THE PAST
Nox stared at the suspended left arm of the hero of tython , A mechanical arm lowering into the vat of fluid as it pulled cells from the arm .
" Extraction completed " A loud synthetic voice announced as the arm raised from the fluid container .
" Good , Have it ready for testing " Nox ordered as he looked to the other side of the room , The western side of the room with the two bacta tanks containing Letha and Nadia grell .
The lab was growing in size as he conducted more experiments for his goals . The lab itself was large , Being forty by thirty metres in size .
Looking left , Nox looked at the droid standing in the southern point of the room next to the entrance .
Several displays were mounted to the wall beside the entrance along with a long bench with several containers and contraptions and table which he would sit at and record his studies .
" Of course my lord " The medical droid replied as Nox moved to the northern point of the room , Split off by a decontamination chamber before opening up into the second half of the room .
It was in that second half of the room that Nox would conduct his most vital and dangerous experiments , Samples were kept labelled in a canister within the room .
He stepped into the chamber as it hissed and began to purge all unwanted bacteria and what not .
Before long the second door opened apon him being clear , He stepped through and made his way towards the canister containing his samples .
In the centre of the room was a flat sterile table , Hanging directly above was a multi armed machine , Each having a different purpose as some contained syringes , mechanical hands , Lasers , Everything he would ever need was contained on the machines many arms .
Against the northern wall on the far side of the room was a door to an adjacent chamber , This chamber worked the same as the mother machine from Belsavis and contained a copy of said machines consciousness and data .
Since the mother machine had been destroyed by his hand , He had copied her to make use of her whenever he needed .
He turned his gaze away from the chamber that housed the impossibly old rakatan machine , Grabbing the top of the sample canisters handle , Twisting his hand as the top slid open with a hiss .
Raising the top of the canister as cold mist rose from within , The liquid nitrogen storage canister cold to the touch .
The samples were connected to a central rod , The tubes had a digital display on their sides detailing which sample they were .
Pulling out an unused vial , Nox removed it from the container before closing the canister .
" Prepare for sample storage " Nox announce out loud as the machine on the roof lowered , One of its arms lowering , This arm containing a slot for the vial to be inserted , On-top of the slot were several tubes .
With the arm lowered , Nox slid the unused vial into the slot before it began to fill with a clear solution , Followed by the DNA sample being inserted into the vial .
With the arm ejecting the vial soon after , Nox pulled the vial up to his eyes and stared at the tiny sample within .
Using the force and focussing on the sample , Nox employed his vast knowledge , Using a technique developed by the ancient jedi'ii order , He used the force to rejuvenate and give life to the sample , Watching the sample grow in size slightly before cutting his use of the force .
" Begin analysis " Nox waited for another arm to lower , Containing another slot as he eased the vial in .
With the arm raising , A Holo appeared , A helix structure containing various strands , Connected to the helix structure were the results of the analysis .
Studying the structure , Nox circled the table thoughtfully .
" What do you wish me to do with this sample my lord " The AI asked over the speaker system as Nox smirked before planning to give his response .
" Editing my friend ... editing . Bring up sample zero two " Nox announced as a second DNA sequence appeared , The same in structure but containing glaring differences .
As he was studying the two structures , The machine lowered into the cold storage and removed sample 02 and prepared to make use of the sample .
Integrating with the machine with his implants , Nox moved the two seperate holo's as he performed what could only be described as playing god .
" Bring up sample zero " Nox announced as a third sample appear with the first two " Let's get to work "
30 - BBY
Qui-gon was aging , He was in his sixties now , He was slowing and he could see it . It troubled him greatly , The average lifespan of his face was one hundred to one hundred and twenty years , Yet the signs were there .
He couldn't help but think about what the whills had told him , How he was running on borrowed time , How he was supposed to die on naboo ... Yet something had interfered , Something had actively went against the will of the force to keep him alive for a short amount of time .
He used the time he had been given to guide going Anakin and Obi-Wan , In his eyes there was nobody more worthy of teaching young Anakin than Obi-Wan when he passed , This he intentionally did all he could to bring them together , Establish a bond between them , And for what he saw it was working .
It had been over about two years since he had taken Anakin under his tutelage , The boy was growing , Even amoungst his peers he was growing steadily .
He smiled proudly as he watched the eleven year old spar with one of his friends , Admittedly the boy did not have many , But those he did have he protected fiercely . A lesson his sister had ingrained into the boy , Thinking of Kanya , Quigon's brow twitched as he thought of her .
He knew the only reason the council had allowed contact between the two was to gain information on the order that Kanya was supposedly apart of , But their endeavours had been for naught apparently as they were no closer to gaining anything on her order than when Anakin was first accepted into the order.
It didn't matter if it was master Windu who questioned her or master yaddle , The woman could divert their attention like a senator , Guide the conversation like a true politician , More often than not the council wouldn't realise they had been distracted until she had already departed , It was amusing he had to admit , The woman greatly irritated the council much to his pleasure .
Young Queen Amidala was better in that regard as she was receptive to answering seemingly out of the blue questions from any Jedi who was to accompany her .
But it had become quite interesting to both master Windu and Yoda when Padme would seemingly clamp up when talking about Kanya and the more invasive questions they had asked . It became quite clear that those questions were a no go as she would often simply cut their questioning short and move onto another matter that would not be able to include the Jedi with her .
Thus they had to rely almost sorely on Kanya for any information they could gather , And they had almost nothing , Not even a location , Name of the orders master or even the name of the order , Just that they used the force to instill justice ... which wasn't exactly the best reasoning in their eyes .
The girl would come by whenever the queen was on Coruscant to converse with the senate , With each visit and the more she was questioned the more shed try to avoid the Jedi master's , More often than not she would succeed .
It has become clear to them they were pushing the girl away the more they tried to learn , Yoda had decided they would either be more subtle or allow the girl to come to them , Much to the consternation from the rest of the council .
His attention was drawn from his thoughts as Anakin won another spar , With a large smile he helped up his fellow and come over to Qui-gon .
" Did you see that " Anakin looked up to Qui-gon with a large smile as the Jedi master put his hand on the boys shoulder .
" That I did , that I did , Very good , You're doing very well " Qui-gon supported the young boy as he smiled at the older man's praise before Qui-gon led him back towards the rest of the group .
CSILLA
The full might of the eternal fleet dropped out of hyperspace , The subjugation leading the thousands of ships , More and more formations appearing as Nox stood on the bridge of the colossal ship , His glare firm in place as the entire fleet moved to encompass the planet , Taking aim at the entirety of the planet without fail , Nothing was protected , No one person would survive the carnage the fleet would unleash at the whims of Nox , Awaiting his order to pulverise the planet and wipe out the chiss on world .
No doubt the residents could see the ships just beyond the boundaries of their atmosphere , Nox's molten yellow eyes calculating how he should proceed .
" You're majesty , We're receiving an incoming transmission from their planet ,How should we proceed " Scorpio asked as she worked as the vessel commander , Controlling the major systems alongside Nox as the rest of the crew sat silently doing their work , While the two were more than enough to pilot the vessel , It would be easier to have atleast a skeleton crew to to man the thousands of lasers , Let alone Nox held sole control over the weapons Nova cannon , Still to use it he would call the fleet off and the entire system would become unlivable for a thousand years , Not that there would be anything left to resettle but space rocks if even they remained .
No ... what this needed was a show of force , One to drive the chiss into hopelessness , They were hard to deal with , But when they held none of the cards ... they were like putty in his hands .
" Put it through " Nox finally answered as Scorpio answered the Holo as a royal looking individual appeared , Blue skin and red eyes looking almost frightened if what Nox could tell from his previous interactions with their kind .
" To whom am I speaking too " Nox asked he regarded the man , The chiss no doubt attempting to appear dignified in this situation .
" I am Sev'eere'Nuruodo of house Nuruodo , I appear on behalf of the ruling families and ask you to stand down , We have " Nox rose his hand to cut the man off as a second set of Holo's appeared , The man paling at what was revealed .
" As you can see it is not only your homeworld , But every single colony you have , Along with your fleets which WILL be eradicated should they retaliate ,I suggest you be very careful with your next statement and course of action " Nox informed the man who disappeared off the Holo momentarily , Only to appear after a few minutes of waiting .
" Please ... forgive us , We apologise for any hostilities we may have held towards you , If you would allow us to resolve this situation in person , The other ruling families would like to meet with you " Sev almost pleaded as Scorpio turned to Nox awaiting orders .
" Very well , I will move a portion of my forces to the surface momentarily , I suggest you have your people be contained underground where they live before we arrive " Nox replied as Sev bowed and cut the Holo , No doubt to relay the impending meeting .
Vaylin walked into the room moments later as she looked to Nox , The emperor turning to Scorpio .
" Prepare to move the prisoners to transports and have them transported alongside my shuttle , I want twenty squads of knights on the surface by the time I land , Vaylin you're coming with me " Nox ordered as he marched from the bridge , Vaylin smirking as she sent a glare at the planet before turning to follow her lord .
The chiss species as a whole were sent into chaos , But it was nothing compared to the United fear of the capital city of Csaplar as a massive ship cast a shadow over the city . Even though the vast majority of the city was under ground , The terror of the ship was beheld by a great many people .
Military personnel could see an innumerable amount of cannons trained on the districts of the city , Ready to pulverise the city to glass should it need to .
Clouds broke against the bottom of the ship as shuttles were spotted exiting the hangers of the ship , Descending straight down to where they were supposed to land .
The rulers of the chill waited in the Convocate Hall , The heads of family each nervous but United as they waited for the representative of the invading force to grace them .
" This is madness , We must unite our fleets and have them push this force away from our home " The Syndic known as thrass reasoned as the urgency of the situation began to get to him , He was a member of the eighth ruling family of the chiss .
" That would be dooming us all , Now let us be quiet , They've arrived " Sev stood alongside the representatives of the families as the doors to the hall were opened by nervous maids .
Lines of golden coloured humanoids marched into the hall lead by black and gold armoured of their kind .
Their helmets glowed with eye slits as their United march shook the ground beneath them .
The knights of Zakuul encircled the room with their captain's taking up point at the north east and west points of the room with guard captain tyreece marching down the middle with a glare on her face as she took in everyone within the room .
" Introducing his majesty , The emperor of the eternal empire , His gracious majesty , Lord Obrunik and the high justice , His right hand Mistress Vaylin " Tyreece bowed as the chiss families took note of the two approaching individuals .
' So he's their emperor ' Sev thought as Nox ascended the hall and stood before them .
" You may take your seats " A wave of his hand nearly forced them to their knees as they began to panic .
' he's ... ' Thrass barely thought as they were forced into their seats .
The nine representatives sat themselves down as they all nervously exchanged glances as Nox took a seat of his own at the head of the table .
" I'd like to thank each and every one of you for meeting with me " Nox announced as Vaylin stood directly behind his right shoulder , Glaring at everyone Infront of her as she simply waited for a reason to run her blade through anyone to speak up at them .
' Like you gave us a choice ' Crask , Speaker of the Ufsa family hissed mentally , Alarm running through him as the black haired emperor turned to him with an amused glance ' He must have some advanced form of telekinesis to hear such a stray thought '
" I am sure you have many questions , I feel it is prudent to answer the most important , Why I'm here " Nox looked at the nine members before him as they all looked troubled .
" I am sure that is on all our minds at this moment " Irizani of the Irizi family pointed out as Nox nodded sitting back in his chair .
" You see , A couple of years ago , A patrol unit was scanning through some asteroids on a routine inspection ... one that had been conducted many times before said patrol . We detected a structural anomaly , And promptly acquired this anomaly ... three of them actually , We found out they were sending encrypted data to a relay , And from that relay somewhere else , That lead us to an outpost belonging to your ascendancy " Nox pointed out as a group of four knights brought in one of the relay devices before placing it atop the table .
From their reaction , He could tell that many of them were indeed aware of what this device was .
" I apologise but this device is used for ecological studies " Nox cut the man off with a zipping motion with his fingers , The man's voice suddenly leaving him as his eyes widened in alarm .
" I am very aware of what this device is for and what it is capable of , It is almost primitive compared to what I am sued to dealing with , Do not attempt to lie too me , Do not attempt to feign innocence . You did not just accidentally put this within range of a patrol unit , You were not naive in the existence of my people . You even attempted to integrate spies into my society ... they each spectacularly failed in that regard , Infact ... " Nox turned to tyreece as he nodded to her .
" Bring in the prisoners " The guard captain tyreece relayed through her comms as the knights outside proceeded drag in a group of twelve struggling blue skinned chiss , Men and woman and even children dragged by two knights Sacha s they tried to wriggle their way out .
" As you can see they failed spectacularly in integrating , Infact they were found almost apon entering my system , It was a valiant effort , But unfortunately ... you lacked vital information regarding my people , You wouldn't have had a chance to begin with " Nox waved his and as the knights forced the prisoners to their knees , The group refusing to cry or show weakness Infront of their captors .
The uncomfortable glances shared between the families , Subtle motions all hinted at a hidden conversation in the group .
" You've been monitoring my vessels ... well attempting to , You've attempted to integrate spies into my people ... I can't help but think you may be attempting to mount an offensive on my territories . Thus I decided to counter you before you even made an attempt . I've come to sort it out here and now ... If it goes well , We can shake hands on some kind of alliance ... if not ... I remove you and your people from the face of the galaxy , Glass your planets and enslave your people , And I hunt down the survivors until none remain other than those under my servitude " Nox announced casually as if he had not just threatened the annihilation of their race .
' We're fucked if he orders those ships of his to fire ... no ... it would be unwise to lie to him, From what I've observed he is intelligent , Knows or atleast suspects our agenda , Shows signs of advanced telekinesis capable of reading thoughts , He rules an empire of an unknown size and military power and knows the location of our world's enough to mount a surprise offensive . Truly cunning ' Patriarch Dasklo'irv'ursimi mused as he subtly took control of the conversation .
" I admit , You've court us offguard , But I assure you it was not our intention to invade or cause harm . We are a cautious people , We like to be prepared and know what we can . It is a matter of survival ... I'm sure you can understand , Knowing a potential enemy so you can effectively counter and ensure the continuation of our kind " The rest of the group looked on disapprovingly at the patriarch as Nox focussed his attention solely on him . The Patriarch ignored the looks of the rest of the group , He knew the risks , But fucking up would almost guarantee the deaths of their kind .
" That I am aware of , It was a possibility , I am not so unkind that I would condemn a race for being careful, That is why I am talking to you , Rather than glassing your entire system , I'd like to work this out , It is why the prisoners are alive afterall " Nox informed the leaders of the chiss as he reached up and scratched his nose .
Hope began to blossom in the minds of the nine royal families , An out had been offered to them and they knew it , and they knew they had little hope to do otherwise .
" We thank you for being so open minded In allowing our people to survive . Admittedly our people are in a tight spot due to ... issues . We need every person we can get . We apologise for encroaching on your territory , We are indeed open to negotiations with you in turn of these events " Dasklo'irv'ursimi moved the conversation in an attempt to sooth the obviously powerful man , Sending looks at anybody whom looked as if they were about to speak up over him .
" I have requests before we begin negotiations , First of all I have map of the galaxy , It shows the current location of all factions within the galaxy , I'd request you input your territories boundaries so I can adjust mine accordingly " Nox brought out a Holo that showed all the different holdings of the galaxy , From world governments , Treaties and allies , Crime lord holdings , It showed everything .
The chiss looked at the map intently , The Map even showed hidden alliances behind the republics back and with whom it was held .
' Such insight ' Sev thought as he leaned forward , He even saw that their own territory was marked , He for the first time began to comprehend just how much reach and insight this supposed empire truly had .
" Those are ... exactly correct , There isn't actually any need to alter that Map " Crask used his implants to memorise the map for use in the ascendancy .
" What is this big black zone " Crask asked as he pointed to a zone connected to chiss territory , It encompassed the entire west sector of the galaxy starting from the unknown regions , The entirety of the chiss territory was encompassed by the dark zone " It's the entirety of the western sector , Surely you know of someone who owns territory here "
" Hmm , In the spirit of cooperation I'll humour you " Nox replied as he altered the map , The black changing as multiple planets appeared throughout the dark zone , The entirety of the unknown regions was mapped out , And presiding over it all was the name of the eternal empire " The one that rules over this territory is me , Most of if not all of the seperate systems in this territory have sworn themselves to my banner , They rule their world's under their own governments and political parties , But they also follow the rules I pose , Such as swearing the secrecy of my people , I do not like attention being drawn to my people , They follow these lest I take direct control of their world's it'd be a simple endeavour "
" It's all ... yours " Dasklo'irv'ursimi slowly sunk into his chair as he finally understood the situation , The reason the ships had appeared from all directions was because this empires forces truly encompassed everything they had , And to truly do so without the knowledge of the republic .
" It is , Yes , The leaders of my empire before me have been secretly expanding the empire for over three thousand years , And nobody knew until now , You see , secrecy is our thing , Just like you , If anybody was to find out about our existence before I approve I might be incensed to ... remove the origin " Nox announced , A half lie , Scorpio had indeed been expanding the influence of the fleet , Monopolizing control of surrounding planets , And under his control the rate of expansion had grown exponentially , It was bordering on republic territory at this moment .
" When you first stated you had terms , You said first , That implies there are more than one , What are you other requests before we begin " Sev asked as Nox nodded , The Holo fading as the device moved over to guard captain tyreece .
" Yes , There is , It plays on the secrecy of my people ,I don't want to destroy you , but I will , After this meeting only you will be permitted to know of my people , And I will ensure it remains that way , It would be alot less painless if you were to agree to this term , I will listen to suggestions on this part , But if I am not satisfied I will resort to more ... unnatural means of ensuring the safety of my people " The threat was there , And they all suspected he had the ability to do so .
" We understand and agree with this term you have provided , Our society is much the same , One more secret is nothing we cannot do " Dasklo nodded as he subtly quieted the others once more " Are there any further requests "
" Yes ... A non aggression pact and alliance between our people's , We do not have to ever see each other , But I should like to know that we can co-operate under dire circumstances" Nox all but ordered as this was easily the most agreeable term .
" That can easily be approved , Please , Will you allow us to deliberate for a few hours between each other before we come up with a proposal " Dasklo'irv'ursimi asked as Nox nodded his head in acceptance .
" It will be of no issue , I alongside my personnel will depart for our command vessel , The prisoners will be handed off to you , You have the frequency needed to get into contact with my ship , I await you call " Nox stood from his chair as he bowed to the royal representatives and swiftly departed .
The knights of Zakuul each marched out in sequence and discipline as the guard captain slowly left .
Vaylin herself remained as she sneered at the royal parties and contemplated running them through .
" Vaylin " Nox called out from the open door with knights marching by them " I need them alive "
The parties grew alarmed as Vaylin turned to her lord in complete and utter adoration, Her gaze peering at him as her mood instantly changed from bad to good .
" Coming " Vaylin quickly persued her love as he left the building .
" We have alot to discuss " Dasklo looked at the others who all agreed with his words .
Standing apon the bridge of the subjugation once more , Nox paced as he glared down at the glacier covered planet below .
" Report status " Nox ordered as Scorpio brought up a Holo of all surrounded planets and fleets .
" There has been no uprisings or retaliation in any manner , All chiss vessels have surrendered and are awaiting orders to be pulled back to chiss space . I have completed scans of all population centres , They grossly over sell their population , They claim they have trillions on Csilla, Yet I detect numbers nearing seven to eight billion in number , Curious , Other settlements are in a similar situation " Scorpio announced as she brought up the data of each settlement " I have also sliced into encrypted systems of interest ... it appears the have recently come into contact with an unknown party in roughly several months ago , They managed to repel this opponent but it is widely believed they were apart of a small scouting party , Their origins are supposedly from extra galactic territories ... interesting "
" So they're stretched thin , Low overall population and are encountering a threat of unknown origin and power , Very interesting , Keep me posted on what you find " Nox absorbed the information afforded to him by the droid as Vaylin sat in one of the vacant seats apon the bridge .
" Will do your majesty " Scorpio answered as a Holo call came through and was immediately answered .
Nox looked towards Sev from the royal families once more as the chiss bowed .
" The families have come to an accord , A treaty has been written and we await your arrival for the finalisation " The man bowed as Nox nodded .
" I will arrive shortly " Nox replied as the Holo was cut short .
" Captain, Bring your squad , Vaylin come along " Nox once more left the bridge as the guard captain went to round up her men as Vaylin rose from her chair to follow .
The trip to the hanger took a few minutes as two shuttles prepared to lift off , The squad of personally selected knights that performed a cut above the rest , Chosen by himself and tyreece to be apart of their squad .
" We're moving " Tyreece yelled out as the knights marched into the shuttle and lined up , Tyreece taking point as the doors shut , Her shuttle taking off and descending back to the city below .
" Your majesty " The pilot to his shuttle bowed as Nox nodded to the man .
" Send us down " He stepped up onto the shuttle as he turned to look at the hanger , Vaylin taking her spot at his side as the doors to their shuttle closed and sent them hurling back down to the spaceport of the capital city .
The ride down was shaky as the temperature dropped on the outside of the ship , And moments after entering the atmosphere they had arrived at their destination .
The doors slide open as blistering cold winds assaulted their face , The squad of knights now prepared to escort them back to the hall .
" March " Tyreece bellowed as Nox simply walked forward with his arms clasped behind his back , The black tails on his white royal cuirass with the white dragon head atop the neck of the chest piece grinning viciously .
The march back to the hall was uneventful as the streets were bare of residents , food stalls lay empty as entire markets were abandoned .
" I see they decided to forego deceptions " Nox mused as he sensed a great deal of life far below the glacier .
Dasklo'irv'ursimi was nervous as were the rest for the nine representatives , They had come up with the best possible proposal for the emperor on their soil , They were essentially selling themselves , But it guaranteed the survival of their people .
" I'm not so sure about his " Sev whispered to Dasklo as the chiss nodded in turn .
" But it is the best course of action considering the alternative " The aged chiss replied as the others couldn't do anything but begrudgingly agree .
The opening of the doors drew their attention as the foreign emperor once more entered their domain , His escort in place as they retook their previous positions .
" I hear you have come to an accord " Nox turned to face every single member individually .
" That we have yes , Here is what we propose " Sev offered up the datapad , Sliding it across the table as Nox took it into his hands with an analytic gaze .
" You propose to become a vassal of my empire , To abide by our laws , Allowing me to make use of your citizens and space and pass ultimate judgement on political dealings , In turn you wish for the ability to hold and sustain your own government over your citizens , Say in the fate of any trial regarding your citizens , Assistance in agricultural , Economic and interstellar endeavours , And to be marked as full citizens of the eternal empire . A correspondence between our two militaries will be effective immediately, As stated your territory will become apart of my empire but its previous boundaries will be enforced by your own forces at your leisure " Nox began as he read through the first part of the proposition offered to him , Looking at it critically before scrolling down further .
" An attack on you and your people will be taken as an attack on my own people and will be enforced with the full might of the eternal empire , You also request aid for your citizens in the event of a natural disaster , Resource shortages or any potential uprising from your citizens " Nox continued as everyone nodded slowly " I find these agreeable , This would have been something I would have down regardless "
" There is also something else " Dasklo began as he drew Nox's attention " Not mentioned on that data pad , It has come to our attention that there is a threat beyond the boundaries of our galaxy , Coming to invade us and destroy our very people and way of life , We encountered a scout force and managed to subdue them , But there true forces are impossible to truly know , But from what we have been able to discern , The republic as it is currently stands no chance at combating those foe "
" You wish for my assistance In dealing with this threat " Nox stated as they each nodded at his statement " Rest assured , We are all residents of this galaxy , A threat to the galaxy and everyone within will be taken seriously and swiftly dealt with , You have my word , Do you have any knowledge on when they are set to arrive "
At his question they all looked unsure .
" Our best calculations depict they should arrive within the next century or two " Sev took his turn as Nox stroked his chin .
" That is more than enough time to truly prepare , I propose we work together to combat this enemy , To come up with viable plans and actions for any event that may come to pass , Only together will we prevail over them " Nox looked at each of them as they all agreed with his statement .
" One more thing before I call my forces back and depart back to the heart of my empire , There was the matter of secrecy I mentioned " At this everyone present grew nervous .
" What do you wish for us to do " Dasklo asked as Nox thought for a few moments .
" As you are no doubt aware I have certain ... powers , I would impose my will apon you in the form of a suggestion . This suggestion would remove the ability to mention my empire or myself and anyone under me in any way but between yourselves in any form , Whether that be written, Digitally or verbally physically or even mentally , You will be unable to even open your mouths in the event that someone nearby could hear about my people , Your minds would be protected from intrusion to enforce this and the knowledge of what transpired today will be placed within a mental block that will not be broken by an intruder , Alongside this , Anyone that succeeds after you will be placed under the same suggestion and given knowledge of what transpired today , Any recordings with any device that contains anything to do with my fleet or myself will be removed and deleted , Anybody you come into contact with will be diverted from finding anything about my people or myself to the best of your ability , Is this acceptable to you " Nox asked as everyone grew nervous at his statement .
" Would this suggestion harm us in any way " Dasklo asked as Nox shook his head in the negative .
" No , Unless you openly rebel and try to oppose me , This suggestion will be entirely unnoticeable to you until the day you perish and it becomes undone " Nox assured as they all nervously looked apon each other .
" We accept these terms you have given , Please ... proceed " Dasklo finally announced after a long drawn silence , None noticing throughout the entire meeting the sheer amount of suggestions Nox had pushed apon their minds , Essentially driving them to the outcome he wanted , Every word he spoke heavily laced with the force as he entwined his words with his world bending will and immeasurable capabilities .
" I should announce before I begin, You have permission to build alliances with other factions as long as I am notified , But they are to never find out about me or your true allegiance , You will be my eyes and ears , My spies should another faction acquire your services , With that said ... let us begin " And so he performed his suggestion, They had allowed him entry and he was going to take full advantage of that as his words bent the will of everyone in the room , The suggestions he spoke taking root deep into their subconscious, And by the time he had finished , They would never be able to undo what he had done without causing irreparable harm into themselves , His empire was safe from anybody finding out , The chiss ascendancy was once more under his control as it had been under the Sith empire .
" That is enough for now " The royal members regaining their senses as Nox receded from their minds ... atleast they thought he did , Reality however was not so simple " I will be departing at once , Your world's are now safe , If you have further need to converse the Holo frequency you used will still work should you require it , Good day "
They watched in silence as their essential new ruler left , They simply sat as their shuttles ascended into their colossal behemoth of a ship , That ship itself slowly ascending .
They sat as the ship soon departed their system with the rest of the ships following momentarily after .
The news of the departure of all eternal empire ships from their colonies didn't shake them from their stupor .
They knew they could do nothing now , But hope not to step toes on this new empire that ruled them , They had essentially sold their people rights and all to this force , All they could hope was that this was the right decision .
" Do you believe we can trust them " Nox rested on his bed as Vaylin ran her slender fingers across his bare chest .
" They will do what is needed for their survival , They just sold me their people on a platter , Gave me their minds to do whatever I wish with . They wouldn't be able to betray even if they could perceive us as a threat , My suggestion forbids it , My words are law " Nox chuckled as he wrapped a hand around the brunettes thin waist and drew her closer .
" Hmm so devious " Vaylin purred at Nox's underhanded manipulation as she moved herself to lay on-top of him , Her large breaths pressed against his chest as she layed her chin just below his neck .
Nox let out a heartfelt laugh as the woman preened as his chest rose with each of his breaths .
" All is fair in love and war , Not that they know the war exists ... Their naivety is their fault " Nox shrugged as he gave a smirk down to the woman who lay on him .
She closed her eyes as she basked in the warmth his body naturally projected . Soon her breaths began to level out as she sank deeper into his skin , Drool beginning to pool on her lips as Nox simply let her sleep .
He ran a hand over her bare back slowly , The warm blanket covering them both as he turned his head to the side , The streaks of stars over the viewport distracting him for a few moments before he closed his eyes himself , Slowly allowing himself to fall asleep with the woman who desperately tries to gain his affections layed on his chest .
Maybe just maybe ... he'd allow her , To place his trust in her as she did him , She had atleast earned that chance ... that much was certain and he would not lie to himself and say there wasn't potential between them , Hell they were well on the way to a proper working relationship , It both scared and excited him . And maybe when he finished his endeavour with bringing Lana and his child back ... just maybe he could be afforded the family and happiness he craved .
But that was for the future , So he would leave it to his future self to handle , For now ... he rested .
NABOO
Padme sighed in frustration, She was alone in her room as she sat and thought over the recent issues with the naboo council .
Soft sunlight bled into the room from an open window to the far right , the curtains flowing in the wind , Sitting Infront of a mirror as she prepared herself for the day .
She had taken the advice offered to her by the more experienced Monarch of the eternal empire , She tried to prepare them for the potential the event from two years ago could happen again .
But no matter what idea she would come up with , It would be met with heavy opposition by the rest of the council .
Defensive Ion cannons meant purely for defence were shot down ... all because of tradition , Nobody would listen to her , They wouldn't draw themselves from their own state of minds simply for the safety of their system .
Surely they could see the potential need for such defences to be out in place , She was trying to do everything she could to save them , So why couldn't they see that .
Her frustration began to mount as she groaned and ran a hand over her face , She glared at the mirror Infront of her , She was sixteen now , She noted , Still a child in the eyes of the rest of the council but old enough that she knew better than she had two years ago .
She needed a muse , She thought , She needed inspiration, Ideas , But what ... who .
The answer was as obvious as it was exciting , She picked up her datapad from the side of the dresser as she scrolled through its contents , Preparing to send an email as she hoped the receiver would respond shortly .
With a sigh she typed her thoughts and request before sending it off , Chewing on her nail before placing the datapad to the side and went to finishing her morning routine .
WITH NIHILUS
Lucieal stood on the bridge of his flagship , Approaching the swamp covered planet with his legion of ships .
" Maintain current speed and engage cloaking , Prepare for all out assault " Lucieal ordered as he held his porcelain white mask in his right hand , His black outfit a stark contrast to the silver and white halls of his fleet warship .
The brown haired man glared at the planet below , The green obscured by storm clouds that covered the lands , Oceans of dark blue colour on the southern hemisphere .
Reaching out with the force , Nihilus used the tether that kept his hunger at bay to connect to his lord , His master .
' Master ' He sent his thoughts out as his eyes flickered under his closed eye lids .
He could feel the gaze on him even across the distance of the galaxy , The sole focus of his lord pinpointed on his location , The gaze of something more , When you knew instinctively that something else was staring .
' Lucieal ' The voice of his lord reverberated around his skull .
' I have arrived at the destination of the unknown receiver signal , Now that I am here , I am sure this is where the signal ends ' Lucieal answered to his lord .
' Very good , Keep me alert of your progress ' Nox's attention shifted from him when his words were delivered .
With the twelve ships now within the gravitational pull of the planet , Nihilus turned from the viewport of the bridge.
" Prepare my shuttle " Nox ordered the Gemini unit as the automated crew of the Legion he ordered mobilised .
AEOS PRIME
Sifo watched his apprentice meditate within their cavern home , The cave no longer resembling a cave , Containing a complex structure of different rooms for different purposes , Pillars of steel were implanted into the ground and rose into the roof of the cavern , Serving as the foundation and stabilising structure for the rooms which were constructed with the help of the village workers and themselves .
The meditation room they had constructed was dimly lit , A person would sit at the centre as all outside sound was silenced by the walls .
The Jedi master watched patiently as Vas hovered over the lone cushion at the centre , Various objects circling as the newborn summa vernimoth, Now thirty centimetres larger than they previously were , Having twenty tentacles each with many eyes on-top of their heads , The summa hovered around their perceived parental figure as they attempted to mimic him , Newly found psyonic energy rippling from them as the air around them rippled .
Sifo watched the child summa try to meditate with his apprentice as he too decided to meditate in the silent room .
Getting onto his knees , Sifo let himself become one with the force , He was however unprepared to once more be enraptured by the force as prophetic visions plagued him once more .
Sifo appeared on a grassy cliffside as a slightly older Vas sat overlooking a vast swampland , Pyramids ascending over the canopy of trees as the Jedi simply sat .
" Kyle left I take it " Vas didn't turn , But Sifo turned to see a sandy haired man approach , Wearing a black outfit with a lightsaber attached to his waist .
" He has " The man announced sadly as he joined Vas in overlooking the valley.
" Understandable that he would want to be with her after just getting her back " Vas's hair was lifted by the strong winds that rose up the face of the cliffs " Wouldn't you say the same Luke "
The now known Luke nodded as the man sat beside Vas the sandy haired man nodded .
" Will Rosh be okay " Vas asked as he leant back on his palms .
" He will recover in time , Jaden is looking out for him , But none of that now , What troubles you " Luke asked carefully as Vas looked up from the swamps into the sky .
" Something's coming luke ... call it a feeling , But we must be prepared " Vas announced cryptically as Luke looked both alarmed and worried " But that is for tomorrow ... for now , I want to enjoy this moment "
Sifo watched as his vision began to bleed away as he was ejected back into his current time .
Sifo slowly opened his eyes from the brief vision he had been given , The dimly lit meditation room before him being obscured by his kneeling Padawan who stared at him with a raised eyebrow .
" Oh good youre awake , I honestly thought you had fallen asleep " Vas'lucis mused as he rose back to his feet , One of the summa resting on his shoulder as a second followed closely , One however remained suspended in the centre of the room, Evidently asleep if they knew the summa well enough , And they did.
" Not just yet my witty friend " Sifo rose , His stutter a distant memory as Vas departed the room .
" The hunters should be returning soon , Should we help them prepare for the festivities " Vas asked as they entered a sort of living space with a kitchen attached to it.
" I suppose we could , Yes , Let's go " Sifo supported as they made their way towards the cave entrance .
" Race you to the bottom " Vas suddenly announced , Leaping over the edge of the mountain , Landing on a few stones as he propelled himself into he air with a force imbued leap .
Sifo chuckled before leaping into hot pursuit of the teen , The two were assured by frosty winds as they plummeted towards the ground , The snow capped peaks slowly turning to stone as they approached the ground below .
His Padawan's laughter rose up from below as he leapt from outcrop to sliding slop to outcrop .
It took the duo a few short minutes of leaping to make it to the village below their home , The blue skinned people greeting them in a friendly manner which was returned in kind .
" There you are , Could you please help us raise this " A young woman asked as she managed the festivities , The village people trying to raise a platform to work as a stage .
" I think you can do this one " Sifo motioned for Vas as the teen nodded , Extending his arm forward , Closing his eyes and levelling his breathing .
Sifo watched and felt the force ripple , Watching the wooden platform rise into the air while the village people rushed to install the legs onto the bottom of the platform .
" All set " A male worked yelled out as Vas let go of the stage , The wooden supports working as the stage was set .
" Thank you , Now we need to place these torches " Sifo motioned for some as she passed him eight before passing another eight to Vas .
" Place them in a circle , Light them and then return to me " The woman smiled as she turned back to manage the process while the Jedi moved to place the torches as the sun slowly began to set .
It didn't take too long to finish setting up the torch scones before Sifo and Vas made their way back to the overseer , The sun beginning to set in the horizon .
The duo walked over a wooden bridge as a saberjowl passed below in the canal .
" Life really is peaceful here huh " Vas made conversation with his master as Sifo looked around .
" It is , Thriving and peaceful , Away from the troubles of the rest of the galaxy ... a truly peaceful life " Sifo regarded as they finished crossing the bridge , The overseer making the finishing touches to some of the performers outfits .
" If only the rest of the galaxy was like this " Vas mumbled as Sifo nodded as he couldn't help but feel sad .
Vas looked towards his master as he felt his master's sadness , With a small smile he poked the man in the ribs .
" We'll just have to fix em won't we " Vas announced confidently as Sifo stopped , Vas continuing onwards .
" I guess we will " Sifo replied before making to follow his apprentice as they approached the overseer who took note of their presence .
" We're all set , is there anything else you need us to do " Vas as as the overseer shook her head before stepping down to talk to the two Jedi .
" Nothing but wait now , The foods is being prepared and the folk are getting excited ... we just have to wait for nightfall , Will you be resting within the village for the night or up in your den " The overseer asked as the two Jedi thought over her question .
" I think we can make do with our accommodations within the village for the night " Vas looked to Sifo who agreed with his Padawan's sentiments .
" Very good then , Everyone would be happy to have you celebrating with us " The blue skinned girl smiled at the saviour and his master .
Before long an older male came forward and whispered into the overseers ears , A small smile playing on her lips as she turned from the man to the two jedi .
" Actually there is something you could do " The overseer drew their attention .
" Oh " Sifo raised an eyebrow as the woman motioned towards the nearby huts .
" Well the food is ready , Just needs someone to test it to see if it's acceptable " The Jedi could hint at what she was saying as Vas smiled .
" I'm sure we could arrange something " Sifo chuckled as the woman dismissed them and the duo left towards where the food was being prepared .
CORUSCANT
Vergere glared at Sheev , Fumbling her lightsaber as her beaked mouth snapped shut .
Kneeling , The fosh bowed her head as her master paced within his secret lab deep into the surface of coruscant .
" Have you found anything " Sidious asked as he glanced at the force dispenser within the room , His yellow eyes always keeping the fosh in his eyesight.
Vergere shook her head , Her feathered head shaking .
" There was nothing to find my lord , This order she preaches of doesn't exist , She spends her time around the queen of naboo but even the queen knows nothing of this order she speaks of , I am sure she is lying my master " Vergere told the Sith Lord as she fumbled with the grip of her hilt , Her Dark desires bleeding into the force as her overconfidence slowly began to overcome her reason .
" How ... disappointing " Sheev sneered as he turned away from the fosh , Appearing vulnerable to her .
" I apologise my lord " Vergere slowly rose from her kneeling position as she crept up to sidous's back .
" That makes one of us " Sheev whirled as Vergere ignited her weapon , His own red blade springing to life as he slashed at her beak .
The fosh leapt back in surprise as she was followed by a torrent of dark blue lightning .
She barely managed to bring her lightsaber up to block the manifestation of hate from her master , The searing burn on her beak burning in agonising pain .
" Did you really believe yourself ready to take the mantle ... no you pathetic little creature , You were never ready , You were never going to be ready " Sidious sneered as the lightning sent vergere into the back wall of the hidden lab .
Qui-gon walked through the lower levels of coruscant , Anakin was within the temple as the Jedi master made his weekly rounds , Checking up on several families he looked after on his off time .
The Jedi master knelt to a little boy , A rodian child that smiled up at him holding out a fruit for the Jedi master to take .
" Thank you there young man " Qui-gon smiled down at the boy as the rodian bid the master fare well before running off .
Qui-gon continued moving through the scantily busy streets of the lower levels , His ever present half smile .
People of many species passed by and nodded to the frequently spotted man , He ate the fruit given to him with a soft hum as he walked deeper into the district.
The passerbys began to fade away as an uneasy feeling began to come over Qui-gon, Almost akin to trepidation washing over him as he became alert .
Spying anything that flickered , The Jedi master slowly reached for his lightsaber , Pulling the hilt from under his robes as he held it in his hands .
Shadows seemed to stretch as the paths before him seemed to reek of the Darkside .
Slowly he crept by the degraded buildings , Spotting a hunched figure at the end of the alley , Their features hidden by what appeared to be Jedi robes .
Slowly he made his way forward , Lightsaber at the ready incase of any surprises .
The hunched figure turned to the Jedi with wide eyes as she clutched her side , Huffing in what was obviously pain , Surprise on her features , She seemed completely out of it .
Recognising the knight , Qui-gon rushing forward before kneeling down , Putting his lightsaber to the side , The human male took the fosh up in his arms as he looked over her many Injuries .
" Knight vergere , what happened " The kind Jedi maverick looked over her as her head seemed to spin .
" Master I'm sorry , Please stop hurting me " Her words confused the man as he began to try and use the force to heal her wounds .
Under the contact the knight seemed to spasm as she thrashed , The Jedi master attempting to calm her as he touched her head .
In her confused and dazed state , The fosh made a move that would forever change the balance of the galaxy , Sending it spiralling towards a dark path as she screamed , Phantom pains ringing through her body as an enemy she perceived to be Infront of her lashed out .
She ignited her lightsaber as she ran though what she thought to be Sidious coming to finish her off , Only for her vision to finally clear as the gaping mouth of Jedi master Qui-gon jinn stared at her in disbelief .
Her eyes widened as she leapt out of the Jedi master's arms , Pulling her lightsaber with it as the sinister cackles of Sidious wrung throughout the alleyway , The shadows stretching as Qui-gon fell to the floor .
' You're on borrowed time ' The voice of the whills ran through his head as he watched knight vergere flee the scene .
' Anakin '
Anakin suddenly stopped in his katas with the rest of the bear clan , His eyes widened as he tore his vision obscuring helmet from his face and fled the room , The calls of the overseeing Jedi all but non existent to him as he fled to the speeder bay .
Obi-Wan stumbled and fell as he walkedthe corridors of the temple while master Dooku paused , A ripple washing over the three as their attention was drawn to a certain spot on the planet .
Anakin was the first to make it to the speeder bay as he leapt into the pilots seat , Turning the speeder on as he roared from the bay and towards what he could only hope was a lie .
Dooku rushed through the temple as he too had the same idea , Moving to the bay as he hurriedly made his way.
Qui-gon gasped for breath as he shook on the cold Steel floor below him , his hands shaking as a dark robed figure stood over him .
Their pale skin giving way to a yellow toothed smile as a small cackle rasped from their mouth .
The robed man turned his attention to something before leaping into the shadows , Their presence all but fading from the scene as the Jedi masters life slowly began to fade .
Anakin barely managed to land the craft before he had already propelled himself over the side of the speeder , Rushing down the streets in bursts of speed more experienced Jedi would be jealous of .
What he stumbled apon broke his heart as he rushed forward , In the centre of the dead end streets was Qui-gon , Laying alone of the ground as the young boy rushed forward , Pulling the Jedi master into his grip .
" ... an" Quigon's lips moved as he whispered , Anakin now openly crying as the bearded man gently rubbed the boys arm to sooth him .
" It's okay ... Anakin . Don't cry ... I'm not leaving ... you ... I'll always be with you ... remember that ... always " Anakin held Quigon's head on his lap as the Jedi master shed no tears .
" Master please ... " Anakins tears came in heavy flows , Enough for both of them as Qui-gon smiled up at the boy .
" You ... are the chosen one ... I know it ... I always have ... bring balance ... as I know only you can ... never forget ... I believe in you ... " Qui-gon began to sag as anakin's pleas grew more desperate .
" Please don't go ... please don't leave me " Anakin cried as Dooku stumbled apon the scene , His aged features becoming taunt at the scene before him .
He rushed to the other side of Qui-gon as his apprentice took notice of him .
" Qui-gon " Dooku whispered as Qui-gon gained a small smile as he went slack in anakin's arms .
Silence prevailed as Anakin clutched Qui-gons hand , The boy beginning to shake as dooku collapsed onto his back , The shock of the situation hitting him as he stared .
It was in this position that dooku would get a taste of what the chosen one could do , As the boy shook violently, The ground below began to quake as lights sparked .
Dooku watched in silence as lamp posts warped and twisted before going out entirely , Signs fell from the buildings they were bolted to , Droids became scrap metal and buildings began to fall apart .
Anakins scream shook the very foundations of the force as it escaped him in a repulse , Washing over the entire planet and the galaxy as a whole as his pain assaulted every force sensitive .
Yoda stumbled as if physically struck while mace at his side turned to the source of the disturbance .
The whole of the Jedi temple shook under the waves of pain crashing against its walls .
Kanya didn't hesitate in the slightest as she left Padme's side without word , Fleeing the royal chambers as she descended apon the hanger housing her ship , Soon enroute to her brother as she came to his aid .
Nox stopped his walked as he stared at the core worlds , A troubled expression on his as he contemplated .
He could feel it , And as he drenched himself in the force he could see it .
The death of Qui-gon jinn , The lynch pin that would ultimately start the timer of the galaxies descent , Yes ... he could see it , The events he had foresaw were finally in motion ... now he had to prepare for them . It was only a matter of time before the clock struck twelve , It was up to him to guide it to the most desirable outcome .