helmet a few moments later, he found Sabine working the controls of the mainframe in what appeared to be a successful manner. "How's it coming?" asked Kanan as he floated up to Sabine. "I just finished diverting power to the external scanners." Sabine replied. "Hera should see them coming online any moment now!" Kanan gave a smirk and put a hand on Sabine's shoulder. "Good work, Sabine. Let's see what Hera picks up on the scanners." Sabine nodded and followed Kanan as he floated back into the cockpit. There they watched as Hera worked on the controls in front of her. "What's the word?" asked Kanan as he floated behind the concentrating Twi'lek. "Did you find what we're looking for?" "No," Hera replied. "Somethings wrong." Kanan and Sabine exchanged glances. "What is it?" asked Sabine with a nervous expression. "I don't know," the Twi'lek replied. "I can't seem to run a scan on the ship. I'm picking up a lot of interference from a nearby planet." Kanan lifted a brow. "A nearby planet? That can't be right..." The ex-Jedi narrowed his eyes and looked intensely at the data coming up on the screen in front of them. "We've got to be at least a hundred parsecs from the nearest system. There shouldn't be anything out here but open space." "Yeah, well, tell that to the scanners." answered Sabine, crossing her arms. "Unless," the teenager continued, pointing to something outside the cockpit window. "You want to tell it to the planet itself." Kanan Jarrus and Hera Syndulla followed Sabine's gaze only to freeze at the sight before them. There, looming majestically beyond the viewport before them, was a beautiful planet all by itself with a miniature sun and a moon orbiting around it like a sattelite. As the three members of the Ghost made their way to window to get a better look at the unusual sight, Ezra and Zeb floated into the cockpit behind them. "Hera, we have a problem!" Ezra exclaimed as he and Lasat hovered over to the other members of the crew. "The engines are completely dead, and nothing we do--wait, what are you guys looking at?" The Lasat and the boy quickly exchanged glances before hovering over to the other three members of the crew and joining them in gazing out the window. "This planet match anything on record?" asked Kanan after a moment of awe-inspired silence. "Not that I'm aware of." Sabine replied. Ezra narrowed his eyes and lifted a brow. "Is it getting bigger, or are we getting closer?" The members of the Ghost exchanged glances. "Karabast..." Zeb muttered. "We're going to crash, aren't we?" "Everybody, strap in!" Hera cried, pushing them away from the window of the cockpit. "Get to your seats before—" The Ghost slammed into the planet's atmosphere. Immediately, natural gravity began to take affect on everything in the ship. Once the members of the Ghost crew had recovered from the initial impact, they scrambled into their respective seats around the cockpit and began to work the nearby controls. "We're burning up!" Sabine exclaimed as the Ghost shook violently in the planets atmosphere. "We have no shields to protect the hull!" "Shields are the least of our worries!" cried Hera from behind the ships main controls. "If we don't get that power back online soon, we won't have anything to slow us down before we reach the surface!" "You mean there isn't anything you can do to slow us down?" yelled Kanan. "No wind flaps? No emergency thrusters? Heck, not even parachutes?!" "No!" Hera snapped. "There isn't anything I can do! We're going to crash—and hard!" The members of the Ghost watched in complete horror as the Ghost barely made it through the atmosphere and began to plummet towards the ground. Through the viewport, they could see a large forest on the surface rapidly increasing in size as they screamed towards it. At the speeds they were going, death was most certainly imminent. As the Ghost continued to rumble and shake as it fell, Kanan closed his eyes and tried to find peace in the force. Master Billaba had said something about finding that all those years ago on Kaller. In peace, there was focus, and in focus; a plan. "Ezra," said Kanan calmly, opening his eyes. "I need you to help me with something." "Help you?!" The boy replied. "With what?!" "The Ghost is already falling too fast for anything to stop it—even if we did manage to get the power back online. But there is a way we can still save our skins! I need you to use the force! We're going to cushion the Ghost!" "What?!" Ezra cried. "Kanan, I can hardly cushion a person, not to mention an entire spaceship!" "Don't argue with me, Ezra! I need you to focus! Find the harmony beyond the chaos! Find the force!" Ezra took a deep breath and closed his eyes. As he and Kanan stretched out their hands, the Ghost began slow down in mid-air. It did not stop completely as Ezra willed to make it, but eventually the Ghost slowed down enough that it wouldn't vaporize the moment it slammed into the surface. "Kanan, we're leveling out!" Ezra cried, overjoyed. "We're actually doing it!" "Hang on!" Hera tightened her grip on the yoke. "It's still going to be a rough landing!" Kanan peeked open one of his eyes. The Ghost began to pull up as it approached the canvas of the large forest. As the ship skimmed the tree tops of the alien woods, Kanan reached out into the Force with all of his strength to cushion the inevitable impact of the Ghost as much as he could. Would it be enough? Kanan didn't know. All he knew is that he could try his best and wait to see if his efforts would be for naught. 'Five hundred feet...' Kanan thought, mentally preparing himself for the impact. 'Four hundred feet... three hundred... two hundred... one hundred!' He squeezed his eye shut. The Ghost touched down. Caleb Dume sat across from his Master, Depa Billaba, on the hard rocky floor of a cave beneath a battlefield withhis legs crossed and his hands folded across his lap. As the two Jedi attempted to meditate in the midst of the battle taking place above them, Caleb Dume peeked open one of his eyes to see if his master was doing the same. Master Billaba did not show any signs of weariness, causing the young padawan learner who was experiencing such things to sigh and rest his cheeks against his knuckles "Caleb Dume," said Master Billaba without opening her eyes. "I believe you're missing the point of this exercise." "I just don't get it," Caleb muttered. "Why are we trying to meditate beneath a war zone? Isn't the point of meditation to find peace?" Master Billaba's face remained neutral. "Beyond all chaos, there his harmony," she replied, her voice calm and quiet. "Beyond all discord, there is order." Caleb Dume rolled his eyes. "What is that supposed to mean?" Master Billaba opened one of her eyes and lifted a brow before closing it and continuing her meditation. "Chaos is a word we use to label that which we cannot associate with order. When something we perceive as random or chaotic emerges, we explain it away as unexplainable. This is not true with the Force. The Force explains everything that exists. It explains to us who we are, what we are doing here, and where we are headed on our journey in the galaxy. Everything has a purpose. Nothing is truly random. Everything exists collectively as part of a greater life force. No one can truly choose their own destiny, Caleb Dume. All is only as the Force wills it." Caleb muttered again. "I still don't get it." Master Depa Billaba smiled, but kept her eyes closed. "Nothing is an accident," she said. "Everything is in accordance with the Force's greater will. Always remember this, Caleb; There is no chaos, only harmony. There is no death, only the force." Caleb lifted a brow and continued to stare at his master. He could still hear the battle raging on the battlefield above them, but somehow Master Billaba was still deep in peaceful meditation. Caleb sighed to himself and took a deep breath. "There is no chaos, there is harmony..." he whispered to himself, closing his eyes. "No chaos... only the Force." Kanan Jarrus groaned as his eyes slowly blinked open, revealing the bottom of a bunk that he quickly identified as Zeb's aboard the Ghost. He sat up as soon as he was capable of doing so and attempted to calm the raging headache he had awoken with by grasping the sides of his head with his two hands. As his pain began to subside after a minute or so of doing so, Kanan scanned his surrounding only to find that he wasn't alone in the dimly lit room. Hera sat across from him in a chair next to a desk in the corner of the room with a solar lantern in her lap that appeared to be the only source of light in the dark cabin. The exhausted Twi-lek was resting her head agaisnt her arm on the desk—probably getting some shut-eye as she watched over Kanan. However, as the ex-Jedi attempted to slip out of his bunk without awakening her, Hera quickly took notice and got up with the lantern in order to stop him. "Easy," she said, placing her right hand on his left shoulder as he dangled he legs over the edge of the bunk. "You have a concussion. I wasn't sure you'd wake up anytime soon." "Ugh... I'm starting to wish I hadn't," the ex-Jedi replied, holding his temples. "Where is everybody?" "They're downstairs in the cargo hold. They're trying to restore power to the ramp so we can exit the Ghost." Kanan groaned again, leaning into his palms as his head continued to pulse. "I had a dream..." he said. "I saw... how long have I been out?" "Three hours, give or take a few minutes." Hera replied. "You're lucky we had a bacta pack nearby or else you might have been out much longer." "Yeah, lucky me." Kanan attempted to stand. This time Hera did not stop him. As the ex-Jedi began to feel his strength returning to him, Hera stood nearby ready to catch him in case he fell. "How go the repairs?" Kanan asked bluntly as he slowly started towards the door of the room. "I'm not very optimistic," Hera admitted. "But I could honestly care less about the Ghost. Everybody's okay. That's all that matters, as far I'm concerned." "And getting off the ship, apparently." Kanan smirked. "You're the only one who stayed to watch over me, remember?" Hera frowned, unamused. "You know that isn't fair, Kanan. Or funny." "Sorry. Just trying to make light of the situation." Kanan and Hera stepped through the doorway and made their way down the hall to a small catwalk above the cargo hold of the Ghost where Ezra, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper were working by another solar lantern on a control panel in the wall next to a button that functioned to lower the ramp when the Ghost was operational. "What's the situation?" Kanan asked, leaning against the guardrail of the catwalk as the remaining members of the Ghost crew looked up. "Kanan!" Ezra cried, a smile crossing his face. "You're awake!" "How's the head?" asked Sabine, putting down her tools as the ex-Jedi leaped over the guardrail and started towards them. "I'll live," Kanan replied, stopping in front of them and glancing towards the control panel they were working on. "You close to restoring the power yet?" "Not anytime soon," Zeb muttered. "Sabine's been trying to wire power over from one of the solar lanterns in order to lower the ramp, but we're gettin' nowhere, if you ask me. Ship's as dead as a sea born mynock. We're better off using the lanterns for warmth until we fix the climate controls in case this planet gets cold after dark." "I doubt it will," said Sabine as she turned back to the control panel on the wall and began to work on it again. "Before the auxiliary cells died, the scanners indicated normal temperatures outside. The air seems to be breathable too, which is a good thing considering our life support died hours ago. If it weren't for air leaking in, we'd be dead already. Now if only we could get this ramp down..." "Leave that to us," said Kanan, smirking to Ezra as he and the youth approached the ramp. "We can lower it if we use the force. You mentioned breathable air outside? What does that mean we should be expecting? Nothing toxic, I presume, right?" "Hard to tell," Sabine shrugged. "We could all be slowly dying, as far as I know. Based on the readings I got before the cells died, we're in some kind of forest or swamp. Judging from the view of the cockpit, it's either or. Honestly, though, Kanan, at this point it doesn't matter. We're not going anywhere even if we want to. Hera and I can testify to that." Kanan's smile vanished into a frown as the seriousness of situation began to get to him. "I'll be sure to lower my expectations then," he muttered. "Ezra, you ready?" The young Jedi took a deep breath then nodded. "Ready!" "Alright. On three. One... two... three!" Both the student and the teacher extended their hands toward the ramp and began to concentrate. As the Force began to effectively lower the ramp with relative ease, Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper rolled behind the forcer users and readied their equipment for the environment outside. They would need to be prepared for whatever existed beyond the ramp. Their very survival depended on it. At last the ramp creaked all the way open and came crashing down on a grassy, woodland floor. As the Ghost crew started down the ramp with Ezra and Kanan taking they lead, they took in the sight of a dark, murky forest surrounding them in all directions. "Okay..." said Ezra as he and the rest of the crew stopped at the bottom of the ramp, glancing in all directions. "This isn't creepy at all." "Not as creepy as that nest of Krykna Spiders on Atollon," Zeb muttered. "High marks for finding a close second, though." "Yeah..." said Sabine, upholstering her blasters. "I have a bad feeling about this." Kanan narrowed his eyes and took a few steps forward. A strange, unnatural fog seemed to cover the floor of the entire forest. It swarmed around his legs and sent a shiver up his spine. He knew the feeling well. "Ezra," Kanan asked, glancing over his shoulder at the boy. "Do you feel that?" "I-I think so," Ezra replied, walking over to Kanan. "What is it?" "It's the dark side." Kanan frowned. "The Force is strong on this planet. It's especially strong here with the dark side. We have to be on our guard." Chopper rolled up behind the two Jedi and began to use his scanners. After a moment or two of silence, the droid spoke in his strange binary language and let his comrades know what he found. "Hyperspace radio signals?" said Hera, lifting a brow. "Where from?" The droid turned around and gestured with one of his arms towards the Ghost. "The Ghost?" said Zeb. "That doesn't make any sense. She's completely offline!" Suddenly, the clanks of miniature droid legs on the hull of the Ghost caught the Ghost crew's attention. As the crew wheeled around towards the Ghost, a small black droid with three red eyes climbed over the wing of the ship and hissed at them as they spotted him. "Buzzdroid!" Sabine exclaimed, leveling her blasters at the mechanical pest. "Probably the one that took us down!" Kanan cried, reaching for his lightsaber. "Don't let him escape!" The imperial buzzdroid quickly dodged the first flurry of blaster bolts that Sabine hurled at it and jumped down onto the floor of the forest. As the droid took off into the woods using the fog on the ground as cover, Kanan ignited his lightsaber along with Ezra and started after it. "You guys stay here and set up camp! We'll go after that buzzdroid and stop him from sending a signal!" "Kanan, wait!" Sabine cried. But the ex-Jedi and his padawan had already taken off. "Blast it!" she swore, holstering her blasters. "They don't even know where they're going!" "As long as they stick together," said Hera, placing her hand on Sabine's shoulder. "They'll be fine. In the mean time, we better do as we're told and set up the camp so we have something to eat when they get back. Zeb, how soon do you think we can have a fire going?" "Let me check," Zeb replied, leveling his rifle at a bush in front of him. The foliage burst into flames when he pulled the trigger. "About two seconds," the lasat chuckled. "Who's hungry?" Kanan raced after the imperial buzzdroid through the dense alien forest he and his crew had found themselves in. With Ezra Bridger following closely behind, Kanan weaved through a mess of trees and greenery that would have otherwise proved to be quite the obstacles had it not been for his lightsaber. He used to his senses to guide him through the forest as it was virtually impossible to navigate through the darkness any other way. As Kanan sliced through a wall of tree branches in his path, he watched the buzzdroid ahead of him crest a miniature hill and disappear from sight. 'I'm really starting to hate this guy,' Kanan thought to himself as crested the hill himself and caught sight of the buzzdroid tucking in his legs and rolling away. "Ezra!" Kanan barked as his young padawan jumped over a root and landed some feet in of him. "The droid's curled up into some kind of rolling ball-thingy! Try to cut him off before he gets away!" The youth turned to his master and nodded before breaking right and disappearing into the woods. 'Now's my chance,' Kanan thought to himself as he took a deep breath and pushed forward. With a single burst of speed, Kanan nearly caught up with the buzzdroid who was now only a few feet ahead of him. As he slowly began to close the final gap between himself and the droid, the buzzdroid suddenly rolled through a gap between two enormous trees that was too narrow for Kanan to fit through. By the time Kanan had drawn his blaster and taken aim at the droid, it was already too late. The buzzdroid disappeared from sight. "Ezra!" Kanan cried into the comlink on his wrist. "I lost the droid! It's up to you now to stop him!" After the boy's voice came back in acknowledgement, Kanan dropped to his knees and began to catch his breath. Meanwhile, Ezra narrowed his eyes as he spotted the buzz droid rolling towards him and prepared his trap. The plan he had concocted on the spot was to cut the buzz droid in half as it rolled by him unsuspectingly. As the buzzdroid rolled past Ezra's hiding place, he leaped out of the bushes he was hiding in and swung his lightsaber. Although the executed move was flawless and should have rendered a clean kill, the droid made a slight deviation in its course at the last second and caused the surprise attack to fail. 'Great,' Ezra thought to himself as he rolled his eyes. 'So much for that idea.' Ezra took off after the droid once again, although now at a disadvantage. The droid was faster than Ezra could hope to keep up with, so he had to come up with something fast before the buzzdroid escaped him for good. At last he got an idea and planted his feet on the ground for a mighty leap. He knew he would only get one shot at the droid, but he figured if it worked, one shot would be all he needed. As he literally sprang into action, he came down with his lightsaber atop the droid and sliced him down the middle. The droid's two halves rolled together for a short distance before crashing into a tree and coming to a stop. As Ezra slid to a halt beside them, he took a moment to catch his breath before sighing in relief and contacting Kanan via comlink. "Kanan," Ezra breathed. "I got him." "Good work, Ezra," Kanan's voice came back over the com. "I'll meet you back at the camp. Use your comlink to lock onto Chopper's signal. I'll see you there." "Got it. Ezra, out." The youth switched off his comlink and put his lightsaber on his belt. He looked up towards to sky to see if he could tell the time, only to find that the few streaks of sunlight peering through the canopy overhead were fading slowly with every passing second. 'Must be some time in the evening,' Ezra thought as he prepared himself to leave. But something caught his attention in the corner of his eye before he had the chance to set out. A basket. That is what he saw. A primitive, straw-like basket made out of sticks and twigs. The basket was laying on its side with a lovely mess of flowers spilling out of it as if someone had dropped it in a hurry and simply left it there some minutes before. Ezra lifted a brow and approached the basket. He glanced around to see if there was anyone lingering about, but found no one in particular doing so. After scanning the area for about minute, Ezra kneeled down and picked up a pretty pink flower from the basket that reminded him of Sabine. He debated in his head whether or not he should present it to her, considering the fact that she was a Mandalorian and probably uninterested in such things. But still it was a flower, and although Ezra didn't know much about romance, he was pretty sure that most girls liked flowers. Ezra shrugged and made his decision. He took the flower and was about to be on his way when all of a sudden he was distracted by a pair of large, beautiful turquoise eyes peering at him from a bush just a few feet away from the basket. Ezra immediately dropped the flower and reached for his lightsaber, but he paused when he noticed the eyes in the bushes back away from him out of fear. Whatever it was, it was afraid. "Sorry," Ezra smiled, relieved that the creature meant him no harm. "I'm just a little jumpy right now, that's all." The creature stayed put as Ezra went on to pick up the flowers and put them back in the basket. As soon as he was finished, he set the basket down and pushed it towards the creature with a smile still plastered on his face. "Don't worry," Ezra chuckled as the creature retreated further back. "It's just a basket of flowers. See?" Ezra removed a single flower from the basket and breathed in its pleasant aroma. "Just a flower. Probably tastes good, too. Want one?" The creature paused. It inched forward after a moment, revealing the silhouette of a four-legged creature as it neared the light. "That's it. Nothing to be afraid of. Do you know who these flowers belong to?" The creature paused again. After another few moments, it slowly nodded its head much to Ezra's surprise. "Wait, you can understand me?" The creature nodded again. "Well," Ezra smirked. "if you know who these flowers belong to, then maybe you can return them for me." The creature shook its head and took a step back. "No? Well, I can't take them with me if they belong to someone. I have to get back to my camp before the others—" Ezra paused when the creature's eyes suddenly shrunk to the size of pinpricks and retreated back into cover. As Ezra lifted and a brow and moved to stand up, he felt a shadow cast over him which sent a shiver down his spine. Ezra was about to turn around to investigate what could be the cause, but all of a sudden a massive tail swiped him off his feet and sent him flying into the air. Ezra cried out in pain as he smashed into a tree and fell to the ground, holding his right arm. His comlink had been smashed to pieces from the impact, but that was of little concern to him at the moment. What concerned him more was the creature coming at him right now with murderous intent. Ezra couldn't believe his eyes. The creature was large—larger than many of the creatures Ezra had faced in his time. It's tail looked like that of a devaronian scorpion with a stinger as pointy as a sarlaac's beak. Its teeth were sharp and jagged, much like a lothian lions, but its eyes were what caught Ezra's attention the most. They were wild and fierce, untamed by neither man or beast. He doubted he would be able to make a force connection with it in time to save his life. He was doomed. "No, no, no!" Ezra cried as the creature began to approach him. "Stay away from me! Good kitty! Nice kitty! Ahh!" Ezra squeezed his eyes shut and prepared for the worst, but then something unexpected happened. A feminine voice, gentle with a stern tone, spoke up and caught both Ezra and the creature's attention. "You!" came the voice in front of Ezra. "Just who do you think you are, big mister?! Pushing those who are smaller than you around like that!" Ezra peaked open one his eyes and found a butter-yellow equine species hovering between the creature and him with a pair of wings on its back and pink flowing mane. "You should be ashamed of yourself!" the voice continued, evidentially from the equine. "Why, I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you've been up to! A large manticore like yourself shouldn't be hunting poor innocent creatures like the nice young boy you just assaulted! Now apologize right now and don't you ever let me catch you doing this again!" The savage creature, who at this point was nothing more than a whimpering mess, slunk away from the equine with its tail between its legs. It quickly replied with a low, apologetic growl, then took off into the woods without looking back. Ezra stared in awe as the equine creature wheeled around and landed next to him with a look of deep concern on her face. "Oh, my! You're not hurt too badly, are you? Oh, this is all my fault! If only I hadn't been so shy earlier I might have been able to stop that manticore from hurting you at all! Poor thing!" Ezra forgot about cradling his left arm and stared into the large, turquoise eyes of the compassionate equine standing before him. He pushed himself up a little using his legs to press his back against the tree behind him until he was completely at eye level with his rescuer. "Oh, my! Is your arm okay?" the equine gasped when she noticed that the device on his wrist was broken. "Let me look at that for you! I have more experience with arms than most ponies do!" The equine extended a hoof and took Ezra's arm to inspect it. She seemed puzzled by the comlink that had been destroyed on Ezra's arm by the manticore, but she was smart enough to notice that it wasn't an actual part of his body when she took a closer look. As she scanned up and down Ezra's arm with her gaze, Ezra continued to stare at her with awe and curiosity. Without a doubt, she was the most beautiful equine species he had ever laid eyes upon. She was also the only sentient equine he had ever encountered, too. He knew he should have said some word of thanks by now by, but for some reason his tongue was tied. At last he managed to say something as she plucked a large leaf from a tree behind her and began wrapping his wrist. "Uh... thanks." said Ezra, still a bit dazed from the whole experience. "I thought I was done for. Guess I owe you one." "Oh, no!" The equine shook her head. "You don't owe me anything! It's my fault you got hurt in the first place! If only I wasn't so shy, none of this would have happened!" Ezra relaxed slightly and offered the equine a comforting smile. "Hey, don't beat yourself up over it. I've had worse than that guy try to kill me before. Believe me. I've been through a lot" The equine paused and gave Ezra a sympathetic look before noticing his smile and responding in kind. "Well, If you say so... do... do you have a name, sir?" Ezra's eyes widened when he realized he hadn't introduced himself yet. "Oh! Sorry about that," Ezra apologized. "My name's Ezra. Ezra Bridger. And you are...?" "I'm F-Fluttershy..." she dropped her gaze and pawed the ground. "Are you.. are lost in the Everfree, Mr. Bridger?" Ezra looked at his wrist and found that his comlink was beyond repair. Without it, he knew he would be walking blindly, even with the force to guide him through the forest. "Yeah, seems like it." he muttered. "I was counting on my comlink to get me back to camp, but I don't think that's gonna happen anytime soon. I knew this was a bad idea!" "Camp? How far do you think it is from here?" "Honestly?" Ezra, tapped his chin. "Hard to tell. I can't remember which direction it is and I ran a good distance from it after that buzz droid over there. Maybe you could help me retrace my steps? You seem to know this forest pretty well." Fluttershy's eyes went wide. "You want me to lead you through the Everfree after dark? Oh, no! I can't do that! It's already getting dark! We better get inside before all the scary creatures come out!" "Scary... creatures?" Ezra lifted a brow. Fluttershy nodded. "You'd never make it to your camp in time to avoid all the danger. I was just about to leave myself before you frightened me and caused me to drop my basket. You're welcome to come with me back to my cottage though and spend the night. I mean... if you want to." Ezra glanced towards the canopy of leafs above him and watched the fading sunlight. There was no doubt in his mind that Fluttershy was right. It would be dark soon. Much darker than the forest already was. Ezra didn't like the idea of navigating blindly through the forest in the dark with only the force and his lightsaber to guide him. It didn't seem like a good idea, all things considered. "Yeah, I guess I can go with you." Ezra answered. "As long as we can set out first thing in the morning, that is. Thanks. That's two I owe you now." Fluttershy blushed and went to pick up the basket of flowers she had dropped earlier and avoided eye contact. "You really don't have to owe me anything," she said shyly, picking up the basket with her mouth. "I'm just trying to help a pony in need." Ezra smiled and started after her as she began to lead him in an unknown direction through the alien forest. He didn't know exactly what to expect next, but he was sure it would be interesting. Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper sat around a fire on the make-shift furniture they had created using the supply crates they had unloaded from the Ghost. They had been waiting for Kanan and Ezra to return for about an hour now, and the food they had just managed to cook was getting cold. "I don't like this," Sabine muttered, barely touching her food with her utensils. "It’s Jubar meat," Zeb chuckled, already on his second plate. "What’s not to like?” "Not the food, Zeb," Sabine rolled her eyes. "I mean the fact that Kanan and Ezra haven't returned yet! Don't you think they should have at least reported in by now?" Hera looked up from her food (which she herself had barely touched) and gave a defeated sigh. "Sabine... may be right. I'd be lying if I didn't admit I'm starting to get worried about them. It's almost dark now." "Oh, please!" said Zeb, finishing up the last bit of his second plate. "They've got that force thing they're always going on about. I wouldn't worry about them, too much. Uh, pass the Alderaanian seasoning, please?" Sabine gave Zeb a look before reaching over to the crate next to her and retrieving a bottle of spices for him. "Heads up," she said, tossing the spices to Zeb. "Heh, thanks." the lasat replied. Suddenly, the bushes some feet behind the ghost crew began to move. Zeb, Sabine, and Hera exchanged glances before getting up and drawing their weapons. "Kanan? Ezra? Is that you?" Hera called, leveling her blaster at the foliage. A short silence followed before Kanan suddenly emerged through the bushes and froze at the sight of his friends leveling their blasters at him. "Gee, it's great to see you too, guys!" Kanan smirked, raising his hands. "Those weapons are on stun, right?”" The members of the Ghost crew sighed in relief before lowering their weapons and allowing Kanan to enter the camp. "Good to see you, Kanan. We were beginning to get worried." Sabine said, holstering her blasters. "What'd I tell you?" the lasat smiled, crossing his arms. "Told you'd they'd be fine." "We have some rations for you by the fire," Hera said to Kanan, ignoring Zeb's remark. "Jubar meat and mashed potatoes. Hope you're hungry." "Starving, actually." Kanan replied, taking a seat by the fire. "After chasing that buzz droid through the woods, I wasn't sure if I'd be eating anytime soon. The forest is far more dangerous than I realized." "So you got the buzz droid then?" Hera passed Kanan a plate of food. "No," the ex-Jedi replied. "I fell behind. But Ezra got him. Thanks." He accepted the rations and was about to dig in when all of a sudden he paused and looked around. "Hey, where is Ezra?" Kanan asked, putting his dinner to the side and standing up. "Did any of you see him come in earlier?" Hera's face turned pale. "What?! You mean he's not with you?!" "We got separated!" Kanan replied. "I thought he was with you!" Hera shot up and began to look around. "Ezra!" she shouted. "Ezra, are you here?! Ezra!" "Karabast..." Zeb swore. "This can't be good!" Kanan frowned to himself and switched on his comlink. Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper turned to Kanan as he tried to contact the youth. "Ezra? Ezra, do you read? Ezra, come in, over! Ezra, do you copy?!" No reply. Kanan swore to himself under his breath. "He's not picking up his com. Something's wrong." "Then don't just stand there!" Sabine cried, shoving a lantern into Kanan's hands. "We have to go look for him!" "Sabine, wait!" Kanan replied, catching Sabine by the hand. "It's too dangerous to go looking for him after dark. We have to wait until morning." "What?!" "As much as I hate to leave Ezra alone out there tonight," Hera closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. "I have to agree with Kanan. It's too dangerous to go searching for him tonight. We have to wait until morning." Sabine frowned and violently pulled away from Kanan. "How can you make that decision?" she seethed. "He wouldn't do the same to you!" "He would if he was smart," Kanan replied. "Besides, I think you're giving his survival instincts less credit than they deserve. He was living on his own long before we even met him. He should be fine. In the mean time, we better get some shuteye so we can look for him in the morning. I'll have Chopper use his scanners to look for him all night." Sabine huffed and took a seat. "Fine. But we set out first thing in the morning. First thing, you hear me, Kanan?!" "Alright, alright!" Kanan replied, throwing up his arms. "You have my word. We all want him back as badly as you do, Sabine. You know that, right?" Chopper made a comment in his mechanical voice, causing the members of the Ghost crew to turn around and glare at him. "Shut up, Chopper," Kanan muttered, strolling past the droid towards the ship. "You can be a real jerk sometimes, you know that?" The droid chuckled to himself and went after the Jedi. Sabine shook her head and looked away from the others. She peered into the darkness of the woods and made a concerned expression. "Come home, Ezra," she whispered, her face now of utter concern. "Please. For my sake." "One sugar, or two?" "Two, please." Fluttershy smiled and dropped two cubes of sugar into a tea cup and put it on a tray. After pouring another cup for herself, she hovered over to Ezra and handed him his drink. "Thanks," said Ezra, accepting the teacup from the equine. "That's three I owe you now." The youth smiled and looked around the cozy wooden cottage that belong to Fluttershy. "Nice place you got here." Fluttershy blushed slightly and took a seat across from Ezra in a little green couch. "Th-thank you. It's nothing special, but it is cozy." Ezra agreed and took a sip of his tea. "Wow. Nice brew. To be honest, this is the last thing I expected to be doing on this planet. I expected our first night to be aboard the ship." Fluttershy lifted a brow and tilted her head. "Oh? Where are you from?" "Lothal. It's a planet on the outer rim of the galaxy. You probably wouldn't have heard of it, though. Not many people have." Fluttershy suddenly seemed to shift uncomfortably. "So, you're an... alien?" Ezra paused to think for a moment. He hadn't really thought about that before, considering the fact that he had been on so many different planets and none of the people had ever referred to him as an, 'alien.' "I, uh, guess so. I've honestly never thought about it. Do you not like aliens?" Fluttershy avoided eye contact and took another sip of her tea. "No, not necessarily. I've just never met an alien before. Do... do you come in peace?" She looked up at Ezra with those beautiful turquoise eyes and waited for an answer. "Honestly? We didn't even mean to come at all." Ezra replied, putting down his tea. "Our ship crashed a couple hours ago and we've been trying to make repairs ever since then. We haven't been very successful." Fluttershy slowly took another sip of her tea and looked away. Ezra could tell she was uncomfortable with the information she had just received, probably because she didn't know how to process it at the moment. If he was indeed the first alien she had ever encountered before, the very fact that he was an alien could explain why. His briefest mention of a sprawling galaxy beyond the stars had probably triggered her imagination. Undoubtedly her mind was filling with an innumerable amount of questions. Ezra quickly made up in his mind to change the subject. "So, Fluttershy," Ezra said, smirking as he picked up his cup of tea. "How did you tame that..." he searched for the name in the back of his head. "...manticore? Some kind of mind trick?" Fluttershy's head snapped in Ezra's direction. "Oh, that? Um..." a tint of pink appeared on her adorable yellow cheeks. "It was nothing, really... I just have a way with animals. More tea?" "Yes, please." Ezra placed his teacup back on the on the table in front of him and relaxed back into the couch as Fluttershy smiled and went to retrieve the teapot hanging over the fireplace. As Ezra watched the butter-yellow equine return and refill his teacup, he couldn't help but question the world around him. Based on what he had seen thus far, it was a strange world indeed; and he couldn't to learn some of the answers. "So..."Ezra said as casually as he could accomplish. "You guys have space travel?" Fluttershy put down the teapot and looked up at the youth with an upraised brow. "Space travel? Oh, no! We're not quite there yet. In fact, we won't be there for quite some time." she picked up her teacup and looked at the youth thoughtfully. "Space ships are mostly science fiction right now. Your species is far more advanced, from the sound of it. Although... to be honest, I'm even not sure what species you are. I thought you were some kind of hairless monkey at first, but I could be wrong." Ezra managed to laugh at that, even though the news that this planet possessed such primitive technology was upsetting. "I'm actually a human. There's a lot of us in the galaxy." Fluttershy's ears suddenly perked up. "You're a human? Twilight is always talking about your kind! She's been to your world many times before. Maybe she can help you and your friends get off world!" Ezra lifted a brow. "...What? I thought you said you didn't have space travel." "Oh, we don't. But Twilight has this magic mirror, you see, and she uses it to travel to your world all the time!" Ezra blinked, trying to make sense of the words Fluttershy had just spoken. "...Right." Fluttershy smiled and put down her cup of tea. As she got up to pour herself another cup, a little white bunny hopped over to her and tugged her tail. "Hmm? Oh, Angel Bunny! I'm so sorry! I forgot to tuck you in, didn't I? It's your bed time already!" The white rabbit nodded. "Well, hop along, then. I'll be with you shortly. Let me just get our guest settled in, first." Ezra smiled as the bunny hopped up a pair of stairs leading to the second floor of the cottage. He liked the way the cottage was designed. The animals at were there crawling all about were a nice addition to the place. 'She really likes animals, doesn't she?' he thought to himself. As Fluttershy put away the dishes and cups she and Ezra used for tea, the youth stood up and decided to look around the cottage before bedtime. With all the strange things he had seen that day, he didn't bother to ask himself any questions about the many pictures hanging on the walls. He instead resolved to ask them later when he was more comfortable with the planet. Right now he needed to rest. "Are you ready to go to sleep, Mr. Bridger?" Ezra wheeled around to find Fluttershy with a candle in her mouth and a blanket on her back. "Um... sure. Thanks. Just call me Ezra, by the way." Fluttershy nodded and led the boy upstairs where she gestured towards a bed right next to a basket where angel bunny was waiting for her to tuck him in for bedtime. "Why don't you sleep here tonight?" Fluttershy said after placing the candle stick on the night table on the left side of the bed. "I noticed the couch down stairs doesn't fit you, and I do want you to be as comfortable as possible." Ezra looked from the bed to Fluttershy and lifted a brow. "Where will you sleep?" Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, don't worry about me. You just get your rest for tomorrow morning." Ezra walked over to the bed and took off his boots. The room was by far the most restful he had ever laids eyes upon. "Thanks, Fluttershy." Ezra said warmly upon sitting on the bed. "That's four I owe you now, huh?" Fluttershy blushed and finished tucking angel bunny in. "Good night, Ezra." she whispered, avoiding eye contact to hide the tints of pink on her cheeks. "I'll... I'll see you in the morning." The boy watched the equine disappear through he door and close it behind her. "Wow," he commented now that he was all alone. "What a weird day. I wonder what tomorrow will be like?" Ezra kicked back and made himself comfortable. As he lay there on top of the covers resting his eyes, a fuzzy white body curled up on top of him and laid down. "Huh?" Ezra glanced downwards, only to catch angel bunny in the act of snuggling his chest. "Oh, hey, little guy. Bed not warm enough?" The little rabbit peeked open an eye and went back to snuggling. Ezra chuckled to himself before closing his eyes and relaxing. 'Okay, so this planet's a little weird. So what? I could think of worse places to be stranded.' With that thought in mind, Ezra slipped off into a realm of dreams and shadows.
Chapter IV - "A Vision in the Dark"Chapter IV - "A Vision in the Dark" Canterlot glowed, set ablaze atop its holy mountain. Green fire rained down upon the city from the heavens above as Twilight Sparkle looked on. The sky was dark, the sun blocked by enormous triangular vessels in the sky. The streets were littered with bodies, both familiar and not, caused by the raining hell fire. Twilight Sparkle gasped in horror at the sight. Never had the alicorn seen such atrocities committed before. As the Princess continued to stare at the devastation in terror, white blurs rushed past her through the streets and began dragging survivors from the ruins, executing them on the spot. Twilight wanted to scream, but the only sound that could escape her mouth was little more than a quiet, breathless whisper that barely resembled the noise of distress. And then he appeared. Princess Twilight watched in terror as a shadowy being emerged from the fire of a nearby burning building and ignited a glowing red sword. The dark specter approached the trembling alicorn, towering over her with piercing yellow eyes. He raised his weapon to finish her off, but found his sword met with one that beamed like light. A second specter, this one clothed in white, emerged from the smoke just in time to clash with the dark figure and fend off his attacks as the green flames continued to rain down on the once great metropolis. Twilight Sparkle could only watch in horror as the two creatures dueled through the ruins of the city, locked in an epic battle for the fate of the Princess. For a time, it seemed, the battle would never end, but then a massive pillar of light fell from the sky and struck the ground with tremendous force. All of a sudden, the entire city—and the ponies that Twilight loved—were obliterated in the blink of an eye. Then Twilight woke up. "No!" Twilight Sparkle shot up in bed, panting breathlessly as she frantically looked around. The dark corners of her bedroom receeded as Spike, her adopted brother, lit a candle and rushed to her side to check up on her. "Twilight! Are you okay? What's wrong?!" Twilight breathed a sigh of relief as the candlelight illuminated the area around her, revealing the face of her faithful friend. "I-it was just a dream..." she stammered. "Just a dream..." Spike rested the candle on the nearby nigh table and gave a sigh. “The one with the creepy guy and the flaming red sword?” Twilight Sparkle nodded, quietly. Spike sighed the rubbed the back of his neck. “Twilight, m-maybe we should tell Princess Celestia. You know—since it’s been keeping you up so much lately.” Twilight wiped a bead of sweat on her brow and rested her head back on her pillow. “I don’t know, Spike. Princess Luna hasn’t sensed anything unusual. She’s says I sleep dreamless nights, untethered by luminous thoughts. If the Princess of the night can’t detect anything wrong with me, I don’t know if I should bother Princess Celestia about it.” “Well, what if it’s something else?” Spike suggested. Twilight Sparkle lifted a brow. “What?” “Your dream. What if it’s isn’t a dream at all?” Twilight sat up again. “What else do you think it could be?” Spike shook his head. “I don’t know. But if we don’t start exploring other possibilities we might never know what’s going on.” Twilight slowly nodded her head. “You’re right, Spike. We should analyze this. Study it. Perhaps it’s something else—a projection, or-or a misfiring neuron!” “Yeah, or maybe that cheese you’ve been eating all week,” Spike giggled, managing a small grin. Twilight giggled along. “Yes. Maybe.” Spike smiled at his sister for a few moment. After the two let the small banter sink in long enough, Spike picked up his candle and headed for his bed. “Welp! Glad I could help. Let’s continue this conversation in the morning!” But before Spike could make a get away, he quickly found himself engulfed in magic and brought alongside his sister who had jumped out of bed and began heading for the library. “Sorry, Spike,” The lavender alicorn said with a chuckle. “I’m afraid this can’t wait.” Spike gave a sigh and rested his scaly cheek on his claw. “Yeah, I figured.” With that, the two began their day, woefully ignorant of the threat soon to come to them from the stars... Somewhere, far, far away... The Inquisitor sat in his meditation chamber with his legs crossed and his mask resting on his lap. The dark side of the force flowed through his body as his bright yellow eyes opened in surprise at the connection he had just made through the force. Somewhere, out there in the farthest reaches of the galaxy, a being had seen his future and merged with his mind. “Interesting...” the Inquitor mused to himself. The connection he had made had only lasted for a moments, but he had seen enough to know something beautiful existed in his future. The dark side did not show such things without a promise that such fortunes could come obtained—provided the recipient was willing to do what was necessary to claim it. The inquisitor smiled to himself and moved to get up. Just as he stirred from his meditative position however, the doors to the meditation chamber whooshed open behind him. The Inquisitor paused as he heard an Imperial Officer enter the room. "Sir," said the officer, standing a distance from where the Inquisitor sat. "We've just received coordinates to an unidentified system in the unknown regions. According to the transmission, it appears the rebels are stranded there. We’ve got them, sir." The Inquisitor did not reply. Instead, he slowly turned his helmet around and put it on. "...Sir?" the Officer lifted a brow. "Is everything alright?" The Inquisitor stood up and turned around. "Take us to them," he replied. "The hunt begins." The officer gave a salute and went to do as he was told.
Chapter V - "The Strangers from the Stars"Author's Note New chapters every week! Should be posted every Monday morning. Bonus chapters could spring up during the week, though! Depends on how much time I have to write. :) Chapter V - "The Strangers from the Stars" Chapter V - "The Strangers From the Stars" Ezra Bridger rolled onto his side in Fluttershy's bed as the sun peeked through the window in her room and lit up his hair like a fiery halo. As his eyes fluttered open at the warm touch of the morning sun, he gave a yawn and slowly sat up in bed allowing his long, raven hair to fall gracefully down his neck. The smell of fresh air mixed with greenery filled his nostrils as he took in a deep breath and sighed in contentment. The serenities reminded him of the wide open plains of Lothal where he used to spend his days just lying about or running with the loth cats through the grassy fields. Unfortunately, it was this very realization that brought Ezra back to reality. He wasn't on Lothal, anymore; nor was he in his own bed, for that matter. No, if he remembered correctly, he was stranded on an alien planet in a talking equine's cottage... ...with a giant brown grizzly bear snuggling into his chest. "What the—?!" Ezra cried, before realizing his mistake and shutting himself up. The room around him as well as the bed he was lying on was covered in alien wildlife sleeping together in perfect harmony. Fluttershy herself lay at Ezra's feet with angel bunny curled up in her hooves snoring quietly. Ezra considered himself fortunate that his initial verbal expression of surprise hadn't woken up any of the creatures around him, but he still didn't know how to react to the situation. Ezra's brain did its best, but the onslaught of visual information was hard to process. However, before complete bafflement could overtake him, Fluttershy's eyes blinked open and locked onto the teenager's in a way that made his heart stop. "Oh," Fluttershy whispered as she gave quiet, adorable yawn. "...Good morning." The boy's expression twisted into that of uncertainty as he tried to give the mare a proper answer. "Uh... morning?" he replied, staring into the equine's turquoise eyes. He looked away for a brief moment and glanced at the room around him before turning back to the yellow pegasus. "Umm... there's a lot of animals in my bed." Fluttershy's eyes went wide as realization struck her like a bolt of lightning. "Oh, my!" she squeaked. "I'm so sorry! Please don't wake them up! I tried to stop them last night, but they wouldn't listen! Could you give them five more minutes? I'm sure they would really appreciate it." Ezra glanced over to his left and felt the warmth radiating off the bear's body. The grin plastered on the big lugs face was all Ezra needed to see to understand what Fluttershy was asking. "Um, okay." Ezra smirked, relaxing backwards onto his pillow. "I guess five more minutes wouldn't hurt." With that, the boy closed his eyes and accepted his warm, cuddly fate. Meanwhile, Kanan smacked a mosquito on his neck and frowned. A small spot of blood stained his hand in the place where he whacked the pest, indicating that the insect had indeed stuck him with it's needle like beak and extracted a small portion of his internal red fluid. 'Here's hoping that I don't contract an incurable alien virus,' Kanan thought to himself as he pushed through a mess of tree branches. It was around eight in the morning, and Kanan along with the rest of his crew were trekking through the forest in search of their lost comrade who had disappeared the night before. "Ezra!" Sabine cried out in the front of the group. "Ezra, where are you?! Ezra!" Kanan shook his head. At this point Sabine might as well have been whispering. The alien forest surrounding them in every direction didn't carry their voices much further than the nearest tree, and the density of it made it hard to navigate through. "Sabine," Kanan sighed after she called Ezra's name for the hundredth time. "That's enough. We'll find him." "How do you know?!" Sabine snapped. "It seems to me like I'm the only one really searching for him! How can you be so calm when your own padawan is missing?!" "He's more to me than a padawan," Kanan replied with a frown. "You know that. The only reason I'm calm is because I know that he's alive and that we'll find him. We will find him, Sabine. I promise." Sabine huffed and looked away. "Kanan..." came the voice of Hera who was trailing behind him. "You know I trust your instincts... but how can you be so sure that we'll find him? Is there something you know that we don't?" "The Force," Kanan simply put it. "I have a strong connection with Ezra. I would have known if something happened to him." Hera nodded her head and continued to follow Kanan through the woods. As they proceeded through the dense alien forest, they came to a spot where Sabine suddenly stopped and went pale. "Ezra!" she cried, breaking into a sprint. "Sabine!" Kanan called. "Wait!" But Sabine didn't listen. Instead, she took off and disappeared through a bush some feet of head of the group and emerged on the other side. "Guys!" her voice called back a second later. "You might want to look at this!" The remaining members of the Ghost crew exchanged glances then broke into into a sprint. After making their way through the foliage, they glanced to their right and spotted the imperial buzzdroid that they had been in pursuit of the day before. Its two halves were laying on the ground beside an oak tree with a large noticeable slice down its middle and a piece of hardware spilling out of its left side. At first this was the sight that the crew gravitated towards, but after spotting Sabine kneeling over something a half dozen feet or so away, they made their way over to her and gathered around it. "What is it?" Zeb asked, leaning over Kanan's shoulder to get a better look. "It's Ezra's comlink," Sabine replied, picking up a few pieces of the broken device. "Or rather what's left of it." Hera gasped and covered her mouth as Kanan frowned and scanned the area around them for clues. "I don't see any blood." he mused. "Or much signs of a struggle. Whatever happened to Ezra's comlink must have been an accident." Chopper spoke up from behind the group in an annoyed, dismissive tone and interrupted their investigation. "No, Chopper," Hera frowned, glaring at the droid. "You cannot stop scanning for human lifeforms just because we found Ezra's com." The droid grumbled and reluctantly continued to use his scanners. "I don't think it was an accident," Sabine muttered, ignoring Chopper's comments as they continued their investigation. "I think something took him... " Kanan nodded slowly. His eyes drifted from the pieces in Sabine's hand to the ground beside them. "Something, or someone?" he remarked, running his hand over a strange indent on the ground. "These are unusual footprints, don't you think? Looks like they belong to an animal of some kind. Maybe a cow. They lead that way along with Ezra's through the bushes over there. Maybe he followed a creature to shelter?" Kanan closed his eyes and reached out his hand over the footprints. He inhaled once sharply then began to meditate. "Uh... Kanan?" asked Zeb with an uplifted brow. "What are you doing?" "Using the Force to read Ezra's footprints." the ex-Jedi replied. "Master Vos called it Psychometry. It allows a force user to read an object's past and predict its future." "Okay..." the Lasat watched Kanan work for a moment. "Have... have you ever actually used psychometry before?" Kanan opened one of his eyes and glanced in Zeb's direction before closing it again in order to concentrate. "No, but I'm optimistic." he replied. "How hard could it be?" The crew stood around Kanan for several minutes as he knelt over the footprints and concentrated. As the minutes rolled by, Kanan continued to stay perfectly still and give the impression he was truly deep in meditation. Finally, after a grueling five minutes or so, Kanan finally stopped and opened his eyes. "Well?" prompted Zeb, crossing his arms. "Nothing," Kanan muttered, standing up. "Not a blasted thing. Guess psychometry isn't all it's cranked up to be. Alright, plan B. We'll do this the old fashioned way. Let's follow the footprints." Sabine gave Kanan an unimpressed look. "Really, Kanan?" "Yes, really! You have a better Idea? Because I'm open to suggestions." Before Sabine could reply, Chopper rolled up behind the crew and got their attention with a whistle. "What was that, Chopper?" Hera asked. "You found something?" The droid replied with a sequence of words in his binary language. "What? You did?!" Chopper gestured in the direction of the footprints that Kanan had suggested they follow and gave Hera his report. "A human life form approaching from the north?" Sabine gasped. "Ezra!" Kanan smirked and gave the mandalorian teen a look. Sabine caught his gaze and gave a sigh. "Okay, shut up." she muttered. "I didn't say anything." the ex-Jedi replied. "Yeah, but you were about to." Kanan chuckled. "And here I thought I was the Jedi." "Alright you two--let's get a move on." Hera said, standing up. "The sooner we find Ezra, the better. Sabine, gather that buzzdroid's remains. They could still be useful if it's memory core is intact." "Sure. I'll be right back." "Thank you. Kanan, Zeb, have Chopper follow us. We'll need him to show the way." Kanan nodded. With these tasks completed, the Ghost continued onwards through the dangerous forest. Several hours later, the Ghost crew pushed through a mess of tree branches and scanned the area ahead of them. The footprints Kanan had suspected belonged to Ezra and another creature of some sort had vanished some time ago, but the human life form coming up on Choppers readings continued to read strong. Kanan couldn't feel Ezra's presence growing any closer, but he suspected that the forest had something to do with that. He knew there was something was off about it, but he couldn't quite put his finger on what. The dark side of the force was strong, but the light side was strong as well. There was almost a perfect balance between the two. It didn't make any sense, and Kanan didn't like it. "How much further is that life form, Chop?" Kanan inquired, turning to their droid as he rolled along. Chopper gave his reply and earned a disappointed sigh from Kanan. "'Life form?'" Hera frowned, lifting a brow at Kanan. "Not, 'Ezra?'" Kanan ignored the look Hera was giving him and replied, "I'm not so sure it's him anymore. I can't feel his presence. I'm starting to worry what we're going to find." Hera glanced ahead and watched Sabine tug along ahead of the group. "The scanners wouldn't be picking up on his signal if he were dead." Hera said, her voice just beneath a whisper. "We have to hope." "Hope?" Kanan chuckled. "We're stranded on an alien planet, the Ghost is dead, and you want us to hope?" Hera frowned. "Weren’t you the one saying the same thing to Sabine just a moment ago? Kanan took a deep breath and gave a sigh. "You’re right. I'm sorry. It's this place. Something about it is throwing me off. The sooner we find Ezra, the better." Hera offered a sympathetic smile and placed a hand on Kanan's shoulder. "We'll find him, Kanan. Just like you said.” Kanan smiled back and patted Hera's it hand with his own. "Thanks. I needed to hear that." Before Hera had the chance to reply, the crew stopped in their tracks when Sabine cried out in pain from the front of the group and fell onto her rump. "Ow!" she exclaimed, rubbing her forehead. "Who—" "...Sabine?" came a familiar voice. The mandalorian teen paused and looked up. Sure enough, there, in front of the group, was Ezra Bridger, likewise sitting on his rump and rubbing his forehead. "Ezra!" the Ghost crew exclaimed collectively. The young boy gave a goofy smile and stood up as Sabine did the same. "You're alive!" Sabine cried in relief, pulling Ezra into an embrace. "I'm so happy to see you!" Ezra blinked a few times before chuckling and returning the hug. "Uh, thanks. I missed you too, Sabine." Sabine smiled and held their embrace a little longer until she realized what she was doing. "Wait a minute!" she said, pushing away angrily. "I'm not happy to see you! Where have you been? Do you know how worried we’ve been?!" Ezra chuckled and took a step back to the foliage he had emerged from just moments before. "Oh, me? I was just, y'know... making a friend." Ezra pulled back a couple of branches and revealed the timid figure of a butter-yellow pegasus. Upon making eye contact with the unusual yellow equine, the rest of the crew froze and stared for an unsavory amount of time. "Uh..." Kanan managed to say after a few moments. "Hello." "Um... hello." the creature replied bashfully. "Wait a minute," Zeb lifted a brow. "That thing speaks basic?" Ezra nodded and took a step forward. "Everyone, I want you to meet Fluttershy. Last night she rescued from an angry manticore and gave me a place to stay. I think she can help us get off this planet.” Sabine gave a doubtful look and studied the equine from head to hoof. “She recused you from a manticore?” asked Sabine, raising a brow. “Hmm. Must be tougher than she looks.” “Did I miss something?” Zeb asked, looking around. “Or am I the only one who doesn’t know what a manticore is?” “Whatever the case,” Hera said, stepping forward to greet the timid equine. “We owe her our gratitude. Thank you for saving Ezra.” The equine managed a give a small smile and gave a nod. “Where did she come from?” Kanan asked, scanning the forest around them. “She live here in the forest?” “She has a cottage outside the meadow,” Ezra said. “Its a just few miles from here in that direction.” “So this is a civilized planet, then?” Sabine asked, crossing her arms. "That's... kind of surprising, to be honest. I’ve had Chopper scanning for radio signals since we got here. He hasn’t found anything worth mentioning.” “Sabine's right,” Kanan said. “Something feels off about this situation.” Ezra chuckled nervously. "Yeah, about that... I don’t think your definition of the word ‘civilized’ is the same as theirs.” Hera lifted a brow. "What do you mean?" "Well... let's just say that, uh..." Ezra rubbed his neck. "Y'know... they don't have space travel." The crew was noticeably taken back with surprise. “What?!” they cried together in unison. "No space travel?!" Kanan exclaimed in disbelief. "Oh, great! We're stuck here, then." "It isn't so bad," Ezra said. "This is planet is kind of nice." "It won't be nice when the Empire shows up." Kanan frowned. "We still have no idea if they've been able to track our signal or not." "I'm sure we'll figure that out when the time comes, Kanan," Hera said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "In the mean time, we should look for new ways to repair the Ghost. Maybe we can salvage some parts from the phantom to get her up and running again." "M-maybe I can help." Fluttershy spoke up. "One of my friends lives in the village not too far from here. I'm sure if there's anypony who can help you, it's her." The members of the ghost crew exchanged glances as Hera tapped her chin. "It's not the worst idea..." she said. "I agree," sighed Kanan, crossing his arms. "It's worth looking into." "Well, I guess it's settled, then." Sabine shrugged. "We're off to see Fluttershy's friend." "Seems like it," Zeb agreed. "Eh... I just have one question... can anyone tell me what a manticore is?” Ezra chuckled and gave Zeb a look. “Trust me, Zeb—you don't want to know." High above the planet, looming menacingly in the cold vacuum of space, the Imperial Star Destroyer the Resurgence buzzed with activity. Agent Kallus stood on its bridge along with a handful of Imperial Officers (including Admiral Constantine and Lieutenant Lyste), studying the images coming up on the holoprojector in front of them. As the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind them, the Inquisitor entered the bridge with his hands folded behind his back. "And just what do you have for me, gentlemen?" The Inquistor asked as he approached the hologram. "How goes the initial scans of our mysterious planet?" "We seem to have stumbled upon a primitive world, Inquisitor." Lieutenant Lyste answered as the Inquistor came up and stood beside him. "All initial scans of the planet below have come up inconclusive. The system doesn't match anything on record." The Inquisitor 'humphed.' "A new planet? Hardly a surprise, considering the vastness of the so called, 'unknown regions.' What of our rebels friends, Lieutenant?" The Lieutenant pressed a button on the holoprojector in front of them and brought up the image of a black buzzdroid. "According to the final transmission from TS-25D, the rebels seem to have crashed in a sizable mass of greenery on the planet in its western hemisphere. The area seems to be secluded from the thriving civilizations of the planet, but it is not uninhabited. We believe a detachment could easily swoop down and extract the traitors without detection." The Inquisitor nodded slowly. "Yes... a detachment will do, for now. Lieutenant Lyste, since you suggested the plan, I'm placing you in direct authority over the mission. You will accompany a platoon of stormtroopers to the planet's surface where you will be supplied with two light-division hover tanks. Utilize their weaponry to carve a path through the forest to the rebel's position and force them to surrender." The officers on the bridge exchanged glances. The Lieutenants face grew pale as he realized what he had just been ordered to do. "If I may, Inquisitor," Agent Kallus interjected, sensing the lieutenants fear. "Lieutenant Lyste is hardly qualified for this mission. It would be my honor to see to the matter personally." The Inquisitor regarded Agent Kallus with a cold stare. "I heard no objection's from the Lieutenant." the Inquisitor replied. He then turned to Admiral Konstantine. "Did you, Admiral Konstantine?" The Admiral swallowed hard. "Well... no, Inquisitor..." "Good. It's settled, then. Lieutenant Lyste, prepare your troops." Lieutenant Lyste nodded numbly. "Y-yes, Inquisitor. It will be done." "See that it does." Lieutenant Lyste bowed humbly and walked out of the room. Agent Kallus frowned in disapproval and turned to Admiral Konstantine as the cowardly man cleared his throat. "Begging your pardon for the injection, Inquisitor, but what of the primitive inhabitants of this backwater world? What should be done about them should they intervene?" The Inquisitor chuckled, eerily. "What is done to all those who stand in our way. Kill them." Once again, the officers around the hologram exchanged glances. "You're suggesting deliberate civilian casualties?" Agent Kallus asked, pointedly. The Inquisitor waved his hand, dismissively. "Rest assured, Agent Kallus, there will be no civilian casualties. Civilians are protected by the Empire. These creatures are merely primitives of a backwater world, nothing more. Do I make myself clear?" The Inquisitor turned to Agent Kallus, glaring at him with a look that dared him to push back. But Agent Kallus maintained a perfectly consistent expression. After a few moments, he gave a subtle bow and replied, "Crystal, Inquisitor. The primitives will be dealt with accordingly, should they intervene." The Inquisitor humped and turned around. "Good. In the mean time, Agent Kallus, I expect you to make yourself useful and gather what you can for me about this backwater world. I wish to have a full report by the time I return. I will be in my chambers. Do not disturb me unless you have news that renders my immediate attention." With that, the Inquisitor disappeared through the doors of the bridge and left it in silence. "Your wish... is my command." Agent Kallus growled beneath his breath. Back on the planets surface, Kanan, Hera, Zeb, Sabine, and Chopper followed at a distance behind Ezra and his new friend as they continued their trek through the forest towards what the equine had called "civilization." The group had been following the pair for several hours now and Kanan was beginning to question the sanity of their mission. “This is crazy, right?" said Kanan to his nearby companions as they trudged along. Sabine, Zeb, and Hera turned to the ex-jedi with upraised eyebrows. "What do you mean?" asked Hera. "Think about; here we are—stranded on an alien planet with absolutely no knowledge of its culture or species—and now we're trusting one of their kind to lead us to someone who can supposedly repair a starship, despite the fact that their "civilization" doesn't even possess the capability to space travel. I mean, that is crazy, right? Or did I miss something?" "No," chuckled Zeb. "That about covers it." "Besides," Sabine added. "I think the word "desperate" more accurately fits that definition." "Regardless," Kanan rolled his eyes. "It doesn't bother you? Any of you?" "I'm sure it bothers everyone just as much as you," Sabine answered. "But what are we supposed to do? It's not like we have a lot of options." Kanan scoffed. "Credit for every time I've heard that one before..." "I hear what you're saying; but Sabines right, Kanan." said Hera. "Whether we like it or not, this... Fluttershy is our best option. If she thinks she can help us—knowing everything Ezra has told her—then we should let her try. If for nothing else, as a sign of good faith. We could be stuck here for a while, after all." "I'm not disagreeing with you," Kanan replied. "I'm just saying it's crazy." "Crazy is jumping to lightspeed without a nav-computer," Sabine shot back. Kanan chuckled. "Okay, you got me there." "Hey, guys! Fluttershy says it's just up ahead!" Ezra called back to his friends, waving them over. "Come on!" The four members of the Ghost crew quickly exchanged glances before sprinting towards the pair. As Chopper lagged behind the five Rebels arriving at Fluttershy's side, the mare opened up a mess of foliage in front of them and revealed a charming rural road leading to what they could all make out to be a large village in the distance. Kanan whistled to himself in an impressed tone. "Alright. I'll admit it. It's not what I was expecting." "Heh, yeah," Zeb agreed. "You can say that again." "It's like a piece of art." Sabine concurred. "I'll second that!" Ezra added. "It certainly is more lovely than I imagined," Hera smiled. "You live in a beautiful village, Fluttershy." The yellow pegasus blushed and returned the smile with one of her own. "Thank you. Everycreature, welcome to Ponyville!" The group continued to stare in admiration. It was truly one of the most colorful, and beautiful settlements they had ever seen in their lives. Rolling green hills, coupled with dark purple mountains in the distance accentuated the village marvelously in such a way that it made it feel like the very heart of the planet itself. Dozens and dozens of the prettiest little houses any of them had ever seen peppered the town as well, along with a massive crystalline structure in its center which sparkled like a diamond in the landscape. "Wait a minute, Ponyville?" Zeb said to himself, registering the name of the village for the first time since he had heard it. "That name is a bit odd, isn't it? That's like calling a human village humansville or a Lasan village Lasanville." Sabine crossed her arms. "I kind of like it. Its nice." Zeb shrugged. "If you say so." "What's that big crystal tree thing in the middle of the village?" Ezra asked Fluttershy, pointing to it curiously. "Is that a castle?" "Mmmhmm," Fluttershy confirmed. "That's Princess Twilight's castle—she's the one I'm taking you to see right now. If anypony can help you, it's her." Chopper rolled up beside the group and whistled an opinion of his own before coming to a stop and chuckling. "Shut up, Chop." said Kanan, rolling his eyes. "Let's see what she can do before we criticize, shall we?" The droid whistled a reply in its strange binary language and crossed its extending mechanical arms. "Aww, is somecreature grumpy?" Fluttershy asked, trotting over to the droid with a friendly smile. "I'm sure you must be tired from all that hiking, but that's no reason to take it out on your friends." The other members of the ghost crew exchanged glances as the droid answered the Pegasus promptly as she patted his dome. "There, there. I know it can be frustrating not to be appreciated for all the hard work you do; but I'm sure deep down inside they love you just as much as I'm beginning to." The ghost crew exchanged glances once again as Ezra asked in fascination; "Wait, you can understand Chopper?" The mare gave a bashful nod and continued to pet the droid. "I may not understand everything he's saying word for word, but in a way I can feel him speaking to me like any other animal." "That doesn't make any sense," Zeb muttered, stubbornly. "Chops not alive. He isn't even an animal." "Uh, Zeb?" said Sabine, pulling the Lasat closer. "A word to the not-so-wise: Let people enjoy things they want to enjoy and believe things they want to believe." The Lasat rolled his eyes. "What? So I'm supposed to play along if Chopper starts believing he's a Jedi? Give me a break. He's only a few compliments away from actually believing that to be true as it is." "Be that as it may," Hera said," I think it would be a good idea for now. We need to put on a positive attitude in front of the locals here. We don't know how long we'll be stranded on this planet. Best if they think we're friendly." Zeb scoffed. "Fine. I'll play nice." "Good man," Hera said with a smile. "Speaking of playing nice..." Kanan said with a cough. "Hey, Fluttershy! Do you think we could get a move on? We're not getting any younger here!" Kanan flashed Hera a coy smile. The deliberate defiance was playful in nature but also communicated urgency. The Pegasus turned to the man over her shoulder with a soft, oblivious smile. "Hmm?" she asked politely. "I said, do you think we could—" "What Kanan means to say," Interrupted Hera sweetly, casting a glare at Kanan before turning to the mare. "Is that we're grateful to you for taking us this far. Do you think we'll be with your friend by midday?" The pegasus gave a nod. "Oh, yes! Ponyville isn't far from here. You'll be with Twilight before lunchtime." "Well, that's a relief." Zeb sighed, happily. "I was getting hungry." "I could go for something to eat, too." Ezra agreed. "Oh, my," Fluttershy remarked. "You poor things! We better get moving, then. Nopony likes to be hungry." "Thank you, Fluttershy." Hera said, casting another look at Kanan as he shrugged with a playful smile. "You're too kind." With that, the Pegasus started ahead of the rebels and began to lead them towards the village once more. In the hanger bay of the Victory Class Star Destroyer The Resurgence , Lieutenant Lyste oversaw the inventory for his mission to the planets surface with a worried expression. As a fellow Officer came up to him and offered him a datapad to go over, the Lieutenant waved him away in distress, saying, "Yes, yes, it's all fine, thank you." As the troubled man continued to begrudgingly carry out his tasks, Agent Kallus arrived in the hanger and made his way towards the Lieutenant. "Lieutenant Lyste!" Agent Kallus called out as he calmly approached the man. "A word, if you please?" The Lieutenant quickly waved away another officer and folded his hands behinds his back, formally. Although he was clearly doing this out of decorum, the expression that came over the Lieutenants face when he saw Agent Kallus was that of relief—a rare expression not often seen in the Imperial Navy these days. "Ah, Agent Kallus! Yes, of course. How may I help you?" Agent Kallus regarded the transports behind Lieutenant Lyste with a frown. The forces the Inquisitor was sending to the planets surface with the Lieutenant were minimal at best. If this is what the Inqusitor meant by "valuing" his resources, then Agent Kallus shuddered to think what the reverse would look like. "I see preparations for your mission are already underway," Kallus remarked as he arrived along side the Lieutenant. The younger man watched as a hover-crane loaded a light-division hover tank into one of the transports and gave a worried look. "Yes, well... this would be the first time I outfitted myself for a potential combat mission." He replied. "Unfortunately, with the limitations stipulated, I can only do so much so far as inventory is concerned. " Agent Kallus folded his hands behind his back and stood at ease. "I see. Then you will be relived to know that I've come to offer my services." The Lieutenants head snapped in the agents direction. "You what?" "I've come to offer you my services." Kallus repeated. "It isn't right that a supply officer would be put in charge of a mission this dangerous. Given that my new orders are to gather information on the planet and relay it to the Inquisitor, it only makes sense that I accompany you to the surface for a more thorough investigation." The Lieutenant nodded, thankfully. It was clear he was exceedingly grateful for the offer. "I... I don't know what to say..." he answered. "Thank you, Agent Kallus." "Think nothing of it, Lieutenant." Agent Kallus replied, placing a hand on the Lieutenants shoulder. "You're a good officer. I'm sure with our combined efforts we can complete both our missions simultaneously." "Yes. Yes, Indeed!" Lyste agreed. "However, I must inform you that our supplies are extremely limited for such an ambitious mission. I've only been granted a small platoon and two hover tanks per the Inquisitors instructions." "I wouldn't worry about that, Lieutenant," Agent Kallus smirked. "Since I will be joining you on the mission, I can request additional munitions. Those rebels won't know what hit them." Far below the Resurgence in the picturesque lands of Equestria, the Ghost Crew found themselves arriving in Ponyville at long last. The first thing the ragtag group of rebels noticed as they entered the village was the striking rustic beauty that existed around them within the architecture of the community. It seemed that these "ponies" were quite talented, in spite of the fact that they lacked opposable fingers and thumbs. Every structure was a work of art. The second thing the crew noticed as they went along was the population itself. A diverse range of colorful equine creatures greeted their eyes with curiosity as Fluttershy led the group through the village. With so many different shades of color and such a range of features like horns, wings, stripes, and mane, the Ghost crew could only further be amazed by the visual onslaught that assaulted their eyes. "Looks pretty civilized if you ask me," Zeb remarked as they walked through the village. "You were looking at a basket of fruit when you said that," Sabine smirked, bumping Zeb on the shoulder. "Hehe, yeah, well..." "There's so many of them," said Ezra as he scanned the many faces staring in their direction. "I don't think they've ever seen anything like us before." "Its more than likely they haven't," Kanan replied. "Most species don't evolve to walk on two legs, let alone without scales or fur." "I don't think that's the reason they're staring," Hera observed, tucking her personal blaster in the back of her jumpsuit. Kanan watched as Hera did this and did the same to his blaster, realizing the wisdom of her tactics. "They recognize we're carrying weapons," Kanan frowned, turning to the others. "Probably best if we cover them up." Sabine nodded and tucked away her blasters as well. Zeb did nothing as he felt his rifle looked more like a metal hiking poll, anyway. As soon as these things were done, several of the ponies began to gather behind the group and follow them through the village. "Uhh... Kanan?" said Zeb. "We're picking up a tail." The ex-Jedi glanced over his shoulder at the forming crowd and gave a small sigh. "It's fine, Zeb. Just ignore them." "Great idea, don't you think?" Sabine smirked, teasing Kanan as she followed his gaze. "Group of aliens, marching directly through the village? That wasn't going to attract any local attention at all." "Hey, I didn't come up with this plan." the ex-Jedi answered, defensively. "This one's on Ezra." "Technically, Fluttershy came up with the plan," Ezra rebutted. "But I'll take credit for it. These ponies are nice." The boy showed off a flower necklace around his neck. "Look at what one of the small ones gave me!" Kanan lifted a brow. "Uh, Ezra? Are you sure she wasn't expecting you to pay for that?" The boy looked over at the Pegasus who had given him the necklace and paused. The young filly was obviously selling the necklaces out of a basket on the side of the main road. "Uh..." Ezra chuckled, nervously. "I'll be right back..." The crew managed to laugh at that as they watched Ezra sprint back to the young filly to return the merchandise. Hera smiled proudly at the scene and hugged Kanan from the side. "We did good, didn't we?" Kanan looked down at the Twi'Lek in surprise. "...Huh?" "With Ezra," Hera clarified. "We did good, didn't we?" The Jedi chuckled, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. "Yeah, well, we got him to stop stealing, so that's a plus." "At least not from civilians," Sabine pointed out. "The Empire's missing a lot of gear these days." "Eh, I wouldn't call that stealing." Zeb said, somewhat more seriously. "More like, trophies won in battle." "If you say so," Sabine shrugged. "But most people just call that stealing." Zeb gave Sabine an unimpressed look. "Most people are stupid." the Lasat humped. As the crew watched on, Ezra sprinted back towards them and held up the necklace once again. "She said I could keep it!" he proclaimed, triumphantly. "Good for you," Kanan smiled. "Maybe that's a sign our luck is changing." "I think our luck started to changed when Ezra met Fluttershy," Hera pointed out. "Yeah, well, we'll see how our meeting with this Twilight Sparkle goes first." Kanan replied. "Ugh," Zeb groaned. "Please tell me that isn't her actual name." "What's wrong with her name?" asked Ezra. The Lasat frowned. "You telling me you don't feel a little ridiculous just saying it?" "Someone's getting hangry," Sabine chuckled. "What if I am?" Zeb muttered. "Haven't eaten since last night." Chopper laughed in his mechanical voice. "Quiet, you!" Zeb growled. "Everycreature, eveyrcreature!" Fluttershy said ahead of the group, excitedly. "We're here!" The members of the Ghost crew followed Fluttershy's gaze and found themselves approaching the massive crystalline palace they had seen in the distance a half-hour before. The sparkling structure was now but a few hundred feet away, glimmering brightly in the sun like a pane of stained glass. "Whoa," said Ezra as they approached it. "Kanan, do you feel that?" The ex-Jedi gave a nod. "I feel it, I just don't believe it." "Feel what?" asked Hera, turning to the man. "The palace—" Kana explained. "It's alive. It's like a giant Khyber crystal emanating the light side of the force." "I have a really good feeling about this." Ezra said with a smile. "You know what?" said Kanan, turning to his padawan with a smile of his own. "I'm beginning to feel that way, too." With that, the crew continued towards the crystal palace with a new and exciting hope. Inside the palace, the library was a mess. Twilight Sparkle had never felt so disorganized before. Having studied throughout the night with no discernable direction to take her inquires, the mare had decided to go through every book on strange magic and dreams she could find. However, as she went through a particularly dry section of the library, Spike had dozed off and fallen to sleep on one of the stacks of books the Princess had made as she was going through her erratic motions. "Nope..." The alicorn sighed, glancing briefly at a book before tossing it over her shoulder with a weak voice. "Nope... that's not it." Spike awoke quite suddenly as a book Twilight had carelessly discarded over her shoulder landed squarely on his head. Due to the smaller nature of the book and the thicker nature of Spikes dragony skull, it bounced right off his head and did little more than smack him awake. "Huh?! What?! I'm awake!" the young drake explained as he sprung into action. However, as he scanned the room and noticed that Twilight hard barely moved from her spot where she had been going through books the whole night, he gave a defeated sigh and made his way over to her. "Hey, Twilight? Maybe we should take a break. " Twilight snorted. "Take a break? Yeah, right. Good one, Spike." "I mean it," Spike frowned. "We've been at this all morning. The books aren't going anywhere! Let's order in and eat a nice brunch." The lavender gave a frown of her own. "Spike, we can't give up now—not when we're so close!" The young drake rolled his eyes. "Close to what, Twilight? Dying of exhaustion?" "No!" the mare protested. "To discovering the truth! It's obvious there's something that we're missing here. What do you say we go through the mysterious magic section one last time?" "Twilight, we've already been through the mysterious magic section!" "Yeah, but not twice!" Spike gave a defeated sigh and shook his head. Twilight read his expression and gave a sympathetic one of her own. "I'm sorry, Spike. I know how I must sound right now. It's just that, I don't know what to do! It isn't like the answers to my questions are just going to walk up to the front door!” At that very moment, a loud knock echoed throughout the castle. The two siblings exchanged glances. "Well, it could be the backdoor." Spike smirked. Twilight rolled her eyes, playfully. "Very funny, Spike." A few moments later, the pair was at the door to the castle, peeking it open slightly to see who had knocked. "Yes, can I help you?" Twilight answered. "Hello, Twilight." Fluttershy greeted timidly. "Fluttershy!" the alicorn exclaimed happily, opening the door a bit wider. "What brings you here so—" The mare froze in the middle of her sentence at the sight of a nervously grinning teen in an orange suit waving his hand. After pushing open the door the rest of the way, she was greeted by six alien figures and a crowd of ponies behind them. "Yeah, hi. Twilight, is it?" the tallest human said with an awkward smile. "We need your help." Agent Kallus held onto the handle above him inside the landing craft as he glanced over at Lieutenant Lyste. The inexperienced man was holding on for dear life as the craft shook violently, indicating that it had indeed entered the planets atmosphere and was beginning a quick descent towards the ground. As the man squeezed his eyes shut and whispered what sounded like a prayer, Agent Kallus chuckled to himself, observing the Lieutenants outfit. Most imperial officers had a vest and helmet that they were expected to wear during combat operations. Lieutenant Lyste wore his very own armor at the moment, although it was clear he had not worn it since officer school as he had forgotten to fasten one of the latches below his right elbow. "Lieutenant," Agent Kallus said, smirking. The officer peeked open one of his eyes. "Y-yes, Agent Kallus?" "Your armor is not properly fastened." The officer glanced down at his vest and gave a quick nod. "S-so I see. Thank you, Agent Kallus." The man quickly latched his vest and proceeded to hang on tightly as the vessel continued to shake. After a few more moments of terror, the young man observed Agent Kallus and made note of his neutral expression. "You don't seem worried," the Lieutenant commented. "It's not my first military landing," Agent Kallus chuckled. The Lieutenant nodded, nervously. "Do you think you we'll capture them?" he asked. Agent Kallus smiled to himself and reached into his utility belt, retrieving a small holoprojector. "Don't trouble yourself with thoughts of failure, Lieutenant," Agent Kallus replied. "Just focus on your job..." the holoprojector in Kallus's hand switched on, projecting a holocapture of a certain Lasat by the name of Garazeb Orrelios. "And I'll focus on mine..."
Chapter VI - "A Chilling Discovery"Chapter VI - "A Chilling Discovery" A band of ponies pressed onwards in determination through an angry blizzard sweeping across the Crystal Mountains as the temperature around them dropped dramatically. With howling winds threatening to knock them over with terrific force and bury them under heaps of snow at any moments notice, they had to force themselves to remain strong and continue towards the objective. To communicate verbally over the sound of the raging storm was nearly impossible, so the ponies used hoof signals to keep others in the back of the line on track. Hour after hour they trekked on, letting nothing come between them and their quest to reach the top of the mountain range. The heavy layers of clothing on their backs made the subzero conditions bearable; the hard labor of trudging through the snow over uneven terrain helped warm them, too. After almost seven hours of slow progress, the leader of the caravan spotted the dim outline of a small overhang on the ridge ahead of them. He signaled to the others, an indication that the camp was on the other side. One by one his followers nodded and signaled back that they needed to pick up the pace. The leader of the caravan nodded his agreement. The light around them was fading as Princess Celestia’s sun—invisible through the storm—slowly set. The last thing they needed was to have to press on in total darkness. As they skirted around the base of the ridge of the mountain and reached the leeward side, the wind died to almost nothing. It was not long before they could see the soft glow of lights in the flat plain below them—indicating that the camp they were searching for was near. Joy swept over the weary band as more details of the camp gradually came into view. There were roughly a dozen small tents set up only a few meters away from a sheer wall of ice at the end of the plain where the start of another slope began. Set away from the tents was a large roughly-constructed shack; the leader of the caravan noticed a pair of steel furnaces hooked up to it, no doubt to provide power and heat, and he guessed it doubled as a supply center for any stores that would suffer if left out in the cold. Amongst the noticeable mining equipment that was scattered around the tents, several sleds laden with supplies awaited their riders in a way that indicated action. On the far side of the camp were four large, tarp-covered objects with drills fitted onto their sides. The tarp hardly protected their mechanical internals from the fury of the storm. “That’s far enough!” a voice—distinctly male—ordered from somewhere in front of the caravan. “Identify yourselves!” Four armored sentries rose up from behind some drifts, two on either side of the ponies traveling towards the camp. Armed with heavy mining equipment, they carefully trained their deadly weapons on the interlopes and waited for a reply. “I am Shining Armor, Prince of the Crystal Empire,” the leader of the caravan shouted. “And I order all of you to stand down!” From the instant silence that followed, it was clear that his name that gotten their attention. “How do we know you’re really the young Prince?” one of the sentries finally demanded. This was also a stallion’s voice, deeper than the first. “Well, Timeline,” Shining Armor replied. “I could buck you in the face until I straightened out that crooked muzzle of yours, but we’d probably freeze to death before I finished.” The sentry barked out a laugh, slung his weapon over his shoulder, threw his arms open wide, and galloped to enclose Shining Armor in a fierce hug. “It’s good to see you again, boss!” he shouted. “Come on, let’s get you out of the cold. We got a lot to talk about!” The other three sentries moved in to help the ponies in the caravan with luggage and supplies while Timeline led Shining Armor through the camp toward the supply shack in the center. As they passed the tents, heads poked out to see what was happening; in no time, a small crowed had grown in the newcomers wake. Shining Armor could hear a buzz of excitement building, but the blizzard was still too violent to get a good understanding of what was being said. At the door of the supply shack, Timeline stamped his boots clear of snow before going inside; his guests did the same. The first thing Shinging Armor noticed was the warmth. His goggles fogged up, and he was only too happy to remove them to get a better view of the interior. As he had suspected, the shack served as both supply hut and meeting room. There were seven or eight ponies already inside the shack when he arrived, lounging among the crates and packages, using them as makeshift furniture. In one corner, there was a massive pile of coats, scarves, and socks. Timeline was already stripping off his cold-weather gear and tossing it in the pile. Shining Armor quickly and gratefully followed suit. “So,” began Timeline after taking a seat. “I take it your presence here means you got my message?” Shining Armor nodded. “I did. Although, to be honest, I had a hard time making sense of it. You mentioned something about aliens?" The unicorn grinned. "Not just aliens," he answered, mysteriously. "Robot aliens!" Shining Armor lifted a brow. "It's true," a female pegasus said as she leaned forward in conspiracy on one of the crates. "We pulled them out of the ice just a few days ago. They crash landed in a ship—pilots, soldiers—everything." "Soldiers?" Shining Armor asked with concern. "So far as we know," Timeline confirmed. "They needed power. Energy. So we took them in—gave them what they wanted. In exchange, their leader gave us information." Shining Armor glanced around the room at the faces. "You mean... they're here? In the camp?" "All twenty-five of them." the pony said with a smirk. Shining Armor narrowed his eyes. "Show me." The metallic creak of a giant metal door began to ring out as Shining Armor stood outside in the blizzard with the rest of his crew, facing the giant climate controlled storage facility that the team had erected during their assignment. "We put them inside so their joints wouldn't freeze!" Timeline yelled over the howling winds. "We figured it would be a good sign of faith and hospitality!" Shining Armor ignited his horn. "Maybe you shouldn't have! Alien robot army? Doesn't sound like a good idea!" The unicorn laughed manically. "That's what I like about you Shining Armor—always on your guard!" Inside the enormous storage place, Shining Armor and the rest of the ponies wandered down a large open space shrouded in darkness. "Why aren't there any lights?" asked Shining Armor as he pulled down his snow mask used his horn like a floodlight to scan the walls. "We needed to divide the power between our camp and the climate controls in here. It was the only way we had enough power to charge them and keep us warm at the same time," Timeline explained. "But they're in here. They're all in here. Plugged in by the back wall." Shining Armor gave Timeline a look and approached the area stallion had described to him. As the magical luminance from his horn shined across the wall, it began to make out the dark silhouettes of dozen machines folded in a fetal position beside a softly glowing device of some kind. "What's that?" Shining Armor asked, breathlessly. "One of their generators." Timeline answered. "They had to retrofit it to work with our electricity. Seems to be doing the trick, though." Shining Armor continued to scan the pitch-black room. The frightening metal creatures that were plugged into the generator served to unsettle him, but not turn around and gallop in the opposite direction like he wanted to. "You said there were twenty-five?" Shining Armor asked after a few more moments. "That's right. Twenty-five two-legged metal skeletons." Shining Armor scanned the alien robots one more time. "I only count twenty-four. Where's their leader?" Suddenly, Shining Armor jumped back as a trio of orange lights ignited in the darkness in his peripheral. Almost immediately they arose to a towering height and began to approach the unicorn with foreboding heavy steps. "My designation is ST-013," an intimating electronic voice called out as the trio of orange lights approached the now frightened stallion. "But you may call me..." The lights stopped in front of the young prince, revealing a menacing droid with three photoreceptive eyes in the magical light of his horn. "Kalani."
Chapter VII - "The Council of Friendship”Chapter VII - "The Council of Friendship" Kanan Jarrus had seen many wondrous things in his lifetime. As a young Jedi, Caleb Dume—the auspicious Padawan of Master Depa Billaba—had often explored vast alien worlds with his mentor. In their many travels and constant wanderings, Kanan had beheld the majesty of countless alien races; each with their own culture, history, and art. But all those twinkling stars, all those brave new worlds could hardly hope to hold a candle to what the ex-Jedi was seeing right now. The massive crystalline palace that was this "Twilight Sparkles" home was unlike anything he had ever seen before. The palace itself was a single gem, expertly carved by what Kanan had to presume was the finest craftsmen on the planet. Kanan could only imagine what thoughts were going through the heads of the other members of the Ghost crew as they walked through it, gazing in amazement at its architecture and beauty. Kanan wondered about Ezra Bridger, especially, who had hardly been anywhere at all except for the wide open plains of Lothal. Kanan watched him as his eyes wandered, twinkling like diamonds at the crystalloid structure as the crew followed the small purple dragon called Spike through them. "You're gawking," Kanan smirked, softly nudging Ezra on the shoulder. The youth regarded his friend and mentor with a large grin, replying, "Of course I'm gawking! Are you seeing this place? Its like we're walking through a living kyber crystal! Can't you feel all that lightside energy, Kanan?!" The ex-Jedi laughed. "Oh, I can feel it, alright. No need to remind me every ten seconds." "I guess it's like the old saying. You can never have too much of a good thing," Hera said with a smile of her own. "I only wish I could feel what you two are feeling right now." "Aren't we already?!" Sabine butted in. "This place is amazing! I've never seen a castle literally cut out of a single stone before!" The small purple dragon leading the group through the crystalline palace gave a hearty chuckle and proudly proclaimed; “If you think this is wild, you should see the Crystal Empire! The entire kingdom is made out of crystals—even the ponies!" The members of the Ghost crew exchanged glances. "Not like, LITERAL crystals, right?" Sabine asked after a few moments of dumbstruck silence. The dragon stopped in his tracks and glared at the alien visitors over his shoulder with a mischievous grin "—even the ponies!" he reiterated. Once again, the members of the ghost crew exchanged glances. "Oh, come on, you guys," muttered Zeb, crossing his arms. "The kids just teasing us. The ponies can't LITERALLY be made out of crystals. That's impossible." The dragon lifted a brow. "You’re a giant hairy alien and you have a hard time believing this?” Sabine chuckled and pointed approvingly at the young drake. "Point." Zeb ignored the girl and rolled his eyes. “Aliens I’ve seen before,” said Zeb. “Walking and talking shiny minerals is something I have not.” “Eh, no scratches on my scales,” Spike replied with a shrug. “But you stick around here long enough and I’m sure you’ll see a thing or two harder to believe than Crystal ponies.” The Lasat gave a scoff. “What’s harder to believe than that?” Just as the words were leaving his mouth, the young drake leading them through the castle threw open the large doors to a grand banquet hall complete with a long table just piled high with delectable food and pastries. The vast array of dishes was accompanied by a variety of beverages both familiar and not. "Whoa!" exclaimed Ezra Bridger. "Is all of this for US?" Spike nodded proudly. "Yup! When Twilight heard you were hungry, she asked Pinkie Pie to whip up something while she gathered the rest of the council. Enjoy!" Zeb chuckled and stepped forward, rubbing his hands together in anticipation. "Oh, don't mind if I do! Give the chef my regards." "That goes for me as well," added Sabine, following the Lasats lead. "It looks amazing!" "I think that goes for all of us," said Kanan, turning to Spike. "We're grateful to you and your friends." "Absolutely." agreed Hera. "We can't thank you enough. We're in your debt." "Ah," Spike smiled, waving his claw. "Its nothing! We're just getting you fed before you meet the rest of the gals." "Do you think it will take long for the council to convene?" inquired Hera, curiously. "I wouldn't worry about it," answered the drake with a wink. "When a problem arises, the council of friendship always assembles fast!" "We appreciate the haste." said Kanan. The ex-jedi paused then turned to Hera as the dragon walked away from them to join the others at the table for lunch. "Wait, did he say council of friendship?" Hera nodded. "I think I heard that, too." Kanan stared into the chamber at the ghost crew as they began to dig into the feast. "Somethings weird about this place." said the Jedi, crossing his arms. "Everybody's too nice. I think we should be cautious." Hera chuckled. "While I agree... wouldn't you rather discuss it over...?" the Twi'lek walked over to the table and picked up a round pastry with frosting and sprinkles on it. "...Whatever this is?" Kanan gave a chuckle of his own and smiled. "Alright. You win. Food now, questions later." The scene inside the throne room of Princess Twilights castle was very much alive with debate. Having all received the news of extraterrestrials from a galaxy far, far away, everypony was sharing their sentiments and excitement to meet the new visitors from the stars. Well, everypony except Rainbow Dash. The rambunctious mare had already voiced several objections. "Oh, COME ON, TWILIGHT!" the rainbow-maned Pegasus exclaimed as Twilight Sparkle finished conveying a brief synopsis of the current situation. "You're letting them stay in the palace?! And we know nothing about them?!" "Calm yerself down, sugarcube," Applejack, the country mare, suggested from across the table. "Ah'm sure Twilight was just being hospitable-like in the moment while she was figur'n out what to do. It ain't like she planned for space-folk to drop outta the sky for an unexpected visit." "I concur with Applejack,' Rarity, the refined seamstress, agreed. "It was only proper to offer them a place to stay for the night; what with Fluttershy vouching for them and all." "But we don't know anything about them!" Rainbow Dash protested. "All we know is that they're from outer space! Do you have any idea how many things could go wrong with visitors from outer space? The answer: A LOT OF THINGS! Haven't you girls read anything about aliens?!" "Really, Rainbow Dash!" Rarity exclaimed. "Just what have you been reading?" "What?" Rainbow Dash answered, innocently, "I'm not saying they're evil or anything! I'm just saying maybe we should be careful! We can't just blindly believe everything they tell us!" "And jest what have they told us so far?" Applejack raised an eyebrow. "We ain't even heard what they want from us yet!" "That's why I called you all here; to help me figure out what to do," Twilight Sparkle explained, standing up from her throne. The six mares in the room watched as the alicorn began to encircle the table, keeping her eyes glued to the floor in concentration as she continued; "There's something strange about these visitors for sure--something that goes beyond the fact that they're extraterrestrials. Several of them are humans--like the ones I've told you about on the other side of the mirror--only these ones don't seem to be affected by Equestiran magic. When a human passes through the mirror, a magical metamorphosis takes place, turning a human into an equine no different than us. But for some reason, that hasn't happened to these humans. It doesn't make any sense!" "Maybe the magic doesn't affect them because they're not from the other side of the mirror," Starlight Glimmer suggested from the place she was standing beside Twilight's throne. "You said that they told Fluttershy that they were from outer space. Doesn't that make them local? I mean, dimensionally-speaking?" "Oooh, I like that word!" Pinkie Pie commented. "DIE-MEN-SION-AL-LEE! It sounds made up, but I'm preeeeetty sure it's a word in the Oxford Dictionary!" "Ox-who now?" asked Applejack, shaking her head. "I don't know," said Twilight. "All I know is that something doesn't feel right here, and I'm afraid it could spell danger for Equestria." "M-m-maybe you could just ask them?" Fluttershy interjected, meekly. All six of the mares turned to Fluttershy, who bravely resisted the urge to shrink away from their gazes and forced herself to be more assertive for her new friends. "They seemed nice to me when I met them in the forest," she continued. "I think they're just looking for a way to get home. I'm sure if we asked them how we could help, they would be more than happy to tell us everything we want to know." "Ah agree with Fluttershy," Applejack said. "Ah think we oughta give them an honest chance to do some explainin' 'fore we decide to kick 'em to the curb." "I second that... most colorful notion, Applejack," Rarity agreed. "And let it not be lost on us that this is the second time Fluttershy has vouched for them. That would suggest to me that these, erm, other-worlders, made quite an impression on her during their time together. And if Fluttershy is willing to vouch for them so readily, then it would be most untrusting of us to ignore an endorsement from the element of kindness herself." "I third that," Starlight Glimmer added. "Fourthed!" exclaimed Pinkie Pie. "Ugh," Rainbow Dash grumbled, sinking into her chair. "Fine! But I'm going to keep a close eye on them!" "So that is it? Its settled, then?" Twilight Sparkled asked, looking around. "Nopony has anything else to say?" "Well, what else is there to say, darling?" Rarity asked. "I don't see how we can fairly pass judgement over these creatures without having ever met them before. Unless of course you have a bad feeling about them? I hesitate to say it, but it seems to me the idea of so readily accepting them is proving to be difficult for you, darling. Clearly something very serious is on your mind if even the Princess of Friendship is having doubts about these strangers." "Rarity's right, Twilight," said Applejack. "Somethin's eatin' you up. It's as plain on your face as that horn a'yours." "It's not just the arrival of these aliens, is it?" Starlight Glimmer probed. "Spike told me earlier something else has been bothering you." Twilight Sparkle gave a sigh. "Spike's right. Something has," the alicorn answered, defeatedly. "The truth is, I don't know what it is myself. All I know is that lately I've been having strange dreams—dreams that feel so real that sometimes I wake up and wonder if I'm still dreaming. I went to Princess Celestia to tell her about them—but something inside of me felt like it wasn't the right time. I don't know how to explain it. It just doesn't feel like something anypony can help me with right now. I think I have to discover what it is on my own." "That sounds plum awful, Twilight." Applejack offered, sympathetically. "Ah'm so sorry to hear that. Ah wish you didn't feel this way 'bout figurin' it out on yer own—but if you think that's the best way to handle it, then you do what ya got to, sugarcube. Jest rememebr yer friends are here in case ya need anything along the way. Aren't we, gals?" The six mares joined in a collective affirmation of their support. "Thanks, everypony," Twilight smiled, weakly. "That means a lot to me. Really." "So are you going to tell us about these dreams, or what?" Rainbow Dash asked, pointedly. "Spill the beans already!" "Now hold up there just a minute, Rainbow," Applejack chastised. "Twilight will share the dreams with us when she's good n' ready. Won'tcha Twilight?" Twilight gave another sigh. "Yes, I will. But now's not the time. Now's the time to deal with the task at hoof." "Alright!" Starlight Glimmer agreed. "Let's get to it, then!" Twilight smiled and gave a determined nod. "Yes, let's. Starlight, retrieve our guests, please. The council of Friendship is ready to see them now!" The alien forest was immensely thick—much thicker than Agent Kallus had imagined upon studying initial scans of the planet. There was also something distinctly... unnatural about it—something dark and perhaps even sinister; but Agent Kallus couldn't quite put his finger on what it was. Light from the planets strange sun barely pierced the thick canopy above the landing zone where the Lieutenants scout troopers had chosen a patch of dry ground to act as the mission staging point. Agent Kallus watched as his Imperial engineers began to clear the soon-to-be encampment with large forestry equipment, making way for the most essential part of the staging point—a laser-gridded fence. On a potentially hostile planet like this, seeing the laser fence go up was always a source of ease for the troops—especially Agent Kallus who couldn't shake the feeling of an ever pressing darkness. Perhaps he shouldn't have volunteered for this mission, after all. Agent Kallus folded his arms behind his back and watched as the progress on the landing zone unfolded rapidly. He had to admit, he was impressed. Lieutenant Lyste certainly knew his stuff. Although logistics had never been of particular interest to the Agent, he could appreciate the talent that the young Lieutenant Lyste had for his occupational specialty. Competence in the Empire was expected—but not always achieved—making it a somewhat rare commodity. Agent Kallus was pleased that there was at least one well-oiled cog in the machine running smoothly. "Agent Kallus, Sir," came the voice of a Stormtrooper as Agent Kallus continued to stare. "Lieutenant Lyste requests your presence at the command post. He wants to go over something with you from the briefing." Agent Kallus gave a nod. "You may tell the Lieutenant I will be there shortly." "Yes, sir," the stormtrooper saluted. As the trooper walked away, Kallus quickly glanced at the dark forest one last time and turned to follow him. However, as his eyes darted across the dark forest scape, a pair of glowing yellow eyes peered back at him from the shadows. Agent Kallus did a double take, but by then the eyes were gone. "Wait, Corporal?" Agent Kallus called back to the departing stormtrooper. "Yes, sir?" answered the well-trained solider, turning around. "Did you see that?" The stormtrooper gazed in the direction of his superior. "What are we looking for, sir?" the stormtrooper asked, returning to Kallus' side. "I saw something..." Agent Kallus and the stormtrooper stood silently for several moments, scanning the forest for the anomaly. "Well, whatever it was," said the stormtrooper finally. "I think its gone now. If it was dangerous, we're safe here within the perimeter. Once the laser fences go up, there won't be anything to worry about.." Agent Kallus frowned to himself. "I wouldn't be so sure, Corporal..." He turned to the solider and straightened his posture. "Well, I believe we were on our way to a briefing, weren't we?" "Yes, sir!" With that, the two began to make their way to the command post. Although Agent Kallus didn't see them when he stopped and glanced over his shoulder one last time, a pair of glowing yellow eyes continued to watch him from the shadows. The spirits inside of the hall just shy of the grand council chamber in Twilight Sparkles castle were high for the most part. Having just satisfied their hunger, the members of the ghost crew were awaiting the return of Spike to beckon them into the next chamber for their meeting with the council of friendship. Moments earlier, a lilac unicorn by the name of Starlight Glimmer had retrieved them along with the young drake, and now they stood just moments away from meeting the supposed rulers of this realm known as Equestria. Although injected with a newfound surge of sugar and excitement, Kanan Jarrus and Hera Syndulla did their best to have a collected discussion with their comrades about the upcoming meeting. "Okay, here's the plan," Kanan was saying. "We don't mention anything about the Empire. Our story is, our ship crashed after passing through a solar storm. We just need to get off this planet as soon as possible so we can return to our people." "Wait, we're going to lie to them?" Ezra Bridger asked with an upraised brow. "That feels wrong, Kanan—especially after how well they've treated us since we got here. I think they deserve the truth.” "I think it’s better for everyone if we leave the Empire out of this, Ezra.” Hera said. "We don't want to cause a panic to a peaceful civilization that has nothing to do with our war against the Empire." "But they could be in danger!" Ezra protested. "Don’t you think we should warn them so they can prepare for the Empire in case it was able to track us here?” "Ezra has a point," Sabine conceded. "Normally, I would trust your instincts when it comes to a situation like this, Hera, But if we don't tell these natives the truth—Ezra's right—they won't have a chance to prepare themselves for a defense against the Empire. Not only that, but we don't manage to repair the Ghost and escape by then—they're going to feel betrayed. They're going to feel like we used them as a diversion. They'll hate us." "Well, that's not a good argument," Zeb muttered. "They could end up hating us either way. The only difference is that they might hate us now rather than later if we tell them the truth.” "But at least this way they'll have a chance to do something about it, Zeb," Sabine shot back. "I know personally I would appreciate someone more if they warned me about a hornet in the room instead of waiting for it to sting me before saying anything about it." Kanan gave a sigh and glanced at Hera. "You're right. Both of you. Hera and I meant well when we talked about it, but it looks like honesty might be our best option here." "Are you sure?" Hera asked, cautiously. "You know I'll support anything you decide, Kanan." "Anything we decide," Kanan smirked. "We're in this together, remember?" "All of us," agreed Sabine. "Together!" said Ezra. "Eh, right. Speaking of togetherness, I'm confused," said Zeb, rubbing his forehead. "We're going to tell them about the Empire? What exactly are we going to say?" Chopper chuckled and gave an answer in the form of binary beeps and whistles. "I'm going to assume Chop didn't say anything useful," Zeb rolled his eyes. "You'd be correct," answered Sabine. "Hmm, Zeb brings up a good point," Kanan acknowledged, stroking his chin. "What exactly do we tell them? There has to be a balance between telling the truth and not giving them reason to panic." "Do you think it can be avoided either way?" asked Sabine. "I think that’s the risk we take by telling the truth." Hera admitted. "Maybe we're all looking at this the wrong way," said Ezra. "It seems pretty clear to everyone there's a downside to this—but we're choosing to ignore the good that could come out of it as well. Maybe there will be a small panic—or maybe they'll give us their full trust and agree to help us get off this planet as soon as possible! They've done everything they could so far to welcome us into their home. I think we should give them the benefit of the doubt. I think they’ll want to help us. It’s what they do!” "Hmm," hummed Kanan, giving a small nod. "Well said, Ezra." Hera smiled. "Well said, but it doesn't answer my question." Zeb muttered. "What exactly do we tell them?" "The truth, Zeb. The whole truth." Ezra answered, proudly. "Eh... right." Zeb frowned. "Well, I guess I should make peace with the fact that that was the last good meal I'd have on this planet." "Don't be such a pessimist, Zeb," Sabine chuckled. "I'm sure there's some delicious rations awaiting for you when we get back to the camp." "Whoopie..." said Zeb, unenthusiastically. Moments after this conversation had concluded, the doors to the chamber behind the ghost crew creaked open and revealed a sheepish lilac unicorn with teal and purple mane approaching them with an awkward smile. The crew immediately recognized her as the unicorn from before, Starlight Glimmer, and perked up in anticipation of her presence. “Hey, every, uh… creature! Sorry for the wait.” the unicorn chuckled. "The council will see you now!" The ghost crew exchanged glances. Hera gave Kanan a nod and Kanan turned to the unicorn to give a nod of his own. "We're ready." the man said. Starlight Glimmer gave her best smile and used her magic to open the doors to the chamber behind them completely. "Everycreature, I give you—THE COUNCIL OF FRIENDHSIP!" Starlight Glimmer announced dramatically. Inside the large, circular chamber, the members of the ghost crew were once again in awe of the scene before them. A large table, seemingly alive with a magical hologram of some sort, stood as the centerpiece of the chamber with seven glorious crystal thrones surrounding it—each occupied by a pony of different color, shape, and size. There were ponies with wings, some with horns, and some without either entirely. And right next to the throne that seemed to be at the very head of the table (despite the table being round) sat a small throne belonging to no other than the drake himself—Spike the dragon. "Whoa!" exclaimed Ezra in amazement. "You can say that again." agreed Sabine. "Welcome, everycreature!" Twilight Sparkle, the alicorn they had met briefly when they first arrived at the castle, stood up from her throne and addressed them, warmly. "The council of friendship has gathered here today in honor of your arrival. We hope that the following discussion will be fruitful and the beginning of a new friendship." The ponies on the council of friendship agreed and each gave a manner of their own greeting. Ezra smiled and waved back at the ponies while Kanan and Hera bowed respectfully. “Thank you, councilmember, Twilight,” Hera said. “We appreciate the councils time and the more than hospitable welcome.” “Oh, you don’t have to call me that!” Twilight said with a friendly smile. “Twilight is fine.” “Yeah!” A rainbow maned Pegasus said from her throne. “And its PRINCESS TWILIGHT if you're going to be all fancy about it!" “Rainbow Dash!” A unicorn with purple mane chastised. “Mind your manners! Our visitors meant no disrespect. It is unlikely they are familiar with our decorum. We should allow them courtly grace!” “We're honored at your consideration, councilmember,” Kanan answered. “But we understand ignorance is no excuse for this lack of decorum." the human turned to Twilight and gave another bow. "Forgive us, Princess Twilight." "It's fine...?" the purple alicorn answered confusedly, a bit thrown off by the humans formality. “There, you see?” The white unicorn with purple mane smiled. “They’re very well mannered. We ought to treat them with the respect they deserve.” “I wasn’t being rude!” The rainbow maned Pegasus insisted, innocently. “I was just saying that if you’re going to use a title, it might as well be accurate!” "Please excuse our friend Rainbow Dash, y'all." A orange pony in a cowboy hat said kindly. "She tends to be mighty suspicious of space folk." "I am not!" Rainbow Dash protested. "Are tooooo~!" a pink earth pony giggled from across the table. "Alright, quit yer yappin, y'all." the pony in the cowboy hat chuckled. "Ah'm Applejack. That there is Pinkie Pie and this here is Rainbow Dash." "Sup?" Rainbow Dash said. "Hiiii!" waved Pinkie Pie. "Um, hello." Kanan answered, surprised at the councils extroverted behavior. "Hello, Pinkie Pie. Hello, Rainbow Dash. Hello Applejack." Hera said, respectfully. "And you may call me Rarity," said the proper white unicorn with purple mane. "It is my deepest pleasure to make your acquaintances." "As it is ours as well, councilmember," Kanan concurred. "And I'm Starlight Glimmer," the unicorn beside Twilight Sparkle said. "Although, you probably knew that already. And I think you've met Fluttershy, Spike, and Twilight as well, right?" "We have," Hera said. "Hello again to you all." "So now you know our names," Rainbow Dash said, pointedly. "But what about yours?" Before Rarity could chastise Raindbow Dash once again, Ezra stepped forward and introduced himself, quickly. "I'm Ezra! Ezra Bridger." the youth said, proudly. "Thanks for everything so far!" Kanan gave Ezra a "let me handle this look" and turned back to the ponies. "Yes, we're all very thankful. Truly. My name is Kanan Jarrus. This is Hera Syndulla and Sabine Wren. The big guy is Zeb." The ghost members each nodded respectfully as Kanan introduced them (except for Zeb who gave a "Hmph" instead). Behind the group, a grumpy noise rang out as Chopper rolled forward. "Oh," Kanan rolled his eyes. "Right. And this Chopper." The droid whistled a greeting. "Ooooh," Pinkie Pie cooed from her throne. "A robot! That's pretty cool, huh?" "Eh, it's alright, " grumbled Rainbow Dash (although there was a subtle look of interest on her face). "Its a pleasure to meet you all," Twilight Sparkle said with the same warm tone from before. "We Equestrians love to make new friends—especially friends from such far away places. Whiiiich brings me to my first potentially invasive question," the mare chuckled sheepishly. "No pun intended. Where are you all from, exactly?" Each member of the ghost crew instinctively answered quickly with a variation of the term "it's complicated," and "that's a long story" before they all realized they had spoken at the same time and shut up. "Ahem," Kanan cleared his throat, giving the other members a look. "What everyone means to say, is we come from different parts of the galaxy. But our homebase is a planet called Lothal." "Lothal?" Rainbow Dash echoed. "It sounds like a cat." "You're just saying that because Lothal rhymes with Opal." Pinkie Pie said to Rainbow Dash with a grin. "Although, now to think of it—it really depends on how you pronounce it. If you say LOTH-AL you have to say OH-PAL for the two words to rhyme. But if you pronounce Opal as OH-PUHL like Rarity does, then they sound like two completely different words! Which, I don't know about you, but to me is preeeeeety funny when you think about it!" "Let's try to focus here, Pinkie," Starlight Glimmer said with a slight chuckle. "Although you've definitely given me something to think about later." "Eh, it's what I do," shrugged the pink mare with exaggerated poise. Twilight giggled at her friends antics and said, "Thank you, Starlight. And thank you for the thought, Pinkie Pie. I'm sure it's a thought all of us will take to heart." Zeb lifted a brow and turned to Sabine. "Is she for real?" The Mandalorian teen shrugged. "I mean... They do sound kind of similar." Zeb rolled his eyes at the tease. Meanwhile, Twilight addressed the group again, saying; "Pinkie Pie likes to share random thoughts sometimes. No offense to the name of your planet." "No offense taken, your highness," Hera answered as politely as ever. "We respect that everyone has a voice on your council." "Oooh, she's a little darling!" Rarity exclaimed. "And look at that marvelous green complexion. Simply divine! You must allow me to sew you a dress later, Miss Hera—I insist!" "Oh," the Twi'lek blushed, slightly, "I'm... flattered, really..." Kanan laughed, seeing his friend so flustered. It was a rare thing to make Hera Syndulla blush. "I think she'd like that," Kanan chuckled. "Thank you, Rarity—er, councilmember." "It's my deepest pleasure!" "I'm glad you're all getting along," Rainbow Dash frowned. "But let's hold off on the dress-making until we ask some serious questions, yeah?" The mare turned to the crew of the ghost. "Twilight and Rarity are too polite to ask—so I will. What brought you to our planet? Fluttershy said that you crashed. What's all that about?!" "Rainbow Dash!" Rarity cried in horror. "I know it's rude!" Rainbow Dash shot back "But these are important questions! The sooner they answer them, the better." "That question..." Kanan began to say. "is actually a very complicated one to answer." There was a pause as the eight friends exchanged glances. "Yes," Hera agreed with a sigh. "And, if we're being honest—before we were brought before your council—we debated whether or not we should answer it... But we think you deserve the truth." "Well, ah don't think any of us like the way that sounds, sugarcube," Applejack answered after a few seconds of silence. "Ev'n so, we appreciate you want'n to be honest with us. Ah think ah speak for the gals when ah say we want to know whats bothern' yah even if its somethin' you don't think we'd want to hear." "See guys? I knew they'd understand!" Ezra exclaimed, happily. "Hold on, Ezra," Kanan said with a frown. "Lets hear what they say first when we tell them before we start to celebrate." "Tell us what?" Fluttershy asked, meekly. "It sounds like you're talking about something scary..." Kanan gave a deep sighed. "I'm not going to sugarcoat the truth. It is." "I knew it!" Rainbow Dash cried, leaping from her chair as she pointed a hoof at the strangers. "Something smelled fishy from the start!" "RAINBOW DASH!" Rarity chastised, angrily. "REALLY! MANNERS!" "Don't give me that, Rarity! You heard them yourself!" "Oh, stop embarassin' yerself, Rainbow!" Applejack said. "Ah think we should let'em finish answer'n 'fore me make any assumptions." The country mare turned back to the visitors. "Sorry, y'all. We're ready to hear it." Kanan turned to Hera, then glanced at Ezra. The boy gave a reassuring nod. Kanan sighed once again and switched his attention back to the council before him. "This answer won't be easy to take. We're only telling you this out of good faith." "We don't want to start a panic," Hera added. "Agreed." Kanan nodded. "But unfortunately, the answer might make it impossible to avoid. The answer, is: War." The faces on the council became solemn. "War...?" Spike asked after a few moments of silence. "You mean fightn'?" Applejack asked. "You mean... killing?" mused Starlight Glimmer, worriedly. "Both." Kanan said, firmly. "Like I said, this wont be easy to hear—but my crew and I—we're part of a small rebel force in the outer rim of our galaxy called Phoenix Squadron. Our mission is simple—we want to free the people of the word Lothal from Imperial control." "Imperial?" Rainbow Dash asked, a bit more curiously than angrily. "The Galactic Empire." Hera clarified. "A galaxy-spanning tyranny that has already consumed thousands of planets." "And it consumes more by the day," Kanan added, sadly. "Planets like Lothal. Which his how we came to be stranded on your world." "We were retreating after a battle," said Hera. "Trying to escape an Imperial ambush. But in the haste of the retreat, our ship was badly damaged and we were forced to land here. It was our only chance at survival." "That's right. I wish I could say that's the only bad news, but the truth is, we don't know if the Empire knows we're here." "Kanan is eluding to is the fact that before we crashed on your planet, the Empire was tracking our ship after the ambush." Sabine spoke up. "We destroyed the tracker, but we don't know if the signal it was able to reach the Empire or not." "Which all goes to say one thing;" Kanan frowned. "You could be in danger. All of you. This planet, your people—everything." The eight friends at the table of the council of friendship all exchanged alarmed expressions. It was clear the news was troubling indeed. "Okay, that sounds reallllly bad. But they could also have not been able to track you, right?" Pinkie offered with an unconvinced, hopeful grin. "It's possible," Sabine answered. "But like we said, we don't know for sure. We wanted to tell you the truth now so you know how dire the situation is." "Which brings us to the point of why we're here," said Hera. "To ask you to help us to repair our ship so we can leave this planet and draw the Empire away from your world before it's discovered." The ponies cast slow, nervous glances at one another—unsure how to reply. Kanan took this as a queue and continued; "Its the best solution we can think of. You planet doesn't appear on any star chart we know of. We doubt the Empire is aware of your planets existence. If we act fast, we think we might be able to lead the Empire away before they even know you're here." "And you're certain this will prevent them from finding us?" Twilight Sparkle asked, solemnly. "We're not certain of anything." muttered Zeb. "That's what we're trying to say. Er, no disrespect, your highness..." There was a long silence. Finally, Twilight Sparkle said, "What else can you tell us about this Empire? Can they be reasoned with...?" "I don't think they can," Hera replied, sadly. "Many have worlds have tried—only to be consumed by its unquenchable thirst for power." "Hera is right," Ezra added. "The Empire stops at nothing to get what it wants. It murdered my family. I was an orphan until Phenoix Squadron gave me a home." "How terrible," Rarity gasped. "You poor thing." "Yeah..." sighed Zeb. "It's all terrible. Now you know why we're here." The Lasat stepped forward, boldly. "Like the others said, we're asking for your help. Now what do you say?" The council was silent once again. After the ponies had exchanged glances for the third time since the session began, the purple alicorn at the head of the table gave a frown. "We will take a brief recess to talk it over." she said. "You and your friends can wait outside." Elsewhere, in the thick of the Everfree Forest, Agent Kallus marched along side Lieutenant Lystes platoon of stormtroopers as the ever-anxious man commanded his forces from the hatch of one of their hover-tanks. The two light-division infantry vehicles that they had been provided made up the main column of the small imperial force, while stormtroopers made up the body around it. Although not the most strategic assembly, Agent Kallus had said nothing as the Lieutenant ordered the formation from the Imperial staging point just a few hours earlier. He knew the unseasoned Imperial Officer was afraid. Deathly afraid. 'As he should be', Agent Kallus thought to himself. Detailed scans of the forest had confirmed his hunch—the wildlife was incredibly dangerous. Monstrous creatures lurked behind every rock and tree—some with grotesque biology Agent Kallus could hardly believe upon analyzing the data for himself. He counted them fortunate that they had yet to run into any of these abominations on their mission thus far—but his senses told him there was a presence lurking in their shadow. From the corners of his eyes he could catch glimpses of it now and so often, but it had yet to make itself known in the flesh. Agent Kallus frowned. Whatever it was, it wanted him. And that sent a slight tingle down his spine like few things had ever done before. "A-Agent Kallus?" came the Lieutenants voice. Agent Kallus shook his head and quickly regarded Lieutenant Lyste as the man addressed him from atop his hovertank. "Yes? What is it, Lieutenant?" the Agent answered, promptly. "Something on your mind?" "Well, no, it's just..." the Lieutenant gave him a wary look. "...I was hoping you would contribute some of your expertise as we approach the rebel position? You seem to have extensive knowledge on such robust military operations. It is a wonder to me why you were not put in charge of this mission. I feel so... inadequate." Agent Kallus smirked—a bit surprised by the Lieutenants admission, but thankful for the chance to distract himself from the shadowy stalker. "Do not trouble yourself with such thoughts, Lieutenant." Agent Kallus replied. "I doubt the rebels will be expecting us. The element of surprise should provide sufficient advantage in our favor to make up for any inadequacies." "Is that how you handle such situations?" the Lieutenant asked, curiously. "You do not trouble yourself?" Agent Kallus managed a chuckle at that. "There are some things you cannot plan for, Lieutenant. Strategies rarely survive first contact. Especially when it comes to this... imaginative, rebel group." "Should that concern us?" the Lieutenant asked, hastily. "On the contrary," Agent Kallus replied. "It should strengthen our resolve. These rebels are only so creative when they are on the retreat. With nowhere to run, what will their clever tricks amount to?" "You make it sound so simple," the Lieutenant sighed. "Do you really believe it will be so easy?" Agent Kallus lifted a brow. "That all depends on what you mean by easy." "A word that I find difficult to define myself in this instance," Lieutenant Lyste admitted. "But I can't help but keep thinking... What about the Jedi...?" Agent Kallus chuckled to himself once again. "You might find the stories of these particular Jedi to be greatly... exaggerated." Agent Kallus answered, confidently. "In terms of their ability to inspire—it's indisputable. But in the way of raw power, they reserve themselves to lethal action only when necessary. I believe Kanan Jarrus and Ezra Bridger are more idealists than Jedi fighters. They go to great lengths to preserve life—even those of their enemies." "Of their enemies?" Lieutenant Lyste asked, doubtfully. "I always heard Jedi were merciless beats—responsible for massacres all over the galaxy during the Clone Wars. Did not many planets refuse to join the Imperial/Separatist Correlation—simply because they had seen the destruction of the Jedi first hand before Emperor Palpatine had them purged?" "I do not know the validity of such histories, Lieutenant Lyste," Agent Kallus answered, dismissively. "All I can say with confidence is what I've seen with my own eyes; and these Jedi are not particularly violent. I assure you, we are quite safe—if not in our numbers, then in their propensity to seek a peaceful solution within conflict." Color returned to Lieutenants Lystes face as he let out a sigh. "That's... a relief. Thank you, Agent Kallus. I think you are right. These rebels should be swift to surrender! They have nowhere to run... and I doubt even a Jedi can withstand a Platoon of the Empires finest!" Agent Kallus smiled in agreement. "That's the spirit, Lieutenant. Now onwards! Our rebels friends await." "Indeed!" With that, Lieutenant Lyste went back to his duties enthusiastically. Agent Kallus smirked. It was good that the Lieutenant had regained some measure of confidence. A leader always had to be strong for his men. But Agent Kallus still couldn't shake the feeling of something stalking them in their wake—just beyond his peripheral vision—lurking in the shadows with a piercing gaze. "Onwards..." Agent Kallus whispered to himself. But he wasn't so sure how far "onwards" would take them. He could only hope the answer was "far enough."
Chapter VIII - "New Friends..."Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter I - "A Narrow Escape"STAR WARS EMPIRE'S EDGE Written by: Chadbane Chapter I - "A Narrow Escape" A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away... A modified VCX-100 corellian light freighter jumped out of hyperspace along with a small fleet of rebel star ships. Dubbed the "Ghost" by its captain, Hera Syndulla, the VCX-100 moved into attack position and locked onto one of the three Imperial freighters in the convoy coming up on its scopes. "This is Phoenix leader to Commando Sato," Hera said, her eyes fixed on the approaching targets. "We're in position now. Awaiting your signal." "Copy that, Phoenix Leader," Commander Sato's voice crackled over the com channel. "Commence the attack." Hera pushed the Ghost forward and dived between two of the Imperial freighters as a squadron of A-Wings followed suit. The Imperial convoy, although not defenseless, was completely caught off guard as the rebels initiated their attack. With the element of surprise on their side, the rebels needed to hit the convoy with everything they had before the Empire could retaliate. Unfortunately, the Imperial Officer in charge of overseeing the convoy was quick to respond to the threat. "Launch all fighters!" cried the Officer, bracing himself against one of the chairs in the cockpit as a barrage of laser fire shook his transport. "I want an immediate counterattack! Inform the nearest outpost we're in need of reinforcements!" Less than a minute later, several of the TIE fighters that had been docked below the freighters in the convoy deployed from their transports and began to engage the rebels in ship-to-ship combat. Soon the space surrounding the Imperial gozanti freighters was littered with TIE fighters chasing rebel star ships. Hera was impressed that the Empire's ability to retaliate had improved dramatically compared to their last raid. Initially, the main freighters in the convoy would have lost half their fighters by now. As Hera came around for another pass, Kanan, her longtime friend and co-pilot, chuckled to himself from behind the controls of the topside turret on the Ghost. "This is where the fun begins." smirked the ex-Jedi. "Fighters coming in at two-ten!” called Hera from the cockpit. "I see 'em." Kanan whipped his turret around and opened fire. A few moments later, a TIE Interceptor, one of the newer star fighter models being produced by the Empire, burst into flames as a second TIE fighter banked to the left in an attempt to avoid a similar fate. Although the pilot succeeded at first in his attempts to avoid Kanans laser fire, he had no such luck avoiding the rebel star ship that came up from behind. It quickly reduced him to space dust as Kanan watched on. "Hey!" he cried as he watched a familiar VCX-series auxiliary star fighter zoomed past his turret dome. "That was mine!" "Then try hitting him next time, will yah?" shot back the voice of Sabine, another member of the Ghost crew, over the com. "There's a targeting system on your console for a reason!" "Hey, you try knocking off a few fighters when your pilot is going this speed." "I heard that!" echoed Hera's voice from the cockpit. Kanan chuckled. "I know you did." The Ghost made a complete one-eighty and started its third attack run. By now, most of the TIE Fighters had been deployed from the Imperial fighters, leaving the space surrounding the convoys littered with A-Wings engaging them in dogfights. As Hera dodged an incoming barrage of laser fire from a trio of Interceptors, she barrel-rolled the Ghost over an Imperial freighter and knocked out two of its turrets with the Ghost's nose cannon. "Phoenix Leader to Commander Sato," said Hera, hailing the rebel command ship. "The center Imperial freighter is vulnerable. I'm starting my final attack run." "Copy that, Captain Syndulla," Sato's voice replied over the intercom. "Finish your attack run then pull back to a safe distance. According the the information we intercepted, that freighter is carrying a large shipment of coaxium! You don't want to get caught in the blast radius of a volatile fuel like that!" "Acknowledged, Commander. Phoenix leader, out." Hera piloted the Ghost though the glowing particles of another recently-disintegrated TIE Fighter and whipped the ship around. After aligning the Ghost's nose cannon with the Imperial freighter she desired, Hera opened fire—but not before a trio of enemy TIE's came up on her flank and did the same. Green lasers splashed against the Ghost's shields, forcing Hera to bank her ship to the left and break off the attack. As she skimmed the top of the Imperial Gozanti freighter that was her target, she pulled back on the Ghost's controls and launched the ship into a steep climb. Unfortunately, the pilots in the TIE fighters chasing her were not unfamiliar with this maneuver. As the Twi'lek reached the pivotal moment of her climb, each perusing fighter, one after the other, landed a direct hit on the Ghost within seconds. The result was a potent explosion that rocked the Ghost to its core. Kanan did his best to swat the fighters as they broke off their attack to avoid his laster fire, but the damage had already been done. The ship had lost something important. "Karabast!" Zeb, the Ghost Crew's local Lasat, swore. "They just took out our internal com systems!" Zeb was acting as Hera' co-pilot, even though he wasn't very good at it. To be fair, he had had some experience acting as a co-pilot thanks to previous engagements, but Hera doubted that he was the man (or in this case the Lasat) for the job of fixing the com systems. Wheeling around in her chair, Hera looked at the old C1 astromech droid they called Chopper and frowned. "Chopper," she said, staring intensely into the droid's visual receptors. "I need you to fix the internal com systems so can I can coordinate our attack. How soon do you think you can have that up and running again?" Chopper replied in the only language he was capable of speaking—binary. "No, that won't do at all." Hera frowned to herself. "If you can't fix the internal com systems sooner then that, then I'll need you to go down stairs and tell Ezra that I'm coming around for another pass. The nose cannon isn't responding to my controls up here. Can you do that for me, Chopper?" Chopper grunted and pointed an accusing metal claw at Hera's copilot, Zeb. "No, Chopper," Hera growled at the old grumpy astromech. "I need Zeb up here in case anything else goes dead. Now go—before I pull your battery!" Chopper muttered a curse beneath his metaphorical breath and reluctantly did as he was told. Although servitude to organics was the primary function of all astromechs, Chopper never found the task of being a messenger boy particularly appealing. As the rusty old astromech rolled into the cockpit of the nose cannon where Ezra Bridger was working the controls, he grumbled something in his binary language and approached the young man. "What is it, Chopper?" asked Ezra without bothering to turn around. "I'm a little busy right now." The droid scoffed and gave his reply. "The com is down?" Ezra turned around and looked over his seat. "Then why haven't you fixed it yet?" Chopper grumbled indignantly at the question then relayed the information he was asked to. "What? The nose cannon is in position! What do you think I've been doing down here?" Suddenly, the Ghost rattled as a flash of laser fire splashed against its shields. Ezra, who at this point was practically sitting backwards in his seat, fell rearwards against the controls as a TIE Fighter flew past the turret dome and out of sight. "Karabast!" Ezra swore, using Zeb's signature word out of pure instinct. "See what happens when you distract me? Now get back up to the cockpit and fix that com!" Chopper put his arms to his side and scolded the boy firmly. "I am watching my language! Now go!" The droid chuckled to himself and did as he was told. Rolling back into the cockpit a few moments later, Chopper plugged into a panel on the wall and begun to repair the com systems as quickly as he could. Hera, noticing his return, looked over her shoulder and smiled inwardly as she watched the droid reluctantly complete his tasks. She didn't usually say anything nice to Chopper--not even in private--but she reminded herself to thank him for his diligence after the mission was over. "Ezra," said Hera, testing the coms. "Ezra, do you read?" "Loud and clear." the boy replied after a moment of static. "What's the plan?" "I'm going to shake some of these TIE Fighters off our back. With some luck, I may be able to line up a few shots for Kanan," Hera raised her voice so that Kanan could hear her down the hallway. "so that he can finally hit something!" "Hey, I already told you you're going too fast!" the ex-Jedi's voice echoed back. "Besides, I just dusted three off our tail. You're welcome, by the way!" Ezra chuckled to himself behind the controls of the Ghost's nose cannon as his two favorite grown-ups went back and forth. As usual, their voices were light and teasing—they knew how to keep their heads cool in the middle of a firefight. "Maybe internal coms should have stayed offline." Ezra grinned, executing his own attempt at levity. "Then I wouldn't hear you two flirting so much." "Not now, Ezra!" both Hera and Kanan cried in unison. "Sorry." "Hate to interrupt your little chat," Zeb interjected. "But we just picked up another group of signals." Hera looked over her instruments and found that Zeb was reading them correctly. The scanners on the Ghost indicated that another five or six TIE Fighters had just deployed from the forward Imperial Freighter. "More fighters?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "That's unusual. They're engaging us instead of protecting their convoy. They're leaving their freighters vulnerable." "Maybe they know what the freighters are carrying." Zeb reasoned. "Coaxium isn't exactly something you want to be around when it goes off." "Who cares?" Kanan remarked. "Makes things easier for us." "I don't know about that," Hera replied with a smirk. "But I do know we'll be occupied with these fighters for a while. It’s almost like they're trying to stall us." Hera paused as her mind registered the words she had just spoken. "It's almost like they're trying to stall us..." she whispered to herself. Her eyes went wide. "They're trying to stall us!" "...Come again?" came Kanan's voice over the intercom. Hera ignored the question and turned to Zeb. "Zeb, pick up the long range scanners. Focus past the incoming fighters and tell me what you find." Zeb nodded and did as he was told. "Hera, talk to me," came Kanan's voice over the intercom again. "What's going on?" "I don't know yet," Hera admitted. "But I've got a bad feeling about this. Zeb, tell me you have good news." "Uh..." the Lasat rubbed the back of his neck with his right hand. "Don't know yet. Still trying to focus past the fighters. Hang on." Zeb began to twist a nob to the left of the screen in front of him. "Yeah, I don't think I'm gettin' anywhere with this. The red light means they're jamming our signal, right?" Hera's face went pale. "Zeb, how long has that light been there?" Zeb's ears went back. "Uh... ten minutes, I think? That's not bad, is it?" Hera's expression turned to that of sheer horror. "They knew we were coming..." she whispered. "They knew we were coming!" "What?" Zeb looked to Hera. "What are you saying?" Hera pulled up on the Ghost and dodged the enemy TIE Fighters coming at her head on. She didn't have time to explain. Right now, she needed to save as many lives as possible. "All ships, break off the attack!" cried Hera over the com channel. "Enemy reinforcement's inbound! I repeat, all ship's break off the attack!" Instantly the com flooded with chatter. "I get no reading," came Sabine's voice among a plethora of others. "You sure?" "All ships, pull out!" Hera repeated. "I repeat, all ships pull out!" "What? Hera!" Zeb turned in his seat. "What's going on?" Hera looked at Zeb with worry in her eyes. "It's—" She was cut off by the sound of three Star Destroyers jumping out of hyperspace. The large vessels approaching the battle cast shadows over the the rebels ships like a shroud of darkness. "Oh," muttered Zeb as he looked upon the Imperial reinforcements. "It's a trap." Agent Kallus stood on the bridge of the Imperial Victory-Class Star Destroyer the Resurgence and gazed out its window. As the warship jumped out of hyperspace, he folded his hands and concentrated on the occupied space before him. The upcoming battle required his complete concentration. The new Inquisitor had made sure to communicate that much. "Agent Kallus," one of the bridge officers working the controls of the Resurgence below him spoke up. "Star Destroyer's Maelstrom and Reclaimer have just jumped out of hyperspace and are in position to join us in the attack. Awaiting your orders, sir." "Good,"Agent Kallus replied, turning around. "The trap has been sprung. Lieutenant, launch all fighters then target their command ship. Maximum Firepower!" "Yes, sir." Agent Kallus returned to staring out the window as the officers below him relayed their orders. A moment later, a flash of green lights compelled him to wince as a plethora of turbolaser's opened fire. In virtually no time at all, a rebel star ship, distinctly that of a blockade runner, went up in flames and succumbed to the Imperial firepower. As the star destroyers locked onto their next target, Agent Kallus frowned as yet another rebel star ship threw itself in the way of the their command ship and sacrificed itself for the leaders of its cause. Although a suicidal tactic, Agent Kallus found it to be quite noble. 'So eager to die for such a futile cause,' he thought to himself. 'Why? What sense of purpose drives these traitors to give up their own live so cavalierly? How many more must perish before they see the error of their ways?' It was a question Agent Kallus found himself asking more and more. Though he would never admit it aloud, something about this small group of rebels made him question his own loyalty. Of course Agent Kallus was willing to give up his life for the Empire, but the more suffering he saw in the galaxy wrought about by the Empire, the more he questioned his place in it. For nearly his entire life, he had been told the Empire was established to maintain peace and justice in the galaxy; but if that were true, why did everything they do feel so... unjust? Agent Kallus gave a sigh. He didn’t know the answer to that. Or perhaps he did but it was hard to except the truth? In any case, he had to admit his confidence in the Empire had been shaken. It didn't help either when he found himself constantly under the supervision of Inquisitors—especially the inquisitor he found himself working beside on this assignment. "You have done well, Agent Kallus," a demonic voice amplified through the speakers of a mask came from behind. "The rebels are trapped. They will not escape us this time." Agent Kallus tried not to scoff. Typical Inquisitors. They always assumed too much. "Thank you, Inquisitor," said Agent Kallus coolly, turning around. "But had it not been for you approving my tactics, none of this would have been possible. Your leadership style allows for more flexibility than my previous superiors." Agent Kallus learned from his previous experiences with force users that most inquisitors had quite an ego. Whenever they got involved in imperial military affairs, there were bound to be aching toes in the ranks. To avoid this common outcome to the best of his ability, Agent Kallus had decided to exercise a new tactic he picked up called flattery. Regrettably, it wasn't working as well as he had hoped it would. "Yes...," the Inquisitor replied, folding his hands behind his back. "There is no doubt that our relationship thus far has been... beneficial. But do not presume by flattering me that you will achieve my favor. Although you will find that I value my resources much more profoundly than your previous superiors, I have no tolerance for those who fail me. You shall be treated as any other—regardless of rank." The dark figure standing before Agent Kallus was a human, but not completely organic. Cybernetics and traditional Inquisitor armor melded together to take the place of natural flesh and bone. A durasteel mask, fitted with electronics and two glowing red eyes, covered the cyborgs face like the lid of a coffin resembling the skull of an alien Kaleesh. The Inquisitor's appearance, like Darth Vader's, was designed to instill fear. But Agent Kallus was not afraid of him. Fear was not what drove him to do his job. His loyalty to the Empire was. "Of course, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus nodded, respectfully. "My apologies." The Inquisitor 'humphed' and strode past Kallus to gaze out the window. "Do not apologize, Agent," he replied, fixing his eyes on the battle taking place beyond the glass. "We've only just been acquainted two cycles ago. It would be a shame for you to get on my bad side so easily." To this, Agent Kallus did not reply. Instead, he took a step forward and joined the Inquisitor in gazing out the window. "They're a resilient little bunch, aren't they?" he commented, hoping to change the subject. "After the blows they've been dealt by Darth Vader and your fellow Inquisitors, their resolve to resist us is still as strong as ever. Impressive." The Inquisitor lifted a brow. "You admire them, Agent?" he asked, a hint of disgust in his voice. But the Inquisitor's tone quickly changed after he turned to Agent Kallus and studied his face. "...Interesting." commented the Inquisitor as he returned to staring out the viewport. "You have piqued my curiosity. Tell me, what do you admire about them?" Agent Kallus frowned to himself and considered how to reply. "There is only one thing, Inquisitor," he admitted after a moment of silence. "One thing I have never seen any other rebel possess so dearly." The Inquisitor paused, then looked at Agent Kallus very hard. "And what would that be, Agent Kallus?" Agent Kallus met the Inquisitor's gaze with his own. "Hope." The Inquisitor stared into Agent Kallus' eyes for a long time before silently turning to leave. "I'll have Admiral Konstantine join you on the bridge," he said. "Pay your rebel friends your final respects. Their crusade against the Empire ends today." "Jory!" cried Sabine as an A-Wing flying ahead of the Phantom burst into flames. "Blast it!" She pulled up on the controls of the Phantom and dodged the debris just in time. A plethora of TIE Fighters had just joined the battle minuets earlier, and judging by the rate Phoenix squadron was being depleted, it wasn't going to last very much longer. The airspace around Sabine's VCX auxiliary star fighter was becoming more and more congested. She needed to find a way out—and fast. "Phoenix Seven to Phoenix Two," Sabine's intercom crackled as she dodged a barrage of incoming laser fire. "These TIE's are all over me! I can't shake 'em!" "Hang in there, Phoenix Seven!" cried Sabine as she picked up her visual scanners, searching for her friend. "I'm coming around to assist!" "Hurry, Sabine! They just took out my starboard engine!" Sabine spotted a lone A-wing some distance away from her position with a squadron of TIE Fighters in hot pursuit. "I have you in my sights!" cried Sabine, pushing her vessel forwards. "I'm almost there!" "It's too hot! I'm taking too much damage! My shields aren't—Aggh!" Static came up on Sabine's intercom as a ball of orange flames erupted from the cockpit of the A-wing coming up on her scopes. "Phoenix Seven?" Sabine tried her com as the fighter began to spin and plummet towards a rebel freighter below. "Rubyn, do you copy?" There was no reply. Phoenix Seven was no more. "Hera!" Sabine panicked, her body instinctively operating the controls of the star fighter. "Things aren't looking good out here! Tell me you have a plan to get us out of here!" "Working on it, Sabine," Hera's voice came back over the com. "With all the TIE's I've got on my back, the only thing I think we can do is a thirty-two pick up. How are your shields doing up there?" "A thirty-two pick up?" Sabine cried, ignoring the question. "Are you crazy?!" "Now's not the time to argue, Sabine! Get the Phantom ready for evac!" Sabine cried angrily as she banked her ship to the left and dodged an incoming fighter. "Ugh! Fine! I'll rondevu with you on the other side of the center Imperial freighter. If it's transporting as much coaxium as our intel told us, I can't imagine these bucket-heads would risk wiping out the rest of their convoy by hitting it!" "Good thinking, Sabine!" Hera replied. "I'll see you there. Phoenix leader, out!" Sabine pushed the Phantom forward through the flames of a TIE Fighter and emerged on the other side. She still had a long way to go before she reached the central Imperial freighter on the other end of the airspace, but she knew she could make it; provided she didn't get blasted when she rerouted power from her shields to her engines. "Karabast," whispered the girl, using Zeb's signature swear word. "Here we go again!" The Ghost barrel-rolled through a trio of TIE Fighters as they strafed past the window of the cockpit and flipped around to join their comrades in pursuit of the Ghost. "Ezra!" Hera cried into the internal communication systems of the Ghost. "Kanan's going to keep those fighters off our back for as long as he can. I need you to prep the auxiliary deck for a thirty-two pick up! We're getting Sabine aboard now!" "A thirty-two pick up?" the boy's voice came over the intercom. "Oh! Right! You got it, Hera!" "Good man!" Hera replied. "Kanan, how are you doing back there? The shields are holding, but we're still taking damage!" "Not good!" the ex-Jedi responded. "There's more fighters back here than I can count! How soon before we reach the rondevu with Sabine?" "Just a few minutes! Now keep those fighters busy as long as you can!" "What do you think I've been doing?!" Suddenly, the Ghost took a direct hit to the stern. An explosion rocked the ship with a surprising amount of potency. "What the—" Hera frowned, looking to Zeb. "What did we lose?" The Lasat growled at the control panel in front of him. "I don't know! Can someone tell me what all these blinking lights mean?!" Chopper chuckled to himself as he rolled up behind Zeb and plugged into the control panel. "Agh!" Zeb snarled. "I hear one more word out of your rusty innards, and I'll shove that antenna spike right up your—" Chopper interrupted Zeb with an update for Hera. "Hyperdrive coolant? Are you kidding me?!" the Twi'lek cried. "Wheel on back to the engine room and see if you can't lock it down! We're going to need that hyperdrive operational if we want this escape plan to work!" Chopper acknowledged the order and turned to leave. "Ugh," Zeb face palmed. "I can't believe we have to rely on Chopper." "Not now, Zeb!" Hera cried. "I need you to focus! What's the status on those rear deflector shields?" "They're recharging," the Lasat replied. "At least, that's what this blinking yellow light means, right?" Hera glanced at Zeb's control panel and narrowed her eyes. "Right," she muttered, more to herself than her temporary co-pilot. "That's exactly what it means. Next time we're on a hit-and-run mission, remind me not to pick you as my co-pilot." Zeb shook his head. "Fine by me." Hera pulled up on the Ghost and spun the ship around, losing a couple of the TIE Fighters in the process. "Sabine," Hera tried the com-channel. "We're nearing the rondevu now. Is the Phantom ready for pick up?" "Ready as she'll ever be!" came back the voice of Sabine. "Good," Hera frowned, concentrating on the point of interest with narrowed eyes. "Then we'll see you there. Hera, out." Hera flipped the Ghost upside down and dived over the top of the Imperial freighter in the center of the convoy. Pushing the nose of the Ghost upwards, Hera piloted the Ghost down the side of the ship to the underbelly of the freighter where the Phantom was waiting for her. The TIE Fighters pursuing Hera and her friends were distracted by this maneuver just long enough for the plan to work, but not before a couple of their green lasers splashed against the Ghost and reverberated throughout the vessel. Hera grunted and pushed the Ghost forward before anymore Imperial lasers could make their mark. She would have to inspect the damage later. Hopefully they didn't lose anything too important.. "Ezra," Hera used the Ghost's internal communications system. "How's Sabine? Did she make it aboard yet?" "Safe and sound," Ezra replied. "But I, uh... I don't know about the Phantom. There's a lot of smoke." "Don't worry about the Phantom! Just make sure you and Sabine get to your stations! We're not out of this yet!" "Roger!" Hera looked out the cockpit window and scowled at the battle waging before her. Another swarm of TIE Fighters had just deployed from the Imperial star destroyer that was stopping the rebel fleet from escaping the ambush. At first, it looked like the rebels were trapped; but then Hera spotted an opportunity in the Empires defenses that she couldn't pass up. "Commander Sato," Hera said over the com-channel. "I can see an opening in the Star Destroyer's defenses directly in front of you. If you divert all your remaining power to your engines, I think you can make a clean getaway through that gap!" "Negative, Captain Syndulla!" Commander Sato's voice crackled over the com channel. "If we divert all power to the main engines, we'll be cut apart by the guns on those Star Destroyers! We need a new tactic!" "No, Commander, listen to me! If you divert all power to the main engines and head for that gap, I can draw the Empire's fire until you're clear of the fight! This may be the only chance you have to escape! The alliance needs you, Commander!" A brief silence followed. "Very well, Captain Syndulla," came Commander Sato's voice at last. "We're diverting all remaining power to the engines now. May the force be with you!" "You too, Commander! Phoenix leader, out!" Hera adjusted the direction of the Ghost and pushed it towards the Star Destroyer obstructing the rebels path. To any regular spacer with half-a-mind for self-preservation, the action looked like suicide. To Hera, however, the maneuver would only prove to ensure an opportunity. "Zeb," Hera frowned, gazing out the cockpit window in complete concentration. "I need you to go into the back and check on that hyperdrive. We're gonna need it!" Agent Kallus watched from the bridge of the Resurgence as the battle intensified outside. Another rebel star ship went down in flames as he looked on. "Sir," a deck officer below him spoke up. "Our scanners indicate that the forward rebel command ship has dropped its shields. We believe it may be attempting to flee." Agent Kallus narrowed his eyes. "A foolish tactic. Their desperation is going to be their undoing. Captain, target that vessel and open fire the moment they're in range!" "Yes, sir." Agent Kallus turned as the doors to the bridge whooshed open behind him. The Inquisitor stepped through along with Admiral Konstantine, who up until now had not overseen the battle from the bridge. "What's the situation, Agent?" the Inquisitor asked as he and the Admiral slowly approached Kallus with their arms folded behind their backs. "I trust everything is going as planned?" "The rebel fleet is nearly destroyed, Inquisitor." Agent Kallus replied. "We're dealing with the rebel's command ship now." A deck officer below spoke up and interrupted before the Inquisitor could reply. "Sir, we just picked up the signal of a VCX-100 corellian light freight heading this way. It may be trying to escape along with the rebel command ship." Agent Kallus turned to the window as the Inquisitor came up behind him and did the same. "It's the Ghost," Agent Kallus remarked. "The Jedi known as Kanan Jarrus is aboard that ship." "Kanan Jarrus? Then we should waste no time," remarked Admiral Konstantine turning to the officers below him. "Lock onto that vessel and open fire! I don't want a single ship to escape!" The Inquisitor frowned. "Delay that order, Admiral." he said, turning to leave. "It is but one vessel. I'll deal with these rebels myself." Agent Kallus and Admiral Konstantine watched as the Inquisitor exited the bridge. The doors closed behind him with a sudden hiss. "Agent? Admiral?" one of the officers below Kallus and Konstantine spoke up after a moment of silence. "Orders?" Agent Kallus frowned and returned to gazing out the window. "...Shields up." he muttered. "Contain the Ghost with a minimal amount of laser fire. The Inquisitor wants wants to play hunter; so let him play." Hera gazed through the window of the cockpit with narrowed eyes as the Ghost continued to absorb laser fire. Although the Ghost had already sustained a substantial amount of damage, Hera was determined to get the rebel command ship through the blockade even if it cost her her life. It was her reason to exist. Her purpose. But some aboard her ship did not feel the same way. "Remind me again why we're engaging an imperial star destroyer head on?" Kanan asked as he stumbled into the cockpit. "Usually we try to avoid these things!" "Kanan!" Hera frowned, glancing over her shoulder. "What are you doing up here?! You're supposed be on that turret repelling those TIE fighters!" "Zeb's handling it," the ex-Jedi replied, slipping into the seat next to her. "Thought you could use a co-pilot." Hera was about to respond when all of a sudden the flashes of green in the corner of her eye vanished. The guns on the Imperial star destroyer had stopped firing. "The guns," Hera whispered, unsettled by the immediate silence. "They've stopped." Kanan looked over the instruments in front of him and glanced in Hera's direction with a frown. "Fighters just broke off, too. Something's wrong." Hera narrowed her eyes. "Keep your eyes open. Watch out for any surprises." Kanan nodded. "Sure thing." Suddenly, a rapid barrage of lasers hammered the top of the Ghost. The whole transport shook from the volley. "What the—?" Kanan jumped up from his seat. "Zeb, what are you seeing up there?" "I don't know!" came the Lasat's voice down the hallway. "It's coming in too fast! Agh! Karabast!" Kanan began working a computer on the panel to his right. "Scanners aren't picking up anything. Could be some kind of stealth fighter." "They're trying to stall us," Hera muttered "They think we're trying to escape with Commander Sato." "And we aren't?" Kanan asked. He turned to make eye-contact with Hera, but froze when he saw her eyes already fixed on a target in the distance. "Uh, Hera... what are you planning?" The Twi'lek didn't immediately respond. Instead, she pushed the Ghost forward and locked the nose cannon in position with the push of a button. "You'll see," she answered. Agent Kallus lifted a brow as he watched the Ghost deviate from its original course and charge the bridge of the Resurgence head-on. At first he wondered if the the Ghost actually intended on firing on the bridge, but then something in his stomach told him otherwise. It didn't make sense for them to attack the bridge. Their shields were still up and the Ghost didn't carry the ordinance necessary to penetrate their defenses. If this was at all a serious tactic, then it was most likely nothing more than an attempt to distract them from other important elements of the battle. Unfortunately, Admiral Konstantine didn't seem to feel the same way—as evidenced by his immediate panic. "They're moving into attack position!" cried the stupid middle-aged man, taking a step back from the view port. "Ensign, double our bridge deflector shields, now! Transfer all power from our forward batteries!" Agent Kallus chuckled. He couldn't help it. Sometimes the stupidity of his superiors was beyond him. "I told the Inquisitor they were resilient." he remarked. In actuality, he wanted to say something to the affect of 'I can't believe how stupid you are,' but he knew that the easily-offended admiral would only take that as insubordination. If he truly wanted to convey the message he wished to effectively, he would have to do so in a clever manner. "We'll see how resiliant they are when they find themselves in my grasp!" Admiral Konstantine said with a frown. "You—officer!" The admiral pointed pointed to a Lieutenant in the control hub below him. "Warm up the tractor beam and lock onto the Ghost! We'll show those rebels imperial hospitality soon enough!" "Yes, sir!" the Lieutenant acknowledge with a quick salute. Agent Kallus chuckled again. "The tractor beam, Admiral? I thought you had learned to do better than that." Admiral Konstantine growled in reply. "And what would you have me do, Agent? Let them escape?" "Yes," Agent Kallus replied, coolly. "That's precisely what I'd have you do." Admiral Konstantine stopped in his tracks. He had not been expecting that answer at all. "...Explain yourself." "There are but five rebels aboard that ship. Six if you count the droid. If I were you, I'd disregard it altogether and target the command ship attempting to flee behind it. The Inquisitor can handle the Ghost." Admiral Konstantine went back to gazing out the window as he considered the advice. After a moment of careful contemplation, he made a decision and turned to the officers in the control hub. "Very well. We'll target the rebel command ship. Lieutenant, is the tractor beam online yet?" "Yes, sir," the officer below him spoke up. "She's ready now." "Good." said Admiral Konstantine, folding his hands behind his back. "Then all we have to do is wait." Agent Kallus frowned. "Your overconfidence in that device will be your undoing." "The rebel leaders are worth far more to us alive than dead," Konstantine replied with a smirk. "Without their turrets to defend them, they'll be ours before they can retaliate. Make no mistake, Agent. My confidence is well founded." Agent Kallus crossed his arms. "We will see, Admiral. We will see..." "Hang on!" Hera cried as another flurry of laser bolts flashed across the cockpit window. "That stealth fighter is causing a lot of a damage!" "You're telling me!" said Kanan as he looked over the instruments in front of him. "Rear deflector shields are down to five percent!" "We'll have to manage! Right now, we have more important things to worry about! Commander Sato, do you read?" "Copy that, Captain Syndulla!" Commander Sato's voice crackled over the intercom. "Is everything ready? We've already calibrated our computers for the jump to light speed!" "There'll be a brief window for you to escape as soon as I hit their tractor beam. You'll have to watch for it as I go in! Don't stop no matter what happens!" "Very well, Captain Syndulla! May the force be with you!" Hera narrowed eyes and pushed the Ghost forward. As she sailed over the Resurgence with the stealth fighter behind her in hot pursuit, she flipped the Ghost over and jerked it to the right. The Imperials didn't see what was coming until it was too late. The tractor beam exploded into a glorious ball of green and blue flames. "Commander Sato, you're all clear!" Hera said, leveling the Ghost out. "We'll see you on the other side! Jump now before it's too late!" "Copy that, Phoenix leader! Commander Sato, out!" The rebel command ship disappeared in the blink of an eye. Commando Sato and the rest of the rebel figureheads were safe and sound. "They made it!" Hera breathed a sigh of relief. "Now it's our turn!" Kanan remarked. "You ready?" Hera nodded. "Hello, lightspeed!" She pushed a lever to her right. Nothing happened. "Uh, Hera?" Kanan glanced over at the Twi'lek after a moment of silence. "I think we're in trouble." The Ghost rattled as the stealth fighter landed another barrage of lasers on their rear deflector shields. "Yep," Hera agreed. "Big trouble!" Admiral Konstantine watched as the rebel command ship jumped to lightspeed. The tractor beam had failed him once again. With Agent Kallus's accusing eyes watching his every move, Admiral Konstantine did his best to conceal his embarrassment from making its way onto his face. He failed gloriously, of course. "Perhaps," Agent Kallus muttered, breaking the silence. "There are things to be considered next time." Admiral Konstantine turned away and fixed his collar. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind." he said. Then he walked away and left Kallus in control of the bridge. "Try resetting the nav-computer!" Hera cried. "The computers can't calculate a jump without it!" Kanan frantically worked the controls in front of him, but to no avail. . "I did! It's completely offline!" Kanan replied. "I don't think I can reset it from here!" "Try fixing it, then!" Hera snapped. "I can't lose that fighter—it's too small!" Just then, Sabine stumbled into the cockpit and braced herself against one of the chairs. "Uh, guys?" she asked as sweetly as possible. "Is there a reason we haven't jumped to light speed yet? Because we're being destroyed back there." Kanan and Hera exchanged glances. Sabine's expression hardened. "Nav-computer's out, isn't it?" "Yup," Kanan replied, turning back to the controls in front of him. "And the motivator." "Don't forget the shields," Hera added. "Great..." Sabine carried the word to emphasize her sarcasm. "We're stuck, then." "Pretty much." Kanan confirmed. "Unless..." A pause followed as Hera and Sabine fixed their eyes on Kanan. "...We jump without the computer." "What?!" Sabine cried. "Are you crazy?! Kanan, that's suicide!" "No, staying here is suicide!" the ex-Jedi exclaimed. "At least this way we have a chance!" "A slim chance." Hera pointed out. "But a chance." said Kanan "You have a better idea? " The Ghost rocked from another barrage of laser fire. Hera inhaled sharply and let out a deep breath. "No. Sabine, strap in." Sabine took a seat and did as she was told. "Ooh, boy!" she breathed. "Are all Jedi this reckless?" Kanan smirked. "Just the good ones." He hit the lever. The Ghost jumped. Author's Note And so that's how STAR WARS: EMPIRE'S EDGE begins! Not too shabby, eh? A lot of effort went into this thing trying to make the characters as accurate as possible to the characters from the show. I know I didn't get any of them perfect, but hopefully you can forgive me and enjoy the story nonetheless! Feedback and constructive criticism is always appreciated! Don't forget to rate, comment, and check back regularly for updates! Cheers!
Chapter II - "The Calm Before the Storm"Chapter II - "The Calm Before the Storm" Stars twinkled in the quiet moonlit sky above the majestic towering spirals of Canterlot City. A gentle breeze caressed Princess Celestia's face as she gazed towards the heavens and admired her sister's beautiful night. Beside the regal monarch of Equestria stood the lavender alicorn Twilight Sparkle, peering through a golden telescope on the edge of the balcony at the same starry canvas as her mentor. "...And that's Star Swirl the Bearded!" The purple alicorn exclaimed, a large grin adorning her face. "You can tell it's him by finding his hat and making out the rest of him from there!" Princess Celestia smiled to herself and cast a glance in her former student's direction. The moonlight glistened around the curves of the mare's face. Truly, Princess Celestia thought, like herself—Twilight Sparkle embodied the signature beauty of a princess. "Well done. Your many years of star gazing have paid off. But tell me; can you find Princess Platinum's crown from that spot without adjusting the telescope?" Twilight Sparkle turned to her former mentor and gave a smirk. "Are you kidding? Last week I can beat Gallopleo's star-gazing record without batting an eye. I think I can find a simple twelve-star constellation without a problem!" Princess Celestia chuckled in reply. "I'm not so sure Gallopleo is known for holding any star-gazing records." "How do you think I beat him so easily?" The two friends shared in a heartfelt laugh. It had too long since either of them had enjoyed some friendly company. As the two alicorn's laughter began to die down, Princess Celestia composed herself and produced an affectionate smile. "How wonderful it is to hear you laugh again, Twilight Sparkle." The Princess of the Sun mused with much fondness. "In light of our kingdoms most recent challenges, it is good to see you are in high spirits once again." Twilight Sparkle gave a small blush. "...Princess?" said the young alicorn after a short pause. "I just wanted to say... thank you. For all of this. I really needed something to get my mind off of everything that's happened recently. These past few months have been pretty crazy." Princess Celestia wrapped a wing around the smaller princess and gently pulled her in for a warm embrace. "We both did," she whispered softly. "With Princess Luna attending to her duties, there's nopony I'd rather spend an evening with star-gazing than my favorite student." "Student?" Twilight grinned. "Ex-student," the princess corrected herself with a smile. "How could I forget?" Twilight Sparkle giggled and snuggled into her former mentor's chest. "Thank you, Princess. You don't know how much this means to me." "Think nothing of it, Twilight. You will always hold a special place in my heart." The two friends held their embrace for a long time. When at last the two parted, Princess Celestia noticed a sad glimmer in her former-student's eyes not for the first time that night. Princess Celestia noted the look, but continued to smile. If her former-student had something to share with her, she was confident she would share it in her own time. "Princess..." the younger alicorn said after a short pause. "This has been wonderful... but there's another reason I came to Canterlot besides to see you." The sun-goddess lifted a brow. "Oh?" The purple alicorn nodded. "But it's... hard to explain..." Princess Celestia offered a reassuring smile. "I had a feeling there was something more to our visit than you initially described. Please, feel free to collect your thoughts before you decide to share them." The purple alicorn opened her mouth to reply, but was swiftly interrupted by a firm knock on the doors to Celestia's chamber. "Um, Twilight?" came a muffled, yet distinctly familiar voice from beyond the set of doors. "Are you in there?" Twilight Sparkle and her former mentor turned to the doors. "That... sounded like Spike." Twilight chuckled sheepishly. "I suppose he wants to know why our "meeting" has been taking so long." The taller alicorn nodded in agreement. "It would not be wise to keep him waiting. I hear dragon's have quite the temperament." Twilight rolled her eyes. "Spike? Yeah, right. But I guess you have a point. I should probably get going. I have a meeting tomorrow morning with Mayor Mare and I need to be fully rested if I'm going to make it on time. Hopefully Starlight Glimmer and Trixie haven't burned down the castle while I was gone. Those two can be quite the hoofull at times, if you know what I mean." Princess Celestia chuckled and began to escort the younger princess off her balcony. "I'm certain that your pupil and her friend have conducted themselves appropriately in your absence." she said as they made their way towards her chamber doors. "Now, I believe you were in the process of telling me something?" Her former student's eyes went wide. "Oh. Right. It's... nothing important, on second thought." The older alicorn lifted a brow. "It didn't seem that way mere seconds ago." "It's nothing, Princess, really. I'd rather not talk about it right now and ruin a perfectly good night." Princess Celestia withheld a skeptical look for several moments, but honored the younger's request by giving a firm nod. "Very well. But promise me that you will share your concerns with another should they continue to bother you. I am always available to hear whatever it may be that is on your mind should you need an ear to listen." Twilight Sparkle gave a smile. "Thank you, Princess. That means a lot to me." "Think nothing of it. I'll always be here for you should you need me." Twilight nodded thankfully and followed the taller alicorn to her chamber doors. As the sun princess opened them for her former student, Twilight was greeted by her faithful assistant, Spike the dragon. The young drake was flanked by a twin set of royal guards. "Hey, Twilight! I didn't get you at a bad time, did I?" the dragon asked, thoughtfully. The lavender alicorn shook her head. "You were just in time. Princess Celestia was just about to retire for the night. Your timing was perfect!" The dragon breathed a sigh of relief and gave a smile. "Hiya, Princess!" he waved at the taller alicorn standing behind Twilight Sparkle. The princess smiled back and gave a nod. "Spike. And how are you this evening?" "Ah, I can't complain. Picked up some coffee and donuts from Donut Joe's on the way over here. I'll probably be awake for a few days!” Princess Celestia chuckled and gave the young drake a wink. "That should make for quite the interesting dilemma when you and Twilight retire for the night. I suppose that means I should leave you to it. Goodnight, Spike." she turned to her former student and gave another smile. "Goodnight, Twilight Sparkle." The purple alicorn smiled back. "Goodnight, Princess." With the pleasantries exchanged, Princess Celestia closed the doors to her chambers and left the two alone with the guards outside in the long, empty hallway. "Let's go Spike." Twilight said as soon as the doors had closed. "It's probably best if we hit the hay sooner rather than later." Spike waved a claw nonchalantly and began walking. The royal guards silently followed suit. "Eh, I'm fine. Sugar rush won't wear off for a couple of hours. So how was your meeting with Princess Celestia? Did you go over important friendship lessons for the summer school program you're planning next semester?" Twilight cleared her throat and replied; "We, uh... talked about it for a little while..." Spike raised an eyebrow. "Is that princess lingo for 'we got bored to death and decided to do something fun instead?'" Twilight's eyes widened as a shade of pink adorned her cheeks. "It wasn't like that!" "Aw, c'mon, Twilight!" Spike said thoughtfully. "You've got nothing to be ashamed of! If there's one pony in Equestria that needed a quick vacation, it's you. You've been on non-stop princess duty since Star Swirl the bearded and his crew got back from limbo! Not to mention the fact that you opened a school only a few weeks after the Storm King invaded Equestria. Honestly, I'm more surprised it's taken you this long to schedule some free time for yourself. Well, mostly free time, anyway." The Princess regarded her assistant with an uplifted brow. "Mostly?" "Yeah, well... you talked to the Princess about that thing you mentioned to me, right?" Not for the first time that night, Twilight's eyes went comically wide. "Oh. Well, we, uh..." The princess gave a sigh and hung her head. "Forget it. No, Spike, I didn't tell her about the dream." Spike gave his sister a look of genuine surprise. "Really? I thought that was the reason you came to Canterlot to see Princess Celestia in the first place." The lavender alicorn gave another sigh. "I know, Spike. It's just... I had this weird feeling about it, that's all. Besides, it was just a dream." The young drake gave a frown. "Just a dream? It's been keeping you awake for days." "If it continues to bother me, I'll talk to Luna!" Twilight snapped in a near-growl. When the dragon blinked in surprise, the alicorn cleared her throat and said; "I'm sorry, Spike. I shouldn't have snapped at you like that. I'm just tired, that's all. We should get to bed as soon as possible. We have a big day tomorrow starting with that meeting with Mayor Mare. We'll need plenty of rest if we're going to make it through the day alright." Spike managed a nod. "Okay, Twilight. I-if you say so." With that, the two friends allowed themselves to be escorted by the guards to their guest chambers where they spent the rest of the night fast asleep, blissfully unaware of the turbulent events happening in space...
