Lord Greshh

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Hayden Twilight

"First off, we aren't Jedi!" I slice a cthon down the middle, then spin away and stab one through the stomach. "And secondly, we usually can! These things are... different somehow!"

Gavin Greshh

I hack one in two, then throw up my hand to send a telekinetic blast towards another advancing group. However, they barely seem to respond to my Force push. "What the hell? They're resistant to the Force!"

Jude Sucal

My eyes widen. "They are the work of my father's associate, Carice Malori! She has somehow mutated these cthons to be exist outside of the Force!" I do what I can to protect the Revolution fighters, but even still, a couple of them are overwhelmed.

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Vette

I pull my blaster pistols and take up position with the other Revolution members. “You’d have thought the Republic would learn to clean the monsters out of its sewers better.”

Jude Sucal

“Unless the Republic wants to keep its sewers infested with monsters. Natural defense against people trying to sneak around places they should be.” Hayden and Gavin take up positions with the Mandos, one on each side. I stay close to the Revolution gunners. A moment later, there comes a sudden rushing noise, and a pack of Cthons appear out of the darkness.

Strange that I could not sense them.

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Jude Sucal

As we walk, I come up next to Hayden. “I uhh... I wanted to apologize. For how I was acting earlier with Korre. Wanting to use her as bait and wanted to possible kill her and... well, you know.”

Hayden Twilight

“I’m not the one you should apologize to. And besides, I was kinda in on it. If I wanted to stop you, I could have.”

Jude Sucal

“I’m just... I don’t want my father to win.”

Hayden Twilight

“He’s not gonna win. You and me and the Mandalorians are going to make sure of that.” I flash him a smile. “We’ve been through it, kid. It’s almost over.”

Gavin Greshh

I slow down a little, signaling everyone to stop. “Do you hear that?”

Vette

I stop and listen. “I don’t hear anything.”

Gavin Greshh

“Exactly. No running water, no slashing or dripping. Not the pipes creaking or the echoes of vermin skittering down the way. Nothing at all, which means there is likely something or someone trying to hide from us.”

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Gavin Greshh

“You’re right, of course. No sense debating something we can’t know the answer to. We’ll deal with it as it comes. Now, let’s move out before Sucal decides to change up security.”

Half an hour later

Vette

I am the last to drop into the sewer pipe, and I immediately cover my nose and mouth with my armpit. “I’ve been in some spots over the years, but already I can tell this is going to be one of the worst.”

Hayden Twilight

I activate my lightsaber, casting the dark sewer in violet light. “You get used to it. Jude and I practically lived in the sewers for nearly a week before Salazar found us.” I notice the sad look on her face when I mention his name. “Really wish he were here now. Taking down Sucal was his dream.”

Gavin Greshh

I hold my crimson saber over my head. “Dad would be proud. I know he would be. Tonight, we fulfill his dream and avenge his death.” I wave my Revolution squad to follow me as I lead them down the pipe.

Jude Sucal

I am unusually quiet as I open myself up to the Force around me. I try to sense any life forms or the energy of droids nearby. So far, nothing more than rats. Of course, that was libel to change at any moment.

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Hayden Twilight

“So either we have a clear path or we’re walking into a trap. What great odds we have.”

Jude Sucal

“I don’t think it’ll be a trap. He is more worried about protecting himself. Whatever plan he has will revolve around making sure no Force large enough to challenge him can get close enough. That means protecting the shield, protecting the Senate Tower, and protecting Presidential Palace.”

Gavin Greshh

“But would be think of the sewers? If he really doesn’t want anyone coming after him, you would think he’d cover all the bases. But so far, nothing has turned up down there. Perhaps his arrogance has led him to overlook that tiny flaw in his defense.”

Jude Sucal

“It’s possible...” I cross my arms thoughtfully. “Possible, but not probable.”

Star Wars: Empire of Glass

Cragdor

After climbing out of the awkwardly oriented shuttle, Cragdor looked down at the screaming Sullustan. Despite himself, Cragdor couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy. Even a small, unlikely creature like this one deserved a chance to fight for his cause. The fact that he had been removed from the battle before it had even begun was no doubt shameful to him. Had Cragdor been in such a position, he would not have allowed D'orel to drag him away in a broken heap. Cragdor would rather plunged his blade into his own heart before facing the disgrace of becoming a cripple.

Well... MORE of a cripple.

There was little time for pity or self reflection though, as shortly after, the Scarlet Moons were awarded their first firefight of the day. It was disappointingly brief, but it at least got Cragdor's blood pumping. Looking over the remains of their 'welcoming party', Cragdor shouldered his E-5 blaster and hissed in approval.

While the Major gave her orders, Cragdor did a quick head count of the dead. He'd managed to score a kill shot to a customs officer, and he winged one of the naval troopers, but failed to finish him before one of the other Scarlet Moons took him down. No points in wounding an enemy, but the officer might be worthy enough pray for now. Cragdor would consider this first bout as an appetizer; a small taste of the battle to come.

Once Major Thel had laid out the objectives, Cragdor's Human friend, Ren, had volunteered to help take the docking bay. There was sure to be a lot of enemies there, and Cragdor found it commendable that Ren, thoguh unloved by his piers, would still risk himself to come to their aid. Commendable, and perhaps a bit foolish. They would not do the same for him. In fact, Cragdor knew a few beings who would have celebrated finally being rid of their token Human.

Cragdor stepped forward to address Major Thel. "With your permission, I will lead a squad to the crew quarters. We will hunt these Imperials in their dens, and ensure they cannot mobilize against us."

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Gavin Greshh

“My scouts report that they haven’t seen much more than cthons down there, but things may have changed since then. The original Sith Hunter droids seem a bit too big to fit through the sewers easily, so I don’t expect they would be the ones sent down there. Their little brothers are another matter.” I sigh. “If I had Cosen with us, this would be easier. We work much better as a team.”

Vette

“Yeah, I’m not a big fan of Mandalore the Grump splitting you two up either.” I look at Temari. “Oh, sorry. Did I say that out loud?” To Gavin, I continue. “We’ll figure a way past those droids one way or another. You heard what Becca said. Those droids aren’t too bright. Me and the guys can figure out a way to stop them.”

Jude Sucal

“The droids might be dumb, but my father isn’t. He knows the only thing keeping him safe now is that shield, so you can bet the generator is going to be heavily defended.”

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Mandalore the Risen

"That's definitely a possibility, so as I understand, they were a fairly new model. Let us hope that HJ managed to shut down the Foundry before too many of those were shipped out." I look around at the waiting faces of the other Mandalorian clan leaders. "The rest of you all know your jobs. Call your warriors and be ready to head out to your assigned strike positions. Once the shield is down, we rush in from all directions, divide their forces and conquer. Any questions? No? Then get moving!" There is a quick cheer of 'For Mand'alor' before my people begin moving in every direction, preparing for battle.

Becca Twilight

I can see the distress plain on Ava's face, not to mention sense her inner conflict. The way the clan chiefs look at her whenever she talks about HJ... I can tell she is self conscious. "Av... or Mand'alor, could I have a quick word with you?"

Mandalore the Risen

I don't meet Becca's eyes. "No, Master Jedi, I'm afraid not. There is far too much for me to do right now. I have an army to lead, and a battle to win. And you have a young girl to protect, so I suggest we both focus on our jobs and leave the other to deal with their own." I turn and walk away.

Korré

I frown. "She seems upset."

Xanthippe Naberrie

"Don't worry about her. She can handle herself. You, on the other hand, need rest. Come along, I'll take you to your room." I put an arm around her and lead her away, waving for Becca to come along too.

Becca Twilight

I shake my head sadly before following. As we go, I pass close to where Hayden and the other strike team members gather. "Hey... be careful, alright? I don't like you getting this close to danger, but I've learned not to try and talk you out of things you have your mind set on. So just... don't be stupid. Can you at least do that?"

Hayden Twilight

I shrug. "I've made it this far, haven't I?" I glance towards where Korré and Xan wait by the door. "Have fun babysitting. Glad to see you think protecting Sucal's carrier is more important than winning the war."

Becca Twilight

"Not all wars are one on the battlefield, and protecting what we love is a much better motivator than destroying what we hate."

Hayden Twilight

I roll my eyes. "That is the worst line I've ever heard. Is that how all Jedi think? Glad I never finished my training."

Becca Twilight

I consider saying more, but I resist. "I'll see you afterwards. May the Force be with you... my daughter." I turn and walk away at last.

Hayden Twilight

Sighs, placing both hands on the holo table. "Yeah, you too."

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

Becca Twilight

“Yes, thanks to the invaluable information provided to us by HJ Twilight, we have now know all of the Sith Hunter droids Main weaknesses.” I notice many of the Mandalorians looking at Ava when I mention HJ, and she cringe a little. “In addition to knocking them on their backs, the droids are also weak against extreme heat and extreme cold. Additionally, they are also incapable of processing multiple commands at once, so if all else fails, confusion tactics are the way to go in order to escape.”

Mandalore the Risen

“We greatly appreciate those tips. I’ll have to thanks HJ Twilight next time I see him.” Out of the corner of my eye, I can see Zarka Saxon making a disapproving face, and whispering something to one of his super commandos. A spike of panic hits my heart, but I don’t show it or address it. “Extreme temperatures, huh? Everyone be use to pack plasma and cryo grenades, incendiary missiles, nitrogen darts, and make sure to fill your gauntlet casters with flame liquid and carbonite spray.” I look at Temari. “I would advise you do your best to avoid confrontations with the Sith Hunters as much as possible. I have no doubt you are capable of holding your own, but downing even one of those things is a lengthy process. The sooner the shield drops, the better.”

A Galaxy in Twilight[Lord Gressh/Zarkun]

TWO HOURS EARLIER

Mandalore the Risen

Those remaining in the hotel have gathered in the command suite. The detailed map of the Senate District shows in hologram in the table. Arms crossed, I pace in front of the display. "Is everyone prepared?"

Becca Twilight

Through the window, I watch Jakito pilot his speeder away, Jerus and Cosen in the passenger seats. At Ava's words, I turn to face her, placing my hands on Korre shoulder. Xan stands on her opposite side, her eyes constantly scanning the room. I could sense that she didn't trust the Mandalorians, and I couldn't wholly blame her. Not far away was Hunter, who couldn't seem to stop himself from constantly glancing in our direction. I could tell he knew who Korre was, and what had happened to Ryder. I was glad he hadn't done anything foolish, but that didn't mean we were totally in the clear just yet. I'd have to keep an eye on him. Maybe talk to him alone at some point.

Hayden Twilight

I sit down in a chair in front of the hologram. Next to me is Jude, who looks very interested in the plans. "We're listening. Go ahead, Ava."

Mandalore the Risen

I bristle at being called by my name rather than my title, but I didn't expect much respect from Hayden anyways. Gesturing to the map, I begin. "I'll make this brief; our final push for control of the planet is at hand. Our forces gather to lay siege to Presidential Palace and remove the Supreme Chancellor from power by any means necessary. But before we can begin the assault, we need that shield bubble down. A small strike team will be tasked with slipping under the shield and deactivating the generators." I indicate the highlighted spot where the shield generators are located. "Using information given to us by Revolution scouts, we have managed to map a secure path through the sewers. The team will consist of both Revolution forces, led by Gavin Greshh, and Mandalorian warriors, led by Temari Ordo." I turn to Gavin. "Is your team assembled?"

Gavin Greshh

I nod. "I've hand picked the best slicers and saboteurs from our ranks. Chief among them being... well, my mother." I glance at Vette, who stands just behind me. "We'll have that shield down in no time."

Hayden Twilight

"You're gonna need some fighters at your side too. Count Jude and I in on this plan. I've been inching for some real action."

Becca Twilight

I hated when Hayden talked like that. It reminded me too much of Jakito in his younger days. "Don't go looking for a fight. The best way to go about this would be stealth. Get in and get out fast, THEN you can join in on the battle once the shield is down."

Mandalore the Risen

"And what will you be doing, Becca? I could use a powerful Jedi like yourself on the battlefield."

Becca Twilight

"I'll be staying here with Korre, if its all the same to you. Seems every time I let her out of my sight, something horrible happens." I gives Hayden a quick look. "So, I'll be personally watching over her, and making sure nothing happens."

Xanthippe Naberrie

"I as well." I say a little too forcefully.

Kamari Ordo

"I too would like to say behind. Somebody has to lead security while Temari is away. If all of our forces are busy with the battle, it would be a perfect opportunity for Sucal to send his men in to take our command base from us. We can't leave it undefended."

Mandalore the Risen

"Agreed. Have you anything to add, Temari?"