Just realized that forum posts are time-stamped... Hmm... So it's been 2 years since my last post. I'd edit the above post but I find that it illuminates my silliness Continuing the story! Ignite took a single step forward and an alarm began to blare; he paused and turned his head to the side in confusion. Lana jumped and frowned; HK remained unfazed. "What in the Force happened?" Lana questioned. Explanation: The Pipsqueak has failed in her directive to open the doors for the Master. "But the door is open," Lana pointed. "No alarm went off." "Pipsy fix!" The Jawa bolted. Lana moved to stop the little creature but Ignite stopped her with an outstretched hand. "My Lord?" "Trust me," he inclined his head in Pipsy's direction. "That Jawa will have that alarm disabled faster than you can say stop." There was a clang and the alarm grew in both volume and intensity. Bemused Statement: Stop. Ignite ground his teeth. Suggestion: Master, may I punish the Pipsqueak for her failure? This unit would love to carry out your will through liquidation. There was a rumble that nearly knocked Lana and Ignite from their feet. The containment cells shook and Ignite glanced around in confusion. Immediately after the rumbled ceased the alarm too stopped its incessant noise. "Koth," Lana touched her comlink. "Was that you?" "I'm a little busy!" Came a garbled reply. "We've been found out!" Warning: Master, another Meatbag has entered the facility. Female. My scanners cannot read much more information. Pipsy returned from wherever she'd ran off to. "Pipsy fix mean droid scanners when back on ship!" Intriguing Admission: My circuits seem to be quivering, Master. I cannot say if it is due to anticipation or fear. Ignite felt the world around him freeze for a second. "Fear?" He gawked at the droid. Assurance: I believe it to be anticipation of the coming liquidation. Lana's comlink blared, "We've got a big problem. BIG!" "Yes?" Lana's calm façade wavered not a fraction. "Vaylin is in the building." "What's a Vaylin?" Ignite's lekku twitched. "A very dangerous woman," Lana intoned, her expression shifting to worry. She started forward at a quickened pace. "Pipsy, make sure the path to the landing platform is clear." Pipsy seemed to ignore Lana and turned to Ignite. "Go ahead," he motioned. "Pipsy fix!" Observation: The Pipsqueak has learned her place. Master, the Lady Sith Meatbag's vitals have significantly spiked. This unit does not believe that is due to attraction to the Master. I will admit, begrudgingly, that I have been wrong before. "What's a Vaylin?" Ignite repeated. "Vaylin is the daughter of Emperor Valkorion," Lana informed coldly, put out by HK's observations. "She is incredibly strong in the Force. Stronger even than you, my Lord." Mocking Retort: There are none stronger than the Master, Lady Sith Meatbag. Clearly your processors need to be updated. "Oh?" Lana looked over her shoulder at the eight foot monstrosity that was HK. "How do you explain him being trapped in carbonite for the past five years?" "Easy!" Ignite growled. Threat: The Lady Sith Meatbag will not insult the Master or face liquidation. Lana threw her hands up in frustration. The three passed through several open doors, surprised to find little to no resistance. After their fourth hallway Ignite had to ask, "Where are the guards?" "Your psychotic droid 'liquidated' all of them," Lana sniffed. Correction: The Pipsqueak inadvertently liquidated one herself while trying to close a door. This unit was not pleased with the loss of a potential liquidation. Nevertheless I must admit the Pipsqueak's liquidation was impressive. "The guard was split in half!" Lana replied in horror. Regret: Yes, this unit wishes he could've had the pleasure of performing such a liquidation. Ignite held back a laugh when he noticed Lana's eye twitch. He didn't remember HK provoking such a response from her in the past, but he was not going to complain at this current juncture. The Twi'lek noted the next door was rather large and, unfortunately, still closed. Pipsy was nowhere to be seen. "Allow me," Lana stepped forward and attempted to pry open the door with the Force. It opened briefly and then slammed shut. Statement: The door did not open. "Clearly," Lana deadpanned. The sound of metal being ripped from its hinges and hurled across the hallway echoed throughout the building; Vaylin was gaining. "Together then," Lana nodded at Ignite. Just as the two were about to call upon the Force the door shot open. A lightsaber pierced through the wall closest to Lana, causing her to leap back and ignite her own. A small hole was cut out and the smoking metal fell onto the grating, followed by a soot-covered Pipsy. Lana swallowed her initial surprise and deactivated her lightsaber. "Boss!" Pipsy jumped up and down. "Pipsy fix! Door not open. Pipsy override control box in wall! Very dirty! Lots of dust!" "Well done, Pipsy," Ignite pat the Jawa on the head and walked through the door. The four made for the nearest elevator; Pipsy jumped forward and pressed the up button. HK leveled his blaster at the Jawa. Threat: The Pipsqueak will not press buttons without the Master's consent or face horrendous liquidation. "Mean droid being mean to Pipsy!" Pipsy pointed at HK. "Pipsy not upgrade shields!" Retort: This unit has waited five years for these fabled shield upgrades. Protestation: Master, clearly the Pipsqueak has been lying to this unit and the Master. She should be punished. Recommendation: I advise liquidation. "It's okay, HK," Ignite chuckled, unable to help himself. The elevator dinged and the four stepped inside. Right before the doors closed Ignite noticed a silhouette at the far end of the hallway. Pipsy shuddered and her voice shifted to that of Zash. "That was closer than I would have liked, Apprentice." "Gonna have to get used to this one," Ignite admitted. "It's not so bad," Pipsy-Zash replied. "Although I wouldn't mind if you would teach this creature on how to wield the Force." "That's a brilliant idea," Ignite retorted sarcastically. "Have no fear," Pipsy-Zash held out her hands. "Your over-protective droid has assured me of what will happen if I even speak the B word." "B--?" Lana was cut off by HK. Assurance: Betrayal, Master. This unit has assured the Old Hag Meatbag that her obedience to the Master will be absolute or, Meatbag Protection List be karked, I will shoot her out the nearest airlock after taking plentiful amounts of time liquidating her." "Quite," Pipsy-Zash squeaked. "Count on your psychotic droid to come up with a threat to squelch a Sith Lord," Lana sighed. "Darth," Pipsy-Zash corrected. "Oh please," Lana and Ignite said simultaneously. "Flesh of my flesh!" The ghost of Kallig materialized before the Twi'lek. "By the Force!" Ignite shouted, shooting a gout of lightning at the apparition. It passed through Kallig and into the door, causing it to glow orange and smoke. Kallig shook his head in disappointment. "I may have overreacted," Ignite admitted. "As I was saying," Kallig continued. "You are in grave danger!" "How are you even here?" Statement: Master, this is the same Ghost Meatbag from before. "Is that Lord Kallig?" Pipsy-Zash questioned incredulously. "Not now!" Ignite silenced the two. "How I am here is irrelevant," Kallig waved away the question, folding his arms. "The daughter of the Sith Emperor is closing on you. At your current strength you will be unable to face her." "Great," Ignite sighed. "And no Dashade to save me from the next body-grab." "You must--" Kallig began. "Absorb more ghosts," Ignite finished. "Indeed," Kallig was pleased. "Do not draw on the Emperor's power. Though he may reside in you I fear that your will is not strong enough to resist him overtaking you, should you allow him control." "Say what now?" He's referring to me. Valkorion's voice reverberated in Ignite's skull. Did you forget that I am sharing your vessel at the moment? "Honestly?" Ignite stated aloud. "Yes, yes I forgot you were here." "Do not converse with him, flesh of my flesh," Kallig warned. "He is far more powerful than you realize." "But not as strong as this Vaylin?" Ignite asked. "That is not for me to know," Kallig shrugged. "I have a name for you to investigate. A ghost of great power and knowledge, one who can supplement your own power a vast amount." "And?" "Rajivari," Kallig said softly, beginning to fade. "Good luck flesh of my flesh. I shall be watching." "Rajivari?" Lana repeated in confusion. Pipsy-Zash began to laugh maniacally; causing all to turn to her and wait. It took several seconds for her to splutter out a complete sentence. "Rajivari is on Tython." Ignite blinked. "We have gone there before," Lana said. There was a whirring sound that grew quite notable in the elevator. Six eyes turned to HK who was staring straight ahead as if processing something. "HK? Ignite poked his droid. Statement: This unit regrets he is still unable to laugh, Master. Gleeful Continuation: The Jedi home world would be the greatest gift you could give this unit, Master. To liquidate the strongest Jedi on their own planet is precisely what I was programmed by the Maker to do. Hopeful Request: Can we please go, Master? "Shouldn't be too much of a problem," Lana shrugged at Ignite. "Yes, when the Revanites worked in tandem to leave both Tython and Korriban defenseless. How do you propose to land there now? Despite the Eternal Empire rampaging across the known galaxy, both Tython and Korriban remain bastions of the Jedi and Sith respectively. No Sith will be able to set foot upon that planet," Pipsy-Zash reminded them. The whirring noise died down. If HK could have glared, the droid would have in that moment. Threat: The Old Hag Meatbag will cease hostilities against this unit at once. Namely the killing of all the gleeful abandon I was processing. "Noted," Pipsy-Zash muttered. The elevator dinged once more and the super-heated door attempted to open. Ignite sent a Force wave into it, blasting it from its hinges. Lana looked at the currently empty landing platform and practically snarled into her comlink, "Where are you?!" "Busy! You're going to have to book it to the adjacent landing pad!" "You know, I think I have a solution to this Vaylin issue that doesn't involve a suicide run to Tython," Ignite grinned, knowing full well he wasn't going to deny HK the pleasure of visiting Tython. "Pray, do tell," Lana grabbed her lightsaber, preparing to ignite it at any sign of enemies. "I'll just woo Vaylin," Ignite shrugged. "I mean she is a she, yeah?" Not happening! Valkorion roared. Protestation: But Master! "Hey!" Ignite bonked his head a few times. "My house, my rules!" Sulking: You may as well liquidate me if you choose to deny this opportunity, Master. "I can't liquidate you, HK," Ignite replied. "You don't slosh. And don't worry; we're going to Tython." Statement: Thank you Master. Please tell me you were joking about my daughter... Ignite laughed. Declaration: This unit is extremely pleased he does not slosh, Master. "I'm aware, HK."

Appreciate you reading and replying, Luna! I wanted to let you know I agree on your statement of how incompetent the Empire appears when you are on the Light Side. With that perspective I admit that your depiction of the Republic as incompetent is actually refreshing. You helped me see it in a new light Also I went ahead and updated my own silly story. You helped me to finally think of a workaround as to how I was going to continue after 3 years. Totally nailed it too. Please update soon!

*Brushes off dust* Whew! So I know it's been a long time... Like 3+ years long... You see I've been wanting to continue for awhile now but couldn't remember exactly where I was going and really didn't have a good starting point to continue/pick up from. Then, about ten minutes ago, an epiphany hit me so hard I actually said, "Aha!" aloud. I have realized how to reconcile everything written and continue in a new direction simultaneously. So without further ado, I invite you, once more, to enjoy the world of Ignite, HK-51, and Pipsy (along with others). Also, before you continue: SPOILERS for, like, everything ever in SWTOR. Does that cover it? I certainly hope so. Chapter Six: The Ultimate Hangover How interesting this is... A voice mused in the darkness. Such a development not even I foresaw. Ignite groaned and struggled to stand, barely managing to open his eyes and wincing against the bright bluish light that assaulted him. "My head." He grasped at his head, surprised when his hand passed through what should have been his forehead. The haze was gone in an instant, and Ignite snapped to attention at the surprise of finding himself a ghost. "How?" He questioned aloud. Such an interesting dream. The voice, male and deep, reverberated in his ethereal skull. I must say you have a vivid imagination. Ignite blinked. "Yeah?" What do you remember, I wonder? "Escaping Thanaton's clutches?" Ignite shrugged. "And someone raiding my..." He trailed off. "Ah." It would seem the carbonite poisoning has addled your mind. Frankly I am not surprised. An image flashed across Ignite's mind, one of Emperor Valkorion getting sabered in the spine. "How did you miss your son stabbing you in the spine, again?" The voice seemed to bristle. It was meant to be. So that we may be complete. "Gross." Ignite blanched. "How do I get out of here? And what did you mean by carbonite poisoning?" Those questions will be answered in due time. Valkorion assured. For now I suggest you press onwards and face many trails of dubious origin. "Is there a potential for death?" Yes. Of course. "Yeah." Ignite shook his ethereal head fervently. "Nope. Not doing it." Need I remind you, you are already dying? "And I need to expedite the process why?" Your point is not lost on me. I must insist you press on. "Negative," Ignite sat down and folded his arms. "I'll wait." Valkorion was clearly vexed, and his voice bounced around Ignite's skull. I spent a lot of time setting these up. To test your will to survive. "See therein lies the problem," Ignite lifted his head and spoke to the darkened fake sky above. "Every time I follow up on something like this bad things happen. I'm just going to sit this one out and wait. You watch. I'll get out of this somehow." You're frozen in carbonite. Valkorion deadpanned. "Somehow!" Ignite insisted stubbornly. There was a rumble and the sky shattered like glass, the shards falling down about the Twi'lek who began to laugh. "Oh-ho! Ominous!" He taunted aloud. There was a groaning noise and then Ignite's ethereal form vanished, along with the dream world he inhabited. Stale, hot, air mixed with a copious amount of steam assaulted the Twi'lek's face and a great hissing noise nearly split his eardrums. Ignite attempted to cry out and instead vomited up an odd fluid, he assumed part of the carbonite freezing process. The Twi'lek attempted to stand and found his muscles refusing to respond to even the basest of commands. The once mighty Darth Nox lay splayed on the cold metal grating, incapacitated. Exuberant Statement: I have at last found you, Master! Reprimand: How dare you send me off with those worthless coward Meatbags? This unit expects more from you, Master! "HK?" Ignite blinked, seeing nothing but blobs and darkness. "I can't see." Reply: Obviously, Master. You have been frozen for five years and are currently suffering from carbonite poisoning. This unit finds it extremely hard to believe you are still sloshing, Master. Ignite cracked a small smile. He'd missed HK more than he'd ever care to admit. Something the droid said nagged at him until it hit him like a crashing wave. "FIVE years?!" "Really," a feminine voice sighed. "He is under a great deal of duress. Now is not the time for such conversations." HK remained stoic, his red photoreceptors unblinking as they bored holes in the one currently speaking. "My Lord," the feminine voice spoke softly. "I am going to administer an antidote for your carbonite poisoning." "Ah, great--" Ignite began. "It's going to hurt," the voice interrupted. "A lot." "Ah, no..." Ignite sighed. Threat: The Lady Sith Meatbag will not hurt the Master, or face extreme liquidation. "If I don't administer the antidote he will die!" The voice retorted in agitation. Query: And if the Master dies of pain? "He's already dying!" The voice practically shrieked. "Oh, Lana," Ignite finally remembered the voice, his memory still very hazy. "It'll be okay, HK." "Finally a voice of reason," Lana sighed in relief, jabbing the syringe into the Twi'lek and shooting the contents into his aching body. Ignite began with a low groan and ended with a high-pitched scream. Observation: Master, it would seem the carbonite poisoning has allowed you to reach a new octave. "Is this droid always this daft?" Lana muttered to Ignite as she helped lift the sweating Twi'lek to his feet. Ignite managed to stand shakily and felt a cold metallic hand wrap around his body, supporting him. "Thanks HK," Ignite sighed in relief. He turned to the direction of Lana, not realizing he was facing the opposite way. "HK is unique," he assured. "I wouldn't change anything about him." Boast: I am the pinnacle achievement of droids. Perfection. Nothing can breach my chassis." "Really? I know something that can breath you quite quickly," a voice Ignite knew all-too-well assured the droid. Ignite gasped in horror and, to his shame, clung to HK-51 like the last lifeline he had. If the voice belonged to whom he suspected, the droid may very well be his only lifeline. Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease hostilities against this unit at once, or face liquidation. I will use you as a battering ram for the next door should you refuse. "Honestly, Apprentice," the voice of Darth Zash sighed in annoyance. "Why you keep this droid is beyond me." "Zash?" Ignite croaked. "How?" "Don't you remember?" Zash questioned from the body of Pipsy. "Your Dashade threw this creature between you and I during my ritual. Now I am trapped in her, sharing this body with such a lowly creature." "But the Rakata artifact--" Ignite began. "Delusion," Zash waved it off. "As if I could be contained." Intrigued Reply: We have not tried the Imprisoned One, Master. Should we relocate your ship we could free the Pispqueak of the Old Hag Meatbag. Though this unit does not see the merits in such a decision. Ignite shook his head in confusion, his vision slowly began to clear itself and he sighed in relief as the pain subsided as the antidote took hold. "We'll have to figure out this madness later." He assured the group. "Clearly my dreams were more reality than I thought." "Quite," Zash-Pipsy nodded. "Now then, Apprentice, let us remove ourselves from this rather fascinating prison." "I couldn't agree more," Lana said serenely, touching her com-link. "Koth, we have the asset. Are you ready?" "Three minutes!" Lana rolled her eyes. "We need to make our way to the landing platform." "I suppose I will let the creature take over once more," Zash-Pipsy sighed, closing her yellow eyes. The Jawa shuddered briefly and suddenly exploded into motion. "Boss!" Pipsy rushed forward and latched onto Ignite's leg, squeezing for all she was worth. "Pipsy so happy you alive! Pipsy be good! Very very good! Share body with mean lady! Keep mean droid company!" Indignant Retort: You did no such thing, Pipsqueak! As if this unit needed your company! I am perfectly capable of entertaining myself! "Pipsy get doors open, boss!" The Jawa assured. "Make sure boss goes to ship! Fly away! Very very good!" HK-51 started forward, half dragging half-carrying Ignite along. Pipsy turned to go and paused, staring at HK for a moment. "Droid still walk funny!" HK stiffened. Rebuttal: I do not walk funny, Pipsqueak. "Pipsy fix when back on ship! Make sure mean droid walk like pretty droid!" Exasperation: It is a predatory gait! Ignite chuckled, despite the pain he felt at the laughter exiting his body. "I've missed this," he admitted. "The galaxy needs you now more than ever," Lana Beniko whispered. "Are you up to the challenge?" Ignite shrugged, wincing as he did, "I suppose that depends," he replied. "On what?" "On how quickly we can find my Dashade." "That is most certainly a story for another time," Lana blanched, knowing full well the horrors Khem Val had inflicted on the galaxy upon learning of his Master's supposed death. Assurance: Not to worry, Master. We will find the Hulking Meatbag and liquidate many Meatbags. "That we will, HK," Ignite nodded. "That we will." Question: Master, may I liquidate the Pipsqueak now? "No," Ignite stated flatly. "No liquidating Jawa's." Weary Acquiescence: Yes, Master. "I suppose you're quite a bit ahead of me on our game, eh, HK?" Ignite attempted to raise the droid's spirits. HK's red photo-receptors gleamed with glee. Gloating: Why, yes, Master, I am! This unit has surpassed over 50,000 kills! 51,522 to be exact! You have a lot of liquidating to do to catch up! "That's quite a number, HK," Ignite grinned. "But don't expect to keep the lead very long." Assurance: I will do my best to keep you pleased, Master. Ignite found himself relieved the droid could still be easily distracted; and even more relieved that his personality had not suffered in the slightest during his absence. Pipsy-Zash worried the Twi'lek, but the two seemed to have an almost symbiotic relationship which Ignite figured was the best he could hope for considering the situation. The door ahead popped open and Pipsy rounded the corner with an excited wave. "Now the real challenge begins," Lana quietly informed the Twi'lek. "Can you stand, my Lord?" Ignite pushed off HK, wobbled, and stood of his own volition. "Yes," he grunted. Lana pushed something into his hand; it was cold and hard, but the Sith could never forget the feeling. He caressed his lightsaber briefly before igniting it, it's red-black blade humming. Lana nodded in approval. Pipsy clapped. HK stared ahead, his blaster in hand. "Let's do this," Ignite smirked.

Hello there! This is my first time posting in...well...4 or 5 years. I have a story on here which, personally, I love and I'm sure more than a few people genuinely hate/dislike or are apathetic towards. Really, I could care less because I like it, but I just wanted to give you some background as to who this random person is posting on your story First off I want to say that your writing style is superb, and you elicit several emotions, both positive and negative, in me as a reader. I don't like everything you do, and will get into that later, but I do love how you develop characters and the general mind-snaps you pull out of your story. Having said that, you blew it on Darth Marr being Liatrix's father. I can't remember the exact passage which clued me, but I called it long before the reveal and was kind of bummed when I turned out to be right. The exultation and satisfaction of having been correct, combined with your wicked-good storytelling, outweighed my disappointment, however Ultimately what inspired me to post on this thread, of all threads, was not the story but the comments I've been reading. Yes, I agonizingly read every comment, sometimes in utter annoyance at the continual replies that are not new chapters. Before I continue, let me stress this is constructive criticism, potentially at a rather volatile junction, and, more importantly, merely my own personal opinion of both the story and yourself as an author. So if you don't like what I am about to post: I get it. And I don't care. (Very important as we continue). For an established author, which you are (frankly I've been tempted several times to purchase your novels), you care far too much about other people's opinions and words. The fact that you can provoke such a negative response as the person who reviewed you negatively is proof that you are doing something right with your story. Now, granted, they didn't catch the Jedi-mind tricks Agent One is currently owning Tharan with (I almost missed it myself), but that's okay. Honestly? I agree that you have handled Satele poorly. It's your story, though, and if you want Satele to be a hypocrite (which she ultimately is, as are all Jedi), then you go for it. I support that; but I do not like it. I suppose what bothers me the most about you as an author is twofold: #1 - You take the time to respond to EVERY comment. While this is quite frankly unparalleled by other writers, I find that it portrays that you care far too much about what other people think. I struggled with this for many years while writing my first novel, and subsequently wrote myself into a hole I never came back from. It took me four tries to get my own story right, and that was only when I realized what other people think means nothing in my own story. #2 - You are allowing real personal events to influence how you respond to others. I can't imagine what you are going through right now with your mom. My prayers go with her (and you), and I truly hope she recovers. But just like work you cannot let that influence how you treat, speak, or respond to others. Yes, it seems like I am blowing this out of proportion. Yes, this particular poster has hammered you a few times in the past. Doesn't mean he's wrong. Doesn't make it right to respond aggressively. It's their opinion. It's your story. Ignore them, consider the source, always consider the feedback, and continue writing (please!) because the universe you have made is incredible. My biggest praise for this story is that I personally check this every day when I wake up (I purposefully wake up 20 minutes early to read the news and other media--this included) and before I go to bed I check again to see if you've updated. You are part of my daily routine. That's how great this adventure has been and continues to be. Also, your depiction/vision for Marr was flippin' perfect. Darth Marr is second only to Darth Revan in most awesome-dark-Sith Lords-ever (my opinion, of course). My highest annoyance/disgust for this story is Liatrix. I really dislike her as a character. Every once in awhile I fist-pump (like when she shafted the Chancellor. Yes please!), but ultimately I despise her. I thought the pheromones explanation did well to explain some of, what I found, to be ridiculous attraction, but ultimately for me it falls short. Unfortunately I perceive Liatrix as--well, I won't say the word. She is very promiscuous. Your best characters, by far, are your depictions of Darth Marr (whom if truly dead will cause me to be most displeased) and HK-51. My least favorite depictions in this universe? Satele Shan (You did her a true disservice in my opinion) and Jace Malcom. The one question that continually reverberates through my head when I read anything you've written regarding the Republic: Can they possibly be more incompetent? That's all I have for now. Again, thank you for your wonderful story. Thank you for taking the time to get to this point of my post (if you did) and I hope you consider my feedback

Thank you all for continuing to read! We’ve broken 2,000 views and are climbing! HK, would you like to say anything? Gratuitous Statement: This unit wants to extend thanks to the Meatbag Readers who continue to read of my exploits. Know that, should the time come, I will end your existence in the most painless way possible. Ominous Assurance: For those who refuse to read… I am coming for you! Assassination protocols engaged. Weapons free! HK! WAIT! Chapter Five: Stealth Gone Wrong Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease hostilities against this unit at once! Ignite coughed and sent a few stray blaster bolts into the ground before catching a gout of lightning with his saber. “HK! Help!” Directive: The Pipsqueak will liquidate the Meatbags with extreme prejudice! “Pipsy fix!” Alarming Cry: AUGHH! Remove the arc-tech screwdriver! Remove the arc-tech screwdriver! MEDIC! “Someone call for a Medic?!” Doc’s voice hollered through the smoke. “Have no fear! Doc is here!” “Get down, you idiot!” Kaliyo shouted. “I will kill you, Ignite! It’s time to put you down for dishonoring the Sith traditions!” Thanaton promised. “Pipsy! Go fix nice droid!” Ignite roared as the lightning increased in intensity. The Sith channeled his newfound power and retaliated with his own, pushing against Thanaton. “Pipsy fix nice droid!” Pipsy promised. HK stood shakily and readied his blaster, his photoreceptors shining in the smoke. Amazed Assessment: All of my functions are at peak efficiency, Master. “THEN USE THEM!” Offended Counter: You don’t have to shout, Master. I am programmed with the most advanced hear— “Bad time, HK!” The droid shrugged and fired several shots into the smoke. Statement: Assassination protocols activated! “Well that’s not good,” Waresh muttered, ducking under the incoming fire and glaring at his Jedi companion who calmly deflected a few bolts. “Aren’t you supposed to be, you know, helping?” “What would you have me do?” Putridous glanced down at the Hunter. “Charging into the fray with emotion is not the Jedi way.” “I don’t give two banthas about the Jedi way!” Waresh pointed at the Jedi. “Bring that Sith Lord down!” “As you wish,” Putridous vanished into the fog; all that could be seen was a blue lightsaber casually deflecting the influx of blaster bolts. Warning: Master, the imposter Meatbag is approaching. “The Jedi?” Ignite grunted, his control over the lightning fading fast. Affirmation: Yes, Master. “Can’t you stop him?” Indignant Response: Of course, Master! Ignite managed to throw a deadpan look in HK’s direction. The droid stiffened and, without looking, pressed a button on his arm; off shot his hand through the fog. “I can’t see a freaking thing in this smoke!” Sneaks hissed to Kaliyo, the Agent having taken cover the moment the fighting started. “That’s good for us though, right?” Kaliyo questioned lightly, kneeling beside the Rattataki. “Don’t you worry about a thing,” Doc crossed his arms. “Ole Doc will-ulp!” Proud Declaration: I have him, Master! “Then why is the blue light getting closer?!” Ignite ceased his lightning and rolled out of the way, the ground exploding in a shower of dirt and fire behind him. Retort: Because this unit is reeling him in, Master! HK paused as his hand returned with Doc attached. Astonished Observation: This is not the imposter Meatbag, Master. The blue light swung in HK’s direction, halting as it realized Doc was currently being used as a meat shield. “Release the prisoner, droid,” Putridous requested sagely. Threat: The imposter Meatbag Jedi will cease hostilities against this unit or the idiot Meatbag shall be liquidated with extreme prejudice! “If you liquidate him, what will stop me from destroying you?” Intrigued Reply: This unit is impressed with the ruthlessness displayed, imposter Meatbag Jedi. However my scans of your bodily fluids show that you are lying. “That just sounds bad,” Waresh shook his head across the battlefield. “Or perhaps I can control my—ah—bodily fluids to convince you otherwise?” Defensive Statement: This unit does not like the imposter Meatbag Jedi’s logic. “Can I say something?” Doc wheezed. Response: No. “I’m kinda loking,” Doc struggled. Baffled Reply: Of course you are choking, idiot Meatbag! I have you by the throat! “I’m afraid I must intervene,” Putridous sighed. Ignite caught the Jedi’s lightsaber with his own. “Don’t touch my droid!” “You would be so much better serving the light,” Putrioud shoved against the Sith, both rolling out of the way as Thanaton sent more lightning into the smoke. “Don’t try and turn me, fool,” Ignite spat. “I am not so weak-minded.” “Peace is not weak,” Putridous countered. “Denial of your emotions is.” “He’s got you there,” Thanaton admitted from afar. “Last chance, Sith,” Putridous informed almost pleadingly. “Surrender peacefully.” Ignite held his arms out boastfully. “So far none of you have managed to stop me, Jedi. Until you do I’m not going to do any—oomph!” A hulking form crashed into Ignite, sending him sprawling away. Putridous sighed aloud when he saw another red lightsaber appear in the smoke. “I’m done,” he casually deactivated his own lightsaber and strolled in the direction of Waresh, patting the Hunter on the shoulder. “Have fun killing yourselves, Sith,” he called. Waresh watched him depart and cursed silently before deciding retreat was a good option; he’d had enough of Sith for one day. “Now would be a good time to get out of here,” Kaliyo hissed to Sneaks. “Why would we do that?” The Agent questioned with a raised eyebrow. “It’s just starting to get good!” “Because Doc is gone!” Sneaks blinked. “Noted.” “Who the?!” Ignite jumped back to his feet in time to intercept a lightsaber strike that drove him to his knees. “You dare threaten our Emperor?” A voice demanded. “Wha-?” Ignite rolled when he sensed incoming lightning. The other Sith was not so lucky and went tumbling away. “HK! We’re leaving!” Complication: Master, this unit cannot release the idiot Meatbag. “Then bring him along for torture.” Gleeful Reply: With pleasure, Master. “Pipsy!” Ignite shouted. “HK! Get Andro down here stat!” Statement: The Master demands you retrieve us, Meatbag. “Yeah I heard,” Andronikus replied from his comlink. “How’d you like your backup?” Horrified Admission: The Pipsqueak nearly gutted me on the field! HK paused mid-stride. Emphatic Statement: It is NOT funny, Meatbag! Assurance: If you were not on my Meatbag Protection List I would liquidate you with extreme prejudice! “Let’s go, HK!” Ignite hoisted Pipsy over his shoulder along with two-vee’s chassis. “Grab the rest of the inferior model.” “Pipsy fix!” “I see that,” Ignite forced a smile, looking to the sky nervously; the smoke was beginning to clear. Complaint: Master, the Meatbag will not stop laughing at my plight! “Well it is kind of funny, HK.” Indignant Baffled Retort: This unit would like to remind the Master that there are still two hostiles waiting to liquidate us on the field of battle! Furthermore I am most displeased to see you taking the side of the Meatbag! Also I would like to file a formal complaint against the sickening display of affection the Pipsqueak is currently receiving. Ignite raised an eyebrow. “Need I remind you you’re still holding the idiot Meatbag?” Sarcastic Reply: Master I want to extent my thanks for you noting such a minute detail. I pray that your processors did not strain too harshly to compute such a thing. The Fury blared overhead and Ignite boarded the descending ramp, HK in tow. “Really, HK, I don’t see what the issue is with Andro having a laugh at your expense.” Wrathful Reply: I am the pinnacle achievement of the Hunter Killer model, Master! I will not be demeaned by a Meatbag! Ignite looked his droid over. “Ah,” he chuckled, reaching forward and removing the arc-tech screwdriver. “That would explain it.” Assurance: I will liquidate that Pipsqueak. “Mean droid be nice to Pipsy! Pipsy fix!” Thanaton watched his prey disappear into the sky and tapped his chin as he listened to the droid and, he assumed a Jawa, argue. Judging by the conversation of the Sith Lord and his companions he had little to fear from them. He shrugged and walked away, not paying the slightest attention to the fact that there had been another Sith in the chaos. Not one minute after Thanaton departed another Jedi burst onto the scene, Kira Carsen in tow. He took one look at the battlefield and noted a hulking man staggering to his feet; and the red lightsaber he wielded. Both Jedi ignited their own sabers and waited. Naweth shook his head. “Gotta learn to dodge that stuff,” he grunted, looking around. “Vette?” “Sith,” Elwind called. “Where is Doc?” “Where is Vette?” The Sith retaliated. “If you killed her I will annihilate you.” Elwind paused. “Jedi?” “Oh, right.” “I don’t think this guy killed Doc,” Kira whispered. “Who is this Vette?” Elwind questioned, eager to avoid a fight if necessary. “She was with me when I intercepted Ignite,” Naweth looked around. “He appears to have fled the scene. I’m assuming Doc was the man the droid had by the throat.” “What?!” Kira cried. “Was he dead?” Elwind asked hopefully. “Elwind!” “Oh, right,” Elwind cleared his throat. “That is dire news indeed.” Naweth cocked his head to the side. “Yeah…So…” “Do we—uh—fight?” Elwind looked at his lightsabers. “Can I get a rain check? I kinda have to recover my Twi’lek.” “Well this is a first,” Kira snorted. “You’re not very Sithy,” Elwind admitted. “And you’re not very Jediey,” Naweth countered. “Both of you are idiots,” another voice scoffed. “Had I not seen you in my visions I would slaughter you where you stand.” The three stiffened as a pureblood Sith strolled out in full battle armor, his own lightsaber shining crimson red. “I am Lord Scourge, also known as the Emperor’s Wrath. It seems that you two have saved me the trouble of tracking you down.” “I’m just here to stop the Emperor’s assassination and retrieve my Twi’lek,” Naweth shrugged. “And I’m just here to get the galaxy’s greatest idiot,” Elwind informed. “Was going to assassinate the Emperor, but that plan is kinda busted wide open now.” “Then it seems we have a common goal,” Scourge deactivated his lightsaber. Elwind, Naweth and Kira all responded simultaneously. “We do?” “Never knew a screwdriver could alter your personality so much, HK,” Ignite chuckled as he spun it around. “Pipsy, fix HK’s hand so the prisoner can breathe.” “Pipsy fix!” HK felt the Jawa open his thigh panel and would have shivered if he could. Horrified Declaration: I never want to go through that again, Master. “I believe it,” Ignite nodded. “Feeling better?” HK released Doc, finally. Statement: Yes, Master. This unit acknowledges that the Pipsqueak actually fixed something. “Pipsy fix man now!” Amused Admittance: Master, the Pipsqueak could inflict far greater horrors on this Meatbag than I. “That’s something to consider,” Ignite rubbed his chin. “Khem, can you take our friend here to the brig?” “We don’t have a brig, Master,” Khem rumbled. Ignite’s eyes widened. “We don’t? Well fudge. Put him in the airlock for now then. That’ll get his attention.” Hopeful Query: Can I vent him into space, Master? “Not yet, HK,” Ignite chuckled before he eyed Pipsy. “Actually. Better just strap him down to a table in the medbay, Khem. Pipsy may accidentally vent him into space.” “Pipsy fix!” HK stiffened. Warning: Master, I detect an unidentified organic Meatbag pilfering your belongings. Namely your underwear drawer. Ignite looked down at Pipsy who waved shyly. He noted Khem failing to strap Doc down and leaned back to see Andronikus currently piloting the ship. “That’s impossible,” Ignite scoffed. “You sure it’s not Kallig?” The ghost appeared. “Flesh of my flesh, you are alive!” “Well that’s not good,” Ignite muttered. “Activate assassination protocols, HK.” Assurance: They are always active, Master. “If it’s Thanaton, shoot first and ask questions later.” Acquiescence: As you command, Master. “Andro, you got Pipsy!” “I can’t fly and Jawa-sit!” “Khem you’ve got Pipsy-duty!” Ignite looked down at Pipsy. “Go help Khem, Pipsy.” The Jawa headed over to the Dashade after a thumbs up. “Where to, Kallig?” “Taris, flesh of my flesh.” “Taris, Andro!” “Roger that.” “Now let’s go see who’s raiding my underwear drawer,” Ignite shuddered.

“Now remember,” Ignite paced slowly, “no fixing hyperdrives, blasters, lightsabers, or my ship.” “Pipsy be good!” Pipsy promised. “No activating scary lady and be sure to listen to Andro and Khem,” Ignite continued. “Pipsy listen! Boss no want fix?” “Correct,” Ignite beamed, satisfied the Jawa was comprehending. “Can you two handle her?” Andronikus and Khem looked at each other and shrugged. “How hard can it be?” The Pirate questioned lightly. Statement: You have no idea, Meatbag. Counter-statement: Do not listen to the defective HK model. He can barely handle his own protocols, let alone a Jawa. Defensive Retort: This unit had spit in his photoreceptors! “And you two,” Ignite pointed at his droids. “This is a stealth mission. Quiet. Got it?” Affirmation: Understood, Master. Request: I require a weapon, Master. “That is true,” Ignite rubbed his chin. “Maybe you can borrow one of HK’s?” HK bristled. Vehement Protestation: Master, this Inferior model is not worthy of one of my weapons! “Oh come now, HK,” Ignite rolled his eyes. “It’s only for a little bit.” Retort: The inferior model’s chassis was not built for combat. Insult: And the defective HK model continues to lack productivity. HK leveled his blaster at two-vee. Threat: This unit will gladly terminate you. “Play nice,” Ignite ignored the two for the moment, turning to Andronikus. “Are we close?” “Very,” Andro said, maneuvering the ship to hover above the Dark Temple. “Stealth mode engaged. You’ll be dropping down in front of a tomb.” “Good enough,” Ignite noted HK had, albeit begrudgingly, relinquished one of his blasters. “Shall we?” The three exited the ship, leaving Khem, Andronikus and Pipsy alone. Andronikus turned to the Dashade. “Pazaak?” Khem shrugged. “I hunger.” “Take that as a yes,” Andronikus produced a deck from his jacket pocket and paused. “Where’s the Jawa?” There was a crash from Ignite’s room causing Andronikus and Khem to freeze. “Not good,” the Dashade rumbled. “Now cull your petty arguing for now,” Ignite lectured his droids harshly at the entrance to the tomb. “We’re going to get in, learn this technique, and get out. Got it?” The Sith turned around and took two steps when he heard a blaster discharge. There were several clangs and then silence. Ignite whirled on his heel to see 2V-R8 in pieces all around. He raised an eyebrow. “Why did you frag two-vee?” Lie: This unit did no such thing, Master. Ignite paused. “You know that you’re telling me you’re lying, yeah?” Partial Truth: My blaster discharged. “You thought that liquidating—“ Correction: Terminating. “Terminating two-vee would solve the arguing problem?” Honest Reply: With the inferior model terminated there is no longer anything to argue about, Master. Ignite shrugged. He had a point. “You’re fixing two-vee when we get done.” HK’s eyes flashed. Acceptance: Very well, Master. Ignite threw his hands in the air. “Droids,” he muttered in disgust. The two vanished into the dark of the tomb, unaware of the ship above suddenly appearing from its cloaking devices. “Oi!” Andronikus shook the Jawa roughly and pointed at the control panel above Ignite’s bed. “What are you doing?!” “Pipsy fix!” The Jawa said proudly, pointing at a screwdriver in her free hand. “Boss said no fix!” Andronikus countered. “Shall I eat the Jawa?” Khem questioned. “Would you?” The Dashade paused in thought. “No,” he decided. Andronikus chucked Pipsy at Khem. “Let me go see what she ruined,” he sighed. The Pirate went to the bridge and paused as he notated the many flashing lights and alarms, currently muted, blaring. He entered a few commands into the primary console and watched as two ships appeared on the holocam. “Not good,” he muttered. “Khem! We’ve got company!” “I said STEALTH!” Ignite roared at HK ten minutes later. “How by the sands of Tatooine am I supposed to explain THIS?!” The Sith Lord pointed accusingly at the mountain of corpses; composed of crazed acolytes and Imperial soldiers. Response: This unit was merely initiating assassination protocols— “I said STEALTH!” Ignite shouted. Rebuttal: You’re not being very stealthy, Master. The Twi’lek threw his hands into the air. “I give up! You’re impossible! Just liquidate everything from here to the next coffin!” Gleeful Acquiescence: As you command, Master. Several blasters shots, explosions, and a few grappling hands later the path was clear and Ignite stormed into the crypt, shoving the lid off of the coffin. “If you’re going to teach me this technique awaken from the dead and do it already!” The corpse shot up and gripped the Sith by the throat. HK was not kind. Seconds later all that remained was a hand which Ignite calmly detached from his throat. The ghost appeared behind the Sith and droid. “This is how you greet the dead?!” He scolded. “Desecrating my grave?!” Ignite pointed to himself. “Sith?” HK pointed at himself. Reply: HK? “Well I must say I am quite impressed,” the Sith folded his hands behind his back. “What can I do for you?” “I need to learn some mystical technique to suck the power from the dead,” Ignite waved nonchalantly. “I was told you could teach me.” “I can indeed teach you!” The ghost flourished grandiosely. “However, it will take many days to…” He trailed off when he heard a beeping noise. “You gonna get that, HK?” Query: Yes, Meatbag? “Two hostiles are landing outside the tomb. Big trouble!” Andronikus informed. “We’re going to need the short version,” Ignite sighed. “Well all you really need to do is wave your arms around and channel the Force, sucking the ghost into your body. I should warn you that—Hey! Wait!” Ignite staggered to his knees, glowing purple. “Yeesh,” he gagged. “Tastes like death!” Report: Master, we must move with haste. “Yeah I know,” Ignite forced himself to his feet. “How much time do we have?” Reply: Thirty seconds. “Well paint me blue and call me a Chiss,” Ignite muttered. Informative Reply: That is anatomically impossible, Master. “Looks like that Bounty Hunter you encountered earlier,” Andronikus noted. “Good thing we’re in stealth mode.” The Bounty Hunter pointed up at the ship. “We appear to not be in stealth mode,” Khem narrowed his eyes at the Jawa. Pipsy gave a thumbs up. “Ship no see! Now Boss see!” “That second ship looks to be Imperial; and if the holo-net is correct that’s Cipher Nine of II.” “II?” “Imperial Intelligence,” Andronikus squinted. “Is that a Sith with them?” “Looks to be one,” Khem shrugged. “Odd to see a Sith with a blue lightsaber,” Andronikus mused aloud. “Should we help them?” “It would appear the droid did not make it,” Khem pointed at the tomb entrance. “Egads!” Andronikus exclaimed. “Seems like they got to two-vee and started the party early!” Ignite and HK appeared moments later and halted midstride. HK leveled his blaster and Ignite activated his lightsaber. “We’re going to need to do something,” Andronikus looked up at Khem. The Dashade glanced down at Pipsy. “I like the way you think,” Andronikus chuckled. “I thought you said two hostiles?” Ignite growled at HK. Confused Response: It would appear more have arrived, Master. Ignite glanced over at Waresh, what appeared to be a Jedi who wanted to be a Sith, and the pair of Rattataki. “You I remember,” he pointed at Waresh. “What’s a Jedi doing dressed like a Sith?” “I am Lord Putridous,” the Jedi spoke in an emotionless voice. “Spare me,” Ignite drawled. “I can smell the Light side of the Force a mile away.” “Does it smell like roses in the springtime?” Putridous questioned hopefully. “Actually all I smell right now is death, courtesy of HK.” Proud reply: Thank you, Master. Waresh leveled a blaster at Ignite and turned another to the Rattataki pair. They both bristled; the female leveled her own blaster at Waresh and the male at Ignite. “You are?” Ignite remained at ease. “Cipher Nine of Imperial Intelligence. You need to come with me for questioning.” “I’m afraid we need him first,” Waresh informed the Agent. “Can’t let you do that,” Sneaks sighed. Ignite opened his mouth to comment when Thanaton appeared from behind the Agents. “Ah, it is good to see you remained for me to destroy you, Ignite.” Two lightsabers and four blasters turned to Thanaton. “Or we could just talk.” The weapons returned to their original targets. “How did you find me?” Ignite raised an eyebrow. Thanaton pointed up. “Your ship is in plain view from Kaas City. Furthermore it would appear that your little tryst through the Dark Temple has been plastered all over the holo-net. It would seem your two-vee model droid was set to broadcast and continues to do so. HK whirled and fired at the spare parts of two-vee. “Not helping,” Ignite halted the droid. Realization: The Pipsqueak is responsible, Master. She should be liquidated immediately! Ignite smacked his forehead. Thanaton prepared to continue his monologue when the bushes rustled and a man came stumbling free equipped with several medical probes and devices. “Have no fear! Doc is here, baby!” The mad slid to a halt beside Kaliyo. “Hey, babe!” He waggled his eyebrows. “Where’s the Jedi?” Kaliyo looked around. “Just me, sweetie,” Doc smoothed his hair, breathing heavily. “Lucky you.” Kaliyo grabbed Doc by the collar, “You were supposed to bring the Jedi!” “He’s busy on his mission to assassinate the Emperor,” Doc informed nonchalantly. “Besides the Barsen’fail is here.” “Barsen’thor,” Putridous corrected sagely. “Yeah, whatever,” Doc waved his hand. “So do I get a kiss for coming to the rescue?” He waggled his eyebrows seductively. Kaliyo smacked him, hard. “Woo baby!” Doc roared. “Daddy likes!” Three lightsabers and four blasters turned to Doc. “Can we please kill this guy and continue threatening one another?” Sneaks pleaded. “I must admit I’m disappointed in Imperial Intelligence’s ability to garner aid,” Thanaton admitted. “This is your fault, Kaliyo!” Sneaks accused. “Don’t you worry about a thing,” Doc continued, oblivious to the fact that he was going to die painfully, “good ole’ Doc will take care of everything!” “Am I the only one who heard that he intends to assassinate the Emperor?” Waresh asked in confusion. “You really think he’s capable?” Ignite gestured. “That’s it,” Sneaks prepared to fire. Before he could pull the trigger a scream drew everyone’s attention skyward. Pipsy landed on HK, the two collapsing into a pile. There was a click and an explosion of smoke. After that…chaos. ***** “I think it’d be wise to acquire Doc, and fast,” Kira Carsen explained to Elwind; currently the Jedi’s greatest weapon. “I don’t think the Council will be too happy to hear about this.” “Doc is probably dead,” Elwind sighed in agitation. “I told him not to go.” “We’re going to get Doc,” Kira reaffirmed. Elwind raised an eyebrow. “I suppose our extracurricular activities will cease until I comply, eh?” “Got that right.” “Fudge.” Elwind shrugged. “Guess we’re going to rescue the Galaxy’s Greatest Idiot.” ***** “Havoc Squad you’re being recalled from your current mission to respond to an immediate threat to galactic security!” General Garza informed the CO, Gnox. “It would seem a critical Jedi assignment has been leaked to the general public and the traitorous scum must be brought in.” “Well at least I’ll get promoted,” Jorgan muttered. “We’re on it,” Gnox saluted. “I trust you will not fail,” Garza affirmed. “We never do.” ***** “You’re never going to believe this,” Vette giggled uncontrollably. “Someone is going to assassinate the Emperor!” Quinn bristled. “Enough with your games!” “I’m serious!” Vette replied, wounded. “It’s all over the holo-net!” Quinn sighed and checked his datapad. “It would appear you are correct.” “That’s all you’re gonna give me, eh?” Quinn was silent. “You two think we should investigate?” Naweth folded his arms. “This warrants looking into,” Quinn input. “Well if Captain Uptight says to get involved I say we stay away!” Vette skipped off. Naweth rolled his eyes. “Set a course for Kaas, Captain.” Quinn saluted. “Right away, my Lord.” ***** “Lord Scourge, I require the removal of these idiots,” a voice demanded of the current Emperor’s Wrath. The pureblood knelt. “As you command, Lord.” His eyes flashed with annoyance as he turned on his heel and walked to his ship. “So much for visions…”

Author’s Note: I love the TOR universe in general and have a huge passion for writing. Having started on these forums with a comedic fanfic involving a certain Jawa I determined that I wanted to write something a bit more serious and impactful. (Have no fear, the Jawa fanfic will most certainly continue!) Please note two things before I begin: #1: This story will not follow the Bioware plots. At all. #2: This story will contain massive spoilers across all classes and flashpoints. Read at your own risk! I will be juggling quite a few characters. Therefore I will give slight introductions before we begin. Naweth – Human Sith Warrior (Juggernaut) – The newly appointed Emperor’s Wrath, fresh off the defeat of Darth Baras and in orbit around Dromund Kaas. Ignite – Twi’lek Sith Inquisitor (Sorceror) – The newly appointed Darth Nox, currently in a very boring meeting with the Dark Council. Sneaks – Rattataki Imperial Agent (Sniper) – The Hand of Jadus, unfortunately surrounded by a mountain of paperwork in light of Jadus’s new position on the Dark Council. Fech – Human Bounty Hunter (Mercenary) – The greatest Bounty Hunter in the galaxy. Currently in orbit around Corellia fresh from a certain assassination. The Man Who Needs No Introduction – I really hate how his story ended. Therefore he’s gonna be a major player. Chapter One: Complications WRATH! Naweth awoke in a haze, his vision clouded by a black fog, and staggered from his bed, covered in sweat. He waved his arms in what appeared to be slow motion in attempts to clear the fog. It failed to produce results. The hulking man whom had recently been deemed The Emperor’s Wrath looked around to see the darkness coalescing into a ball; he approached cautiously. Peace is a lie, there is only passion. Naweth clutched his head and fell to his knees, noticing for the first time that he was naked, as he attempted to cease the reverberations echoing through his head. He blinked several times as the black fog began to take shape; a shape he’d seen only a few times in his dreams. Through passion, I gain strength. The Wrath clutched his head once more, sweat emanating from every pore, and attempted to slow his breathing. Through strength, I gain power. Naweth collapsed to the ground, shaking uncontrollably, seconds before a seizure took over his body. Through power, I gain victory. A scream tore loose from Naweth’s lips, not of his own doing and from a voice not his own. He grit his teeth against the pain and forced his eyes open as another form began to take shape in the black fog. Through victory, my chains are broken. Blue. A blue light. A sentient being in white armor. The Force shall free me. Jedi. AVENGE ME! The images faded, returning to black and taking Naweth with them into the depths of the unknown. “QUINN!” Vette screamed, having walked into their room to find her husband convulsing on the floor. “PIERCE!” The sound of several footsteps running from all directions of the ship reverberated through the hallways; seconds later Malavai Quinn appeared by the Twi’lek, looking down at the Wrath with wide eyes. “What happened?” He asked, his voice barely above a whisper. “I-I d-don’t know,” Vette stammered, trying to keep the tears from flowing and failing miserably. “He s-said h-he wasn’t feeling good and w-wanted to sleep. I-I was playing Pazaak with Pierce and Broony and came t-to check on him.” Quinn nodded and knelt, analyzing all he could without disturbing the still twitching Sith. Pierce and Broonmark entered the room just as Quinn determined that the Wrath was still breathing. “What’s going on?” Pierce demanded. (Sith Clan does not look well) Broonmark noted. “I need your help,” Quinn looked at Pierce with an expression that brooked no debate. “We must get him to medbay.” “Yes, sir,” Pierce said solemnly as he got on the other side of the man he’d come to respect and trust. The lieutenant grunted as he attempted to get his shoulder under the hulking man. “Wish he wasn’t bigger than me,” Pierce grunted. “Tell me he’s going to be okay, Quinn,” Vette begged. The Captain looked at the tear-stained face of the Twi’lek and felt his heart throb painfully. Although he’d never seen eye to eye with the annoying girl he’d come to respect her as one of his crewmates. The man he was struggling to hold up played no small part in that disposition. The perceptive eyes of Quinn caught the slight look of panic in the lieutenant’s features and the barely contained bloodlust and rage emanating from the Talz still standing in the doorway. (Sith Clan will be avenged) Broonmark promised. 2V-R8 chose that moment to join the crew. “There’s been a complication, Master! Mistress Jaesa has passed out in her quarters!” Quinn and Pierce both swore simultaneously. “Broonmark, get Jaesa to the medbay,” Quinn ordered, his training immediately taking over. “Pierce, we need to get moving.” “Roger that, Captain,” Pierce grunted as he and Quinn took a step forward. “He’ll be okay, Vette,” Quinn promised the Twi’lek. “But we must get him to the medbay so I can see what is ailing him.” “O-okay,” Vette nodded. “I’ll go help Broony.” The Twi’lek vanished in a flash, leaving the two men who’d come to respect one another, albeit begrudgingly, holding the conduit of their mutual truce. “What’s going on, sir?” Pierce questioned softly, the Black Ops Imperial feeling the first strands of terror creeping into his mind; a terror he’d not experienced since boot camp. “It seems to be affecting Force users, whatever it is,” Quinn grunted. “I’m not as strong as you, lieutenant.” “Got it,” Pierce shut up. It took them awhile, but finally the two men managed to get the Sith into the medbay and onto a bed where Quinn, Pierce, and 2V immediately set to work hooking up different medical apparatuses. “Should we put him in the kolto tank?” Vette questioned shakily. “Not until I have ascertained his predicament,” Quinn said in a clinical voice. “Broonmark, please see Vette out and keep her company.” (If Sith Clan dies, I will kill you) The Talz grabbed Vette’s hand with his own fur-covered one and marched her out. Quinn looked down at the pale face of the Wrath, his usual battle-hardened stoic expression replaced by a grimace of pain; his hands had a death grip on his arms as if he’d been attempting to cease the convulsions by sheer force of strength. Sweat covered the man from head to toe and his skin was deathly white. Put frankly, the Wrath looked as if he’d been to hell and back. This man has done more for my career and my disposition as a man than any other, Quinn realized bitterly. I will not let him die. I will not fail him. I will find a way to help you overcome. You believed in me when I was at my lowest low. You forgave me when all others would have killed me. You showed me that even in the darkest of nights there is always a light that burns. You taught me that compassion goes hand in hand with duty. And if you do not come back, know that I will spend every waking moment of my life seeking whatever brought this about and annihilating it. I will not sleep. I will not cease. I will not forgive. “Vengeance will be ours,” Pierce whispered solemnly, looking at the Captain with a newfound respect. Quinn’s eyes widened as he realized he’d been speaking aloud the entire time. Pierce merely flashed his trademark grin and gave the Captain a salute. “Orders, sir?” Quinn looked over at the second bed where Jaesa was lying. She did not look nearly as bad as the Wrath. “Get her hooked up also, lieutenant,” he said wearily. “Carefully.” “Wouldn’t think of doing it any other way, sir,” Pierce nodded. ***** In the heart of Korriban the Dark Council convened, going over the current status of the war; between Darth Marr and Malgus sat Darth Nox, his real name Ignite. The newly appointed Dark Council member listened intently as he attempted to submit a new level of control over the phantoms within his head. He would need their power if he was to make these other Council members acknowledge him as their equal. It happened simultaneously, the same thing that struck the Wrath in his ship, and Ignite clutched his head as he watched several Council members hit the ground. Thankfully the multiple phantoms within his mind partially shielded him from fully succumbing to the attack. Darth Malgus stood unaffected and marched from the chamber, not giving Darth Nox a glance. Ignite watched him go before he felt Darth Marr grab his arm. “Stop him,” Marr grunted seconds before his body gave way and he collapsed. Ignite grit his teeth and pressed a button on his bracer; the attack’s intensity was increasing and the phantoms were using the moment to assault his mind. The doors to the Dark Council chambers burst open. Khem Val walked in, the hulking red Dashade glancing about the room and restraining his desire to feast on the many incapacitated Force users. Beside him strode the intimidating HK-51, a Hunter Killer droid that Ignite had rebuilt with his own hands. The Sith Lord did not notice the holo-image of Darth Jadus flicker and fade to black nor the fact that he, much like Malgus, seemed completely unaffected by whatever was assaulting them. “Khem,” Ignite gasped. “I am losing control.” “You must focus, Master,” Khem rumbled, kneeling next to the Sith and placing his massive hand on his shoulder. The only being Khem Val had ever come to respect more than the mighty Tulak Hord was Darth Ignite. Observation: This place is teeming with unparalleled energy, Master. Suggestion: It would be in your best interest to leave this location. “Get me to the ship,” Ignite felt his consciousness fading as the phantoms vied for control. The Darth began to glow a light purple and Khem’s eyes widened. “If I lose control, s-stop m-me,” Ignite hissed. Directive: Meatbag Andronikus will have the ship prepped for launch. The Master is ill and we must leave this planet with all haste. HK spoke into his comlink. “As much as I’d like to follow that directive,” Andronikus grunted from the other end of the com, “Xalek and Ashara are both down at the moment. Happened simultaneously seconds ago.” Advisory: Have the inferior model assist you, Meatbag. We will arrive at the landing pad shortly. Meatbag Talos Drellik should be prepared to perform whatever medical means are necessary to resuscitate the Master. “Right, I’ll do what I can,” Andronikus began to cut the feed. Warning: Do not let Meatbag Talos Drellik out of the ship. He will not be able to function properly amongst all the ancient ruins. Despite the gravity of the situation, Andronikus chuckled. “Got it.” He cut the feed. Khem stared down at the red Twi’lek who was his Master. The black tattoos that adorned his lekku had a sheen of sweat; this unnerved the Dashade greatly. Ignite never sweated. Khem watched as the purple glow receded back into the fragile body of the Sith, taking his consciousness with it, and gently hefted Ignite over his shoulder. “We should go,” Khem told the droid. Query: Do you think the Master would appreciate me liquidating these competitive Meatbags? “I would not recommend that course of action,” Khem rumbled. Reluctant Admission: I will allow the Meatbags to continue breathing. For now. ***** The Hand of Jadus, Sneaks, formerly known as Cipher Nine, sat behind his desk carefully going over paperwork. He sighed and rubbed a hand across his bald head; the Rattataki hated paperwork. As he was meticulously rearranging a stack of papers he felt the ground shake slightly and paused. His sixth sense warned him to be ready and he moved faster than most would have thought possible. A quick barrel roll had Sneaks at his weapons locker where he ripped it open and immediately began putting on his armor. One minute and fifteen seconds later he was fully armed with in his special issued Despot’s Armor, and his one of a kind Gree Sniper Rifle. He turned in time to see Kaliyo come sprinting in. “Trouble,” she gasped, jamming her thumb behind her. “Big trouble.” “Let’s move,” Sneaks commanded as he took a step forward. He halted when he saw three grenades come flying into the room. He reacted with both reflex and muscle memory, raising his rifle and shooting one grenade out of the air; it erupted into a great gout of fire. His second shot caught the second grenade at the beginning of its descent, shaking the room and driving Kaliyo to her knees as she attempted to shield herself against the blast. The shaking knocked the Hand of Jadus off balance and his third shot missed by a hair’s breadth. The grenade landed inches from Kaliyo’s face. She looked up at Sneaks and gave a sad smile before closing her eyes. Sneaks dove behind his desk and pressed a button on the bottom seconds before the blast engulfed his office in a fireball. ***** Currently in orbit around Corellia the Bounty Hunter Fech, now the greatest of all time following his successful assassination of the Supreme Chancellor of the Republic, awoke with a jolt as a piercing shriek emanated throughout the ship. “Kark!” He swore as he leapt out of bed and began rapidly strapping on his Mandalorian battle armor. His wife Mako sat up in surprise, rapidly rubbing her eyes before suddenly clutching her head. “The holo-net is in uproar,” she winced. “Something’s happened.” “Get everyone ready,” Fech demanded, the Hunter finished with his breastplate and grabbed his helmet. Mako spun him around and looked into his grey eyes, admiring his handsome features and wavy black hair. She placed a quick kiss on his lips and helped him with his helmet. “Is it bad?” She whispered. Fech looked at her, his helm hiding his grim expression. “Very,” the sub-electronic voice affirmed. The two arrived on the bridge to find Gault, Torrian, Blizz and Skadge waiting for them. “If the Jawa messed with the alarm system I’m gonna gut him,” Skadge growled. “Blizz no touch! Was sleeping!” Blizz assured. “I’m sure Fech will explain,” Gault yawned. “Which alarm is this one? The one where the Empire gets taken over?” The holoterminal flickered to life and Darth Malgus appeared with his arms folded. “Hunter,” he spoke in a voice of authority. “Have you made your decision?” “As much as your new Empire appeals to my senses, I have to respectfully decline,” Fech shook his head. “You see I still have a contract to finish out with the current Empire.” “A pity then,” Malgus unfolded his arms. “Goodbye, Hunter.” “I should keep my mouth shut more often,” Gault shook his head. “What’s going on?” “That alarm is from the Hand of Jadus,” Fech informed. “We met awhile back during that Foundry incident. If he’s calling for aid then we’re in trouble.” “Guys,” Torian called. “Something is approaching us.” An explosion rocked the ship, throwing all six from their feet. Alarms sounded and smoke filled the ship. Mako coughed and staggered to her feet with Fech’s help. “What was that?!” She shrieked. “Jindo Krey!” Torian roared over the alarms. “He’s locking on to us!” “Damn!” Fech spat. “Blizz! Make sure the hyperdrive is still available! If it’s not, fix it!” “Blizz fix! Have Boss out of here in no time!” “Mako we need a safe location, away from all Imperial and Republic troops where we can recuperate.” “Right,” Mako kept her head under the smoke. “I’ll work on it.” “Skadge! On those guns!” Fech commanded. “I’m gonna kill this guy for interrupting my sleep!” Skadge yelled over his shoulder as he sprinted to the turrets with Fech in tow. Torian remained at the helm, furiously attempting to get the ship under control and keep Jindo from locking on. Another explosion shook the ship and nearly knocked Mako from her chair. Torian grabbed her arm and jerked her back into place before returning to the controls. “Thanks,” Mako breathed. “Don’t mention it,” Torian swallowed hard. Mako noticed the sweat running down the Mandalorian’s face and felt fear begin to clutch her heart. If Torian was sweating things were bad: real bad. ***** In the far reaches of the galaxy, at a facility known only by a select few as the Foundry, a dark energy began to take shape. There were less than two dozen Imperials on the station, as Malgus did not want the Empire to know of his new super-weapon. Besides, the Foundry did not need sentient hands to operate; it could produce on its own. An Imperial soldier halted when he noted the energy taking the shape of a man and readied his blaster. The energy receded and a man in tattered robes knelt on the metal grating. The soldier fired and the shot caught the man in the side of the head, turning it. The man didn’t fall to the ground, nor did he acknowledge the attack; he merely flexed and the soldier suddenly grabbed his throat, his neck snapping seconds later. “I told them they could not kill me,” the man whispered. “This is my station.” He walked over to the soldier and grabbed the man’s pack, emptying its contents on the ground before he navigated through the familiar corridors where droids were being made by the thousands. He came to the area where his greatest creation lay in ruin and began collecting the pieces, dropping them reverently into the pack. “For three hundred years you waited faithfully,” he whispered. “I shall rebuild you, old friend, and you shall have your vengeance.” He shouldered the pack. “But first I must gain control of this station.” Two guards appeared and leveled their blasters at the man; both were flung to the side as rag dolls with a mere flick of the man’s wrist. The man shook his long brown hair from his face and walked to the deepest corridors of the facility; stopping only when he came to a locked crate. He entered the code slowly, as if recalling a long-lost memory, and heard the safety mechanism detach. The crate opened and the man leaned over, drawing forth his original possessions. Possessions forged in one of the former marvels of the Infinite Empire: the Star Forge. He removed his tattered robes and donned his new clothing, buckling the unique armor about his form. The man reached forth and removed a battered old Mandalorian mask; one he’d worn for years. One he’d had his greatest victory in, his greatest redemption and his greatest betrayal. He slipped it into place, satisfied when the interior HUD lit up and began to display information three hundred years old. Finally he removed a familiar tool, his lightsaber, and buckled it to his belt next to the series of rings that went down his lower robes. He drew a deep breath, reveling in his newfound freedom. His greatest inhibitor was weakened, but not gone, and now he was free to do what he should’ve done three hundred years ago. What he could have done three hundred years ago. He noted the remaining sentient life forms on his HUD amassing behind him and smiled behind his mask. An explosion of black lightning incinerated them on the spot, purging their presence from his station. He folded his arms behind his back and walked with a purpose to the central controller of the facility. Entering in an override code took a few short seconds before the station was fully under his control once more. His hands ran over the keys, rapidly inputting new commands and directives. The smile behind his mask turned malicious. He was free. He was no longer bound by Light nor Dark sides of the Force. He was the Force. He was Revan.

Spoilers across the board! “Flesh of my flesh you are not yet strong enough to face your new foe,” Lord Kallig informed after the initial chaos involving Pipsy subsided. The Jawa was helping Andronikus and Khem repair 2V, leaving HK and Ignite with the ghost. Offended Retort: Do not doubt my Master’s abilities, Ghostbag. “Ghostbag?” Ignite turned to his droid. Statement: There are not bodily fluids in the Ghost, master .Therefore I have dubbed it Ghostbag. The Sith Lord shrugged, “Fair enough.” “As I was saying,” Kallig continued. “You need a way to obtain more power. There is an ancient ritual that can give power rapidly.” “Well that’s good,” Ignite nodded. “However you must return to Dromund Kaas to learn it.” Ignite sighed and threw his hands up in the air. “Can’t anything ever go our way?” Epiphany: Master, this calls for a stealth mission. Ignite groaned. “HK last time we tried that we had to fight an army of angry Colicoids!” He still had nightmares of Balmorra. Defensive Interjection: That was a miscalculation on my part, Master. The Colicoid spit… “You never got spat on by a Colicoid!” Ignite jabbed a finger at his droid. HK bristled. Indignant Argument: This unit clearly remembers his photoreceptors not registering the piece of metal which gave away our position. “That piece of metal was a six foot wide pipe,” Ignite reminded flatly. Dismissal: Details, Master. “In the Dark Temple you will find your answers,” Kallig finished, vanishing into thin air. Ignite thought in silence for a moment as HK stood at attention, his red eyes scanning his Master. Finally, the Sith Lord spoke, “So, stealth mission?” If HK could smile, he would have. Reply: Yes, Master. The two returned to the holoterminal room to find Khem and Andronikus emerging with a now walking 2V. The Sith Lord did well to hide is pleasure at seeing his protocol droid functioning once more. Pipsy appeared from behind Khem’s legs and tugged at Ignite’s robes. “Boss! Pipsy fix nice droid!” “Jawa can splice wires faster than I thought possible,” Andronikus admitted. “Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I have not seen such dexterity,” Khem rumbled. “Not since the days of Tulak Hord.” Acknowledgment: Greetings, Master. You are looking fit and deadly, as always! Ignite raised an eyebrow at his protocol droid. “Two-vee?” Amused Observation: It seems the Pipsqueak has tampered with the inferior model’s speech patterns. Threat: If you wish to continue functioning, HK, you will no longer refer to me in that manner. HK whipped his blaster from his shoulder, flicking the safety off. Counter-Threat: Prepare for dismantling, inferior model. 2V looked around and snatched Pipsy with both hands. Ominous Statement: Do not make me unleash this creature. HK scoffed. Nonchalance: The Pipsqueak can no longer harm me. I have prepared for every conceivable hostility the Pipsqueak can perform. Pipsy reached into her robes and whipped out a screwdriver, prying open HK’s chassis. Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease hostilities at once or be jettisoned out of the nearest airlock. Amused Retort: The HK model shows its incompetence in calculations. Confused Query: Master, how should this unit proceed with this blatant display of hostile disrespect? Ignite choked back a laugh and folded his arms. “You figure it out, HK.” Hopeful Question: Weapons free? “Nope,” Ignite shook his head. “Don’t forget we have a stealth mission to perform.” HK turned his gaze to 2V once more. Assurance: This unit shall terminate you later, inferior model. 2V made a very rude arm gesture before dropping Pipsy and moving to clean the ship. “Well that was interesting,” Andronikus nudged Khem. “Master spoke of a stealth mission,” Khem rumbled. “I suppose I will not be going. Yet I hunger.” “Pazaak?” The Pirate questioned hopefully. “Very well,” Khem nodded. “I suppose we could land above the Dark Temple,” Ignite rubbed his chin in thought. “They’ll never expect a full frontal assault.” Statement: Such blatant disregard for stealth on a stealth mission will surely confuse the Meatbags, Master. It warms my core to know that you will be taking me on this mission and not the Pipsqueak. Ignite chuckled. “Yes, Pipsy would be a bit loud on a stealth mission, huh?” Emphatic Agreement: Yes, Master. “I suppose Khem and Andro can handle her while we’re gone.” Input: Along with the inferior model, Master. “Oh no,” Ignite bit his lower lip to keep from laughing. “2V is going with us.” Explicative: **** ***** “Correct me if I’m wrong,” Gault looked around cautiously, “but this isn’t where Darth Jedi told us to meet.” “Just because he was in a disconcerting outfit does not make him a bad guy,” Mako frowned. “Why are we on the Imperial Fleet, War?” The Bounty Hunter held up a purple ticket. “Backup,” he said flatly. “The Barsen’thor isn’t enough?” Mako questioned politely. “I’m not up for taking any chances,” Waresh shrugged as they entered the Cartel Bazaar area. A golden protocol droid awaited them and took the purple ticket. “Greetings and salutations, most feared Bounty Hunter! My client looks forward to working directly for you. She has done many great things, most notably saving a group of orphans from a tyrannical Sith Lord and single-handedly taking over a star destroyer. “Tough guy,” Waresh nodded. “Star Destroyer combat is rough stuff. Close quarters; a wrong shot will shoot an entire cabin into space.” “A fact my client used to her advantage,” the droid nodded. “Her?” Mako raised an eyebrow. “Don’t worry,” Waresh whispered. “My heart still belongs to you.” “Cute,” Gault quipped. “Ow!” He rubbed his arm where Mako had punched him. “Here she comes now,” the droid was unperturbed by their antics. The three turned to see the bay doors open but no figure could be seen through the crowd of people.” “Maybe she got stage fright?” Gault folded his arms and smirked. Suddenly the group of people started disappearing. One woman screamed and fell to the ground; a man bent over at the waist. Two people went launching from the group in different directions. Finally a blaster fired and they scattered. “I like her already,” Waresh nodded his approval. His eyes widened behind his helm when he noted an Ewok approaching. Mako hid her smile behind her hand, her eyes shining in adoration. Gault laughed. “An Ewok?” He slapped his thigh. “This is your backup!” The Ewok gave the Devaronian a spare glance before walking over and punching him square in the jewels. Gault gave an eep before collapsing in a ball on the ground. “I really like her,” Waresh nodded. “I am Treek,” the Ewok informed. “You are Chief. I will fight for you. May our enemies fear our approach as we carve our legacy in the stars.” “You’re hired,” Waresh shook Treek’s hand. “Let’s go, guys.” “Coming,” Gault wheezed. Mako let loose a squeal of delight and gathered the Ewok in her arms. “She’s so CUTE! Finally! Another girl to talk to!” ***** “My lord,” Malavai Quinn bowed low at Naweth’s return to the ship. “The engines are prepped and ready for launch upon your command.” “Just Naweth, Quinn,” the Sith smiled. “Good work having the ship ready.” “Yeah, Captain Uptight,” Vette giggled. “You want to shine my shoes too?” Quinn stiffened. “I’d rather die,” he seethed. “Permission to speak freely, my lord.” “Naweth, Quinn,” Naweth nodded. “Granted.” “Why do you allow this slave to run unchained and unrestricted?” He gestured to Vette who bristled and opened her mouth to retort. “You must have control and fear to command respect.” Naweth’s eyes narrowed, causing Quinn to swallow and contemplate if he had overstepped his bounds. “Captain, Vette is not a slave. She is our crewmate and shall be treated as such; am I clear?” “Crystal, my lord,” Quinn nodded emphatically. “My apologies.” “None needed,” Naweth waved as he left to his quarters, “although you may want to apologize to Vette.” Quinn’s expression fell and Vette, sensing her victory, strutted past the Captain, flipping her lekku at him. “You need to relax, Quinny-poo.” “I will do no such thing,” Quinn did not look at the infuriating Twi’lek. “Haven’t you realized it yet?” Vette questioned. “That you are insufferable?” “That our Sith friend isn’t very Sithy,” Vette pointed out. “He’s a good man.” Quinn scoffed. “There are no good Sith,” he protested. “But there are good men,” Vette smiled sweetly, no longer antagonizing the uptight Captain. “You have the potential to be a good man too, Quinn.” She walked off to her own quarters intent on taking a long shower to wash the presence of Baras from her skin. Malavai Quinn swallowed and grabbed his datapad, desperately trying to ignore his own shaking hand. The words of Vette stuck with him and gave him pause. He shook his head, and his guilt, before sending the new itinerary to the crew. He heard Vette groan and something hit the wall, bringing a smile to his face. “I’m not a good man,” he whispered before departing to his room. Naweth had just finished putting on his pants when Vette barged into his room. The Twi’lek turned a lighter shade of blue before looking away; but not before she took a long hard look at the rock hard muscle of the man’s torso. “How can I help you, Vette?” Naweth questioned as he pulled a skin tight black shirt over his head. “I-I just wanted to say thank you,” she stammered, finally composing herself enough to turn around. “For?” Naweth raised an eyebrow. “For defending me against Baras,” she hung her head. “I’m sorry. I should watch my mouth more often. Sometimes it just blurts out.” Naweth chuckled and patted Vette on the shoulder. “No worries,” he whispered. “I like that about you.” Vette blushed harder. “And for Quinn,” she whispered, unable to meet his crystal blue eyes. “The Captain is a good man,” Naweth nodded. “Just misinformed and slightly prejudiced; we’ll fix that.” “We,” Vette said, testing the word. “We.” “Come,” Naweth pointedly steered the conversation away from the word, guiding her to the holoterminal room where Quinn was waiting. “Right on time, my lord,” Quinn never looked up from his datapad. “We have been tasked with hunting down and capturing the Sith Lord Ignite,” Naweth informed the Captain. “I believe, however, that the disturbance on Tatooine warrants investigation.” “I shall plot a course immediately,” Quinn saluted and walked off. “Never takes a break,” Vette muttered. “What do you think we’ll find on Tatooine?” She tried to keep the disappointment and hurt from being brushed off from her voice, but Naweth sensed them. The Sith shrugged and caught Vette’s eyes with his own. “I do not know,” he replied before taking a seat at a table and removing a deck of cards from his pocket. “Pazaak?” Vette brightened immediately. “Sure!” ***** Sneaks paced the interior of his ship, biting a nail as he thought about how to process the new information. Jadus was alive and planning to spread terror throughout the Empire through the Eagle and take a spot on the Dark Council. Then there was the Sith Lord who had cost them the entire op; now being hunted by both Darth Baras’s apprentice and the Champion of the Great Hunt. Ironically enough Sneaks had also been tasked with tracking this Sith down for the sole purpose of recruiting him to stop Darth Jadus. There was only one problem: he didn’t know where to begin. “Struggling, Agent?” “Yeah,” Sneaks rubbed his eyes. “I need more information before we can plan out our strategy.” “The nest is unable to locate the Sith Lord,” Vector informed. “We apologize, Agent.” “I could call a friend,” Kaliyo tapped her chin. “Don’t know how much it is going to cost though.” “Do it,” Sneaks hissed. Kaliyo shrugged and entered in a number. The holoterminal flickered to life and a man whirled with a charming smile. “Hello, beautiful!” He said. “To what do I owe this call?” “Hey, Doc,” Kaliyo said seductively. “I need a favor.”

Warning: Spoilers across the board! Cipher Agent Nine, Sneaks, surveyed the carnage that was House Cortess on Alderaan with a mixture of disgust and admiration. Clearly it was an army that marched through here, laying waste to all that once stood tall and proud. At least that’s what one would think, Sneaks reasoned inwardly, upon observation of the destruction; however Vector had arrived and informed the Agent otherwise. “I preferred it my way,” Sneaks muttered after hearing Vector recount his story a third time. The Rattataki shook his head in disbelief and walked through the mass of Killiks rapidly building a new nest in the ruins. “Hey,” a feminine voice called from behind the Agent. “What does a gal do for fun around here?” “She shuts up,” Sneaks called over his shoulder as he removed his portable holo from an inner coat pocket. Kaliyo shrugged. “Bad day, Agent?” “Our only outlet to finding the Eagle’s cell on Alderaan is in a smoking heap. I’m a tad agitated at the moment.” “There are ways to relieve that, you know,” Kaliyo nudged the Agent with her elbow. Sneaks rolled his eyes. “We’re not murdering anyone right now.” “Suit yourself,” she folded her arms and watched Sneaks call Watcher One. “Cipher Nine,” Watcher One flickered into view. Kaliyo wondered why Sneaks even bothered listening to the decrepit old man. “Report.” “You won’t believe this…” Sneaks sighed. When the Agent was done Watcher One found himself quite baffled. “That is a most interesting tale. You are sure Vector is not deceiving you?” Sneaks looked around once more. “I don’t think a nest of Killiks could make this up, Watcher.” “Very well. Then we must explore more avenues. I shall brief you shortly; stand by for further orders.” “Roger,” Sneaks turned off the holo. “Well that was interesting,” Kaliyo raised an eyebrow. “What do you make of that?” Sneaks shrugged. ***** “I CANNOT BREAK HIM!” Darth Baras roared, shoveling another donut into his mouth as he eyed the Republic spy his apprentice had captured. The hulking man before the Darth, Naweth, raised an eyebrow in confusion. “Perhaps if you shot lightning at him instead of eating…” Vette piped up from behind Naweth. “What was that?” Barus turned his attention to the Twi’lek. “Nothing,” Naweth calmly intoned, skillfully blocking Baras’s view of Vette. “I have told you, Master, that I have felt a disturbance in the Force on Tatooine that must be dealt with.” Barus ate shoveled another donut into his mouth. “My network of spies, carefully planted, is under siege, Apprentice! I have no time for your feelings!” “And if it has something to do with the reason your network is failing?” Baras prepared a scathing retort when the holoterminal behind Naweth flickered to life. The Darth stood and brushed the crumbs from his robes, replacing his mask before heading over to the terminal where Watcher One waited. “Oh,” Baras folded his arms behind his back. “What can I do for Imperial Intelligence, Watcher?” “There has been a complication on Alderaan,” the Watcher spoke. “We are unable to stop the terror cell from reaching its goals.” “You are quite aware that everything will go as Jadus planned, then?” Baras questioned. “Unless we do something drastic, yes,” Watcher One replied. “Which is why I’ve called you. This Sith who caused all of this chaos must pay.” “Zash’s Apprentice,” Baras nodded. “My spies tell me she is no more. Thanaton has a bounty on the Sith’s head. Why bother me about him?” “Because we need him to stop Jadus.” “Ah,” Baras nodded sagely. “You have not forgotten our deal?” “No.” “Very well. I shall acquire him then.” Baras waved his hand and the transmission cut. He turned to his Apprentice and his Twi’lek slave, strangely free of her shock collar. “There will be time for questions later,” Baras informed. “A favor has been called in and I intend to deliver.” Naweth raised an eyebrow. “You will capture this Sith Lord, Ignite, and bring him to me for questioning. Should you find the time feel free to investigate your feelings on Tatooine. Go.” Naweth nodded. “As you command.” “Now where were we?” Baras turned to the spy. “Oh, yes!” Lightning forked from his hands into the man who screamed in agony. “I think I’m gonna be sick,” Vette whispered. “Don’t look,” Naweth guided her away. “And try to not antagonize the boss next time.” Once they were clear of Baras’s quarters Vette lightened significantly. She whirled on Naweth and held her hands up like they were claws. “Alright! Back to Sith business! Grrrr!” ***** “What’s going on, Mako?” Waresh questioned the girl while they waited for Qyzen to acquire the Herald of the Scorekeeper. “That Herald he keeps going on about is actually the Barsen’thor of the Jedi Order,” Mako informed. “The third one in history, to be exact.” “The what now?” Gault questioned. “He’s basically a paragon of wisdom and Jedi-ness,” Mako shrugged. “And we’re calling him why?” Gault persisted. “Because we need all the help we can get,” Waresh turned to the Devaronian. “Have the Jedi do all the hard work, knife him in the back, move along.” “I heard that,” a voice said from the holoterminal. Mako smacked her forehead and all three turned. There was a clatter behind the two which drew their gaze: Gault had fainted. “You’re the Barsen’thor?” Waresh questioned, clearly impressed. “I am,” the Jedi, if you could call what was on the terminal that, replied. “You look like a Sith,” Waresh noted. It was true. The Barsen’thor did indeed look akin to a Sith; wearing a replica set of Revan’s robes and the disturbing visage of the mask of Nihilus. “My name is Putridous,” the Jedi informed. “My appearance is of no concern to you. It does well to fool fellow Sith when they meet me.” Waresh removed his helm, revealing the face of a battle-hardened young man with black hair and grey eyes. “I am Waresh, Champion of the Great Hunt.” “I remember you,” Putridous gestured to Mako. “From when Qyzen spoke to you.” “Y-yes,” Mako nodded. “You weren’t quite as intimidating back then.” “Things change,” Putridous shrugged. “I have a proposition for you, Jedi,” Waresh informed. “Stabbing me in the back?” Putridous quipped. “Aren’t Jedi supposed to be emotionless?” Waresh retaliated. “Aren’t Bounty Hunters supposed to have honor?” “He’s got you there,” Mako smirked. ***** “Before you begin,” Ignite halted Lord Kallig’s Ghost. “Let me un-possess my Jawa.” “Why the speedy exit, boss?” Andronikus questioned, ignoring the fact that Pipsy-Zash, now free of Khem’s grasp, had grabbed one of his blasters. If the Jawa wanted to improve them he wasn’t going to argue. “And you’re doing what with the Jawa?” “Master being in your presence warms my circuits!” Two-vee spoke up in his upbeat tone. “It reminds me I’m still functioning.” The blaster in Pipsy’s hands discharged, sending the droid flying across the ship in several pieces. Pipsy-Zash let loose a Jawa cackle and readied the blaster for another shot before halting. There was a momentary pause before the Jawa plopped down on the deck and began disassembling the blaster. Ignite looked over at the smoking wreckage of two-vee and sighed. Declaration: The inferior model is finally no more. “Guess who gets to clean the ship now?” Ignite turned his gaze to the droid. Emphatic Statement: The inferior model must be repaired immediately. Pipsy stood up and stamped her foot, holding her hands out and calling upon the Force; Ignite’s robes rustled slightly. “The Witch is taking control,” Khem rumbled as he walked over to two-vee and began gathering the pieces. “I will repair the droid.” “I better help him,” Andronikus mumbled, grabbing his blaster components and shaking his head. “Any idea how to free this thing?” Ignite gestured to his Jawa. Lord Kallig folded his arms and remained silent. “HK?” Speculation: Perhaps the Imprisoned One can aid us, Master. “Ah the Rakatan Prison,” Ignite nodded to himself. “Guess we can give it a try.” He hoisted Pipsy up by the collar. “Boss!” Pipsy flapped her arms. “Pipsy fix Pipsy!” “We’re working on that,” ignite smirked as he followed HK to the cargo hold. The droid acquired the Rakatan artifact and activated it. Soon a holo-image of the Imprisoned One flickered to life. “We are Rakata,” it intoned. “Yeah,” Ignite interrupted the Rakata. “If you don’t want me to jettison you out of the airlock you’re going to suck the non-Jawa entity out of my Jawa and let it join you in there. I’m sure you’re lonely.” The Rakata blinked. Advisory Statement: The Imprisoned One should accept this most gracious offer. Master will not be so generous if he is forced to make another statement. “Is the slave female?” The Rakata queried. Ignite grinned. “Yes, and very attractive.” “We accept,” the Rakata held out his hand and the prison began to glow. Ignite held Pipsy out and the Jawa jabbered and squirmed until she too began to glow. After several minutes Pipsy went still and the glow faded. “Well?” Ignite questioned. Zash flickered to life on the holo-image. “How DARE you, Apprentice!” She shrieked. “You’ve ruined everything!” “Boss!” Pipsy pointed. “Scary lady!” Ignite pumped his fist. “HK, if you’ll do the honors.” Bemused Observation: Master, this unit humbly requests the Imprisoned One be renamed to Imprisoned Two. Ignite chuckled. “Very well.” Informative Statement: This most efficient unit will deactivate you now, Imprisoned Two. Master shall call upon you when he sees fit. The droid returned the Rakatan Prison to its dormant state and placed it in the back of the ship. Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease tinkering with objects on the Restricted List or face liquidation. “Restricted List?” Ignite raised an eyebrow. “Pipsy know! Pipsy be good!” Pipsy promised before bouncing off. Hopeful Query: Master, can I liquidate the Pipsqueak now? Ignite sighed. “Some things never change.” “Scary ghost!” Pipsy babbled. “Pipsy fix!” “Not good,” ignite bolted from the room. Self-Assuring Declaration: This unit shall one day liquidate the Pipsqueak. Andronikus and Khem sat in the med bay repairing two-vee when they heard Pipsy call out, “Scary ghost!” “Pipsy! No!” Ignite roared. “HK!” Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease hostilities against the ghost or face liquidation! “Not helping, HK!” “Pipsy fix!” “Want to go see what all the commotion is about?” There was the sound of blaster fire. “HK! What the---“ “No,” Khem rumbled, tearing two-vee’s arm in half while attempting to restore it to the chasis. “You might want to,” Andronikus looked up to see Khem drooling. “Never mind,” he shook his head. Observation: The Pipsqueak has somehow managed to tamper with my assassination protocols, Master. “Well get them under control!” Ignite shouted. “If I have to block another blaster bolt I’m gonna---“ “Some things never change,” Andronikus shook his head. “Even on the Battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I never heard such ruckus,” Khem grumbled. The Pirate looked up at his fellow crew mate. “What exactly happened on the Battlefields of Yn and Chabosh?” Khem blinked. ***** Inside the Rakatan Prison the Imprisoned One rubbed his hands together when he saw his new slave weeping on the ground. He knelt down and grabbed her by the shoulder, causing her to turn around. The Rakata blinked. "We have been deceived." Zash screamed and fainted. The Imprisoned One sighed. "It was going to be a long eternity."

Statement: This unit is most baffled by the Master’s lack of writing of my most excellent accomplishments and adventures. Solution: This unit has decided that he shall detail events in the Master’s stead. Warning: There will be multiple spoilers ahead, Meatbags. You have been warned! Continuation: Chapter Four: HK Saves the Day… “Hey, hey! What are you doing, HK?!” Indignant Response: Completing your unfinished work, Master! “I told you I was doing research to make the plot even more epic!” Retort: Master, this unit has watched you play this SWTOR for far too long! You have become far too engrossed! “Says the droid who can’t stop assassinating people.” Proud Acknowledgement: This unit has been programmed to— “I’m aware. You’re not taking my story, HK! If you want me to keep writing all you have to do is ask!” … “You’re not gonna ask, are you?” Reply: No. “Hmph. Fine.” Query: Shall I inform the Meatbags of your return? “Readers, HK. They are Readers.” Clarification: Meatbag Readers <facepalm> Sorry folks. I’ve been playing other alts in TOR, had to move, blah blah; boring stuff no one cares about. At any rate I’ve completed the JC and am almost done with the JK stories and I’ve figured some interesting ways to bring em in on the action! With that being said I shall still attempt to warn you of potential spoilers; but know that nearly everything is going to be twisted and spoiled now. In honor of that claim know that there are potential Consular / Bounty Hunter spoilers and, as always, Sith Inquisitor spoilers in the upcoming chapter. As a final note please understand that, having been away for a while, the author’s tone/voice may change slightly. For that I greatly apologize, as it is something that bothers me when I read. I’ll try and take care of it as swiftly as possible! Again, thank you for reading and for being patient. Now back to the action! “HK, you want to do the honors?” Admission: Yes, Master. Statement: Chapter Four: HK Saves the Day … “That’s the title you want?” Stiff Retort: Yes. “Okay, okay. We’ll go with it.” Chapter Four: HK Saves the Day Pipsy-Zash squealed and scrambled to get out of Khem’s all-mighty grasp resulting in the Dashade rapidly losing patience and Ignite’s paramount frustrations tripling. “For the love of the Emperor be quiet, Zash!” Ignite barked over his shoulder, feeling his heart pang when he saw his precious Jawa still possessed. “I don’t like it any more than you do!” Pipsy cackled. “Just a little further…” Ignite muttered, eager to see his droid once more. They exited the Temple to find HK standing at attention, countless bodies littered the courtyard and hillsides. “A tad excessive, eh HK?” Ignite gestured to the carnage. Proud Statement: Master I have vastly exceeded your kill count. “I never told you about Korriban, HK.” Ignite chuckled. Confused Query: Korriban? HK stiffened and snatched his blaster, whirling and firing three warning shots. Threat: Halt, Meatbags! This unit senses your approach! Ignite flexed his fingers, eager to unleash some pent up rage. HK stood at the ready, blaster poised, with Khem at his side, the Dashade and Jawa both were staring in the direction HK looked. It didn’t take long for three figures to emerge. Waresh the Bounty Hunter approached with his hands in clear view, his blasters holstered. Mako walked behind him, trying to keep his body between the dangerous Sith and herself. Gault walked forward with his hands held way in the air, greatly exaggerating his movements so to avoid being fried. “This was your great plan, Waresh?” Gault hissed under his breath. “Walk in unarmed at their mercy?” “There’s no way we’d beat him in a fair fight,” Mako insisted with a quaver in her voice. “Can’t you feel the power emanating from him?” “He’s mad,” Waresh noted, his voice obscured by the Mandalorian helm he wore. “Don’t make any sudden moves.” “I could’ve ended this earlier!” Gault persisted. “One shot!” “Not the best time to be talking about that,” Mako sighed. “The droid would have detected you,” Waresh agreed. Boast: This unit has been observing you Meatbags upon my Master’s arrival at this location. Genuine Query: Were you impressed by this unit’s assassination protocols? Gault fell on his knees and slammed his face to the ground. “Oh, yes! Master Droid! Please do not kill us!” HK turned to regard Ignite. Statement: I like this Meatbag, Master. Ignite rolled his eyes. “Look, I really don’t have the patience for this right now,” he growled. Gault was on his feet in an instant. “Sorry, My Lord, or whatever it is I call you. All-powerful Sith. Most grac—“ Mako clamped a hand over Gault’s mouth. “Would you shut up?!” She shrieked. “Took the words right out of my mouth,” Ignite smirked slightly. “Waresh, Champion of the Great Hunt,” the Bounty Hunter inclined his head in respect. Ignite nodded as well, folding his arms. “We came to deliver a message.” “Oh?” Ignite raised an eyebrow. Waresh whipped out his blasters faster than Mako thought possible, aiming one at the Sith and one at Pipsy. Surprisingly HK did not fire. Ignite turned to his droid, thoroughly puzzled. “HK?” Assurance: This unit detected no ill intent, Master. There was no need to liquidate the Meatbag. “He’s holding a blaster at me,” Ignite gestured to Waresh. Correction: He is holding a blaster at the Pipsqueak, Master. “Oh for the love of!” Ignite threw his hands in the air. “I don’t have time for this!” The Twi’lek jammed his finger at Waresh. “My Jawa is possessed. My droid is mutinous. I can hear the Dashade’s stomach growling after he had a freaking col—“ “DO NOT mention that, Little Sith!” Khem growled. “And my Pirate is Emperor knows where!” Ignite roared. “I’ve had it! Everything within a one mile radius is about to die!” “I wouldn’t recommend that,” Waresh remained impassive. “I know that Jawa is important to you. You may fry me and my companions, but I’ll make sure she dies.” Ignite twitched. HK lowered his blaster. “What are you doing, HK?” Reply: This Meatbag wishes to liquidate the Pipsqueak. “Yeah, and you’re not going to let him do that, HK.” Query: Why not, Master? “Because YOU want to liquidate the Pipsqueak.” HK’s blaster was at the ready in a heartbeat. Statement: As always you are quite correct, Master. This unit is greatly pleased you reminded him of such an important fact! “What do you want, Hunter?” Ignite spat. “I was given a job to track you down and deliver you to the Emperor,” Waresh informed. “Come peacefully, and we’ll get this over with. Resist and things won’t end well.” “For you,” Ignite assured. Waresh shrugged. “I’ve faced worse odds.” “Well I certainly haven’t,” Gault informed. “I’m not overtly fond of this plan,” Mako piped up. Waresh didn’t flinch. “Trust me.” “If I agree to this,” Ignite couldn’t believe he was even contemplating it. “Then I demand I be allowed to take my ship.” “Only if we’re on it,” Waresh nodded. “Yeah,” Ignite sighed. “No. HK! Weapons free!” Statement: Prepare for liquidation, Meatbags! The Droid prepared to fire when all hell broke loose. Pipsy-Zash broke free of Khem’s grasp and bumped into HK, hitting a panel on his shin which caused his arm (gun attached) to go sailing at Waresh and company. Mako squeaked and ducked; Gault caught the gun with his face. Waresh fired both blasters. The first bolt hit Khem in the chest, sending the Dashade into a rage; Khem howled and charged, intent on feasting well. The second bolt was deflected by Ignite who had long ignited his lightsaber, prepared to slice the Hunter in half. Waresh continued to fire while backing up. He tripped over Gault who grabbed HK’s hand and aimed it at the Sith. “Halt! I’ve got a weapon!” HK glared. Threat: Return my weapon and hand, Meatbag, or face liquidation! Gault paused. “That’s got to be the most ridiculous request I’ve ever heard.” Ignite snarled and slashed his lightsaber at the Devaronian. It was parried by a vibro-sword Waresh extended in the nick of time. “Move,” he grunted against the Sith’s strength. “On it,” Gault relinquished his weapon and grabbed Mako. “Let’s go, Princess!” “I’m not a Prin—“ “Now!” Disgusted Observation: Master, the Meatbags are escaping! “I’m aware!” Ignite roared, falling into a Soresu stance to counter the Hunter’s vicious offensive. The Sith found himself impressed at Waresh’s prowess with a blade. “Khem! After them!” The Dashade roared and gave chase. HK watched him go before slamming his face into his other arm, retracting his hand. Self Notation: Liquidate the Pipsqueak immediately. HK cocked his head to the side. Query: Master, where is the Pipsqueak. “I can tell you where she BETTER be!” Ignite snarled. Acknowledgement: Noted, Master. The droid took a step forward to begin his search before smoke erupted throughout the entire area. Assurance: I will liquidate that Pipsqueak. Ignite coughed and continued to fight; easily seeing through the smoke with the Force. His advantage now gone, Waresh ignited his jetpack and fled the area, easily catching up to his two companions and leading the way to safety. Ignite emerged from the smoke with HK seconds later, noting the absence of the Hunter. He saw Khem walking back with Pipsy tucked under his arm. “Thanks,” the Sith nodded at his friend. Khem grunted. “They escaped, Master. Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I have never seen such chaos.” “Certainly wasn’t our most glorious moment,” Ignite admitted. “We’ll keep this one to ourselves; no need for Andro to hear about it.” “Agreed,” Khem intoned. Both looked to HK. Statement: Agreed. “Now let’s get back to the ship and figure out this Zash issue,” Ignite took one step before noticing a figure approaching. “Not another one,” he sighed. Warning: Master, the approaching Meatbag is very powerful. “They would make a fine meal,” Khem noted. “Not good,” Ignite felt a tremor in the force. “Thanaton.” Ignite grabbed at the comlink in his ear. “Andro,” he called. “Yep?” The Pirate responded immediately. “We need evac. Stat.” Ignite said. “No questions. All haste.” “On it,” Andro cut the connection. “Stall,” Ignite held out his hands to both of his companions. He looked over to see Pipsy subdued and scrambling to hide behind the Dashade. “Definitely stall.” Query: Shall I restrain from threats, Master? “Do you value your core?” HK stiffened. Indignant Retort: How can you threaten this superior mod— “I wasn’t speaking of me, HK.” Relieved Reply: Understood, Master. There was another tremor in the Force and Lord Kallig stood before the Sith and his companions. “Flesh of my flesh,” Kallig began. “There is little time. The approaching Sith wishes you harm.” “No sh—“ Ignite’s reply was cut off by his ship roaring overhead. Andro skillfully placed it down; Khem and Pipsy-Zash were first on the ramp followed by HK. Ignite went last, Kallig following. The Sith turned to regard Thanatos whom had paused, his hands behind his back. “Lets go, Andro,” Ignite called into his comlink. The ship immediately took off, halting a few feet from the ground. Ignite grasped the railing, nearly falling to the ground. “Something’s holding us!” Andro called to Ignite. Ignite growled and looked at Kallig. “A little help?!” “You disappoint me, flesh of my flesh.” “If you’re not going to say or do anything worthwhile, please, by all means, go away,” Ignite shooed the ghost off before closing his eyes and drawing on his own well of power. “The moment the ship is free, punch it,” Ignite called to Andronikus through the comlink. “Roger.” The newly crowned Sith Lord drew deeply upon the Force before unleashing it in a great torrent of lightning. Thanatos was forced to counter, breaking his hold on the ship which lurched free. Ignite kept the stream up until they were a sufficient distance away. The Sith entered his ship to see everyone looking at him questioningly, even two-vee was silent. Ignite turned to the ghost of Kallig. “I take it you’re going to give me some information?” “Why, flesh of my flesh,” Kallig placed his arms behind his back. “I thought you’d never ask.” ***** “What exactly happened back there?” Mako demanded of Waresh now that they were safe on their own ship in orbit around Dromund Kaas. “We missed our mark,” Waresh remained impassive. “You threatened to sacrifice our lives!” Mako pointed. “I didn’t sign on for that!” “Nor did I,” Gault quipped. “Shut up,” Mako commanded. “You don’t get to make decisions that violate my safety!” “You wanted to come, Mako,” Waresh’s eyes flashed dangerously. “I handled that situation to the best of my ability. The droid knew we were there; I could sense it in my gut. We’re alive. Getting mad does nothing about the fact that we missed our mark.” Those words struck a chord in the girl and she paused her berating momentarily. He was right, after all, she had to admit. They were alive and they’d failed a direct order from the most powerful being in the galaxy. “Sorry,” she muttered. “It’s fine,” Waresh shrugged. “Now what are we going to do?” Mako shook her head. “I don’t know. Tracking him down again will be troublesome; especially now that he knows we’re after him.” “If only we had some friends,” Gault sighed. “I thought we were in this for the money, not how many ways can one die!” “We’ll get the money,” Waresh assured. “Friends!” Mako cried in joy. “That’s it!” She bolted to the holoterminal and began rapidly typing. “You guys don’t have friends,” Gault reminded the pair. “Well, apart from myself.” The holoterminal flickered and a Trandoshian appeared. “Hiya, Qyzen. How are you doing?” “Soft thing calls. Why? Debt has been repaid.” “You’re calling a guy with one eye?” Gault gestured in disbelief. Waresh held his hand out for silence. “Shutting up,” Gault leaned back against the wall. “You remember when you introduced that Herald of the Scorekeeper to me?” She questioned sweetly. “Yes, Herald is with Qyzen at the moment,” the Trandoshian nodded. “Why does soft thing ask?” “Don’t suppose we could talk to him?”

Statement: Master wishes this unit to inform the Meatbags--- "Ah, ah! Readers!" Correction: Meatbag Readers. "Eh, good enough." Continuation: That the following Chapter contains Bounty Hunter spoilers and Chapter One END spoilers for the Sith Inquisitor. A/N: As stated previously, I intend to spoil just about every Imp storyline, but in my own way. This chapter does reference the BH companions and definitely spoils the SI ending of Chapter 1. Just a friendly warning! Thank you to all who are reading! Chapter Three: Zash “Something tells me you know something about this ritual Zash is performing,” Ignite eyed Khem warily. The Dashade remained impassive, staring with unblinking eyes at his Master. “Care to tell me what Tulak Hord used these for?” “I served on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh and have never seen such things, little Sith,” Khem rumbled. “Tulak Hord kept many secrets, and I was not privy to all of them.” Ignite raised an eyebrow. “Then how do you know these are Tulak Hord’s artifacts?” “It is inscribed on the artifact,” Khem gestured with a claw to the base on the artifact. Pipsy jumped up and snatched the artifact from Ignite, turning it over and rubbing the dust away with the sleeve of her robe. Her yellow eyes peered up at Ignite, questioning. “Boss! What say?” “Property of Tulak Hord,” Ignite smirked. “Really, Khem? He had to label his things?” “I don’t see us carting around an artifact of your making,” Khem countered. Statement: The Hulking Meatbag has a point. “Stay out of this, HK,” Ignite pointed at the droid. HK ignored his Master, for the time being, and snatched his Mandalorian blaster from his back, flicking the safety off and reveling in the feeling of being allowed weapons free. Acquiescence: This unit will obey and liquidate the undesirables. Ignite sighed as he noted the Dark Temple looming in the distance; all they had to do was go up a winding road infested with large, hungry, beasts and then climb several sets of stairs with corrupted Imperials loitering around. The Sith glanced at his datapad one more time to confirm the coordinates sent by Zash and gave a disgusted grunt. “Who thought to make this place, anyway?” He gestured at the looming monolith in the distance. “The Dark Temple,” he said sarcastically. “Spooky!” “Pipsy no like scary place,” the Jawa pointed. “Feel bad energies. Very very bad.” “Tulak Hord helped build the Dark Temple,” Khem pointed out. “What did Ignite build?” Ignite prepared a scathing retort when HK gave a cry of triumph and raised his arm. Exultant Statement: You’re already dead! Just lie down! The droid’s hand suddenly shot from his arm like a cannon, disappearing over a hill; Ignite could’ve sworn he heard an ulp! The Sith waited and HK appeared to consider something before the droid turned to stare at Pipsy. Genuine Query: How do I reel in the grappling hand, Pipsqueak? “That easy!” Pipsy babbled, beckoning HK to bend over; the droid complied. “Hit button on arm, right here.” Pipsy smacked the button. “Send Mean Droid to bad ones!” Alarm: What?! HK flew through the air, vanishing over the hill. Seconds later smoke erupted into the air. Ignite and Khem shared a glance. “Guess the smoke she installed is working.” “Smoke good! Very very good!” Pipsy nodded enthusiastically. “Confuse enemies!” Several blaster shots flew through the air, and Ignite sent one into the dirt with his lightsaber. “It also confuses HK,” he noted. “Pipsy fix!” The Jawa promised. “Give Mean Droid better eyes!” HK stomped over the hill and down the path with his blaster gripped tightly in his remaining hand. Ignite raised an eyebrow and his lekku twitched in amusement as he noted HK’s other hand, the one launched, was nothing more than a metal cord dragging through the dirt. “Where’s your hand?” The Sith pointed. Reply: There seems to be a problem with my functions, Master. The Pipsqueak did not explain how to retract the grappling hand. “That other arm,” Pipsy responded. “Press button.” HK blinked once. Agitated Query: With what hand? Pipsy drew her finger to her chin, thinking. Request: This unit wishes to liquidate the Pipsqueak, Master. “You know I can’t allow that,” Ignite frowned. Diagnostic: It would seem this unit’s efficiency has decreased by one point three percent then. The Sith rolled his eyes. Pipsy gave a squeak and babbled something at HK. The droid blinked again. Command: Repeat that, Pipsqueak. “Use face!” Pipsy jumped at HK. “Hit button!” HK turned his photoreceptors to Ignite, pleading with his Master. The Twi’lek shrugged. HK slammed his face into his arm, and the grappling hand immediately began to retract. Soon enough the droid’s hand was reattached along with his victim, a crazed Imperial who had long turned blue from lack of air. Ignite blanched. “Can you release the dead one, HK?” HK cocked his head to the side. Acknowledgement: Yes, Master. The droid released his death grip on the man’s throat and the body began to fall down to the ground. It wasn’t fast enough. In a blink Khem was there, snatching the body out of the air and roaring with victory. Ignite managed to cover the Jawa’s eyes so she didn’t witness the horror. “You just ate!” Ignite screamed at Khem. “Poor two vee had to do a freaking—“ Khem whirled on his Master, an arm sticking out of his mouth. “Do not mention that, little Sith.” Threat: The Hulking Meatbag will not steal this unit’s kills, or face liquidation. Demand: Do not chew with your mouth open, Hulking Meatbag. Statement: Master, this one makes my core buzz with horror. Even by your own meatbag standards he is an abomination. Khem burped and rubbed his stomach. “Pipsy look now?” The Jawa questioned hopefully. “Ah, right,” Ignite removed his hands from her eyes. “Well that was…interesting. HK I think you should continue your weapons free liquidations to work out the kinks with your—ah—improvements. Stay on my com frequency in case I need you.” Agreement: Very well, Master. The droid meandered off, intent on liquidating many undesirables. “And you,” Ignite poked Khem in the chest; he may as well have poked a stone wall. “No more eating!” Khem glared. “Next time I’ll just let you pop!” The Sith warned, snatching Pipsy by the hand before she wandered off. “Now let’s focus and get this done.” Khem merely contemplated his options, knowing full well what horrors awaited his so-called Master in the ancient tombs of the Dark Temple. The Dashade would obey, for now, and bide his time; striking whenever the opportunity presented itself. ***** “Mako, are you really sure those are the culprits?” The Champion of the Great Hunt, Waresh, questioned his beautiful sidekick as he leaned against a rocky outcropping overshadowing the steps leading up the Dark Temple. “I’ve seen better circus acts!” “According to the holofeeds and cameras I’ve managed to slice, it’s definitely the red Twi’lek.” “Sith,” Waresh nodded. “Powerful one too, if rumors are to be believed.” “With him, no doubt,” Mako agreed. “Remember we’re only supposed to detain him, not kill him.” “No promises,” Waresh quipped. “Tell me again,” Gault interjected, his voice grating on both Waresh and Mako. The pair still questioned their lunacy in letting the despicable, wily, creature live. “Why we’re hunting down one of the most powerful Sith Apprentices in the galaxy?” “Because the pay is good?” Mako retaliated. “I’ve killed stronger Jedi,” Waresh shrugged. “You’re both suicidal, I’ll give you that,” Gault rubbed his chin. “But there’s money in it, so I’m in.” Waresh shook his head and continued to monitor the progress of the odd group. He noted the droid break away and glanced at Mako curiously; the young woman shrugged. “No idea,” she whispered. “Let me at him,” Gault removed his rifle. “One shot. One kill.” Waresh halted the Devaronian when he witnessed HK explode into action, single-handedly wiping out an entire group of crazed Imperials with practiced ease. Both Gault and Mako paled. “We’ll leave that one alone,” Waresh informed the two. “Focus on the target. The droid will fall in line once the Sith is contained.” “I hope you’re right, Hunter,” Gault whispered. “Because if you’re not, we’re all dead.” “Don’t worry, I’ll protect you,” Waresh assured. “That’s comforting,” Gault rolled his eyes. “I wasn’t talking to you,” Waresh replied, gently pulling Mako into a small embrace. “That really warms my heart,” Gault leaned against the rocky outcropping with a heartfelt sigh. “Sadly, it does nothing to fill my pockets.” ***** “Just remember, Pipsy,” Ignite knelt down. “Stay behind Khem so the Scary Lady doesn’t see you.” “Pipsy be good! Make boss happy!” Pipsy gave a thumbs up, clinging to Khem’s leg. Ignite nodded and entered the tomb dictated by Zash, surprised when the narrow corridor opened up into a vast room with several pillars and a giant stairway leading up to a tomb, opened, where the four pedestals stood; two containing artifacts. Ignite shrugged and placed the remaining two in their places and cleared his throat. Khem took a position further away from the Sith, his eyes watching intently. Zash lifted her head but did not turn around. “Ah, Apprentice, excellent! You are right on time.” The Sith Lord turned and Ignite blanched. “Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I never witnessed such horror,” Khem admitted solemnly. “Quiet!” Zash shrieked at the Dashade. “Soon you will serve me!” Khem’s eyes narrowed in agitation. “You look hideous,” Ignite spat in disgust. “What happened?” “I’m old, Apprentice,” Zash winked; the action was sickening. “Scary Lady very old! Very very old!” Pipsy pointed. “You brought that?!” Zash pointed incredulously. Ignite smirked. “Problem?” “Not at all, Apprentice,” Zash hissed out the title. “I’m promoting you to Sith Lord, effective immediately.” “Finally!” Ignite laughed. “Too bad you won’t be able to enjoy it, seeing as how I’m going to take your body.” The Twi’lek paused. “What?” Zash called upon the Force, sending it crashing into the newly appointed Sith Lord, who staggered under its weight and grit his teeth. He could feel Zash’s will imposing on him, threatening to steal his mind, body, and soul. He fought back, but the effort was in vain; aided by the power of Tulak Hord, Zash was unbeatable. Khem watched, knowing full well what was happening, and rolled his eyes. The Dashade had been a slave to Tulak Hord in his earlier days and, although he’d lived well in the full glory of the great Sith and feasted much, he was forced to admit to himself that Ignite wasn’t that bad of a Master. He looked at the cackling hag and felt an involuntary shiver run up his spine. Nothing would be as bad as that. Sad thing was, however, Khem knew that if jumped into the fray he’d have to share his own body with the hag. Not that that bothered the Dashade entirely; he loved a good challenge and the chance to impose his will on something for once. A shivering at his leg caused him to look down and a grin split his face. Pipsy squeaked when she felt the Dashade grab her by the robes and toss her between the two Sith. Pipsy landed and there was a flash of light. Khem removed his vibrosword and cut the defenseless body of Zash in half, watching as it fell to the floor and turned to ash. Ignite blinked several times and felt his body, realizing he was still in full control. “Thanks,” he breathed at Khem. The Dashade nodded. “You knew, eh?” Ignite chuckled. Again the Dashade nodded. “Guess I’m not as bad as the hag?” “No,” Khem shook his head. “You’re free, buddy,” Ignite gave the Dashade a pat on his shoulder. “You’ve earned it.” “I will follow you, little Sith. Your mannerisms remind me of Tulak Hord. For now, I am still your slave.” Ignite paused and eyed the Dashade for signs of deception. After a minute of silence he was satisfied. “No. You’re my friend.” Pipsy whirled on the two and stamped her foot, babbling in something Ignite didn’t understand. She threw her head back and let loose what sounded like a Jawa’s evil cackle. “The witch has realized the Pipsqueak is connected to the Force,” Khem gestured. Ignite blinked. “She’s in my Jawa?” “Yes.” “Can we get her out?” “I am not sure, Master.” Ignite frowned when he noted Pipsy, or Zash, raise her hands. The Sith Lord felt the Force ruffle around him and his robes moved slightly by a passing gust of wind. “Yeah…” Ignite trailed off. “I haven’t taught Pipsy how to control the Force quite yet, Zash.” Pipsy stomped her foot. “Okay, time for time-out,” Ignite muttered, snapping his fingers. Khem hefted the possessed Jawa by the collar and followed his Master out of the tomb. “HK is going to have a field day with this,” Ignite muttered, reaching up to his ear to contact the droid. There was static on the line for a brief second. “HK.” Ignite winced when he heard the dying scream of a man blaring in his ear. Query: Yes, Master? “Having fun?” Amused Acknowledgement: Yes, Master. “We have a—complication.” Intrigued Inquiry: Can you elaborate, Master? “The Pipsqueak is possessed.” There was silence on the other end of the com. Finally, HK spoke. Remorseful Realization: This unit cannot laugh because I have no programming to assist me. “Pipsy can install that, you know,” Ignite informed hopefully. Emphatic Statement: We must repair the Pipsqueak at once. “He’s really easy to manipulate,” Ignite whispered to Khem. Agitated Retort: I heard that, Master. Ignite winced. Assurance: But this unit still wishes to fix the Pipsqueak. “Well that’s awfully nice of you—“ Ignite was cut off. Interruption: So I can liquidate her. Ignite smacked his forehead. “Always a catch…”

Thank you! I am glad people are laughing! I know I crack up when writing it.

Today on Imperial News Network: Korriban Slaughter. Reports are pouring in of an abnormal death toll in the tomb of Tulak Hord, oft times a training ground of sorts for potential Sith. It seems that the kills are rather fresh, indicating that whoever, or whatever, did this left in a hurry and recently. The Sith Lords of Korriban are most displeased that they are being forced to wait to send their recruits to trials in the tomb due to a total lack of sentient life. Images of the tomb are still being sifted through, and most are censored. This reporter can assure you that you do not want to see them; I threw up for an hour straight and will have nightmares for a week. Needless to say the Empire has taken swift and decisive action against such wanton slaughter. With the backing of the Sith, the Emperor has ordered the current Champion of the Great Hunt to investigate and hunt down this monster. Whether or not the creature will be killed or rewarded has yet to be seen. We here at the INN assume the latter. Andronikus nearly fell out of his chair, having turned on the holo-news the moment Ignite and Company left the ship. “Guess I’ll have to tell him about that one,” he chuckled, shaking his head. “Makes me really wonder what exactly went on in that tomb.” “Master Andronikus, can I get you anything? A hot meal perhaps? A foot massage?” 2V-R8 walked into the cockpit. “That sounds great,” Andronikus removed his boots. “I’ll take both.” “I live to serve, Master!” The droid hurried away. “Glad I rebuilt that droid,” Andro placed his hands behind his head and sighed contentedly. *****

HK looked down slowly and nearly dropped his blaster in shock. The droid’s once shiny copper chassis was now painted a bright pink with purple polka dots. The usually red photoreceptors now shone a sky blue as they regarded their Master, begging for permission to liquidate the one responsible. Ignite bit back a laugh, still confused as to the presence of the ghost and how HK was caught off-guard by Pipsy. The thought of the ghost instantly had the Sith back on the defensive, and he focused his gaze once more on the ethereal being. “HK, do you see this?” Distracted Acknowledgment: Yes, Master. The droid immediately fired three blaster shots which had Ignite desperately blocking with his lightsaber, deflecting them into the ceiling. Agitated, Ignite fired a burst of lightning which HK casually sidestepped. 2V-R8 walked in the doorway just in time to intercept the bolt of lightning; the protocol droid was adorned in similar colors as HK: lavender paint and pink polka dots. “There’s been a complica-a-a-a-a-a-a-t-t-t-t-i-i-i-o-o-o-o-n-n-n-n-n.” He stammered before falling to the ground in a smoking husk. “HK!” Ignite roared. Satisfied Statement: At last the inferior model gets what’s deserved. Confused Query: Yes, Master? “You fired at me!” Ignite flapped his arms at the ghost who remained passive, for the time being. “THAT is your target!” The Sith pointed dramatically. HK cocked his head to the side and blinked once. Realization: Master, the Pipsqueak interrupted my calibrations. Clearly this unit’s assassination protocols need readjusted. Hopeful Query: Shall I liquidate the Pipsqueak for placing you in danger, Master?” “Perhaps I should not warn you, flesh of my flesh.” The ghost rubbed his forehead in agitation. “Oi!” Andronikus stumbled into the doorway. “Egads!” He gawked at the smoking remnants of 2V. “What happened?” Reply: Master terminated the inferior--- “Now’s not a good time, HK!” Ignite snapped. “Tulak Hord would have done much more damage,” Khem scoffed from behind the pirate, regarding the droid in amusement. “Oh, says the one who had to have a colonosc—“ “I will fix the droid,” Khem dragged 2V away, the metal husk making an screeching against the floor of the ship. Andro opened his mouth to comment and paused, rapidly turning to the side and snatching at something. “Gotcha!” He exclaimed. “Little devil was trying to modify my blasters again.” “Pipsy fix!” The Jawa was thrust into the doorway, held by the collar. “Make blasters better!” Plea: Master, may I liquidate the Pipsqueak? “A Jawa?” The ghost snorted. “Flesh of my flesh, you are insane—“ “NOT helping!” Ignite roared. “Pipsy!” He spat out the name. “Pray tell me why you painted—“ “Pipsy make Mean Droid nice!” Pipsy pointed at HK who straightened. “Fix eyes! Make pretty! Fix weak chassis. Make pretty! Pipsy also prettify Nice Droid! Very very nice!” Ignite drug his hand down his face, baffled. Indignant Retort: This unit’s chassis is not classified as, “weak!” I have never had my chassis breached by any undesirable… HK trailed off as Pipsy whipped out a screwdriver from her robes and twisted in Andro’s grip, easily prying open HK’s chassis. Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease hostilities against this unit at once. “This is the hope of my legacy?!” The ghost gestured incredulously at Ignite. “Oh, flesh of my flesh, how far have we fallen?” Ignite swiped his lightsaber at the ghost; it passed harmlessly through and barely missed Pipsy, who squeaked and babbled. “Pipsy fix Mean Droid! Turn back to Mean! Boss no hurt! Pipsy sorry!” “No!” Ignite watched as Pipsy detached herself from Andro with practiced ease and activated her lightsaber, cleanly taking the legs off of HK. The droid collapsed in a heap and Andro’s mouth dropped open. “Pipsy improve! Make much better! Boss see! Then be happy!” Desperate Cry: Meatbag, save me! “Uhhh,” Andro watched as Pipsy heaved the droid into the hyperdrive room. “I would, HK, but she really is good with modifications.” Agitated Response: This unit DOES NOT need modific— HK cut off as Pipsy deactivated him and pried open his chassis. “My beautiful droid,” Ignite muttered in disbelief as he watched the Jawa massacre his crowning achievement. “Yeah,” Andro eased away from the door. “I’m going to go check on Khem and leave you with the—well—whatever it is.” “I am Lord Kallig, and you are my descendant, flesh of my flesh,” the ghost introduced himself, displeased with Ignite’s distraught look. “I have expended too much energy to come here and my time is limited.” “My droid…” Ignite droned. “Your Master, Darth Zash, has plans, flesh of my flesh. I cannot say what those are, but you deliver the very means of your doom to her. You must acquire my lightsaber if you hope to have any defense against her. It is in the tombs of Korriban, buried within a section of Tulak Hord’s—“ “You will not defile the legacy of Tulak Hord—“ Khem interrupted from across the ship. “BAD TIME!” Ignite cut the Dashade off. “Whatever you do, flesh of my flesh, ensure that Darth Zash does not succeed. She does not have the strength to lead the Sith to a new age of power, but you do. Redeem our legacy, flesh of my flesh; the legacy of Kallig!” With that command the ghost faded from the ship, returning to the Force and leaving Ignite alone. The ship’s intercom beeped and Ignite slammed his fist into the button. “What?!” “Just wondering where you’re wanting to go, boss,” Andro spoke in a subdued tone. “Korriban,” Ignite cut the transmission and went to the holoterminal of his ship and began to call Darth Zash. Seconds later his Master fizzled to life and appeared to scramble to pull her hood up. “Apprentice!” She exclaimed, clearly out of breath. “I wasn’t expecting a call so soon.” “I have your artifacts,” Ignite informed dryly. “Oh, excellent!” Zash replied, whirling and ensuring her hood was drawn low over her face. “Meet me on Dromund Kaas, and bring the artifacts and your Dashade. This ritual to enhance your power is very much Force involved, so I would strongly suggest leaving the pirate and droid on your ship.” Pipsy appeared behind Ignite, dragging a rather large power core to the hyperdrive room. “And leave that Jawa on your ship too. Really, Apprentice, if you wanted a slave I could arrange—“ “Not a good time,” Ignite snarled. “We all have our guilty pleasures...“ Ignite cut the feed, shaking his head. “Khem!” He roared. “Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh Tulak Hord never addressed me in such a way,” Khem rumbled, poking his head out of the med bay. “I’m not Tulak Hord,” Ignite countered. “I am painfully aware of that,” Khem returned to the droid. “Dashade’s,” Ignite muttered, forgetting what he was going to ask the beast. The Sith fingered his lightsaber and began pacing, refusing to go in the direction of HK. Truth be told the Twi’lek didn’t think he could handle such a precious marvel being decimated by a Jawa. His loyalty was torn: he loved both Jawas and HK on almost equal terms. “Are we there yet, Andro?” Ignite called. “Coming out of hyperspace now!” Andro informed, and the Sith felt the ship lurch. “Get me on the surface, near Tulak Hord’s tomb, and keep everyone else on the ship,” Ignite threw on his cloak. “I won’t be long.” “You will not defile the legacy of Tulak—“ “One more word and I’ll melt the whole tomb!” Ignite shouted. “I obey, for now,” Khem acquiesced. It didn’t take long and Ignite was soon breathing the stagnant air of Korriban, where death seemed to wait at every turn. Ignite didn’t even bother waiting for the ship to land; he hopped off the ramp to the ground and ignited his lightsaber, charging into the tomb with a murderous intent. “Bets on how long he takes?” Andro leaned against the doorway of the med bay. Somehow the Dashade had managed to tear the arms off of 2V and Andro raised an eyebrow as he saw Khem’s claws puncture the droid’s chassis. “Want some help with that?” “Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh we never experienced such trials,” Khem muttered. Andro paused. “What exactly did you do on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh?” Khem blinked. “I hunger.” “Noted,” Andro shut up. Ignite returned to the ship an hour later, Kallig’s lightsaber in hand, coated in blood; he set the lightsaber on the table and stormed into the refresher, yelling out as he did. “Dromund Kaas!” Andro and Khem entered the room, a restored 2V-R8 following. “Dare you to touch it,” Andro pointed at the lightsaber. Khem considered the dare then removed himself to the storage bay. “Oh, I cannot tell you how Master’s presence always warms my circuits!” 2V exclaimed. “It reminds me I am still functioning.” “You weren’t an hour ago,” Andro made his way to the pilot’s chair. “I beg your pardon, Master Andronikus?” “Nothing,” Andro punched in the coordinates and activated the hyperdrive. Ignite emerged from the refresher with a small sigh, happy to see at least one thing working on his ship. 2V greeted him immediately. “Can I get you anything, Master? A nice hot meal? A foot massage perhaps?” “HK,” Ignite shoved past the droid and entered the hyperdrive room, surprised to see his droid standing at attention, his photoreceptors, now red, blinking idly as Pipsy ran circles around him, adjusting things left and right. Greeting: Master. “How are you, HK?” Diagnostic: All is well, Master. My Meatbag Protection List is still in effect, otherwise the Pipsqueak would be liquidated. My chassis is restored, my photoreceptors are restored with minor improvements. All in all this unit has noted a one point three percent increase in efficiency. Begrudging Compliment: It seems the Pipsqueak did improve something. “Pipsy fix!” The Jawa babbled. “Install shields and grappling hook for Mean Droid! Also make droid Mean again!” Acknowledgement: A title I am most happy to bear, Pipsqueak. “Pipsy also add smoke to droid! Very very good! Make many confused, including Pipsy. Pipsy also make droid armor stronger; but not Pipsy proof!” Ignite sighed in relief. “So your assassination protocols are still intact, HK?” Mocking Query: Why, Master, is that affection I am detecting in your tone? Ignite scowled. “Just get yourself back to normal. I’d hate to have to terminate you.” Reply: With pleasure, Master. Will this unit be allowed to liquidate the Undesirable Meatbag? “You mean Zash?” Ignite looked over his shoulder. “I suppose you can tag along up to the Temple and liquidate everything along the way. I would like to see what this increase in efficiency looks like.” “Pipsy fix!” The Jawa ran up and hugged Ignite’s legs, earning a small pat on the head. “You’ll be coming also, Pipsy,” Ignite informed, “and Khem.” “Don’t worry about me,” Andro yelled sarcastically. “I’ll just play Pazaak by myself!” “You have two-vee!” Ignite fired back. “Perfection is my goal, Master!” The droid quipped. Andronikus groaned. “All is finally back to normal,” Ignite smiled slightly, feeling confident in handling whatever Zash decided to throw at him. “I’m going to take a nap,” he called to his crew. “Wake me when we’re on Kaas.” The Sith sunk onto his bed and was out within minutes, happily dreaming of finally becoming a Sith Lord himself. All too soon he was awoken by the beeping of his intercom and was forced to answer. “Yeah?” He rubbed his eyes and checked the clock. Two hours of sleep. “We’re here,” Andro’s voice informed. “Time for my promotion then,” Ignite rolled out of bed with a grin, immediately awake. “HK! Pipsy! Khem!” *****

Back on the ship Andornikus had dozed off; the pirate finding solace in the fact that he was safe on the ship of a Sith and currently in said Sith's employ. The beeping of the holoterminal jolted him awake and he rubbed his eyes to clear the fog before answering. An image of Ignite flickered to life, the Sith kneeling down and shaking his head. “Andro,” he called. “Sir?” “I need you to bring the ship to these coordinates,” Ignite grunted, heaving on something. “And I think we’re going to need a crane.” Andronikus raised an eyebrow. “May I ask why?” “Khem ate too much,” Ignite stood with a disgusted look on his face. The image flickered as the Twi’lek turned and sent a gout of lightning into something out of view before turning back to Andronikus. “I’m kind of surrounded by Jedi,” Ignite stated dryly. “Haste would be appreciated.” “On it,” Andro cut the feed and rushed to the pilot’s chair, firing up the ship while punching in the coordinates Ignite send through his datapad. Two minutes later Andronikus was on his way to Ignite, curious as to how the Sith Lord got in his current predicament in the first place. As the Fury took to the skies Andronikus looked out his portside window to see House Cortess go up in flames. He blanched when he saw an army of what appeared to be bug-creatures pouring into the palace moments later. “Glad I didn’t leave the ship,” he muttered. He brought the ship in low as he approached the coordinates, surprised to see a Republic banner and the banners of House Organa floating in the wind; even the pirate knew the staunch relationship the two shared. In the center of the courtyard was a bloated Khem, the Dashade’s stomach was at least five times bigger than normal, and the hulking beast was on his back, breathing heavily. Andronikus set the ship down and activated the automated defenses before climbing a ladder to a separate turret. Seconds later the courtyard was cleared with no more Jedi or Republic soldiers forthcoming and Ignite finally deactivated his lightsaber, the Sith feeling the first touches of fatigue since his trials on Korriban. Ignite looked down at Khem to see what appeared to be the sleeve of a robe sticking from his mouth and reached down to remove it. He was surprised when Khem clamped down and started chewing. “You’re still eating?!” He gawked, yanking on the robe unsuccessfully. Khem swallowed and burped as Andronikus lowered the ramp and came out of the ship. “Ugh,” he blanched. “What’s that smell?” Ignite pointed at the Dashade. “Almost as bad as the Jawa,” the pirate muttered. “I think we have a winch somewhere in there,” Ignite rubbed his chin in thought, ignoring the sweat that rolled down his forehead. “How many?” Andronikus questioned. “I lost count at twenty two,” Ignite shrugged. “That’s it?” The pirate looked around in disbelief; there were at least thirty bodies scattered about. “Oh,” Ignite chuckled. “I was speaking about how many Khem ate. I probably killed fifty or so.” “Bet your droid won’t like that,” Andro pointed out. Ignite looked at the smoke rising in the distance and shrugged. “I’m sure he’s entertaining himself. Lets get Khem on the ship.” The pirate followed the Sith into the Fury and watched as Ignite grabbed a steel chain thicker than his wrist. “You sure we’re gonna need something that heavy?” Ignite paused. “He’s got over twenty Jedi in him.” “Forget I said anything,” Andro grabbed further down the chain and heaved. “Sorry I didn’t have time to bring a crane.” “It’s—“ Ignite pressed his hand to his ear, activating his receiver. “Yes, HK?” Statement: The Pipsqueak has effectively obliterated the compound. Accusation: Anything the Pipsqueak says to the contrary is a lie! She most definitely did not, “fix” anything as she claims! “Do you have the artifact?” Ignite inquired. Acknowledgement: Yes, Master. The meatbags were in possession of what was rightfully yours. It seems the Pipsqueak did not desecrate it. Ignite heard a bit of static followed by muffled chatter before he heard another voice. “That Boss?! Boss!” Pipsy called. “Pipsy fix door!” Threat: Get off of me, Pipsqueak before I use you as a heat shield for the next excursion into the debris! “Behave, HK,” Ignite chuckled, shaking his head. Plea: Master, this unit humbly requests you come acquire the Pipsqueak. “How’s Vector? And we’ll be on our way shortly.” “Bug Man nice! “Pipsy called. “Go with Bug Men! Build home! Many many homes!” Agitated Reply: The meatbag was contacted by Imperial Intelligence shortly after the Pipsqueak blew up the palace; something about a Cipher Agent on his way to investigate. Advisory Statement: Master, it would be wise to leave the premises immediately. “We’re on our way,” Ignite flicked off his receiver and turned to see Andronikus finished with wrapping the chain around Khem. “Ready to go, Captain?” “Always,” Andro smirked. “But I can’t say how this will play out for your pet here.” Khem mumbled something. “What was that?” Andro leaned down. “I hung—“ Khem groaned and his stomach gurgled ominously before all hell broke loose. Ignite noted the change in the Dashade’s coloring and bolted up the ramp, shouting over his shoulder as he ran. “Take cover!!!” Unfortunately for Andronikus it was too late. ***** HK watched the Jawa crawling over scrap heaps, the droid wishing he could end the little nuisance’s life. Pipsy babbled and whipped out her lightsaber, shoving it into the heap and moving it in a circular motion before retracting the saber and crawling into the makeshift hole. Observation: Master does not use his weapon in such a distasteful manner. Pipsy emerged with what appeared to be a small power core. “This nice! Very nice! Generate ten times more power than what in Mean Droid. Pipsy take, show boss!” HK stiffened. Retort: There is no hardware that can improve my chassis. I am the pinnacle achievement of sentient meatbags in the galaxy. Pipsy stuffed the power core into a pouch, ignoring how it bulged and stuck out. “Mean Droid power ship?” Reply: No. “Then power core not best,” Pipsy pointed out, returning to her salvage. HK stomped over, recovering the artifact he felt was too close to the Pipsqueak. The droid then returned to his post, the artifact in hand. Statement: Master will be most displeased with the destruction wrought here. “Boss want artifact. We find. Boss happy.” HK’s red photoreceptors bored holes into the Jawa. Acknowledgement: The Pipsqueak is correct. This once. Both Jawa and droid turned their heads upwards as Ignite’s ship flew overhead, landing a few meters away in the center of the scorched plaza. HK shouldered his blaster, grabbed the artifact and plucked the Jawa, who squawked in protest, up by the collar before throwing her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. The moment the droid touched the ramp the ship began lifting off, the airlock sealing and allowing the two onto the ship. HK dropped the Jawa, who scampered off immediately, and turned his attention to his Master. Ignite was leaned against the holoterminal and HK’s scanners showed the Sith was weary and agitated. HK set the artifact down and stood at attention. Greeting: Master. “Dare I ask what happened?” HK cocked his head to the side. Statement: The Pipsqueak and I recovered your artifact, Master. Ignite rolled his eyes. “Is that how you want to play?” Honest Reply: This unit does not know what happened, Master. I gave the Jawa access to the palace with directives to disable the magnetic locking mechanism on the door. Ignite smacked his forehead. “You let Pipsy run loose alone in the palace?” HK shrugged. Answer: Yes, Master. This unit ran out of thermite charges. “Boss!” Pipsy tugged at the Sith’s robes, having finished stowing away her salvage. “Pipsy find a thing!” She held up the power core proudly. Ignite knelt down. “What happened in the palace, Pipsy?” Pipsy whirled on the droid. “Pipsy fix door! Tell Mean Droid! Very very mean to Pipsy. Mean Droid try to use Pipsy as battering ram!” Counter: This unit did no such thing. I merely threatened with such a punishment had you continued hostilities. “Pipsy fix Mean Droid walk! It off!” HK stiffened. “It is a predatory gait!” Ignite groaned. Query: Is all well, Master? My bioscans are showing you are operating on adrenaline and a healthy amount of horror. “Master!” 2V-R8 came charging out of the medical bay. “Khem has been subdued and I am now in the process of extricating the Jedi remains from his—“ “Yeah, thanks,” Ignite closed his eyes, trying to blot out the image. “Just get it done.” “Perfection is my goal, Master!” 2V returned to his duties. Andronikus emerged from the refresher seconds later, drawing an immediate smirk to Ignite’s features. The pirate scowled and reached for his blasters, prepared to threaten the Sith if he so much as snorted, and gawked as he saw Pipsy go running off with both held high over her head. “Hey!” He roared, stumbling after the Jawa. “Just a busy day,” Ignite wandered off to the refresher. “Good work, HK. Go relax. Take an oil bath. Recalibrate.” HK nodded once. Admission: I shall do all three, Master. ***** Ignite emerged from the refresher with a sigh, glad to be clean, and noted his crew missing. The Sith shrugged and looked over at his holoterminal to see it currently showing no missed calls and grinned. “Finally!” He stretched. “A break! I think I’ll go take a nap.” The Sith made his way to his room and looked into the hyperdrive room to see HK submerged in oil, the droid’s red photoreceptors following his every move. “Taking a nap, HK,” he informed. The droid nodded. The Twi’lek exhaled and collapsed onto his bed without a thought, immediately falling asleep. After what seemed like days he awoke groggily, feeling an acute disturbance in the force. He opened his eyes to see a blue blob standing over his bed and rubbed his eyes, hoping to clear his vision. What greeted him was the ghost of a man wearing a Sith mask, standing at attention and watching him. Ignite was immediately awake and called his lightsaber to his hand, igniting it. “HK!” He roared. “Halt, flesh of my flesh,” the ghost held out his hand, addressing the Twi’lek. “I must speak with you, and do not have much time.” Ignite blinked as he stared at his doorway. HK stormed in, the droid obviously peeved at having his calibrations interrupted. Query: Yes, Master? “What happened to you?” Ignite stared, dumbfounded. HK looked down. Assurance: I will liquidate that Pipsqueak.

Something told Ignite that the area on the map currently displayed on his datapad was important. Perhaps it was the label, “House Organa” or the Force warning the Sith. Perhaps it was the way Khem was currently slobbering at the mouth, saliva dripping from his lower jaw as he shook from hunger. Ignite shook his head as he regarded the Dashade; obviously membrosia affected hunger, because Khem was downright starving. Returning his attention to the area they stood Ignite paused as he regarded a Republic banner fluttering in the wind. “Ah,” he stated flatly. “That’s why House Organa rings a bell.” The words were hardly out of his mouth when three Jedi dropped down from the rooftops, each igniting their green lightsabers and blocking the Sith’s path. “It’s times like these I wish I had HK,” Ignite muttered, igniting his own crimson lightsaber and preparing to do battle. The Sith called upon the Force, preparing to unleash a torrent of lightning, when he was interrupted by Khem. The Dashade gave an unearthly howl and roared something that sounded like, “Food!” Ignite’s jaw dropped as the Dashade charged the surprised Jedi and wrapped his arms around the nearest one. The Jedi desperately shoved his lightsaber into Khem which had an equivalent effect to poking a beehive with a stick. Ignite cringed as the Jedi was swallowed in one bite; the lightsaber wound on the Dashade rapidly closed with the bolster of Force energy from the Jedi. Khem didn’t give the other two time to consider the horror they just witnessed nor recuperate as he roared and charged once more. Both Jedi rolled away and Khem veered to the right in hot pursuit of one. The second came up and prepared to leap into the fray when he realized his fatal error: he’d forgotten the Sith. Lightning forked through the air and into the Jedi’s back, causing him to scream in agony. Ignite channeled enough lightning into the Jedi to thoroughly fry him before allowing the poor man to collapse, smoking. The Sith turned to see Khem sitting on the ground, chewing contentedly on the remnants of the second Jedi. Robes and pieces of lightsaber were scattered around the Dashade and his eyes were glazed over in satisfaction; having finally satiated his burning hunger. Khem swallowed and looked up as his Master approached. “Feeling better?” Ignite folded his arms and raised an eyebrow, his lekku twitching in amusement. “Even on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I never experienced such hunger,” Khem rumbled. “I wish to devour the Pipsqueak when we return.” “Afraid I can’t allow that,” Ignite snorted. “Just let this be a lesson to you: never eat something offered by a Jawa.” Khem was silent in thought before he nodded slowly. “I will consider these words,” Khem stood and stretched. “Are there more Jedi for me to devour, Master?” Ignite turned on his heel as he felt a tremor in the Force. Four Jedi were waiting patiently, none having the nerve or, as Ignite called it, common sense, to stab the Sith in the back. “Looks like the food is coming to us this time, buddy,” Ignite chuckled. ***** HK, Vector, and Pipsy approached the entrance to House Cortess in silence. HK paused at a holoterminal and pressed a button, checking to make sure his blaster had not been tampered with by the Pipsqueak. Vector stood at attention with his hands clasped firmly behind his back, ignoring Pipsy who was running circles around, “Bug Man,” as she called him, and demanding an explanation on why his eyes were black. A full minute passed by before the holoterminal finally flickered to life, the image of human male, in full armor, appearing. “House Cortess is currently on lockdown to resolve an internal issue and cannot entertain—“ Interruption: The meatbag will allow this unit to enter the premises and recover the Master’s artifact. Failure to comply will result in extreme liquidation of all undesirables. Admittance: This unit hopes the meatbag refuses so that the liquidations may commence, but Master demands we employ negotiation once out of every ten encounters. The guard remained silent until his eyes found Vector. “You there,” he pointed at the Dawn Herald. “Call off your droid or we’ll be forced to activate our defenses.” Vector cocked his head to the side. “We do not fear your defenses. The nest wishes to expand to this complex and so we too hope you refuse the droid’s demands.” Statement: The time to surrender the artifact has passed. This unit will now commence with extreme liquidations. HK removed his blaster, flicked the safety off, and fired three times at the holoterminal. All three missed horribly. The droid whirled on Pipsy, the Jawa having jerked the leash attached to his wrist and thus diverting the shots. Pipsy pointed innocently at the Dawn Herald. Agitated Query: Will the meatbag take the Pipsqueak so this unit may commence? Vector held out his hand, a small smirk on his features, and took Pipsy’s leash. Pipsy hid behind Vector’s legs while HK returned to the image of the guard once more. Reiteration: This unit will now commence liquidations. HK fired three times and the holoterminal shut down. Vector looked down to see the leash missing its Jawa and balked as he saw her, lightsaber ignited, wandering over to the automated defense turrets. An intercom for the facility squeaked to life before the voice of the guard emanated from within. “Activate defenses!” HK placed several thermite charges on the wall in a circular pattern before walking away casually, Vector at his side. The Dawn Herald watched as Pipsy rushed over babbling, her arms full of random parts and salvage. The automated turrets remained motionless behind them. “We are confused,” Vector spoke up. “How did the turrets not activate?” Statement: This unit calculated the time it would take the Pipsqueak to break free of her leash and wreak proper havoc on anything not bolted shut. I believe we are far enough from the blast radius. Wishful Statement: A pity the Pipsqueak will not be caught in the blast radius. HK pressed the button on his remote detonator and the thermite charges exploded, blasting a massive hole into the wall of the complex. The droid began walking through the smoke with Vector at his side. “What would have happened had you not given us the leash?” Vector questioned. Reply: Then this unit would have been forced to make different calculations. The Pipsqueak knows better than to break the leash when attached to me. HK fired several times and screams of agony emanated from the smoke within the complex. Pipsy babbled something and rushed off, vanishing from sight seconds later. HK continued his warpath with impunity, methodically making his way to the front door of the palace. Vector was able to get some combat with his electrostaff but found that HK was quite efficient at liquidation. By the time they reached the door the perimeter of the palace had gone eerily silent; most dead or too scared to show themselves with the droid in the vicinity. HK reached up and banged his metal fist against the door, the boom echoing throughout the grounds. A shaky voice from the other side called out, “Go away! I’ve got a handful of pyro grenades that I’m not afraid to use!” Mocking Statement: The meatbag will need an exponentially greater amount of power to breach this unit’s chassis. There is no known entity that has ever managed to see the brilliance of my creation other than Master; and I am forced to shut down when he works on—HK halted as he felt his right thigh panel open and looked down to see Pipsy babbling and holding a wrench. “Droid walk funny! Pipsy fix!” Threat: The Pipsqueak will cease all hostilities against this unit or be used as a battering ram for the door. “Pipsy not hostile! Fix droid! Walk funny.” Indignant Retort: This unit does not, “walk funny!” That is part of my higher programming. It is a predatory gait. Pipsy shook her head and readied her wrench. “Walk funny.” HK plucked the Jawa up by her collar, and firmly closed his thigh plating before presenting her to the door. Ominous Assurance: If the meatbag does not open the door then this unit will be forced to do something drastic. There was no reply and the door remained firmly locked. HK shrugged and walked away with Pipsy still in hand; Vector followed. Directive: The Pipsqueak will enter the facility and disable the magnetic locking mechanisms on the door with extreme prejudice. “Pipsy fix door!” The Jawa promised. “Why droid no come?” Regretful Reply: I used all of the thermite on the wall. Pipsy nodded and fished around for her lightsaber, eventually finding it stashed away in a side pouch, and activated it. HK held the Jawa as she cut a hole small enough for her to fit through in the wall; once done he chucked her inside the palace and turned to face Vector. Statement: Now we wait.

Statement: Master wishes this unit to inform the Meatbags that there will be spoilers for all Imperial storylines. Ominous Foreshadowing: This unit can confidently proclaim that-- Whatcha doing, HK? Cautious Response: I am merely informing the Meatbags of your demands, Master. Those aren't Meatbags, HK. Those are readers. Rebellious Counter: They are Meatbags. Oh? Pipsy! Come here please. Boss call?! Pipsy here! Sulking Statement: Master is cruel. Very well, they are readers. And what do we say to those, HK? Hesitant Reply: Thank you? Eh, good enough. A/N: There will be spoilers for all Imperial Storylines henceforth. Although none will be as Bioware told them, there will be names and places dropped along with other companions from classes other than the Inquisitor. For now the only upcoming spoilers are from the Imperial Agent line. Know that I am meshing stories together to make my own, so don't expect anything to go as it did in game. Thank you to those who are reading, laughing, and commenting! ***** Ignite rushed into his own room to find it surprisingly empty and paused, listening intently. The only other area the Jawa could be was across the hall where the hyperdrive resided. Ignite entered to find HK submerged in boiling oil, the droid's red eyes glaring out at the Jawa who was standing at a pedestal with a singular button. Plea: Press the button, Pipsqueak. This unit will be most pleased. Pipsy hesitated, considering her options. "Pipsy not trust droid. Droid mean to Pipsy." "Isn't that the button that resets your Meatbag Protection List?" Ignite halted. "Ah, of course." Scheming Reply: Why, yes, Master, it is. Such a button would allow me to liquidate this Pipsqueak with extreme prejudice. "Boss!" Pipsy ignored the tantalizing button and tugged at Ignite's robes. "Pipsy fix hyperdrive! Work ten times faster now! Also fix bed to make not rattle when sleep! Pipsy replace lock on cargo bay too. No good. Now very very good! No one get through!" "She's a nifty thing to have around isn't she, HK?" Ignite chuckled. The droid stared quietly, refusing to respond. "Come along, Pipsy," Ignite guided the Jawa out of the hyperdrive room. "You can upgrade the ship later. For now let's get two-vee to fix those robes." "Boss let Pipsy play with ship?" Pipsy questioned hopefully. "So long as you don't destroy anything, yes," Ignite nodded, passing her along to two-vee who trembled before vanishing as quickly as allowed. The holoterminal in the center of the room flickered and began beeping, causing the Sith to sigh. He knew whow as calling him, and didn't care to speak with her at the moment. Khem and Andro looked up from their game of Pazaak (a game which Khem was dominating, Andro too scared to bother with playing for real). Ignite scoffed and activated the terminal, folding his arms and cocking his head to the side as his Master, Darth Zash, appeared. "Apprentice, I do say it has been quite some time since last we spoke," Zash was clearly looking for something. "Not long enough," Ignite muttered. "What was that?" Zash's eyes flashed. "Nothing," Ignite smirked. "I've been studying the ancient texts of Tulak Hord," Zash turned around and grabbed a book. "Ah! Here it is! This text indicates that the next artifact will be waiting at Alderaan, and I've taken the liberty of calling in some favors to aid you in your quest." There was a crash and a cry from two-vee somewhere back in the ship, which caused Ignite to look away. "What was that?" Zash questioned. "Nothing," Ignite waved it away as if swatting a fly. "I will head to Alderaan with all haste." A form darted behind the Sith over to the table where Khem and Andro sat. Andro felt something snatch one of his blasters and gave a cry of outrage, falling to the ground in a desperate attempt to catch the little beast. Two-vee crawled over to Ignite; both of his legs gone, wires splayed in every which direction. "There's been a complication, Master!" Pipsy babbled and stumbled past, her robes still four sizes too big, with Andro in hot pursuit, spewing a thread of curses at the Jawa. Zash watched silently before blinking. "Was that a Jawa?" "Uhh," Ignite looked over at two-vee. "You're breaking up!" he called, "Interference from a local asteroid field!" "You're sitting at the Tatooine docking por--" Zash was cut off as Ignite cut the connection. "HK!" He roared. HK emerged, blaster at the ready, with oil dripping from every section of his chassis. Annoyed Query: Yes, Master? "Did you do this to two-vee?" He gestured to the droid. HK cocked his head to the side. Confused Answer: My protocols would not allow me to do such a thing, Master. Perhaps you meant to ask if I wish to do such a thing? Or mayhaps you mean to query as to if I find the inferior model's predicament to my liking? Response: If so, then this unit is pleased to announce he is quite content with the inferior model's predicament. Ignite rubbed his forehead. "Just go finish your bath," he waved away the droid. Satisfied Reply: With pleasure, Master. "You tried to take off Pipsy's robes, didn't you, two-vee?" "Why, yes, Master," the droid nodded. "You were very specific in re-sizing Mistress Pipsy's robes." "Jawa's don't like that," Ignite informed. "I assume she is the one who so viciously disabled you?" "Yes, Master," two-vee sighed. "Mistress Pipsy ignited her lightsaber and took off both of my legs with one swipe. Please don't deactivate me!" "Got you! Little demon!" Andronikus shook the Jawa roughly. "What did you do to my blaster?!" "Pipsy fix! Make better! Sights off two microns, now better! Laser fire twice as fast with four times power! You like?" Andronikus inspected the work before walking over to a training dummy and firing. He immediately noted the improvements and shook his head. "Handy little thing, isn't she?" Ignite eyed the Jawa who was looking around at the ship with barely contained glee. "You have no idea," he muttered. "Here," Andro tossed his other blaster to the Jawa who caught it and immediately began disassembling it while sitting on the floor. "Utinni!" "Captain, plot a course to Alderaan," Ignite commanded. "And see what you can do for two-vee once we're in hyperspace. Watch out, Pipsy says the hyperdrive is ten times faster now." Andro snapped a mock salute, "Yes, sir!" "Oh, thank you, Master!" Two-vee cried, crawling back in the direction of his room where he intended to fix Mistress Pipsy a new set of modified robes. With the Jawa entertained, for the moment, Ignite sunk back into his chair where Khem stared him down with a fierce, unblinking gaze. The Dashade still had several cards impaled on his claws and the tattered remnants scattered along the table. Ignite eyed the cards before picking up his own hand and smirking. He smacked a card down on the table. "Pazaak!" He exclaimed with satisfaction. Khem carefully piled up all of the cards before picking them up, as best as he was able, and shoving them into his mouth where he began chewing. "You're buying me a new deck with your allowance," Ignite pointed at the Dashade. Khem continued chewing, uncaring. Chapter Two: Pandemonium By the time they reached Alderaan all was well in Ignite's world. Pipsy was still tinkering with every aspect of the ship and two-vee was successfully walking once more. The Jawa was now clothed in black robes that actually fit, her lightsaber tucked away in a pouch on her persona. Khem was hungry and Andronikus bored. HK patiently waited at the escape pod of the ship for his next set of orders. Ignite approached the holoterminal and paged his Master; seconds later her image appeared, obviously flustered. "I do not appreciate being cut off Appren--" Statement: It is the undesirable meatbag, Master. Shall I liquidate her? "And I hate that droid," she growled. "Who are we to make contact with?" Ignite glanced over to his right to see Khem holding Pipsy by the collar, out of sight of Zash, and breathed an internal sigh of relief. "I had the pleasure of speaking with Darth Jadus recently and traded some favors with him without Thanaton's knowing. He has a Diplomat Joiner residing on Alderaan who should be able to assist you." "Joiner?" "Really, Apprentice," Zash shook her head, "you should read more often." "I prefer to kill things," Ignite countered. Statement: Something the unit respects greatly, Master. Zash rolled her eyes. "Joiners refer to those whom have become one with the Kilik hive mind." Ignite and Andronikus blanched. "On the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I fought such creatures," Khem rumbled. "They are weak." "Yet their ability to communicate as a hive is what we need, Apprentice," Zash ignored the Dashade. "Find Vector and use the Kiliks to find my artifact." "Tulak Hord's artifact," Ignite corrected. Zash frowned and disconnected. "Shall we?" Ignite started for the airlock. "I think I'll wait here," Andronikus leaned against the holoterminal. "Lot of people on Alderaan who don't really care for me." "Fair enough," Ignite shrugged. "Come on, Khem. I know you're hungry." "I obey, for now," Khem stomped off to the airlock. HK and Pipsy followed Ignite out of the ship and soon the four were on solid ground stretching and breathing in the fresh air of Alderaan. Ignite knelt down and pulled out a leather strap with a clip on the end, attaching it the back of Pipsy's belt. He stood and present the other end to HK. Query: A leash? "Yep," Ignite gave HK a clap on his shoulder. "Could you imagine the damage she would do if allowed to roam free?" Complaint: Master, I am not this Pispqueak's keeper! How am I to fire my weapon and hold this attachment? "You'll figure it out," Ignite replied, confident. HK shrugged and tied the end of the leash to his wrist. Compliance: Very well, Master. "My datapad indicates Vector is in the mountains just north of here," Ignite stared at the digital map displayed, unaware of Pipsy pulling HK every which direction as she stared at the towering buildings and speeders going by. They exited the city and came to the grasslands and mountains, upon which Pipsy stopped and gawked. "Boss! Green sands!" She pointed. "That's grass, Pipsy," Ignite informed. "It pretty! Pipsy like!" The Jawa flopped down and ran her hands through the grass while HK dragged her along, uncaring. "Should be off to the right here," Ignite returned his datapad to his robes and fingered his lightsaber as they entered the mouth of a cave where two Kiliks stood. They both chattered at him and bowed their heads in respect. Pipsy paused and stared up at the Kiliks. They stared back. She waved shyly. They waved and chittered. HK jerked the leash, well within the cave, and Pipsy jabbered as she fell flat on her stomach and was pulled, scratching and clawing in protest, into the cave. Inside Ignite noted a man with pitch black eyes appearing to be communing with another Kilik and folded his arms as he waited. "Boss! Boss!" Pipsy pulled on Ignite's robes. "Pipsy find a...a...thing!" She held up what appeared to be a small bowl with a white substance sloshing within. Ignite whirled on his droid. "You can't contain her for one minute?!" He hissed. Smart Response: Master, I have followed your orders to the letter. Ignite groaned. Pipsy approached the Dashade. "Pipsy find! You like?" "I hunger," Khem's stomach growled. "Take! Food here!" Khem ate the substance, bowl and all, in one bite. The Dashade's eyes widened and he began trembling and growling. "What exactly did you just feed my Dashade, Pipsy?" "A thing!" Pipsy said proudly. "That was membrosia from the nest," Vector spoke up in a monotone voice, finally addressing his guests. "We are Dawn Herald of the nest and we have been expecting you." "You know there's only one of you, yeah?" Ignite queried. "What?" "What is membrosia?" The Sith swapped topics. "It heightens the senses," Vector explained. "Speed, endurance, stamina, and aggression." Ignite smacked his forehead. "Know of any Jedi around here?" "Yes, several," Vector nodded. "The nearest ten, if you please," Ignite held out his datapad. Vector confusedly keyed in several coordinates and returned the datapad. "Thank you," Ignite replied. "Come on, Khem. I'm amazed you didn't try and eat Pipsy here in your current state." The Dashade growled and followed his Master. Ignite paused mid-step and looked over his shoulder. "HK, you and Pipsy get my artifact while I pacify the Dashade." Acceptance: Very well, Master. Greeting: Greetings, meatbag, this unit is looking forward to liquidating many undesirables. Query: Do you perhaps have somewhere I can deposit this Pipsqueak for the time being? "We do not," Vector shook his head. "In fact, the nest knows very little of the artifacts you seek. We have, however, managed to find a house of Alderaan which may or may not contain knowledge of such a thing. In response to your question we do believe that you may have weapons free, as this house is a known affiliate of a terrorist organization." Elated Response: This unit's reciprocator buzzes in anticipation of the liquidations forthcoming. "House Cortess is very well-protected and will be hard to breach," Vector informed. "We have not yet come up with a proper strategy to overcome their defenses." Confident Assurance: This unit will easily find a way inside. "Then as Dawn Herald we would come with you, to watch and learn. Should you succeed the nest will want House Cortess to become a new nest for many more Kiliks." "Pipsy like bug-creatures! They nice!" Threat: Do not interfere, Pipsqueak. This unit wishes to liquidate undesirables without distraction. "But Pipsy not upgrade shields!" HK shook his head and pulled the Jawa along in the direction of the House Cortess complex, with Vector walking alongside him. The Dawn Herald observed the odd pair; the hive both confused and intrigued. "We do not mean to intrude," the Dawn Herald spoke up, "but why do you have a Jawa attached to you?" Shameful Reply: This unit does not know. Master is a cruel Master indeed.

Thank you both! Khem, hands down. Was Baras on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh? I think not.

HK trudged to the docking bay where his Master’s ship waited, oblivious to the incredulous stares of the meatbags he passed. In his hands was the Rakatan artifact, the Imprisoned One still contained within, and on his back was Pipsy, clinging to him wearily, having given up on walking halfway to Mos Ila. “Pipsy thank nice droid for carrying. Make upgrades to weapon.” Threat: Do not touch my weapon, Pipsqueak. Demand: Do not mention my carrying of you to Master. Had it been up to this unit, you would be rotting in the desert. The droid walked up the boarding ramp of the ship and entered, drawing the stares of the four sitting at the round table. HK paused and carefully set the artifact down before detaching the Jawa from his shoulders and removing his blaster. Confused Query: Master, are your photoreceptors working properly? There is a meatbag within two feet of you, still breathing I might add. Shall I liquidate him for you? Ignite chuckled. “Meatbag?” Andronikus stared up at the droid in a mixture of horror and confusion. Clarifying Statement: Meatbag anatomy indicates your body is seventy five percent fluids. How you can stand all of that sloshing around is a conundrum to this unit’s higher programming. Query: Master, may I liquidate this undesirable now? “I’m afraid not, HK,” Ignite shook his head, having just come out of the refresher moments before the droid’s arrival. “Add Andro to the list of meatbags to protect.” HK was silent for a few moments. Statement: It is done, Master. “Boss!” Pipsy rushed the table, causing Khem’s eyes to widen and his face to scrunch in disgust. Andronikus blanched and leaned back from the little creature. “On the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh Jedi soiled themselves at my approach. Not even in the service of Tulak Hord have I smelt something so foul!” Khem rumbled. “Make it bathe!” Andronikus begged, gagging. Resolution: Shall I liquidate the Pipsqueak? Ignite exhaled and breathed in through his mouth. “Pipsy,” he managed breathily. “You need a bath. The refresher is down the hall to the right.” He gestured behind him. “No.” Everyone froze. Khem’s mouth dropped open, and Andronikus felt a cold sweat bead on his brow; HK stared at the Jawa in something akin to respect. Mocking Statement: Now the Pipsqueak shall be liquidated. Ignite rubbed his forehead, contemplating how to handle this blatant disregard for his authority without harming the creature and managing to not appear weak in the eyes of his servants. “Why not?” He questioned, genuinely curious. “Waste water, no good,” Pipsy shook her head. “Me go, fix ship. Never seen! Very very nice!” Ignite snatched the Jawa by the collar. “I promise you we have plenty of water to indulge. I must insist, Pipsy.” The Jawa squirmed. “Come, it’s not that bad, and you’ll feel better after,” the Sith assured. “I’ll even start it up for you.” The Twi’lek deposited the Jawa, robes and all, in the refresher and turned the water as hot as he felt she could handle before departing and calling over his shoulder, “I’ll have some new robes for you when you get done.” Pipsy babbled incoherently, spluttering and struggling with the foreign concept of showering. Ignite returned to his seat and was about to address HK when 2V-R8 approached. “I have just finished applying a new coat of paint to your quarters, Master. Same color, only fresher!” Statement: The worthless model approaches, Master. “How rude!” 2V whirled on his counterpart. “You know my chassis wasn’t built for combat!” Query: Master, why do you keep such an inferior model around when you have one with higher programming in your service? “2V takes care of the things you won’t, HK,” Ignite pointed out, grabbing a deck of Pazaak cards and dealing. “Would you care to join us?” Interjection: Master, you have not yet addressed the artifact I have brought you. “Oh, right,” Ignite paused. “What is it, exactly? We found the artifact of Tulak Hord with the assistance of Andro here.” Reply: This contains a new slave for you, Master. “Oh?” Ignite perked up at that claim. “Who?” Response: The Imprisoned One. The Sith frowned. “If you’re trying to pull a joke, HK…” HK straightened. Indignant Statement: This unit does not ‘joke’ as you meatbags put it. I am, however, well versed in threats across one hundred species and languages. “I saw such prisons on the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh,” Khem spoke. “They are older than the legacy of Tulak Hord himself.” “Rakatan,” Andronikus rubbed his chin. “At least that’s what I make of it.” Ignite shrugged. “Put it in the cargo bay, HK; good work, by the way.” Pleased Statement: Thank you, Master. “Now then, prepare to lose…” Ignite trailed as he looked down to note his ship was currently flooded with water. “How?” Pipsy came bolting out in fresh black robes which were four sizes too big for her. She tripped and splashed over to Ignite. “Boss! Bath nice! Very very nice! Pipsy take! Go see ship now?” Ignite nodded, confounded. The Jawa bolted down the nearest hallway, babbling. 2V came out of the refresher moments later. “There’s been a complication, Master! Don’t deactivate me!” “Define complication,” Ignite folded his arms. Amused Statement: Perhaps this unit shall be allowed to liquidate the inferior model. “Mistress Pipsy clogged the drain, Master.” Andronikus burst out laughing, slapping the table and shaking his head. “Hair,” he wheezed. Ignite cracked a smile while Khem watched silently. “HK, mind cleaning that up?” Confused Reply: Master, the sand has partially obscured my audioreceptors. Could you repeat that? “Well, Jawa’s are hairy creatures,” Ignite informed. “So she must’ve clogged the drain when she took her bath.” The Sith looked up at his droid with a wry grin. “I thought you said two-vee-are-eight was useless? Use that higher programming to go fix the refresher.” Exasperated Response: As if this unit would allow himself to be reduced to a mere—mere cleaning droid! That’s what Master has inferior models for! My assassination protocols would suffer greatly if this unit was reduced to such a low. Ignite nodded sagely. “I suppose it’s a good thing we have two-vee here, huh?” Emphatic Agreement: As always, Master, you are very correct. This unit is great—Self Berating: This unit has allowed himself to be tricked. Master, you are very good at this. “So you won’t be cleaning the refresher?” HK was silent. “What about liquidating the inferior model?” Informative Statement: This unit is going to take an oil bath, Master. Should you need my most excellent services feel free to find me. With that said the droid turned and stormed off. Andronikus wiped his eyes and coughed, clearing his throat. “Never thought I’d laugh that much,” he admitted. “I hunger,” Khem grabbed at his cards, tearing two in half. “You’re always hungry,” Ignite looked up to see Khem holding one card, two others impaled on his claws, and the remaining of his deck in tatters. “And apparently you always destroy my Pazaak decks!” “Tulak Hord never played Pazaak.” “I’m not—“ Ignite heard several clangs and clinks which gave him pause. “Where’s Pipsy?” He questioned slowly. Andronikus pointed. “That way.” Ignite was up in a flash, using the Force to enhance his speed, hoping that the little Jawa was not destroying his precious ship. Andronikus and Khem watched the Twi’lek depart in the direction of his room and shrugged at one another. “You know when you have your cards impaled like that I can see them, yeah?” “On the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh I once at a Jedi in two bites.” “Point taken,” Andronikus grunted.

“Well that was a tad excessive,” Ignite muttered as he eyed the Dashade. Khem had remnants of robes hanging from his teeth and continued chewing, oblivious to Andronikos’s horrified stare. Ignite shook his head and opted to not comment. “My strength grows,” Khem directed his gaze to his master. “Don’t talk with your mouth full.” Ignite turned to Andronikos, “Mission accomplished?” The pirate holstered his blaster and cleared his throat. “I would say I wanted to kill him…” He trailed off as Khem swallowed. “But, yes, vengeance has been served.” Ignite walked over to the pile of Sith artifacts and began searching. “Don’t suppose you remember what these things look like, Khem?” Statement: It would appear that the secret facility of Czerka has been found. Incredulous Observation: How any could call this facility ‘secret’ baffles my higher programming. It is jutting out of the middle of the dunes! “This place,” Pipsy was oblivious to HK’s self-musings and poked the droid in the shin. “Many many droids. Much killing. You like. Jawa no come here anymore, too much droids. Lots of salvage though. If we clear many Jawa will come.” Promise: And many pipsqueaks will die. “No kill Jawa!” Pipsy babbled in agitation. “Kill Jawa and Pipsy not give droid shield knowing.” Begrudging Acknowledgement: We will not harm the pipsqueaks for now. “Good. Very good. You come now, kill droids.” Statement: With pleasure. The two entered the facility and started on a downward slope. HK’s scanners immediately picked up dozens of life forms, causing the droid to halt momentarily. Query: If this facility is inhabited by droids, why are my sensors picking up meatbags? “Those people,” Pipsy explained. “Turned droids by old salvage. It why Jawa no come here anymore.” Statement: Interesting. HK readied his blaster and continued until the slope flattened out, revealing four of the ‘droids’ standing in an almost mechanical manner. HK fired four times. Four forms fell. Pipsy stayed behind the Hunter-Killer Droid, keeping just enough distance from HK so as to not be thrown into the fray once more. HK trudged along with impunity, killing eight more meatbags before finally pausing and cocking his head to the side. Disappointed Admission: The meatbags here do not appear to want to fight back, or are not picking up on this unit’s most excellent design. Either way, this unit grows bored of this place. “Boss want artifact,” Pipsy reminded. “We get. Boss happy.” HK looked over his shoulder before nodding and continuing. It wasn’t long until they reached what appeared to be the central hub of the facility, where computers lined ever wall, all currently processing data at an alarming rate. Several tubes stood with individual generators on three separate walls. HK’s scans revealed these contained meatbags to liquidate. In the center of the room floated an odd triangular device that immediately drew Pipsy’s attention; the Jawa having never seen such a thing. She approached and babbled incoherently, running circles around it and throwing her arms up. “Salvage!” She finally managed. “Many many years old! This artifact!” HK approached and tapped the device with the tip of his blaster. A rod protruded from above the artifact and soon a holograph of an odd species appeared. Pipsy immediately stopped her inspection of the artifact and stared up in awe. “We have forgotten our name, having been imprisoned for so long,” the hologram spoke. Mocking statement: Then you are the Imprisoned One. “I am Rakata,” the hologram corrected. “Years ago our Infinite Empire ruled this world and many others.” Correction: Many, not all. “I rose to higher power, creating these skin-vessels to—“ Statement: Meatbags. “Will you let us finish?” The Rakata folded its arms. HK fired four times through the hologram, immediately disarming the nearby tubes containing the meatbags the droid knew would soon be set free. The Rakata paused, currently too surprised to speak. HK whirled and grabbed Pipsy, hurling her off in the direction of a set of tubes. Command: Disarm the tubes and liquidate the undesirables with extreme prejudice! HK didn’t bother acknowledging the Rakata nor observe the Jawa’s progress as he stormed off in the direction of the final set of tubes, intent on liquidating the threat and returning to his master in hopes of finally being free of the sand-ridden planet. While HK went on his liquidating spree Pipsy shook her head and stood. After dusting herself off (and ensuring all of the salvaged materials were still in her pouches) she walked over to the tubes and began a cursory inspection. “Hmm, tubes powered by generator, much power. Make many things. Pipsy not knowing. Overload generator, slice computer, beat up droids, then salvage!” The Jawa hurried over to the generator and began attempting to pry the nearest access door open, without much success. Behind the Jawa the Rakata was watching HK’s efficiency with a mixture of shock and awe. A flicker of hope entered its mind, however, as it turned its gaze to Pipsy. “You will not be able to break through that generator, slave, for it was built by my Infinite…” Pipsy, having grown frustrated, removed her lightsaber and ignited it, shoving it into the panel and frying countless wires and circuitry; three seconds later the generator blew, sending the Jawa and lightsaber across the room. The Jawa picked herself up, ignoring her smoking robes, and hurried over to the computer, pounding her hands on the keys she could reach. “Pipsy not know slicing. Do what she can!” At some point the computer, in its dying throes, not only began production but increased its rate by three hundred percent. Satisfied she had successfully nullified the system, Pipsy turned to observe a dozen skin-vessels standing a few feet away. “Pipsy need to learn slicing knowing,” she told herself before igniting her lightsaber once more. She was saved from melee combat, however, by the computer exploding behind her, effectively shutting down the control of the skin-vessels. Several blaster bolts flew through the air, each striking a meatbag and giving HK an impressive lead over his master in their game. Declaration: Threat nullified. Mission accomplished. Pipsy turned and began rummaging through generator and computer scraps on her hands and knees, her lightsaber still humming, forgotten, on the ground behind her. HK gave a disgusted shake of his head and approached the artifact and the rather peeved Rakata hologram. Ominous Assurance: Master will know what to do with you, Imprisoned One. I will take you to him so that you may join his ranks of slaves. “The Rakata will never—“ The hologram cut off as HK viciously ripped the wires and cords from the artifact, snatching it with both hands and carrying it over to the Jawa who was nodding to herself in satisfaction, having acquired quite a bounty of salvage. “We take power core,” Pipsy pointed at a core the size of herself. “Need for shields.” Statement: Very well, Pipsqueak. You carry the core, and this most efficient unit shall carry the Master’s artifact. Pipsy was silent for several moments. “Maybe we not need power core that bad.”

"The Jawa Shaman has been killed and a dummy put in its place," Ignite reported to Lord Berow. The Sith Lord gave a small sigh of relief and offered a tiny smirk. "Well done," she congratulated. "Now none will be wiser to the truth of those wretched creatures." Ignite shrugged and accepted the sum of credits, departing out the door and heading for the cantina in Mos Ila to relax for a moment. Along the way he noted Khem Val, his Dashade slave, approaching and slowed his pace as the hulking beast approached. "Master, I grow tired of waiting and hunger." He said in deep reverberating tone that would chill the blood of any non-Sith. "Good to see you, Khem," Ignite nodded and beckoned the Dashade to follow. I was on my way to the cantina to grab a drink, care to join me?" "Do I have a choice?" Ignite paused. "Not really, no." "Then I obey. For now." "Still thinking about the day you'll devour me?" "I was the Conqueror of the battlefields of Yn and Chabosh, servant to Tulak Hord. My strength grows with every Force-user I devour. Soon I shall have the strength to--" "Yes yes," Ignite waved off the rant. "Devour me and whatnot." "Tulak Hord usually let me finish." Khem stated, disappointment evident in his tone. "I'm not Tulak Hord," Ignite reminded the Dashade. The two entered the cantina to find it sparsely populated and took a seat at an empty table. Ignite exhaled and welcomed the cool air and shade until his reprieve was interrupted by a dark-skinned man who plopped down beside the Sith. "Hey." "Khem, do you eat non-Force users?" Ignite inquired. Khem stared at the man blankly before blinking. "No." "Should've let you finish," Ignite mumbled under his breath. He regarded the man who was giving him a hard stare that would warrant a painful death on any other occasion; however Ignite was simply too tired to be bothered with frying the imbecile and, secretly, impressed with his boldness. "Greetings." "What's a Sith doing on Tatooine?" The man sat back and moved his gaze to the Dashade who growled. "Sith stuff," Ignite stated blandly. "Well I have a proposition for you, Sith," the man leaned forward. "One I think you may like." "Doubtful." "My name is Andronikos Revel," the man introduced himself and held out his hand which Ignite pointedly ignored. "I'm a Pirate captain, or was, until my crew mutinied on me. I've hunted down every single member of that crew except for one: my first mate Syles Wilkes." "Fascinating," Ignite downed a glass of water and waved for another. "Here's the good part," Andronikos promised. "I've finally tracked down Syles to this planet, and need help collapsing the net I've woven around him. You're new in town, and a Sith, so I think we'll make a good team." "I still don't see what the benefit of this partnership is for myself." "We were smuggling Sith artifacts; knowing Syles, he'll have them all nearby stashed away. Sith go crazy over those things, so don't try to tell me you're any different." Ignite furrowed his brow, his lekku twitching as he thought. Coming to a swift decision he nodded at Khem and stood. "You've got my attention, Pirate." "Glad to hear it!" Andronikos exclaimed, standing and clapping the Sith on the shoulder. "Here's what I'll need you to do..." Reminiscence: Master stated I was to track down and acquire an artifact, but he failed to specify which he desired: the Czerka or Tulak Hord artifact. "We can find both for Boss!" Pipsy waved her hands and bounced on her heels excitedly. "Pipsy know where Czerka base is. We go. Many many droids." Admission: This unit does not know where to begin, so I will follow your lead. Threat: Do not think to trick me, Pipsqueak, or I shall liquidate you. "No tricks. Many droids. Lots to kill. You like." Acknowledgement: My reciprocator buzzes at the thought of eclipsing Master's kill count even further. Lead on. "That not make reciprocator buzz. That sand!" Denial: Do not think you know the intricacies of my chassis, Pipsqueak. "Pipsy improve droid for Boss! Make better! Add shields and better targeting system!" Indignant Reply: This unit does not need upgra--Intrigued Query: Shields? "Yes, Pipsy need few things, but Pipsy make." HK was silent as his scanners picked up a life form behind the sand dune they were approaching. He flicked the safety off his blaster and the thrill of the hunt passed through his circuitry as his scanners identified the life form. Elated statement: There is a meatbag that I can eliminate ahead. "We go around dune then," Pipsy began tugging uselessly at HK's leg. The Droid walked forward, taking Pipsy with him; the Jawa latched onto his leg in confusion. HK crested the hill and immediately fired several shots at the life form below. The meatbag, a Jedi, immediately ignited his lightsaber and deflected the bolts, charging up the hill as HK continued to fire while Pipsy clung to his leg in terror. Statement: You're already dead, just lie down! The Jedi, having recovered from his initial surprise, approached more slowly upon seeing it was a singular droid. He continued to deflect the shots with relative ease, frustrating HK further and further. Prognosis: Obviously this unit is suffering from decreased efficiency due to sand. Lament: Why did Master bring me to this planet? "I fix!" Pipsy declared, immediately attempting to pry open the thigh plating of HK. The Droid, remembering the Jawa, snatched her by the collar. Pipsy gave a squeak before she felt herself flying through the air in the direction of the Jedi who, seeing a Jawa, deactivated his lightsaber as Pipsy crashed into him. HK fired once and the Jedi fell to the ground with Pipsy atop him. The Jawa babbled incoherently for several moments before finally untangling herself and charging HK who ignored the nuisance and fired one more shot at the Jedi, ensuring he was dead. Satisfied, the droid pried the Jedi's weapon loose and turned to regard a furious Pipsy. "Boss say no hurt Pipsy!" Statement: I did not hurt you. "Droid threw Pipsy at scary man!" HK shrugged. "Scary man could have killed Pipsy!" Hopeful reply: If only. "Pipsy--" The Jawa paused as HK dropped the lightsaber into her hand. Musings: If the Pipsqueak is to be Master's apprentice, then she will need a weapon. Pipsy examined the weapon in fascination, jabbering to herself as she attempted to pick it apart. HK began walking once more and the Jawa followed, not really paying attention. Warning: Do not point that thing at me, Pipsqueak. "Pipsy not stupid! Know how to--" She squeaked as the lightsaber suddenly activated just above her head, causing her to fall onto her back. "Pretty!" She pointed at the cyan blade. HK shook his head. Personal Note: This unit calculates the lifespan of the Pipsqueak to be one month two days three hours. If she does not liquidate herself, then Master surely will during training, albeit accidentally. Pipsy swung the lightsaber around, completely oblivious to the droid's declaration. Command: There is a mission to complete, meatbag. Lead on. The Jawa deactivated the lightsaber and dropped it into the nearest pouch hanging off her robes, patting it and releasing a satisfied, "Utinni!" She hurried alongside the droid and pointed. "That way. Droid nice! Give Pipsy pretty weapon. Pipsy forgive droid for throwing. Upgrade with shields when we get back. Good shields." Admission: I look forward to these upgrades, assuming they work. ***

A/N: I've searched high and low for fan fiction revolving around Jawas, Blizz in particular. After a disappointing bout I decided that since there is so little I should attempt my own go of it. So, here it is! This story is about my Sith Sorcerer, Ignite. I started a bit ahead of the storyline, so potential spoilers for those who haven't played up to Tatooine. Also, I love HK-51 and wanted to incorporate him into the story, so you'll see quite a bit of him. Although the main character of this story is the Sith Inquisitor I will more than likely bring in the Bounty Hunter and Sith Warrior at some point, with a possible cameo of the Agent and their respective companions. Summary: How would the Sith Inquisitor storyline have played out differently if a certain Jawa Shaman on Tatooine was acquired to be an Apprentice to the Apprentice rather than be killed or turned over to Imperial Intelligence? Delve in with me as we find out in this story that involves Force Lightning, HK-51, and a healthy amount of Jawas! Chapter One: Pipsy Hot; that's what the sand dunes of Tatooine were: very hot. Ignite, the Sith Apprentice of Darth Zash, was cursing the day his master sent him to Tatooine as he trudged through the sands in search of one of the most far-fetched tales he'd ever heard spoken. The Twi'lek paused, his lekku twitching as the wind mercifully buffeted his black robes, and took a steadying breath while wiping the sweat from his red-skinned brow and squinting against the suns. Bemoaning Declaration: Master, why did you choose to bring me along on this mission? My reciprocator is rapidly becoming clogged with sand, reducing my efficiency by 0.0001 percent. This is unacceptable should I be required to liquidate the undesirables. Ignite heaved an internal sigh and rolled his eyes. Even the mighty HK-51 can't stand the heat of this planet. Observation: Master, your vital signs indicate you are displeased with my declaration. Ignite chuckled. "Merely finding it amusing you dislike the heat as much as I, HK." He eyed the eight foot tall monstrosity, with its red eyes, copper plating, and Mandalorian blaster. An instrument of terror, the Hunter-Killer Droid was built for one purpose: assassination. Although at times HK could be quite agitating, Ignite found himself pleased with his diligent efforts on acquiring the droid as he had been more than useful on many occasions. HK fell into step beside his master as the Sith began walking in the direction of what appeared to be two stone spires leading to a series of caves. Clarification: The heat does not bother this unit, Master. It is the sand and undesirables that displease us. Ignite cocked an eyebrow at the droid. "Undesirables?" HK nodded and flicked the safety off on his blaster, firing three shots in quick succession. The sands exploded around the droid and his master and three Sand People caught the blaster shots between their eyes, all falling dead before even managing to utter a cry. "Eat hot efficiency!" HK cried, flicking the safety back on his blaster. "Nice pun," Ignite quipped. Pleased Statement: Thank you, Master. This unit is happy to have liquidated the undesirables. If my count is correct, Master, I have surpassed your death count by two. The Sith shrugged. "There is plenty of time for me to catch up." Ignite cringed as he thought of their current objective: investigating rumors of a Jawa able to use the Force. The Twi'lek sighed softly as he dwelled on the Sith Lord who had demanded he kill the creature, should rumors prove true, and deliver a regular Jawa to quell future rumors. As a Sith, Ignite found this to be the most logical conclusion to the mission at hand; however there was one thing the Sith Lord had not counted on: Ignite loved Jawas. Truth be told the Sith was unsure of how to proceed as he could not bear the thought of killing one of the creatures. He was jarred from his internal conflict as they approached the network of caves where the supposed Force-wielding Jawa resided. HK eagerly fidgeted with his blaster, pleased to begin liquidations once more. Ignite suddenly realized his mistake in bringing the droid along. HK hated Jawas. Supplication: Master, this humble unit requests that I be allowed to liquidate all Pipsqueaks we encounter, including this so-called 'Force-wielding' meatbag. "Stand down, HK," Ignite placed his hand upon the droid's blaster and lowered it. "I want to have a word with the Jawas before we begin--ah--liquidations." Displeased Acquiescence: As you command, Master. Ignite could've sworn he heard the droid sigh as it flicked the safety back on its blaster once more. At least he's pacified, for now, the Sith thought dryly. The two started inside, welcoming the temperature drop within the cave. HK's red eyes glowed in the dim lightning, the droid's head sweeping from left to right as he scanned for life forms. They walked for several minutes before the cave began to narrow and bank to the left. They passed several vacated tents and came to a small rise in the cave where a much larger tent resided. Standing at the entrance, arms folded, was a Jawa, its yellow eyes glowing beneath its patched brown robes. Ignite held out his hand to halt HK, who eagerly pointed his blaster at the little creature. The Jawa pointed at the Sith and jabbered something out; Ignite looked at HK. The droid turned his head to look at his master. Ignite raised an eyebrow. Query: Yes, Master? "Translate?" Ignite jabbed a thumb at the Jawa. Petulant Statement: As if I would stoop so low to translate a Pipsqueak's--squeakings! Master, if you wish a droid to translate then I strongly suggest you bring along the worthless two-vee-are-eight!" "Please?" Ignite attempted once more, politely. Reiteration: Master, I find it an affront you request such a lowly task of this most efficient unit. Allow us to liquidate this--this--undesirable Pipsqueak meatbag and move along! "HK," Ignite scowled. "Translate." Displeased Admission: Very well, Master; but know that this unit wishes to be deactivated to spare itself from the shame of having been brought to such a low. Ignite rolled his eyes at the over-dramatic droid and motioned for him to translate. Unwilling Translation: You mean. Leave Jawa. Let clan go peace. Ignite ignored his companion's dejected tone and spoke to the Jawa. "Are you the Shaman of this clan?" The Jawa motioned to the Sith and jabbered for several seconds. HK remained silent until Ignite poked his chassis. Disgusted Translation: Me Shaman. Strong in magics. Protect clan. Ignite felt a tremor in the Force as HK finished, surprised that it was emanating from the little Jawa. The creature raised its arms and several rocks flew at the Sith who reacted instinctively, igniting his lightsaber with a snap-hiss and slicing the rocks before they reached him. Clearly the Jawa was untrained in the Force but had sensitivity to it, surprising the Sith more than he cared to admit. Bemused Observation: The Pipsqueak is bold, Master. Perhaps I should offer my services to her instead of you. "Her?" Ignite turned to his droid. Clarification: The Pipsqueak is female, Master. "Does she have a name?" Snide reply: Pipsqueak. "I'll call her Pipsy." Ignite nodded to himself, pleased with the nickname. The Jawa gave an "Utinni!" at the name. Concerned Admission: Master, naming such a undesirable is indicative of attachment. Allow me to liquidate this one so we can be on our way. "That won't be necessary, HK," Ignite deactivated his lightsaber and clenched his fist, allowing lightning to crackle around his hand. He sent a bolt flying at Pipsy's feet, causing the Jawa to back-pedal and fall on her rump. The Twi'lek approached and knelt, placing his hand upon the Jawa's hooded head and calling upon the Force, ripping her language from her mind so he could understand her and not tax his droid any more than was necessary. "Put Pipsy on the list of meatbags to protect at all costs," Ignite called to HK. The droid bristled indignantly and fidgeted with his blaster, strongly considering mutiny. Protestation: Master, this meatbag is not worth protecting! My reciprocator is buzzing in terror of what this pipsqueak can do to me if left unchecked! Allow me to at least defend myself should the need arise! "I'll keep her in check," Ignite promised. HK was silent for several minutes before he finally returned his blaster to his back and held out his hands helplessly. Sulking Statement: It is done, Master. "Pipsy," Ignite addressed the Jawa, now that his droid was subdued. "You will be coming with me and your clan shall not be harmed. I will, however, need a volunteer if you don't mind." A plan was rapidly forming in the Sith Apprentice's mind; one that made him smile at the mere thought of it. "Pipsy go. Keep Clan safe. Many Jawa volunteer. They not be harmed?" "No, they will not," Ignite promised. "I will ensure it." "Very very good." Pipsy nodded several times. "You come. Pipsy take. We go." Ignite chuckled and rubbed his hands together as they made their way to the exit of the cave. The Sith narrowed his eyes as he noted three Imperial soldiers waiting at the entrance. He signaled HK and the droid prepared his blaster, all too eager to vent some steam at the trauma he'd just endured. Pipsy returned with another Jawa who waved at the Sith and followed. The three guards saluted Ignite as he approached and eyed HK warily, the droid's eyes flickering from one meatbag to the next. "My Lord, we were sent to acquire the Jawa. We assume you have subdued it?" "Yes," Ignite nodded and presented the volunteer. "Here is the Jawa as requested." The three eyed Pipsy. "And the other?" "Is not your concern," Ignite replied crisply, his tone indicating he would not take questioning lightly. The guards all snapped salutes. "Yes, my Lord! As you say. We will take this one then." The reached down to shackle the volunteer when Ignite raised his hand; all three guards clutched at their throats frantically. "This Jawa is not to be harmed, nor chained," he declared dangerously. "If word reaches my ears that he was treated poorly, I will personally shock you until you explode." HK remained oddly silent; the droid usually offered his own form of death in instances such as these. Ignite chalked this up to him still being upset over his master's decision. He released the guards who all fell to their knees, gasping for air. "W-we understand," choked the leader, "m-my Lord." "Good." Ignite exited the cave without another word, HK and Pipsy following behind. Once they were a sufficient distance away from the caves the Sith paused and knelt to regard his new companion. "You are untrained in the ways of the Force," he explained to the Jawa. "I will take you on as my Apprentice and teach you." "Pipsy like tall one! He nice to Jawa. Me call you Boss!" Ignite chuckled and turned to HK. "HK, I need you and Pipsy to locate the artifact. I have a Sith Lord to pacify. I should also speak with Khem so he does not attempt to devour our little friend here. She must go unnoticed by Zash until the time is ripe to overthrow my Master." Indignant Response: Master, I strongly request that I not be forced to traipse around this planet with the Pipsqueak! "I'm sorry, HK," Ignite shrugged. "I trust in your ability to handle this mission. Besides, you need to bond with our new friend!" HK scoffed. Compromise: Master, I request weapons free. "Granted," Ignite allowed. "But no Jawas!" Reluctant acknowledgment: Yes, Master. "Pipsy help droid!" The Jawa gave a thumbs up. "Make improvements!" Threat: If you touch my chasis I shall liquidate you with extreme prejudice! "You no hurt Pipsy! Boss said." The Jawa pointed at the droid. "Have fun," Ignite choked back a laugh as he started off to Mos Ila, leaving a very agitated HK-51 and happy Pipsy. The droid looked down once more at the creature he hated and fingered the trigger of his blaster, the desire to disobey his Master running strongly through his reciprocator. Statement: Do not impede my mission, meatbag. *** Feel free to provide any corrections and thoughts! I wrote this late at night and wanted to share it! Thank you! (More to come soon!)