Swindlers: A Star Wars Story
[23ABY/ From the Files of Senator Twilight Sparkle of Equestria, Written at the facility within the planet Lokori. Six standard months after initial contact with the New Republic]
It's bizarre to think Equestria has come a long way from just a simple world that had it's own sets of challenges and problems. To being part of one of the many planets in the New Republic government.
Before I go on further, I should probably explain Equestria's exact encounter with the New Republic, and how it ended up with us as a unified planet with one government;
Around three standard months ago [Standard being in galactic, I'll have to explain that one in a later log…]
a expedition ship by the name of “Good Tidings” arrived in our system. It was by no means huge, it was actually pretty small compared to the other ships of the New Republic navy. The crew itself was manned by twelve people. The normal standard for expedition crews as explained by New Republic manuals.
We initially discovered the ship landing in the outskirts of Manehattan. By then, the Royal Guard garrison stationed there surrounded the area. But the crew had no ill-intention to start a conflict. After a good first impression by the crew and the leaders of Equus, we then became a united government and began negotiations to enter the New Republic. A decision notably divisive amongst the citizens of Equus. More or less we proceeded as planned.
After getting settled in, we were immediately helped getting adjusted by the new environment by Senator Leia Organa. A kind woman she is. And always found a way to make something out of nothing. I did some digging, apparently she was once a former Princess of a planet called Alderaan. Unfortunately the fate of the planet was…left to the decision of the Empire [The former government before the New Republic.] The Empire had a colorful history, draining resources of planets and Legacy Worlds–worlds free from any sort of exploitation. Something a friend of mine found to be extremely heartbreaking. And immediately volunteered to help clean up worlds devastated by the Empire’s carelessness
All of this was in preparation for a new super-weapon; The Death Star, a weapon capable of destroying worlds. And it's first test, was on the moon of Jedha. A formally holy city of a now resurrected Jedi Order. The blast nearly shattered the moon. Causing a crater that penetrated through the crust and allowed the outer core to spill into the atmosphere. Jehda is now a dead-world. People who were lucky enough to see it before it's destruction were able to write in detail the features of the planet before eventually passing. So at least the memory of Jedha lives on–in a way.
The project itself was headed by a man called Orson Krennic. A particularly ambitious man who apparently wanted a seat at the Emperor’s high council. And betrayed his best friend; an aspiring scientist named Galen Erso. To forcefully oversee the construction of the super-laser.
Galen himself was ahead of his time, and preferred not to fight in any war if possible. Soon after he met Lyra Erso, his wife. And after being captured, soon had his daughter; Jyn.
Now, most historians weren't too fond of Galen. Leia wasn't either too happy or fond of hearing the man who helped kill her homeworld. But I saw a man who wanted a way to live in a clean galaxy. His few notes recovered from archived proved to be so. Although they're a bit rough around the edges in terms of deciphering them. I could continue his work and fulfill his dream of making the galaxy clean for all. I owe him that much.
Jyn was apparently found by a Rebel Extremist named Saw Gerrea; Leader of the Partisans, shortly after her family was found in the farming planet of La' Mhu, resulting in her mothers death. Saw trained and groomed her to be the best of the best. And being a surrogate father for her. Then seemingly abandoned by him. Jyn then turned to a life a runner of the Empire. With a reputation that seemed unheard of by the Canterlot Investigation Bureau. Jyn was eventually sent on a prison labor camp in Wobanni for six months. And rescued by a extraction team sent by the rebels. Who had a specific mission in mind; track down Saw. As he held a key into finding her father.
Afterwards, after a short skirmish on Jedha and a failed rescue attempt-turned-assassination. Galen was killed by a X-Wing strike-team.
Jyn, alongside a Rebel Intelligence officer known as Cassian Andor, traveled back to the rebel base with their news about the super weapon. It was at this point the Rebel Alliance wanted to disband and surrender to the Empire. However, Jyn–in some way–had a change of heart. She urged the council to send their fleet to Scarif. A Imperial base where the plans to the super weapon was located at. However most of the Alliance refused, saying it was a lost cause. With the exception of a few notable Alliance Generals and Seantors. In response, Jyn assembled her own team and went rogue. Using a previously commandeered Imperial Cargo Shuttle to sneak into the base and extract the plans. With each one of them knowing it was a suicide mission. Word quickly traveled back to the Alliance as one of their admirals. A Mon Calimari named Raddus. Assembled the biggest fleet he could to Scarif.
With the much needed backup. Jyn and the rebels managed to steal the Death Star plans. But not before sacrificing each and every one of their lives. I'll let this excerpt from one of the X-Wing pilots who survived Scarif explain the rest;
[Recovered Holo-Entry by Barian Rainer, Callsign Blue Four]
“The station was massive. I knew my squadron on the ground wasn't going to make it out on time. So I focused on making sure at least one ship would be able to take a hit for the Profundity. We already sacrificed the Lightmaker to take down the shield and our ships were battered and weary of battle. Red Squadron, while performing some of the best flying I've ever seen. Wasn't able to keep some of their pilots from getting killed. I think one of ‘em was called Red Five. Never got a chance to know him other than his call-sign.
Once word got out that the plans were transferred to the Profundity. Everyone was making a beeline for the escape route. As I prepped my hyperdrive. A Star Destroyer winked into existence and began mauling the ships who were unlucky to punch in their proper coordinates in time. Coupled with the fact that more TIE Fighter squadrons were being deployed from that planet killer. The order was given to get out of the battlefield by any means necessary. I knew I was probably one of the few remaining Blue Squadron members. But I had my order to protect a blockade runner before everything went wrong. So I had no choice but to leave. Looking back, I wish that wasn't the case. I should've sacrificed myself by ramming my X-Wing into that blasted Star Destroyer. It wouldn't do anything to stop it’s massacre. But at least I could've died knowing it was for something.
But I didn't, I obeyed my orders. And the blockade runner was protected. And the planet killer was destroyed days later. So I guess the Empire finally got sloppy.”
[End Holo-Entry]
In the years following, the Empire would suffer crippling blows that weakened their government and power. The true death blows were at a forest moon called Endor (One of my friends formerly worked there as part of a expedition, apparently the flora gave her inspiration for new design for her galactic-wide clothing line), and the supposed barren world of Jakku. Religious devotees described it as a wellspring for a entity called “The Force”. Jakku was ultimately the final battle of the war. With one of the few things that still remained after all these years was a Star Destroyer called the Inflictor. Apparently the commander of that ship was suicidal. And a Super Star Destroyer (Rebel Veterans described it as a monster to fight against, apparently you had a better chance running rather than trying to fight one) called the Ravenger.
Anyways, the New Republic was spawned from this, while the remaining Imperials fought for who would get to control the remains of the shattered empire. Ultimately, they retreated into the stars after signing a peace agreement with the New Republic, officially recognizing them as the new governmental body of the galaxy. These days, the remains of the Empire have reformed into what experienced politicians like to akin to as “some moronic terrorist group that has a loud voice”, nothing to major to worry about. Something tells me to relax about it, but I always feel tense whenever they get brought up at gatherings. They just seem…off.
I guess I should at least update my state of mind while I am at it too, after all, I'm not due to return to Equestria for another two months.
Ever since the New Republic integrated our planet into the senate, I volunteered to travel to worlds to share our research on magic and conduct clean energy. Apparently a priority order put into place before the first chancellor of the New Republic–Mon Mothma–went into retirement. She required that the work Galen put into place should be finished in his honor. I guess he will will get his proper place in the galaxy someday, just not today. The newer chancellors are…alright. None of them compared to Mon Mothma's accomplishments.
As for my life back on Equestria…my assistant-slash-surrogate brother Spike has been living with my biological brother Shining Armor, and his wife, Princess Mi Amora Cadenza, former rulers of the Crystal Empire, now rulers of the Crystal Conglomerate. Their kingdom is a popular tourist attraction due to the Crystal Kingdom’s unique design.
Without getting sidetracked. I'd like to take my time to record my friends current whereabouts. They were the ones who brought me to where I am today. And although we don't see each other very often. I owe it to them. A couple of them I've already introduced in the following:
Well, there's Rainbow Dash. A enthusiastic and aspiring flyer. Now flies for the New Republic due to some commanders garnering interest in her due to her…flexibility when operating vehicles. She's currently stationed at the Valt System. Alongside a small fleet of New Republic ships and personnel to keep her company.
Then there's Fluttershy, she's really come a long way since I've first met her. She was once a shy mare who couldn't hold a conversation with anyone that wasn't her friend. Now she runs a nature restoration company dedicated to fixing various wildlife problems that still inhabit the galaxy years after the Empire. Apparently she has a new pet that grew to like her during her stay on a particular world. The creatures are called Acklays…she calls it Legs.
Rarity, a fashion designer, managed to kickstart her career due to most travelers recommending her boutique. Causing her to maintain a clothing line for galactic citizens to wear. And personally teaching future fashion designers how to hone in on their skills. As well as maintaining a charity that continuously supplies underfunded world’s still repairing from the Empire’s damage.
Applejack is the one which I can say changed the least. She's rather adamant about sticking to traditional methods and personally bucking apples from the trees as per usual. However her Apple business skyrocketed due to their quality. And the ever increasing demand from Apple Cider (The drink is popular in bar-like places called “Cantina’s”). She still lives in Equistria, and is enjoying life as it is.
Pinkie Pie, a friend who has her quirks, but is kindhearted and exceptionally good at making you laugh (Kind of a given since her specialty is making people laugh, but I digress), she currently resides in a tropical planet called Iloh, where her skills as a baker have been exceptionally known in that sector. While she is a baker at times, other times she just makes people laugh when the time calls for it. One tourist described it as "a sense of ease where everything in the galaxy just stops, and you can just enjoy the laughter".
I guess I should wrap up my log now, I have work to finish. Hopefully I will complete it in time so I can come back to Equestria for this Hearth’s Warming Eve.
[End Journal//After several revisions]
///Somewhere within the Unknown Regions///
“So what is it that you've brought me here today, Hux?”
The general turned to the man, his expression remained neutral as he approached him.
“Capitan Nerus, I have approached you with a task that has come before the Supreme Leader's attention. A planet named Equus has certain…obstacles that will get in the way of our return to the galaxy. That wretched governor has already set our plans back. I entrust you and your division to handle this planet while we prepare?” Hux asked the Captain, he needed to make sure nothing would get in the way from the First Order’s return to the galaxy. And these Alicorns could prove difficult to fight against without the super-weapon’s completion.
“It shall be done.” Nerus said as he quickly saluted and swiftly left the room. His boots clicking across the spotless floors of the Finalizer. After Nerus left the briefing, Hux turned on the communicator, and it revealed the First Order’s feared Captain; Phasma.
“Phasma, has the operation been approved?”
“Yes,” Her voice crackled through her helmets speakers, “The operation–while delayed by Leia Organa, are still going as planned. Rumors are running rampant that she has formed her private military group to further stall our operations. This could be problematic if left untreated, Hux.”
“Possibly, we still need to keep our true fleet numbers a secret, a little distraction from that wretched woman will do nothing in the future. We must adapt accordingly.” He switched off the hologram and sat in his chair.
'Soon,' He thought, 'We will return to the galaxy stronger that ever. And the New Republic will burn…'
Author's Note
Before we continue on, would you like it if I included interludes from Twilight's journals? They would only come sporadically, and contribute next to nothing to the story. But would you like it?
If you manage to find any errors within the story that I've might've missed, please point them out, it helps me--and the story--tremendously.
Constructive criticism is always helpful. Thanks for viewing the story!
Swindlers: A Star Wars Story
Chapter One: The Decision
<This chapter is dedicated towards Heather Antos, the creator of Dr. Aphra, and Marvel Comics Editor, her work was basically the inspiration for Swindlers>
[Years later, before the destruction of Hosnian Prime]
The Citadel of the Forgotten was home to Jedi warriors thought to have died during the Mandolorian-Civil War. As a massive battle ensued on the planet it was staged on. Many Jedi and Noble Warriors perished without any sort of means of properly identifying those who lived or died. With many of the possessions or long deactivated lightsaber hilts being stored alongside the unidentifiable bodies inside the Citadel as a means of honoring them.
The battle itself left the planet scarred, forever making it a dead-world for travelers, only referred to a numerical name by system-charters. It was only visited by the Galactic Empire. What it was that they were looking for, remains lost to time. That was years ago, now the planet sees the arrival of new thrill-seekers; in the form of swindlers.
They were not many, but they had a mission in mind, the three lone figures trekked through the rough terrains of the planet. The dust-cloud from around them began to recede, and the area began to rain. It wasn't uncommon for dead planets to begin its weather cycle all over again, but the three knew the planet would never regain its once former glory detailed in the few remaining history books surrounding it.
“Mind telling me why we're stuck on this God-Forsaken world?” The weapons specialist: Aaron Versi mumbled as they trekked through the ruins. He was considered the “short-guy” of the crew, but he knew well enough that his skills in weaponry and demolitions, combined with his “unique-interrogation-skills”, he was–and still is–invaluable to the crew.
Before the leader could respond, their combat droid; TK-1215 spoke up, “I would hardly call it something to be forsaken, if anything, it's radiating its own natural beauty.” The droid continued scanning every single thing it's optic could lay its sights on. Perhaps the youngest of the group, since the droid was put into service little more than fifteen years ago as part of an experiment with a Corellian Robotics Guild. TK gained a sentience of his own and broke away from the program. Wandering aimlessly around the Mid-Rim, before getting found by their leader. The reason for why he had picked the young droid was something the leader often let his crew know about once a week. Apparently he thought the droid’s cluelessness to things was somewhat adorable, and decided to take him in.
“Yeah it's radiating something alright.” Aaron muttered, quietly wishing the small puddle of mud his boot stepped on was actual mud.
“Quiet, the both of you.” The leader; Travis Illum, ordered before stopping at a large structure, “Looks like we found it. TK, stay outside and out of sight, warn us if anything happens.” Then he turned to Aaron, “Let’s go.” Travis was a bit of an oddball to Aaron–and to an extent–TK, since Travis apparently had the perfect life ahead of him before becoming a swindler. He was the son of a wealthy family that lived in the planet of Canto Bight. Travis explained that he left due to how boring life was there. And he took what he had, and left for the stars. He apparently hated being rich from the start. Travis planned to get rich his own way–or so he said.
Upon entering the building, they encountered the ruins of what was thought to be a temple by an archaeologist. The temple housed weapons found at the site where the major battle supposedly took place. It was mostly undisturbed until reports of fugitive Jedi were seeking this planet as a safe haven did the Empire razed it to the ground. And took whatever they found.
Fortunately, they only took what was in front of them, and scavengers noted how you have to “look between the walls” to understand the temple’s treasures. A fact that Travis and the crew knew too well.
“You have to give TK credit though, this place is a thing of beauty.” Travis mused as they continued walking in the empty building.
“Perhaps. I'm still not convinced until we find something that's worth the whole damn trip.” Aaron replied as he raised his rifle ever so slightly.
“Aaron, we've been through this before, we gather items and artifacts, and cheat a rich Huttnugget out of some credits. Not fight in wars that don't include us.” They continued walking through the ruins. Occasionally finding a skeleton of a creature, which meant any animal that was spared from the planet's destruction was probably hungry. ‘Another pleasant thought to think about’; Travis would occasionally say when traversing this kind of terrain.
“Y’know I've been talking with a couple of associates of ours on the Holo-Net for the past few days. They say the First Order is planning something big for the Republic.” Aaron said as he glanced at the walls, not paying much attention to the artwork.
“Unless it's something that's bigger than the Death Star, I hardly care what the First Order does.” Travis replied with little to no interest when they neared a room. After inspecting the walls for anything particular. He quickly slammed his foot into the wall. Causing it to crumble as the wall revealed a secret room—one that was untouched.
“Okay, this trip is now officially worth it.” Aaron mused as he looked in awe at all of the artifacts within the room.
“It's gonna be a while to haul of of this back to the Starbound, but by god it'll be worth it.” Travis said with glee as he opened his bag, preparing to stuff his bag with whatever looked the most shiny—or at the very least—intact. And for a while, he did, and just as he and Aaron finished filling their bags, their communicator beeped.
“Uh…Captain? It appears we have a situation afoot.”, TK spoke into the comn line, garnering Travis’s and Aaron’s attention.
“Which is?” Travis replied.
“Equestrian scouting forces. They've arrived to the entrance of the temple, well armed too. Magic-Tech grade weapons. Pack a nasty punch. Recommend abandoning the objective. There is a eighty-one percent chance you can escape without getting caught, there’s also an alternate entrance you can use to escape.” TK answered, prompting Travis to shake his head.
“Now TK, where's the challenge in that?” He asked as he stuffed the treasures into his bag.
TK could only let out an audible sigh, “A solution that is most likely boring, shouldn't be tried at all.”
“That's my ‘bot. Go regroup with Zaire, with luck, we'll get through this with a couple of Magic-Tech blasters. Buggers cost a fortune in Hutt Territory.” Travis quickly switched off his comn as he turned to face Aaron.
“You know what to do.”
A mundane scouting mission was business as usual until a smuggler ship landed near the complex. It was always the same with most smugglers. Some would venture here, steal artifacts that belong in Equestrian space, and leave with what’s presumed to be a fortune. This cycle would continue until the creation of Magic-Tech weapons. Which promptly halted anyone from taking anything more from the temple.
Apparently Hawthorne Patch thought otherwise.
He was fuming like the rest of them. Forced onto a crammed transport ship, and told to arrest a couple of thevies who probably knew a thing or two about getting away from authorities.
The squad itself was a standard requirement; two unicorns, two pegasi, and two earth ponies to provide equal force and power within the group. Hawthorne—since he was an earth pony—had the job of being “the muscle” of the group.
It wasn't his preferred choice, yes, it sucked that he had no magic or flight. But he couldn't trade it for the opportunity to be the strongest there is for his group.
Glade–as most would call his squad leader–told everypony to be prepared. As they detected two heat-signatures within the temple, without a doubt they were smugglers.
‘Must be those “get rich quick” types, should be easy enough.’ Hawthorne merely glanced out the transports window before glade ordered everyone to seal their helmets.
‘Time to arrest some bad guys.’ Hawthorne thought as he sealed his helmet, pressing a button that laid on his wrist, he wasn't too big on tech that was extremely unfamiliar, but did the New Republic ever provided the equipment that was worth learning.
And while preparing for the easy task that was laid before him, Hawthorne Patch couldn't help but feel bad for the intruders.
“Do we kill ‘em?”
“No, we stun them. Don't wanna risk the Equestrian government hunting us down. Especially with their fleet so close to this system.” Travis said as he switched the settings on his pistols, “Time your shots too, stun blasts take a lot of tibanna gas. And use the inhibitors, be careful when you throw ‘em, we don't have as much as we used to, and we don't have the connections anymore to afford them for cheap.”
The response group—as Travis predicted—followed the standard group formation he heard from his acquaintance at the Rings of Kafrene. Two Unicorns, two Pegasi, and two earth ponies.
The unicorns were and always the prime targets for any competent smuggler. Since they were the most likely to restrain you before you had the chance to pull the trigger. But, like any sentient creature that lives in this galaxy. They all have limits. Limits that Travis and his crew knew fairly well. One smuggler managed to disable an entire squad of Equus soldiers comprised of only Unicorns through a freak accident with his ship. Which ultimately saved him from getting arrested on the spot. As soon as he discovered how to replicate the effect at will, the trick soon exploded within smuggling groups and black market dealers.
As they both got into position, Aaron pulled the shiny metal ball from a pocket. The ball itself acts like a disruptor, sending out waves of pulses that disorients the Unicorn in question. Leaving them as perfect targets to disable. Because of the usefulness of this trick, the weapon itself was banned from all public markets—and quickly exploded in the black market.
‘Ultimately useless against Alicorns as their magical input is biologically different than your average unicorn, a shame if I'm being honest.’ TK would recite to the crew every now and then. Which led to Equestrians strictly traveling with security. As such, Equestrians were something of a rarity in the galaxy. Only appearing frequently on mostly populated worlds. Mostly within the Inner Rim. You were lucky if you would find a Equestrian on a planet like Jelucan or Jakku.
As two Equestrians rounded a crashed pillar, Aaron quickly sprang into action. Taking the nearest rock and swinging it as hard as he could against one of them. And using the butt of his rifle use as a bat against the other. Both fell relatively quickly. Much to his surprise.
‘Must be new recruits who weren't expecting tons of action, the bar must've been set really low for guys like these to defend the Citadel.’ Aaron mused as he collected the weapons and head-gear from the ponies, 'I bet Travis is probably getting himself caught again.'
Travis was slowly making his way through the detachment. Thankfully the unicorn duo teamed up to help one another. A mistake he took full advantage of as he rolled the disruptor underneath them. At first there was nothing, then a silent electric bolt zapped both of them unconscious.
‘Not that much to do now, just stun the last two and collect their weapons.’ As Travis began gathering the remaining weapons, he felt a force slam into his back. Forcing him off his feet and into the dirt. Throwing his own pistol off of him and tumbling to the dirt. His helmet was nearly knocked off from him, allowing some of the dirt to get into his helmet and near his mouth. From the corner of his eye, he already knew what tackled him; the last two guards.
“So you wanted to steal from us, eh?” The pegasi spoke with confidence, aiming his blaster right at Travis’s head with it. As his earth pony partner pinned the swindler down.
After blowing some dirt from his mouth, Travis decided to speak, “Before you arrest me, I need to ask a question—for a friend.”
Both of the ponies looked at each other with confusion in their eyes. The earth pony then shrugged and motioned the pegasi to respond.
The pegasi could only sigh, “What’s your question?”
‘Didn't think they would buy it.’ Travis fought every chance he could to smile. And instead proceeded to ask–what he considered important anyways–his question, “How the hell can you pegasi ponies can hold a blaster and have no opposable thumbs? Or any real fingers for that matter? Unicorns I get, but for the rest of you guys, that doesn't seem physically possible.”
The two ponies briefly paused and looked at each other, before turning back to Travis. However, before one of them could speak up, twin blue-bolts enveloped the two ponies, sending them to the ground, stunned. From afar, Aaron and TK rose up from behind a rock formation. Making their way towards their leader.
“Did you take care of the rest?” Travis asked as TK undid the handcuffs.
“Of course we did, we wouldn't be here if we didn't.” Aaron said before handing Travis his pistols.
“Well, I guess they were new to the job.” Travis muttered before collecting the rest of the weapons.
“Indeed, it appears the Equestrians are focusing on pooling their elite soldiers in their system and leave the newcomers to fend for themselves. A pity they send rookies to a dead-world…oh well, more weapons for us…” TK said with a hint of amusement in his synthetic voice. Which only casted a odd glance by Aaron.
“You scare me sometimes TK.”
“Then I'm doing my job.”
Aaron raised his brow, “Your job is being a technicians expert.”
The droid turned its singular optic to him, “I like to dabble in other things.”
On the way back to the Starbound, Travis glanced one last look towards the scouting ship, they had made sure all of the Equestrians were inside the ship, with their gear stripped. And not a single one managed to get a good look at them. Which was another win for the crew. As they loaded the cargo into various boxes, Travis walked into the cargo. Greeting his pilot, Zaire Blaine. The Pantoran and Travis met sometime ago, while he knew basic piloting techniques, Zaire knew the ship from the inside-out the moment she laid her eyes on it. And immediately volunteered to become his pilot. And Travis never regretted the decision ever since.
“How did the mission go?” Zaire asked as she prepped the engines.
“Extremely well, we made off with half of the artifacts in that temple and looted the gear of those Equestrian Scouting Forces. It was stupidly easy.” He grinned at the last part, before turning towards Zaire once more, “You think Maz Kanata would let us sell them in her castle?”
“Not inside, no, but I would guess she would be fine with us selling it outside. I already got a guy who's interested in buying.” Zaire said as she brought up the holo-communicator. An image came to life, and the figure was properly identified--Sidon Ithano--or as most would call him; the Crimson Croshair.
“No way, he wants to do business with us?” Travis could barely contain his excitement. With all the artifacts and gear he and his crew had obtained. This would for sure put them into notoriety. Rivaling that of Han Solo (Well, he hoped it would, one could dream). “How did you manage to get into contact with him?”
“I didn't, he put up a bounty for any Equestrian tech in exchange for a job he wants to be completed by those who can swindle their way through a couple of government officials out of their credits. Last time I checked he's still on Takodana.”
“Then what are we waiting for?! Let's go to Takodana right now!” Travis was practically jumping with excitement.
“Setting the course now!” Zaira beamed with joy as the familiar blue vacuum appeared as their ship jumped into hyperspace.
“Okay, contact Sidon and let him know we have some items for him to buy. I'll go tell the others.” Zaire could've sworn from the corner of her eye she saw Travis skipping out of the cockpit. She could do nothing but smile as she typed in Sidon’s holo-number.
“Good news gents,” Travis beamed as he made his way into the central room of the ship, “We have a potential buyer for our successful operation on the Citadel--and his name is Sidon Ithano.”
“No way, you mean the guy who survived a collapsing frigate and made his way back to civilization by himself?” Travis could've sworn this was the happiest he'd seen Aaron, but who could blame them? This was their big break into the big times. The moment Travis dreamed about ever since he left his home. It was right there at his crews’ grasp.
Travis could almost felt his heart leap out of his chest as he felt the ship beginning to slow down and exit hyperspace. Immediately, all three crewmen entered the cockpit. And took their seats in anticipation as they saw Takodana materialized out of space. The world was familiar to the crew—Travis especially—he spent three whole years on the planet trying to swindle someone out of a functioning ship. When he finally did, he kept in good touch with all of the regulars who visit Maz Kanata’s castle. Hoping to strike a deal with at least one of them.
The trip to the surface was fairly normal to the crew, the planet’s orbit was strangely void of any starships or corvettes leaving the planet. But that was hardly of any importance to the crew.
What was important, was the smoldering remains of the castle that stood for a thousand years.
Not one crew-member spoke a word as they prepared to land. Zaire soon found a landing zone not littered with debris and ash. After landing, Travis slowly made his way out of the Starbound, with Aaron and TK flanking his sides. Pistols and rifles at the ready.
The whole area was a mess, bodies and rock were everywhere. Travis could make out a couple of First Order Stormtroopers here and there. Confirming a suspicion he had when arriving.
“You think Maz made it out alive?” TK asked after walking through, what his memory receptors recalled anyway, the main plaza to the castle.
“If she did, she's faster than I would give her credit for.” Aaron mused as he prodded a fallen stormtrooper with a rock.
“This place should've been impossible to attack. The First Order had no reason to ransack this place…” Both the marksman and the droid turned to see Travis facing the fallen statue of Maz, “Not even the Hutts would attack this place…”
“If this battle had any strategic logic behind it. They must've been looking for something–or perhaps they were sending a message.” TK stated while observing the carnage.
“What makes you say that?” Aaron asked as he and Travis continued to observe the statue.
“My simple reply would be to look at the haste and spread of the fallen Stormtroopers…but it would make a bit more sense if you would look up.”
“What?” Both Travis and Aaron stopped looking at the statue and began to look up, and finally seeing what TK was talking about. Faint red streaks crossed the sky like an ugly blemish.
“From that angle, that's the Hosnian System.” TK finally said after a brief period of silence.
“How the hell did the First Order accomplish that?!” Aaron had to force the sentence out, still reeling in from the view.
“I'm tapping into the Holo-Net. The Resistance claims the First Order has built another Death Star…but able to wipe out entire systems…”
It took a while before Travis realized what TK said. Before letting out a string of curses not even TK or Aaron knew.
“Travis, what do we do?”
He pondered that thought for a brief second. He knew the destruction of the capital and the scattered Republic fleet meant that everything has led to a massive power vacuum in the galaxy. It was anyone’s game to claim power. The First Order were now a threat to be recognized. If he didn't act now, they would most certainly take over the galaxy for themselves. Leaving anyone who poses a potential threat in dust. They were back in the ship, of course, and left Takodana as soon as possible. The ship itself was making it's way to the nearest trade-station.
And that meant his group had time to start making a name for themselves.
“First things first. We cut all ties to any First Order sympathizer and agent. If this attack proved anything. It’s that they have agents everywhere. Which means they can dispose any agent when the situation arises.” He explained this while bringing up a holo-map of the system they were in, “Second, we need to build up on our forces. With the First Order rising to power. They're gonna stomp out anyone who doesn't pose a threat to them. Anyone got a list of planets where we can start out small without detection?”
Only TK replied, “There's about five planets near us that could provide a good start. One of them is…Equestria.”
Travis paused, “Explain the benefits.”
“Currently, we are in a galaxy-wide conflict. The other planets I've neglected to mention is uncontested. However in a event of invasion with the small resources we have now. We have no chance of survival.” The droid explained, pulling up a holo-map of the system of interest, “If anything, we have a pretty good chance of preparing a successful evacuation should the First Order attack.”
Travis could only stare at the planet with renewed interest, truth be told he wasn't all that keen on establishing business with Equestria. But if it meant having his crew survive the coming months, he was all for it.
Almost all for it.
“What are the drawbacks?” Travis could practically pinch himself for asking. They all knew the biggest obstacle they were facing.
“One potential drawback is Princess Celestia herself. We need a man on the inside to garner information from her and relay it to us. Should she catch wind of our operations. Make no mistake, if she finds out we're establishing an underground criminal ring. We're finished.”
“Why would the dear Princess be concerned with a smuggling ring if she has to prepare for war? We wouldn't be that big of a concern for her.” Aaron spoke up, barely catching the synthetic sigh that escaped the droid.
“Celestia has to defend her home system from any First Order invasion. A smuggling ring would seriously damage her progress if we were to set up there. We would take valuable materials from her in order to survi–”
“Then we don't take the stuff she needs to keep her army an actual threat to the First Order.” Travis interrupted, to the surprise of the other three crew members, “If Celestia manages her army well enough. They'll be our distraction while we slip away and start anew on a new planet. With luck, we'll establish a base of operations and a couple of employees capable of keeping the business alive. But we need to keep it low profile for now.”
“Perhaps we could sell parts we found on the Citadel for scrap?” Zaire suggested, “Most of those Ponies need the materials to over-extend their production lines.”
Travis shook his head, “TK is right about one thing though, we need a man on the inside—or at least some close contact with the royals—to know the high demand so we can adapt accordingly.”
“Sounds like a plan, but where are we going to get the materials?” Aaron asked, an eyebrow raised at his capitan.
“Simple, we steal it from the First Order and sell non-essential equipment to the ponies. Once we gained the trust of these ponies, the less questions they will ask once we start slowly taking over.” Travis responded.
“Y’know, for a man who claims he's not a noble, you sure do channel your parents every now and then.” Zaire chuckled, earning a small smile from Travis.
“Eh, it comes and goes.”
The Disruptor was by no means different from the other Resurgent-Class Destroyers. But it was manned by an effective crew with an effective leader. Backed by a another Resurgent-Class Star Destroyer; the Stone-Wall. And it's small escort fleet of carriers and light cruisers. The First Order prepared the fleets well. And today was just a mere example of what was being played out in the rest of the galaxy. The very thought made the captain of the ship smile with glee.
And his name was Domi Nerus.
The order to begin the invasion of New Republic space was rather hasty because of the destruction of the New Republic capital. However Nerus took his orders without question. He wasn't a battle-hardened commander like Phasma or Hux. He was a officer for the First Order, and he took his orders to the letter. And he was effective for doing so.
Maybe not as much as the late “He-shall-not-be-named Captain Cardinal” or any of the new commanders that proved their worth. But still effective nonetheless.
“Rekko, report the status of the Harloff System.” Nerus ordered as he made his way towards one of the many windows on the Star Destroyer's bridge. Rekko was a relatively young officer that provided as an aide and much needed third party perspective on certain things not even Nerus would consider. Most Captains would outright refuse this kind of support, Nerus was one of the few who embraced it fully.
“The main planets capital has been successfully taken by our forces sir. However we are still spread out to provide an actual grip on the system.” Rekko reported as he handed his Captain the data-pad, ”Although…we just got word from General Hux. He wants our forces to redirect while another division takes over.”
“And why is that?” Nerus was truly puzzled, Hux never really personally recalled a division to take care of another problem. Something was amiss, and apparently he would find out soon enough. His opinion on the young officer remained indifferent as it was when the man assumed his father's position after his father died (Of course, his death remained off-record to avoid demoralizing the young recruits who were sent to the Absolution, officially, Brendol Hux was on a long-term mission that required minimal contact), he found Hux to be effective at what he did. And as long as he remained loyal to the First Order. He wouldn't think any less of Artimage Hux.
“In order for me to explain that sir…” He leaned in closely and whispered, “He requested that the orders shall be given in private.” Nerus processed that bit of information very slowly, the implications meant many things. Ever since the General gave the go-ahead to attack New Republic territory effective immediately (This fight at Harloff–in Nerus's opinion–would've been won a long time ago–if Nerus managed to acquire the Mandator-IV a bit more earlier before it was rerouted to defend another base owned by the First Order)
The capitan merely paused before speaking up again, “Very well then.”
Author's Note
First up, I would like to apologize for the long wait. The Phasma and Leia book took longer than I expected to complete. However I do want to disclose that I do not have a lot of time to complete chapters due to me having a extremely tight schedule and really focusing on chapters as a hobby. That being said, I am still to blame for the long wait between chapters.
That, and the anxiety and fears that usually get to writers hits me hard to the point where I have to stop and recollect myself before I overthink the most basic plothole. I'm just starting to break out of the mold due to how I want to improve as a writer. But the description is still going to remain the same, updates will be scarce until The Last Jedi comes out. Then when the official description for 9 drops, I'll tread on the story very lightly until the movie releases.
(PS, I might release a chapter commentary on this and the prologue on the blog. It'll mostly go through abandoned plot elements, unused concepts. And a few more.)
