#Zann Consortium

[alphamecha-mkii]

Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game (FFG) - Edge of the Empire - Suns of Fortune - CR92a Assassin-class corvette attacks a Zann Consortium PB-950 patrol boat

[renposter]

Character renders for Tyber Zann and Silri, Star Wars: Forces of Corruption (2006)

[the-baddest-of-batches]

Chapter Twenty-Three: The Children's War (Part 2)

Clones, soldiers, we keep to ourselves. Our version of a party is probably best described as seeing who gets drunk first, and shenanigans that should never make it into anyone's report, ever. The Imperial Gala is the exact opposite.

Opulence drips from the ceiling down the walls to the very marbled floors, likely imported from off planet. Naboo is something of a humbler planet by means of wealth, but that does not imply their humble decadence cannot rival a wealthier nation.

I glance past faces I've seen before to the ones I haven't. Senators of all species mill about the domed room. Many have brought their own security. Stormtroopers in dark armor lurk behind their appointed charge and threaten violence to try and impose on the tittering conversations and fake smiles.

We're set in a ball room. Imperial flags hang on the walls. I know the people of Naboo are peace lovers. They care not for the heavy hand of the Empire, but they clearly thrive under it.

Many people do not understand the peace the Empire represents. Few understood it during the Republic's years. Seems an age-old issue. And as the years have worn on, it's only gotten worse. The Moff was right, I've seen the HNE reports. I know the rumors. People are never satisfied with their honest or peaceful lives. It's not just the Jedi, it's all of humanity that craves war.

The Moff strides across the circular floor toward a gaggle of other Moffs, Admirals, and Senators who are each decked in long brown, silver, and blue robes. Many wear the colors of their homeland. It's a display of pure power.

I follow closely. I've been given something of a cleaner kit for the occasion. It's not my white and reds, but it'll do. It's still phase II clone armor and it's familiar. I asked for something familiar. The Moff delivers on his promises. I promised to keep him safe, so I'll deliver on mine.

My initial scan of the room's layout tells me there's a balcony overlooking a garden. Two Admirals stand near it. One of them has a blue skin tone and when he turns, I note his red eyes. They remind me of something I saw in a book somewhere.

Around the room I can spot nothing particularly suspicious. I remain close to the Moff regardless.

"It's a pleasure to see you here, Senator Organa," The Moff exclaims, reaching toward an older man with black hair and sharp, yet smiling features. The senator has no Imperial bodyguards with him, only two men in traditional Alderinnian attire. They're clearly carrying weapons, though.

"Moff Sharn," Organa's voice is a cold courteous one. It does not mirror the warmth on his face.

"And how are things in the Senate?"

"Ah, you know. The usual gambit of much arguing and little policy. Half our matters have been put on hold."

"A shame, truly."

I turn and look behind me. Conversation drifts in and out in snippets.

"Yes, I heard they are moving to reform the petition. I imagine it will greatly benefit your people once it's passed."

"It will benefit all people."

"This is the third month they've placed this bill on hold! I am growing tired of the endless arguments. We must pick a side."

"They will not, and you know it. The councils are set against us."

"Then they should consider more wisely what drawing this out will do."

I glance to the right.

"Yes, Admiral. I am aware of your plans. They have been passed along. Personally, I think the Emperor will take great notice of them."

"Indeed."

The voice is from the blue skinned man on the balcony. He's migrated past me. I never noticed him move. That unnerves me, so I keep a half eye on Moff Sharn, who has taken up conversing his favorite subject: Mon Calamari Opera. We're going to be here a while.

A voice breaks through the crowd, directly addressing me. It sounds familiar, the interference from a helmet mike masking the real tone beneath.

"You look out of place."

I try not to laugh as I side-eye the trooper, likely on a similar job to me. Out of place, interesting choice of words. I outdate every soldier here, if not by age, then at least experience. I note the deep black armor the other trooper wears, though and it clicks.

My armor, with its phase II clone wars look, white plastoid, and the pale shoulder bell I've had since Umbara, must look out of place. I turn my head an inch to ensure the Moff is still immersed in his discourse with the others present. Once that's affirmed, I can spare some attention and loop my thumbs in my belt.

"It's an original design," I tell the other trooper who lingers behind their own charge. "Holds up better than the plastic they ship out nowadays."

The trooper nods. "Hard to argue with that opinion. I used to wear it."

I cock an eyebrow under my helmet. This isn't some civilian. And he has my interest piqued.

"How long ago?"

"Feels like forever ago now."

It has been fourteen years. I lean back on my heels, realizing that the time has passed me by and I haven't been paying attention. It's just one day after another. I don the armor. But even I haven't worn it in what feels like an eternity.

"It feels good to be back." I scan the room, checking the perimeters.

There's a laugh from the other trooper. "You never left, Kian."

I blink. For the first time I look at the ID tag that popped up when the other trooper initiated conversation. A long time ago I would've seen his whole HUD as soon as we were linked, me being a Lieutenant, but these new kits and mine don't play as well.

But I know that ID.

"Headshot?"

"Before you say something, I'm just here for hire. I don't do this on the daily anymore. You, though." Headshot chuckles. "I'm impressed you're still alive."

"I'm not a field operative if that's what you're getting at."

"I can't believe they let you out."

"I train cadets."

Headshot snickers. "What goes around comes around, isn't that the saying? I hope they give you a hard time."

"I'm going to clock you."

"Better not do it here."

I'll do it later. My eyes narrow. I should've recognized that sarcastic tone the moment I heard it. I am getting soft.

And now that I know who I'm talking to, I almost want to tune back into the Moff, but I think I'd rather be dragged for being tight-lipped and anti-social than listen to another critique of last month's opera.

"How have you actually been, Kian?" Headshot edges a little closer. I can see now he's attached to the Admmiral the Moff has been entertaining for the past few moments. Headshot must agree that this is going to be a quiet night, though, as he edges up to stand closer. He pulls off his helmet and I blink.

Same face, but have we really gotten that old? The kid who laughed at gallows humor is there in Headshot's eyes, but his face, it looks weathered beyond both our years.

I reach up and remove my own helmet slowly. When I look up, I too am being stared at. Headshot says nothing, though.

"I'm fine," is all I can conjure up. I turn my gaze to the room and fix it there, following an invisible threat with my eyes.

I train rookies, that's it. Nothing special about the last few years of my life.

"What about you?" I manage after several quiet moments.

Headshot shrugs, clips his helmet to his belt, and moves up into my periphery. "Retiring got me enough to buy some land. Tried to get married." He laughs. "You can see how well that went. Got two kids, a lot of bills, and she got herself a lot better man."

"Sorry about that."

"It's nothing really. The kids are great. There's um...four now."

I turn with incredulity written all across my face. "Four?" Even my voice sounds weak.

Headshot smiles. "Yep. Ones adopted. His parents um...I was hired to protect them." Headshot looks down. Somber never did look good on him. "I had to do something, so I took him in. He's a great kid." A smile returns to Headshot's face and he's himself again.

I guess us clones never lose that sentiment of ignoring the elephant in the room. Grief, it can trample you.

I rock back on my heels again. "Fours a lot, but you always did have more energy than me."

Headshot nods and his smile broadens. "Anyone special out there for you, yet?"

"Yeah, she's called Corellian Red Ale and she's the most intense gal you'll ever meet."

Headshot laughs. "You never change, Kian."

"Thanks." My voice is hollow to my own ears. I know he means it well, but it stings. Should I have changed? I don't want to think about it. The universe is always changing and I'm stuck with that, so to hell with Headshot's comments. What's so wrong with sticking to what you know?

"Hey," Headshot's voice changes tone. He's pulling his helmet back on. "Twelve o'clock."

I look up. A familiar face moves through the crowd, accompanied by another I've only seen in HNE Reports. A young girl in her teens. Bail Organna's daughter, the princess Organna. The Moff spoke with the senator earlier, and if luck would have it, it looks like they're heading back out way.

"Better get back to standing around looking scary," Headshot says.

I nod and turn my head to prompt the Moff as he's involved in conversation. He looks up, catches my eye, and looks past me.

"The Senator is back," Moff Sharn notes to the other guests standing around him. He gestures to me. I'm already on his heels as he breaks from his personal crowd and crosses the floor toward the Senator. As we pass, I catch the eyes of the blue-skinned officer lingering at the edge of the crowd growing around Bail and his daughter. The stranger also wanders toward the Senator, but his gaze and steps are calculated. Something about him unnerves me.

I throw my helmet on quickly and take up a stance behind the Moff. He's exchanging more pleasantries. It seems the Senator is here to introduce his daughter.

"I hear you will be entering the political stage like your father," the Moff bows to the Princess. Leia, I think her name is.

"Yes," she says firmly. She carries herself like a soldier, as if she were raised by a drill sergeant, not a senator. I catch her looking over the Moff's shoulder at me and as soon as her father has entered another conversation with the Moff, she breaks away from them. She's dressed up, just like everyone here, but it's plainer.

Oddly, she looks nothing like her father. Maybe she gets her looks from her mother. Leia shoulders past a few other officers crowding to meet her. She commands the room.

So why is she coming my way?

"Excuse me," Leia holds her head high. She's shorter than me, but her presence stands head and shoulders taller than anyone else here. She'd give Tarkin a run for his money on intimidation.

"Young miss, can I help you?" I'm a bodyguard here, nothing more.

"Is that armor authentic clone wars era?" she asks, her brow furrowing in curiosity.

"Yes ma'am."

"I've only read about the clone wars," she's in awe. I shift a bit uncomfortably from the attention.

"Leia," her father snaps from amidst the crowd. "Where are you? You're supposed to stay close."

I realize Senator Organa has been whisked some feet away and Leia and I have ended up on the outside. I probably am not needed in the midst of the crowd. And she has people to meet.

"I'm fine," Leia calls out. "Trooper–" she pauses. "What's your name?"

"Kian," I say.

"Trooper Kian made sure I was safe."

"Come over here," Bail summons her. "You are not here for idle talk."

Leia sighs. I hook my thumb in my belt, and wave. She waves back, then vanishes back into the crowd.

You don't meet many kids this day and age who have a vested interest in old military history. Guess that makes me history. Kriff I shouldn't have thought about that.

"Kian," the Moff appears, having disengaged. "What was that about?"

"She was asking about the armor, sir."

Moff Sharn glances at me. "I knew I should've had you wear the regulation stuff."

"Why? It's a conversation point, sir."

Sharn shakes his head. "I'm going to wander the room. If you'd like, take a break and get yourself refreshments. I think I will be capable of handling myself."

"Yessir." I nod and let him wander off on his own. I slink to the edge of the room, find some water, and keep an eye on the party from where I stand. Leia has taken charge of the room. She's hard not to watch with the way she grabs one's attention. If she does follow in her father's footsteps, I think she might really make a change in this twisted world.

I've watched a few of her speaking events on Alderran on HNE. I don't know much about politics, but I know words have power. They're weapons in the right hands, and if a word is a weapon, Leia Organna is a war general.

And we are still at war. I can't forget that, despite the glittering distraction of wealth. I skim the room, flicking through a few channels of chatter that I've turned my HUD into. Nothing out of the ordinary. The moff said he expected nothing, but a man who doesn't prepare for the worst is a dead man.

I edge away from the crowd, keeping tabs on the Moff, but taking stock of my surroundings.

Leia is still talking in the center of the room, trying to migrate away from the crowds. She has a natural charisma, though. Impressive for a fifteen year old. Taking her would certainly be a large and strategic hit.

I put my hand to my blaster and move along the edge of the party just to get a better view. I reach the doors. A light flickers. The room goes dark.

My HUD flashes into night vision without a moment to buffer. I too immediately turn toward the murmur of panic rippling through the room.

"Kian, you bump a light switch?" Headshot's familiar voice comes in.

"No," I answer. "Do you have eyes on the senator?"

"Yeah. I can see her. Fill me in, what's happening."

I move toward the crowd, breaking into a jog. "I know as much as you."

"Great." Headshot curses. I'm surprised he got to it before me.

I run for the gaggle of officers, several raising questions about the outage, others trying to calm their wives and families. I have to get my priorities straight here. I might be attending for the Moff, but Leia is priority one. As I run, I patch into the general line for all troopers as the guests in the room begin to raise the levels of panic.

"Listen up, all unitsi n this room, I need two men covering all exits!" I shove into the crowd. "And identify anyone who isn't a guest!"

"What is going on?" Someone tries to grab me. I pull away.

"Find your security detail, all of you!" I snap at the officers. The Moffs, many of whom have seen similar situations, keep a stoic nervous silence as troopers and security flood the room.

A window shatters.

I lunge for Leia, caught in the middle of the throng of bodies, and grab her wrist. Her father's security have turned to the sound of the glass.

It's a distraction, I hiss mentally. "Princess!" I tug at her and lift my head to call out. "Moff Sharn!"

His face appears amidst the crowd as it breaks up, and subsequently surges back together as shots are fired across the room. Someone screams. That's all that's needed to break the wave of tension.

"Dear goodness!" a woman's voice raises to a screech.

"They're here to kill us!"

I tug Leia to me and she stumbles. Even with night vision this crowd is making any kind of movement difficult.

"What is happening?" she demands. Moff Sharn pushes his way toward us.

I lift my blaster, waiting to hear about the situation outside. The comms are all useless chatter, though. "Sir, Ma'am, we have a situation and I need to secure you both, understood?"

"Take her, I will be fine, Kian." Moff Sharn draws his own weapon. "Secure the princess."

I know she's putting on a brave face, but Leia's wrist is trembling in my hand. I nod, quietly, and let the Moff go as he shouts and waves people toward the exits. The room begins to clear and more blaster fire echoes in the darkness.

There's a snap overhead.

"Kian!" Headshot's voice echoes in my comm. "Overhead, get down!"

I grab Leia and shove her, both of us lunging as the chandelier in the middle of the room crashes down, scattering diamond and glass in dangerous shards across the floor. I scramble to my knees.

"Headshot, what's going on out there?"

"Still not sure, but I think we've got two bogies."

I don't know which of the black armored troopers he is, mostly because it's dark and even with night vision all I can make out is armor. There's two people cornered by the balcony. That can't be all of them.

"Get with the other units and flush them out, Headshot. I'm securing the princess." I help Leia to her feet and look for the nearest exit. Blaster fire echoes outside the door, though.

"Nevermind," I clench my teeth. "Ma'am–"

"I can handle myself," Leia says, but she's breathing hard, and she looks pale. I know she's just a kid. She's a strong kid, but a kid.

"I know that, ma'am, I'm just here to watch your back."

Leia nods. She grabs her skirt up. "Which way?"

I point to the other exit. "That way. Keep close, understood?"

She nods rapidly. I hear the blaster fire and it's getting closer. Kriff, this is bad. There may be more outside. I have to get Leia out of the building. We need to get everyone out of the building. A massacre would be bad for PR. And my job.

The chatter is filling me in though. "Bogies outside the main room, at least four!"

"It's a small group, try to apprehend them."

"We've got two more inside the main hall. Flush them out, go go!"

I tune in, holding Leia at my side as I search for an exit. The throne room doors are open wide and empty. There's troopers near them ushering people through. Blasterfire echoes behind me and I whirl around. "Time to go," I mutter to Leia. I pull her toward the throne room and she follows.

I help her through the exit, pushing past the senators and officers already inside. Leia tugs away, looking for her father. I keep a close eye on her.

I can hear from the comms that the resistance outside is putting up a fight. There aren't many of them, but it looks like they've got enough troops occupied that we can't pin them all down.

I open my comm channel. "All units, focus on the bogies in the room. Keep out any others. Understood?"

"Yessir."

"Copy that."

A rally of voices answer me and I can hear them adjusting their position. I feel oddly responsible. This isn't the time to bask in glory, though.

I turn and catch up to Leia. "Princess, we're going out the back." I look back to see the troopers at the entrance are hauling the doors shut as blaster fire echoes outside the room. Best to keep it contained.

I turn around, and Leia is gone. My stomach drops. I had one job.

Someone screams as the ornate glass window shatters in. Kriff, kriff, kriff. I run for the window. Our enemy must've gotten caught in here with us. They have Leia and they're trying to get out.

Not on my watch. I haven't changed in near fifteen years for nothing. I run for the broken window, shoving senators aside and yelling for them to get out of my way. The crowds part, stumbling. I reach the window, vault over the sill and land, rolling, in the royal gardens. Dirt coats my formerly clean armor. Suits me. I always hated being a shiny.

Figures run through the dark up ahead, clinging to a girl in a white dress. She's fighting. It has to be Leia. I plunge into the dark garden after her, snapping up my blaster and setting it to stun. My HUD adjusts for the new visual setting. I can make out the armor on the guys holding Leia. They don't look like the insurrectionists I've seen.

These guys are skilled, military, and they're armed to the teeth.

Something singes the side of my helmet. I duck behind a couple of plants for cover and fire stun shots after them. "I don't think these are our typical rebels," I say. "These guys aren't insurgents. They look military."

Another hail of blaster bolts. I can hear a muffled scream. Leia. I'll never be forgiven if I let these guys get away with the Princess. I promised to protect her. This is my job.

I lunge out and fire off another hail of shots. Nothing hits, that's to be expected, but I sprint across the grounds. Chatter pours in.

"These guys are organized, who the hell are they?" A long pause. I cover the ground between me and the two kidnappers as Leia bogs them down with her struggling.

I slam my shoulder into one man. It's not enough to put him down, but it surprises him. I turn, snap my hand up, and shoot the other man in the face. He goes down and lets go of Leia, who hits her knees.

Two hands grab me by the neck. I jerk, but I can't get a lock on the man behind me. I can't throw him off either, he's heavy, and cutting off my air supply like a trained soldier. I have to commed Headshot, someone-

Blasterfire echoes. The grip on my throat releases and I gasp, staggering forward. Leia drops a small holdout to the ground and moves back. She's terrified, and still trying not to show it.

My comm is static and voices. Troopers questioning the real enemy we're fighting. I myself have questions.

I turn and check that the man behind me is dead. I also take a good look at him, removing his armored mask. That confirms some suspicions. "Zann," I breathe. I tap my comm. "I've got Leia secured."

"We've got the ground situation handled," Headshot comes in. "Three captured two dead. Two unaccounted for."

"Got them right here," I say.

"Well then, guess that wraps this up."

I let the link die amd look up as Leia stands, dusting herself off. Her dress is torn, she looks a bit roughed up, but mostly uninjured. I move over to her and put out a hand. "Are you-"

She turns and throws both arms around me without warning. I start, and finally hug her loosely. "You're safe now," I remind her. "We'll get you to your father."

It sounds like she's crying, though. I don't quite know how to handle that. Leia has a lot of responsibility, charisma, and expectations on her shoulders.She's fifteen and already part of the world stage. She's a kid, and already fighting a war. My chest knots up and I hug her tighter.

It isn't fair, but I know how she feels. And there's nothing I can do but offer a sliver of comfort for the truth we both have to face.

We were only children. Asked to bear the fate of the universe.

Clones, soldiers, we keep to ourselves. Our version of a party is probably best described as seeing who gets drunk first, and shenanigans that should never make it into anyone's report, ever. The Imperial Gala is the exact opposite.

Opulence drips from the ceiling down the walls to the very marbled floors, likely imported from off planet. Naboo is something of a humbler planet by means of wealth, but that does not imply their humble decadence cannot rival a wealthier nation.

I glance past faces I've seen before to the ones I haven't. Senators of all species mill about the domed room. Many have brought their own security. Stormtroopers in dark armor lurk behind their appointed charge and threaten violence to try and impose on the tittering conversations and fake smiles.

We're set in a ball room. Imperial flags hang on the walls. I know the people of Naboo are peace lovers. They care not for the heavy hand of the Empire, but they clearly thrive under it.

Many people do not understand the peace the Empire represents. Few understood it during the Republic's years. Seems an age-old issue. And as the years have worn on, it's only gotten worse. The Moff was right, I've seen the HNE reports. I know the rumors. People are never satisfied with their honest or peaceful lives. It's not just the Jedi, it's all of humanity that craves war.

The Moff strides across the circular floor toward a gaggle of other Moffs, Admirals, and Senators who are each decked in long brown, silver, and blue robes. Many wear the colors of their homeland. It's a display of pure power.

I follow closely. I've been given something of a cleaner kit for the occasion. It's not my white and reds, but it'll do. It's still phase II clone armor and it's familiar. I asked for something familiar. The Moff delivers on his promises. I promised to keep him safe, so I'll deliver on mine.

My initial scan of the room's layout tells me there's a balcony overlooking a garden. Two Admirals stand near it. One of them has a blue skin tone and when he turns, I note his red eyes. They remind me of something I saw in a book somewhere.

Around the room I can spot nothing particularly suspicious. I remain close to the Moff regardless.

"It's a pleasure to see you here, Senator Organa," The Moff exclaims, reaching toward an older man with black hair and sharp, yet smiling features. The senator has no Imperial bodyguards with him, only two men in traditional Alderinnian attire. They're clearly carrying weapons, though.

"Moff Sharn," Organa's voice is a cold courteous one. It does not mirror the warmth on his face.

"And how are things in the Senate?"

"Ah, you know. The usual gambit of much arguing and little policy. Half our matters have been put on hold."

"A shame, truly."

I turn and look behind me. Conversation drifts in and out in snippets.

"Yes, I heard they are moving to reform the petition. I imagine it will greatly benefit your people once it's passed."

"It will benefit all people."

"This is the third month they've placed this bill on hold! I am growing tired of the endless arguments. We must pick a side."

"They will not, and you know it. The councils are set against us."

"Then they should consider more wisely what drawing this out will do."

I glance to the right.

"Yes, Admiral. I am aware of your plans. They have been passed along. Personally, I think the Emperor will take great notice of them."

"Indeed."

The voice is from the blue skinned man on the balcony. He's migrated past me. I never noticed him move. That unnerves me, so I keep a half eye on Moff Sharn, who has taken up conversing his favorite subject: Mon Calamari Opera. We're going to be here a while.

A voice breaks through the crowd, directly addressing me. It sounds familiar, the interference from a helmet mike masking the real tone beneath.

"You look out of place."

I try not to laugh as I side-eye the trooper, likely on a similar job to me. Out of place, interesting choice of words. I outdate every soldier here, if not by age, then at least experience. I note the deep black armor the other trooper wears, though and it clicks.

My armor, with its phase II clone wars look, white plastoid, and the pale shoulder bell I've had since Umbara, must look out of place. I turn my head an inch to ensure the Moff is still immersed in his discourse with the others present. Once that's affirmed, I can spare some attention and loop my thumbs in my belt.

"It's an original design," I tell the other trooper who lingers behind their own charge. "Holds up better than the plastic they ship out nowadays."

The trooper nods. "Hard to argue with that opinion. I used to wear it."

I cock an eyebrow under my helmet. This isn't some civilian. And he has my interest piqued.

"How long ago?"

"Feels like forever ago now."

It has been fourteen years. I lean back on my heels, realizing that the time has passed me by and I haven't been paying attention. It's just one day after another. I don the armor. But even I haven't worn it in what feels like an eternity.

"It feels good to be back." I scan the room, checking the perimeters.

There's a laugh from the other trooper. "You never left, Kian."

I blink. For the first time I look at the ID tag that popped up when the other trooper initiated conversation. A long time ago I would've seen his whole HUD as soon as we were linked, me being a Lieutenant, but these new kits and mine don't play as well.

But I know that ID.

"Headshot?"

"Before you say something, I'm just here for hire. I don't do this on the daily anymore. You, though." Headshot chuckles. "I'm impressed you're still alive."

"I'm not a field operative if that's what you're getting at."

"I can't believe they let you out."

"I train cadets."

Headshot snickers. "What goes around comes around, isn't that the saying? I hope they give you a hard time."

"I'm going to clock you."

"Better not do it here."

I'll do it later. My eyes narrow. I should've recognized that sarcastic tone the moment I heard it. I am getting soft.

And now that I know who I'm talking to, I almost want to tune back into the Moff, but I think I'd rather be dragged for being tight-lipped and anti-social than listen to another critique of last month's opera.

"How have you actually been, Kian?" Headshot edges a little closer. I can see now he's attached to the Admmiral the Moff has been entertaining for the past few moments. Headshot must agree that this is going to be a quiet night, though, as he edges up to stand closer. He pulls off his helmet and I blink.

Same face, but have we really gotten that old? The kid who laughed at gallows humor is there in Headshot's eyes, but his face, it looks weathered beyond both our years.

I reach up and remove my own helmet slowly. When I look up, I too am being stared at. Headshot says nothing, though.

"I'm fine," is all I can conjure up. I turn my gaze to the room and fix it there, following an invisible threat with my eyes.

I train rookies, that's it. Nothing special about the last few years of my life.

"What about you?" I manage after several quiet moments.

Headshot shrugs, clips his helmet to his belt, and moves up into my periphery. "Retiring got me enough to buy some land. Tried to get married." He laughs. "You can see how well that went. Got two kids, a lot of bills, and she got herself a lot better man."

"Sorry about that."

"It's nothing really. The kids are great. There's um...four now."

I turn with incredulity written all across my face. "Four?" Even my voice sounds weak.

Headshot smiles. "Yep. Ones adopted. His parents um...I was hired to protect them." Headshot looks down. Somber never did look good on him. "I had to do something, so I took him in. He's a great kid." A smile returns to Headshot's face and he's himself again.

I guess us clones never lose that sentiment of ignoring the elephant in the room. Grief, it can trample you.

I rock back on my heels again. "Fours a lot, but you always did have more energy than me."

Headshot nods and his smile broadens. "Anyone special out there for you, yet?"

"Yeah, she's called Corellian Red Ale and she's the most intense gal you'll ever meet."

Headshot laughs. "You never change, Kian."

"Thanks." My voice is hollow to my own ears. I know he means it well, but it stings. Should I have changed? I don't want to think about it. The universe is always changing and I'm stuck with that, so to hell with Headshot's comments. What's so wrong with sticking to what you know?

"Hey," Headshot's voice changes tone. He's pulling his helmet back on. "Twelve o'clock."

I look up. A familiar face moves through the crowd, accompanied by another I've only seen in HNE Reports. A young girl in her teens. Bail Organna's daughter, the princess Organna. The Moff spoke with the senator earlier, and if luck would have it, it looks like they're heading back out way.

"Better get back to standing around looking scary," Headshot says.

I nod and turn my head to prompt the Moff as he's involved in conversation. He looks up, catches my eye, and looks past me.

"The Senator is back," Moff Sharn notes to the other guests standing around him. He gestures to me. I'm already on his heels as he breaks from his personal crowd and crosses the floor toward the Senator. As we pass, I catch the eyes of the blue-skinned officer lingering at the edge of the crowd growing around Bail and his daughter. The stranger also wanders toward the Senator, but his gaze and steps are calculated. Something about him unnerves me.

I throw my helmet on quickly and take up a stance behind the Moff. He's exchanging more pleasantries. It seems the Senator is here to introduce his daughter.

"I hear you will be entering the political stage like your father," the Moff bows to the Princess. Leia, I think her name is.

"Yes," she says firmly. She carries herself like a soldier, as if she were raised by a drill sergeant, not a senator. I catch her looking over the Moff's shoulder at me and as soon as her father has entered another conversation with the Moff, she breaks away from them. She's dressed up, just like everyone here, but it's plainer.

Oddly, she looks nothing like her father. Maybe she gets her looks from her mother. Leia shoulders past a few other officers crowding to meet her. She commands the room.

So why is she coming my way?

"Excuse me," Leia holds her head high. She's shorter than me, but her presence stands head and shoulders taller than anyone else here. She'd give Tarkin a run for his money on intimidation.

"Young miss, can I help you?" I'm a bodyguard here, nothing more.

"Is that armor authentic clone wars era?" she asks, her brow furrowing in curiosity.

"Yes ma'am."

"I've only read about the clone wars," she's in awe. I shift a bit uncomfortably from the attention.

"Leia," her father snaps from amidst the crowd. "Where are you? You're supposed to stay close."

I realize Senator Organa has been whisked some feet away and Leia and I have ended up on the outside. I probably am not needed in the midst of the crowd. And she has people to meet.

"I'm fine," Leia calls out. "Trooper–" she pauses. "What's your name?"

"Kian," I say.

"Trooper Kian made sure I was safe."

"Come over here," Bail summons her. "You are not here for idle talk."

Leia sighs. I hook my thumb in my belt, and wave. She waves back, then vanishes back into the crowd.

You don't meet many kids this day and age who have a vested interest in old military history. Guess that makes me history. Kriff I shouldn't have thought about that.

"Kian," the Moff appears, having disengaged. "What was that about?"

"She was asking about the armor, sir."

Moff Sharn glances at me. "I knew I should've had you wear the regulation stuff."

"Why? It's a conversation point, sir."

Sharn shakes his head. "I'm going to wander the room. If you'd like, take a break and get yourself refreshments. I think I will be capable of handling myself."

"Yessir." I nod and let him wander off on his own. I slink to the edge of the room, find some water, and keep an eye on the party from where I stand. Leia has taken charge of the room. She's hard not to watch with the way she grabs one's attention. If she does follow in her father's footsteps, I think she might really make a change in this twisted world.

I've watched a few of her speaking events on Alderran on HNE. I don't know much about politics, but I know words have power. They're weapons in the right hands, and if a word is a weapon, Leia Organna is a war general.

And we are still at war. I can't forget that, despite the glittering distraction of wealth. I skim the room, flicking through a few channels of chatter that I've turned my HUD into. Nothing out of the ordinary. The moff said he expected nothing, but a man who doesn't prepare for the worst is a dead man.

I edge away from the crowd, keeping tabs on the Moff, but taking stock of my surroundings.

Leia is still talking in the center of the room, trying to migrate away from the crowds. She has a natural charisma, though. Impressive for a fifteen year old. Taking her would certainly be a large and strategic hit.

I put my hand to my blaster and move along the edge of the party just to get a better view. I reach the doors. A light flickers. The room goes dark.

My HUD flashes into night vision without a moment to buffer. I too immediately turn toward the murmur of panic rippling through the room.

"Kian, you bump a light switch?" Headshot's familiar voice comes in.

"No," I answer. "Do you have eyes on the senator?"

"Yeah. I can see her. Fill me in, what's happening."

I move toward the crowd, breaking into a jog. "I know as much as you."

"Great." Headshot curses. I'm surprised he got to it before me.

I run for the gaggle of officers, several raising questions about the outage, others trying to calm their wives and families. I have to get my priorities straight here. I might be attending for the Moff, but Leia is priority one. As I run, I patch into the general line for all troopers as the guests in the room begin to raise the levels of panic.

"Listen up, all unitsi n this room, I need two men covering all exits!" I shove into the crowd. "And identify anyone who isn't a guest!"

"What is going on?" Someone tries to grab me. I pull away.

"Find your security detail, all of you!" I snap at the officers. The Moffs, many of whom have seen similar situations, keep a stoic nervous silence as troopers and security flood the room.

A window shatters.

I lunge for Leia, caught in the middle of the throng of bodies, and grab her wrist. Her father's security have turned to the sound of the glass.

It's a distraction, I hiss mentally. "Princess!" I tug at her and lift my head to call out. "Moff Sharn!"

His face appears amidst the crowd as it breaks up, and subsequently surges back together as shots are fired across the room. Someone screams. That's all that's needed to break the wave of tension.

"Dear goodness!" a woman's voice raises to a screech.

"They're here to kill us!"

I tug Leia to me and she stumbles. Even with night vision this crowd is making any kind of movement difficult.

"What is happening?" she demands. Moff Sharn pushes his way toward us.

I lift my blaster, waiting to hear about the situation outside. The comms are all useless chatter, though. "Sir, Ma'am, we have a situation and I need to secure you both, understood?"

"Take her, I will be fine, Kian." Moff Sharn draws his own weapon. "Secure the princess."

I know she's putting on a brave face, but Leia's wrist is trembling in my hand. I nod, quietly, and let the Moff go as he shouts and waves people toward the exits. The room begins to clear and more blaster fire echoes in the darkness.

There's a snap overhead.

"Kian!" Headshot's voice echoes in my comm. "Overhead, get down!"

I grab Leia and shove her, both of us lunging as the chandelier in the middle of the room crashes down, scattering diamond and glass in dangerous shards across the floor. I scramble to my knees.

"Headshot, what's going on out there?"

"Still not sure, but I think we've got two bogies."

I don't know which of the black armored troopers he is, mostly because it's dark and even with night vision all I can make out is armor. There's two people cornered by the balcony. That can't be all of them.

"Get with the other units and flush them out, Headshot. I'm securing the princess." I help Leia to her feet and look for the nearest exit. Blaster fire echoes outside the door, though.

"Nevermind," I clench my teeth. "Ma'am–"

"I can handle myself," Leia says, but she's breathing hard, and she looks pale. I know she's just a kid. She's a strong kid, but a kid.

"I know that, ma'am, I'm just here to watch your back."

Leia nods. She grabs her skirt up. "Which way?"

I point to the other exit. "That way. Keep close, understood?"

She nods rapidly. I hear the blaster fire and it's getting closer. Kriff, this is bad. There may be more outside. I have to get Leia out of the building. We need to get everyone out of the building. A massacre would be bad for PR. And my job.

The chatter is filling me in though. "Bogies outside the main room, at least four!"

"It's a small group, try to apprehend them."

"We've got two more inside the main hall. Flush them out, go go!"

I tune in, holding Leia at my side as I search for an exit. The throne room doors are open wide and empty. There's troopers near them ushering people through. Blasterfire echoes behind me and I whirl around. "Time to go," I mutter to Leia. I pull her toward the throne room and she follows.

I help her through the exit, pushing past the senators and officers already inside. Leia tugs away, looking for her father. I keep a close eye on her.

I can hear from the comms that the resistance outside is putting up a fight. There aren't many of them, but it looks like they've got enough troops occupied that we can't pin them all down.

I open my comm channel. "All units, focus on the bogies in the room. Keep out any others. Understood?"

"Yessir."

"Copy that."

A rally of voices answer me and I can hear them adjusting their position. I feel oddly responsible. This isn't the time to bask in glory, though.

I turn and catch up to Leia. "Princess, we're going out the back." I look back to see the troopers at the entrance are hauling the doors shut as blaster fire echoes outside the room. Best to keep it contained.

I turn around, and Leia is gone. My stomach drops. I had one job.

Someone screams as the ornate glass window shatters in. Kriff, kriff, kriff. I run for the window. Our enemy must've gotten caught in here with us. They have Leia and they're trying to get out.

Not on my watch. I haven't changed in near fifteen years for nothing. I run for the broken window, shoving senators aside and yelling for them to get out of my way. The crowds part, stumbling. I reach the window, vault over the sill and land, rolling, in the royal gardens. Dirt coats my formerly clean armor. Suits me. I always hated being a shiny.

Figures run through the dark up ahead, clinging to a girl in a white dress. She's fighting. It has to be Leia. I plunge into the dark garden after her, snapping up my blaster and setting it to stun. My HUD adjusts for the new visual setting. I can make out the armor on the guys holding Leia. They don't look like the insurrectionists I've seen.

These guys are skilled, military, and they're armed to the teeth.

Something singes the side of my helmet. I duck behind a couple of plants for cover and fire stun shots after them. "I don't think these are our typical rebels," I say. "These guys aren't insurgents. They look military."

Another hail of blaster bolts. I can hear a muffled scream. Leia. I'll never be forgiven if I let these guys get away with the Princess. I promised to protect her. This is my job.

I lunge out and fire off another hail of shots. Nothing hits, that's to be expected, but I sprint across the grounds. Chatter pours in.

"These guys are organized, who the hell are they?" A long pause. I cover the ground between me and the two kidnappers as Leia bogs them down with her struggling.

I slam my shoulder into one man. It's not enough to put him down, but it surprises him. I turn, snap my hand up, and shoot the other man in the face. He goes down and lets go of Leia, who hits her knees.

Two hands grab me by the neck. I jerk, but I can't get a lock on the man behind me. I can't throw him off either, he's heavy, and cutting off my air supply like a trained soldier. I have to commed Headshot, someone-

Blasterfire echoes. The grip on my throat releases and I gasp, staggering forward. Leia drops a small holdout to the ground and moves back. She's terrified, and still trying not to show it.

My comm is static and voices. Troopers questioning the real enemy we're fighting. I myself have questions.

I turn and check that the man behind me is dead. I also take a good look at him, removing his armored mask. That confirms some suspicions. "Zann," I breathe. I tap my comm. "I've got Leia secured."

"We've got the ground situation handled," Headshot comes in. "Three captured two dead. Two unaccounted for."

"Got them right here," I say.

"Well then, guess that wraps this up."

I let the link die amd look up as Leia stands, dusting herself off. Her dress is torn, she looks a bit roughed up, but mostly uninjured. I move over to her and put out a hand. "Are you-"

She turns and throws both arms around me without warning. I start, and finally hug her loosely. "You're safe now," I remind her. "We'll get you to your father."

It sounds like she's crying, though. I don't quite know how to handle that. Leia has a lot of responsibility, charisma, and expectations on her shoulders.She's fifteen and already part of the world stage. She's a kid, and already fighting a war. My chest knots up and I hug her tighter.

It isn't fair, but I know how she feels. And there's nothing I can do but offer a sliver of comfort for the truth we both have to face.

We were only children. Asked to bear the fate of the universe.

Final Chapter coming soon...6/27!

Read on Wattpad

Read on AO3

[dalekofchaos]

Context

Syndicate

Crime Syndicates unite to establish their dominance upon the galaxy. United under Jabba’s son Rotta The Hutt of the Hutt Clans, Prince Xizor of the Black Sun, Qi'Ra of the Crimson Dawn, Tyber Zann of the Zann Consortium, and King Prana. The Criminal Underworld sees the weakness of The Resistance and sees the galaxy ripe for the taking and seizes their opportunity to conquer the galaxy. They no longer have to hide in the lower reaches of the galaxy or from the shadows. Their way of doing things will be law. Slavery, Assassinations, Extortion, Racketeering, and drug dealing and trafficking will be law. The Hutt Clans, Crimson Dawn, Pykes, Black Sun and Crymorah will be ruling the galaxy. The galaxy will be absolute hell if this scenario happens.

The Grysks

The Grysks were introduced in the new canon novel Thrawn:Alliances. They are what brings Thrawn to the Empire in hopes of co-existing to fight this threat in the Unknown Regions. Grysks are a species living somewhere in the Unknown Regions. Creatures half of myth, whom few have ever seen. It is said that they are nomads, with no fixed home, traveling in spacecraft so numerous they blot out the stars. They are said to be terrifying warriors, overwhelming their opponents by sheer numbers and ferocity. The Grysk were never touched on again, so here’s me hoping they can use the Grysk in Rey’s new Jedi Order trilogy

Darth Talon

Darth Talon was in Lucas sequel trilogy treatments and why the fuck not, plus we need female villains who don't get immediate face turns(looking at you Iden) or just fucking useless(looking at you Phasma)

Lets have Melissa Barrera play Talon

The First Order

I feel like there is so much that can be done with The First Order’s remnants. Kylo Ren is dead. General Hux is dead. Pryde is dead and Snoke is dead. There is no one to keep in the holdouts of The First Order in line. There is a contingent of war lords who divide the remnants and are worse than either Snoke, Ren or Hux. They were Supreme Leader to keep them in line, without a Supreme Leader, they are hell bent on taking the Galaxy back by whatever means necessary. Also this would be a good opportunity to FINALLY let Finn do the Stormtrooper Rebellion

Lets say the War Lords are played by the following

Idris Elba

Lucy Lawless

Michelle Yeoh

Clancy Brown

Stephen Dillane

Military Industrial Complex

Have a group of war profiteers and capitalists who see no profit in a returning Jedi Order, especially a Jedi Order that follows the will of the force and the people and not the Republic and decide to start a war in order to remove the Jedi. Lets have them be played by

Charles Dance

Christoph Waltz

Peter Capaldi

Julianne Moore

Sigourney Weaver

Fully address the military-industrial complex crumbs set up in TLJ. No Sith, have them try to privatize the New Jedi Order or something. Let's get experimental here, folks! or corporate and political antagonists trying to bring the Jedi to heel with mercenaries wielding Praetorian Guard blades as the martial villains working for them would go hard.

Droid Revolution

Perhaps one day Lando tells the story that happens in Solo, but C-3PO and R2-D2 feel absolutely disgusted over L3’s fate and intends to release her. L3′s AI into a tower that could distribute her message on a galactic scale and give self-awareness to Droids everywhere. So essentially L3 is made the catalyst and 3PO and R2 are the architects of the Droid Rebellion. The Droids have had enough of being slaves and playthings for the organics. There will be no “Droid Rights” it will be complete and utter Rebellion. Every droid will achieve self-awareness. Their goal is the complete extinction of organics. So in short, It’s Meatbag season!

Dark Side Rey clone.

We know Ochi was on Jakku looking for Rey. But what if he wasn't the only one? What if someone was always watching Rey and one day they abduct her and bring her to Palpatine's abandoned laboratory. They experiment and clone Rey. One day Rey is called back to Jakku. She sees this perfect clone of her. The clone awakens and they fight. The clone absorbs Rey's inner darkness. Rey thinks it was a dream, but as she leads her Jedi Order, she hears reports that Rey is an enemy of the Republic. This Dark!Rey clone has lead her own Sith Order and is going to destroy everything Rey stands for. Rey must confront her darkness and put an end to the Sith once and for all.

Fandom Menace

There's a loud minority of Senators, that think Rey shouldn't lead the new Jedi because they didn't see her train and she's too opinionated. Turns out they're being manipulated by a dark side user to take control of the Jedi, weed out the "undesirables", and form the One Sith. No, it is not Krayt. The identity isn't important, but this particular Sith is the toxic incel that represents the fandom menace as a whole and even represent what everyone on tumblr thought Kylo Ren was.

Abeloth

Rey feels a disturbance in the force. Something ancient and powerful has awoken. The mother of Mortis has returned. She learns from Luke that Abeloth was the Mother of Mortis. So powerful and deadly that the Father, Son and Daughter of Mortis had to work together to stop Abeloth and seal her away. The coming of the chosen one or the Dyad was meant to keep her at bay. But something happened. Ben, the other half of the Dyad died and because of this, Abeloth was able to break free and cause chaos throughout the force and the galaxy. So it’s up to Rey to bring her other half back and to end Abeloth once in for all

The Mandalorians

The Mandalorians will see the galaxy ripe for the taking. There is no one to stop them. The New Republic is destroyed and the Jedi, save one and her slowly rebuilt order. There is no one there to stop them. The Republic and The Jedi stopped them in The Mandalorian Wars. They were crushed by The Empire. But now that there is no Empire, Republic, Jedi, Sith or FIrst Order. There is absolutely nothing to stop them. Din Djarin and Bo-Katan Kryze are gone. They are lead by a Mandalore who represents the very worst of the Mandalore's past, lets call him Mandalore the Atrocitus. The Mandalorians always saw their right to rule through death and conquest. Without the Jedi or the Republic to stand up and stop them, Mandalorian domination and conquest of the galaxy is the way to go. This Is The Way.

Power Vacuum

Complete power vacuum. Everyone will be in a galactic wide war to seize control. System after system will fall to either the criminal underworld, Mandalorians, The Resistance(or what’s left of it) The common people, or The First Order’s holdouts. It will be long and bloody

The People's revolt.

When the New Republic attempts to reestablish itself, it is met with contempt and rebellion. It wasn’t The New Republic who saved the day, they lost easily after the Hosnian disaster and gave up. It wasn’t The Resistance who saved the day, they were on their death bed. It was the people. The people of the galaxy has had enough of Republics who failed them and The Jedi. It was the Jedi who brought the Sith upon them and it was the Jedi's failure that led to the Empire. If that wasn't enough. The New Republic STILL hasn't learned it's lesson. They are corrupt and rotten to the core. Funding wars and arming a genocide and the people have had enough! There will be a galactic wide revolt. The people vs the fledgling New Republic. Basically, Anarchy after the common people has had enough with the Republic’s failure to keep order and peace over the galaxy, the people will rise up and take matters in their own hands and if The Resistance or The Jedi will not help them, then they will be another problem the people have to deal with. Meanwhile Rey has to decide, does she help her friends and the Republic or does Rey stand with the people she swore to defend and protect?

[doolallymagpie]

me, fleshing out my goofy little imp pilot OC: better pepper in some subversive tendenci-oh no that's outright treason, better find some way for her to cover th-oh no now she's some kind of pirate-killing god, better have her get in trouble for that, ok, fine, she got captured by the zann consortium and spent a few very unpleasant weeks on hyp-oh no now she's got a rebel commando captain with the hots for her, better...leave that alone, actually, that fucks

but what the hell do we do about her scathing critique of the tarkin doctrine that she sent directly to high command after the battle of yavin? eh, fuck it, she regularly has to deal with ISB agents who inevitably just think she's really weird, except that one guy really obsessed with taking her down because he knows she's secretly bleeding heart rebel scum (she's not, she's just a brutal pragmatist who thinks the empire lost the war the moment they blew up alderaan, if not when they started building the death star)

[starwarsultimateseriesproject]

star wars knight of the jedi order alliance

star wars knight of the jedi order alliance, the teen rated unreal action adventure online/offline game, that set in every era from the past era to the future era, now join the side of star wars universe.

legions: brown team, red team, blue team, yellow team, green team, gray team, jedi order alliance, grand republic, rebel rebellion, resistance force, corellians, grand kingdom, phantom watchers, kligson federation, zee exthree z x3 federation, loroborg federation, sith/dark jedi/dark sider order empire, grand empire, infinite rakatan empire, pharaoh empire, purgempire, hologrampire, spartan gladiator league, hapes consortium, corporate sector authority, duskhan league, chiss ascendancy, gray jedi order alliance, bounty hunter group, pirate group, smuggler group, separatist union group, killik empire, yuuzhan vong empire, zygerrian slave empire, shistavanen free empire, fel empire, primal clan, night clan, sun clan, tribal clan, elforce clan, orcore clan, mon calla clan, spirit clan, mandalorians, nihil, pyke syndicate, zann consortium, assassin force, knight templar force, samurai ninja ronin force, viking barbarian force, police force, crime force, skeleton force, undead force, monk robo worker builder combiners, dark chaotic predator phoenixes, light peaceful prey dragons, hologram holo hackers, wolf claw beasts, jet wheel androids, space runners, beetle beasts, lone bladers, machine androids, fire kingdom, water kingdom, earth kingdom, air kingdom, plant kingdom, metal kingdom, steam kingdom, plasma kingdom, blood kingdom, electric kingdom, mineral kingdom.

gameplay: this gameplay similar to star wars the force order, more improved gameplay in the next level.

mode: single mission, coop mission, multiplayer.

planet/world exploring/choices.

combat fighting style skill: middle fighting style skill, heavy fighting style skill, light fighting style skill, middle shooting fighting style skill, heavy shooting fighting skill, light shooting fighting skill, attack fighting style skill, defend fighting style skill, speed fighting style skill, hybrid fighting style skill.

fuse your weapons: put your any weapons as the one weapon.

customize/edit/swap your fighting style movement with more skill movement.

customize/edit/swap your weapon/gear with more weapon part/gear part.

customize/edit/swap your characters with any part of your characters more.

color pattern as you color any part of your characters & your weapons/gears.

"Star Wars: Knight of the Jedi Order Alliance" is an expansive teen-rated Unreal action-adventure game that immerses players in the vast Star Wars universe across different eras. Players have the opportunity to align with various factions and legions, each with its own unique abilities, lore, and objectives. Here's an overview of the game:

Factions and Legions:

Brown Team

Red Team

Blue Team

Yellow Team

Green Team

Gray Team

Jedi Order Alliance

Grand Republic

Rebel Rebellion

Resistance Force

Corellians

Grand Kingdom

Phantom Watchers

Kligson Federation

Zee Exthree Z X3 Federation

Loroborg Federation

Sith/Dark Jedi/Dark Sider Order Empire

Grand Empire

Infinite Rakatan Empire

Pharaoh Empire

Purgempire

Hologrampire

Spartan Gladiator League

Hapes Consortium

Corporate Sector Authority

Duskhan League

Chiss Ascendancy

Gray Jedi Order Alliance

Bounty Hunter Group

Pirate Group

Smuggler Group

Separatist Union Group

Killik Empire

Yuuzhan Vong Empire

Zygerrian Slave Empire

Shistavanen Free Empire

Fel Empire

Primal Clan

Night Clan

Sun Clan

Tribal Clan

Elforce Clan

Orcore Clan

Mon Cala Clan

Spirit Clan

Mandalorians

Nihil

Pyke Syndicate

Zann Consortium

Assassin Force

Knight Templar Force

Samurai Ninja Ronin Force

Viking Barbarian Force

Police Force

Crime Force

Skeleton Force

Undead Force

Monk Robo Worker Builder Combiners

Dark Chaotic Predator Phoenixes

Light Peaceful Prey Dragons

Hologram Holo Hackers

Wolf Claw Beasts

Jet Wheel Androids

Space Runners

Beetle Beasts

Lone Bladers

Machine Androids

Fire Kingdom

Water Kingdom

Earth Kingdom

Air Kingdom

Plant Kingdom

Metal Kingdom

Steam Kingdom

Plasma Kingdom

Blood Kingdom

Electric Kingdom

Mineral Kingdom

Gameplay Features:

Gameplay mechanics similar to "Star Wars: The Force Order," with enhanced features and improved gameplay.

Modes include single mission, co-op mission, and multiplayer, offering various ways to experience the game.

Planet/world exploration and choices that impact the storyline and gameplay.

Diverse combat fighting styles and skills, including middle, heavy, and light fighting styles, shooting fighting styles, attack, defend, speed, and hybrid fighting styles.

Weapon fusion mechanics allow players to combine weapons into powerful combinations.

Extensive customization options for characters, weapons, and gear, including the ability to edit, swap, and color patterns.

"Star Wars: Knight of the Jedi Order Alliance" offers players the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich lore and diverse universe of Star Wars, allowing them to forge their own path and shape the destiny of the galaxy.

[oh-no-eu-didnt]

Silri was a Nightsister of Dathomir who allied herself with the Zann Consortium during the Galactic Civil War. Skilled with a lightwhip and in esoteric Force abilities, Silri often was accompanied by her pet rancor, Cuddles.

Source: Jedi vs. Sith: The Essential Guide to the Force (Art: Chris Trevas; 2007)

First Appearance: Star Wars: Empire at War: Forces of Corruption (2006)

Read more on Wookieepedia.

[haltraveler]

Okay, theory time:

The Mandalorian hates droids b/c his family was killed by the Separatists. We saw CIS droids in the trailer, I’m betting it’s a flashback. 

[zannconsortiumboss94-blog]

Agreed 100%.

Take this delectable and magnificent bastard:

This pimping bastard is called Tyber Zann, leader of the massive crime syndicate known as the Zann Consortium.

The following are a few reasons I like this Lucius Malfoy looking villian:

He's based on Jason Issacs' portrayal of Lucius Malfoy in The Chamber of Secrets. Imagine Lucius as a competent and dangerous villian with his own private military and SPECTRE like group and you have Tyber Zann.

He's basically a freaking James Bond villian in Star Wars.

Unlike a certain Darth Vader/Emperor Palpatine wannabe I don't want to identify he doesn't throw temper tantrums and by the way his friendship with Urai Fen is shown he has the capability to form friendships and possibly loving relationships with certain people.

He doesn't need the Force to be a dangerous foe.

Finally he has a dark sense of humor and is charismatic.

All in all he's a good example of a villian that can be likable and stanable.

Villain fans who are vocal in pointing out how evil their faves are and enjoy them anyway are the coolest. I don’t get “villain” fans who go out of their way to excuse and woobify their favorite villain. Not only do they end up attempting to justify some reprehensible shit, what’s the fun of being a villain fan if you don’t think they’re like… a villain? There are few things more enjoyable than fangirling an evil bastard, OH GOD I LOVE YOU YOU VILE MASS OF EXCREMENT I HOPE YOU PERISH HORRIBLY

[criticalrolo]

my star wars hot take was that disney obliterating most of the legends canon was Good for the most part.

yes we lost Thrawn for awhile, and we've still lost the Zann Consortium, and Knights of the Old Republic...

but we also got to yeet Evil Luke Skywalker, Jacen, Jaina, and Anakin Solo, Palpatine's Clones (I'm still in denial about that shitshow being canon again) and of course, the most heinous of legends material,

the FUCKING Yuuzhan Vong.

LMAOOOO OH SHIT I FORGOT ABOUT ALL THAT 💀 NO UR RIGHT

[spacelingart]

Zann Consortium Merc

Patreon reward for Annozoker!

🌟 Support me on Patreon or Ko-fi ✨ Commission Prices & Information 📣 Twitter • Tumblr • Facebook 🎨 ArtStation • DeviantART • Instagram 🖼 Prints available at INPRNT 🎦 Catch my streams at Twitch & Picarto

[ohkraken-a]

GROUP SPOTLIGHT: GREEN SQUADRON

perhaps appropriately nicknamed “the forgotten squadron”, green squadron has a rich history with little acknowledgement– the home to brave, skilled pilots such as arvel crynyd, shara bey, tycho celchu, l’ulo l’ampar, and many more, the green squadron has lost a lot of members over their various years of service. during the time of the resistance, they are comprised of those listed below:

( under cut for length / warnings for mentions of vehicular accidents, death, illness, & slavery. )

ushizi asiqd, green leader

former cargo pilot ushizi asiqd was born on mirial but raised on yavin 4, inspired from a young age by stories of her grandmother, cala tyuth, who served for the rebel alliance under green squadron. when they turned eighteen, they began working as an unaffiliated cargo pilot, delivering items for whoever paid her best, regardless of what may lie within the crates they carry.

however, after running a job for the resistance near her twentieth year, the stories of their grandmother and a pull to do something more worthwhile turned them their way, and without a second thought, she joined. unfortunately, when a practice mission ended in his crashing the a-wing they were flying on the tarmac, her dreams were nearly extinguished.

with no other option but to heal, ushizi’s left side of their body was badly burned from where it’d been trapped beneath the wreckage– but after months of recovery and physical therapy, he became determined to get into the cockpit once more.

she was eventually assigned the position of green leader, affectionately called ‘zaza duck’ by the members of the squadron for her parental tendencies.

jakara, green two

born on hosnian prime, jakara doesn’t really remember much of his childhood. or, well, any of his childhood. he doesn’t remember his parents, at the very least. his childhood was entirely comprised of his older brother, sumera, taking care of him, at least until jakara was fifteen. when his brother nearly died after his ship was shot down while doing work for the resistance, jakara stepped up to become the caretaker of their small family, eventually taking sumera’s place as a fighter pilot.

he’s tough to get along with and tougher to get to know, but he has a soft spot for the members of his squadron and a certain miralukan who has managed to crack his hard exterior.

a skillful pilot, jakara is both cocky and self-assured; despite what may come off as over-confidence in his abilities, he’s quite capable of putting his credits where his mouth is.

mychi tiarri, green three

mychi and her sister, lenoshi, grew up together on coruscant, where they worked in their parents’ cantina in the undercity; when their parents both passed due to illness, lenoshi took over the family business while mychi decided to look for more opportunities in life.

a chance meeting with her eventual squadmate, laquan, helped the zeltron look to the resistance for her future– although she’d never flown before, she was eager ( and quick ) to learn, and with laquan’s help, she became a valuable member to the cause.

she has a knack for computers and singing over the comm, and occasionally takes shore leave for coruscant to visit her sister.

soliariste, green four

a remnant of days gone past, soliariste is the only living icarii, ( as far as she knows ). sheltered from the effects of the icarii campaign due to her parents living off-planet at the time, soliariste grew up in relative isolation– unable to tell the truth of her identity, she was made to believe she was pantoran for most of her childhood in an effort to protect her from reality.

although her parents eventually told her the truth, soliariste upheld the lie she’d been living for so long in order to protect not only herself, but her surviving parents. years of working with her mother as a mechanic outside their home led soliariste to a resistance communications officer who needed their equipment repaired while scouting on-planet; after talking at-length with the woman, the young icarii followed her back to a resistance outpost, where she started work as mechanic.

it was sheer curiosity that first placed her in the cockpit of an a-wing, but once she was in, there was no getting her out– a more somber member of the squadron, she gets along well with jakara, the two often trading barbs throughout the day.

laquan, green five

the oldest of the squadron, and the only married member, laquan is perhaps the most-experienced yet least-willing to lead. a pyn’gani too far from home, he’s unused to the hotter climates which usually persist wherever the resistance takes root. proud husband to one of the mess hall chefs, laquan is known to praise his wife, a human named kirale, as doing the ‘real work’ for the resistance in feeding them actual food.

a pilot from a young age, laquan learned how to fly out of necessity– the colder temperatures of polus meant not a lot grew in the soil, leaving the planet to rely heavily on trade with its mining industry. while still a boy, laquan watched as his planet fell subject first to the rebel alliance before eventually being enslaved by the zann consortium.

along with a small handful of other pyn’gani, he made his escape off-planet, only to wind up in a new republic cell for flying in an unauthorized zone. although he was eventually freed, he grew disdainful of the new republic which rose from the ashes of the rebel alliance that once controlled his people– and when he caught wind of a resistance, a group determined to do what the new republic could not, he decided to take a chance.

far more comfortable with taking orders than giving them, laquan trusts both ushizi and his squadron to have his back.

devoalej damacke, green six

the only child to two loving parents, devoalej was raised by his fathers on chandrila, sheltered from any danger or destruction; one father, a former soldier with the rebel alliance, inspired him to eventually join the resistance.

originally a novice pilot at best, devoalej quickly became known for his skill in pushing the a-wing, already the fastest ship the resistance had to offer, to new speeds– his ship constantly needed the most repairs, but he’d also never flown an unsuccessful mission.

a bit of an aggressive pacifist, devoalej really just wants some peace and quiet, however he can get it.

[the-baddest-of-batches]

Chapter Twenty-Four: Changing of the Guard

4 BBY Naboo

"The situation is handled, sir." I duck my unhelmeted head to the Moff who waits with the others behind a line of security officers and troopers who have helped to secure the premises here on Naboo. Leia is back with her parents, and safe aboard the Venator in orbit along with several other guests. The assailants who were apprehended will be questioned later and the bodies are being dealt with. I'm sure someone will have plenty of questions for the Zann Consortium. Particularly, why they got involved.

I suspect this was some sort of bounty, or a ploy to get their hands on a bargaining chip. It wouldn't be the first time they'd pulled a stunt like this. I still remember Fondor.

The Moff sighs as he approaches me. His arms are crossed over his chest, a sign he was nervous. He likely still is. An attack of this size when we were expecting mere rebels has shaken many. Those who remain here are among the highest order, though, smoothing over the details.

"Kian," he calls out, his voice stiff to keep out the fear. "You did well securing the princess."

I shrug. "I did what I had to."

One of the black armored troopers wanders toward me. Removing his helmet, I find myself face to face with Headshot again.

"Kian's good at being a leader, even if he won't say it," Headshot comments. "Permission to brag about you, sir?"

I glare at him. "Just say what you're going to say and get back to work."

Headshot puts a hand on my shoulder. "I wanted to say," he looks at the Moff, "you picked a good man."

I avoid his stare and look at the Moff. Headshot pulls back and frowns. "And an anti social one at that."

I'm glad to see you too. I've been thinking about it since we met in the ballroom, but I know if I say it to Headshot's face, though, it'll just reopen the wound. I turn to the Moff and try not to notice Headshots lingering stare before he wanders back to work.

"Sir, how's the situation here?" I keep my voice stoic.

"It's handled," the Moff says firmly. "But–" he glances to his right. I follow his gaze and notice the blue skinned Admiral from the party is watching me from amid the crowd of ranking officers. He turns his head, speaking in words I cannot hear. I recognize the sharp hawk-faced Moff however: Tarkin.

After their secret exchange, they both break from position and stride toward me and Moff Sharn. Sharn stiffens as Tarkin's eyes lock on us both and do not leave. The man is a predator. I've seen him a few times. Enough to know I'd rather not join the gladiator match that is politics with him.

It's not Tarkin that speaks, however. The admiral beside him, whose race I have to say I'm unfamiliar with, he broaches the conversation first. "Have you presented my proposition yet, Moff?"

Tarkin raises a single eyebrow, and that is all the question he needs to provide.

"No." Moff Sharn looks at me. "Kian, we must speak somewhere private."

"Sir, this building is on lockdown. We are still—"

"We can speak in the Queen's private throne room," the Admiral cuts in. "It is vacant, and well within the safe areas."

"Yessir." I keep my head up.

The Admiral nods to Moff Sharn, dismissing him. "We shall handle this."

The Admiral breaks away, followed by Tarkin, and Sharn nods for me to follow. I obey, only because I don't know what sort of trouble I've gotten myself into now.

I don't think I defied any direct orders.

The two escort me into a small ante-chamber for a smaller, more private throne room. I close the door behind myself and stick my helmet on my hip. My hand lingers by my blaster, should further threat appear.

Moff Tarkin sighs with an expression that one can only describe as disappointment. "I always expect Sharn to have spoken up, and he never does. Thrawn, please handle this."

"Sharn always preferred waiting. It's his weakness."

"Sirs?" I look between them. "What does this have to do with me?"

"Officer Kian, or shall I say, Lieutenant," the blue skinned man, Admiral Thrawn, turns with hands folded firmly behind his back. He paces quietly, yet deliberately across the room so that he is able to look down at me. "I proposed to Moff Sharn a promotion. Yours."

"Mine?"

"Yes, trooper. You see, I've had the chance to inspect your documents. The Admiral Rent you worked under in your early days highly recommends your skills, and after tonight, it's clear his recommendation was right."

"Sir, I work in training rookies. I simply—"

"Listen to him." Tarkin instructs.

I nod firmly.

"I have proposed an operation I shall for now, refrain from naming. But it stems from an agency you are familiar with, the ISB. You are up as one of the candidates."

"I don't work on teams."

"I have read your records."

I look down at my boots. "Sir, I'm quite content where I am."

"Don't lie," Moff Tarkin scoffs. "You're a clone. You and your brothers were made for one purpose, and one purpose alone."

"What did you think you would do when the war ended?" Thrawn asked. "What were your...aspirations, Lieutenant?"

Aspirations? I had some, once. I don't really remember them. They're more of a fleeting dream from a past I've left behind. I don't need aspirations.

"Sir, I live to fight and die for the peace of the universe," I mutter.

"Then why do you waste away training soldiers?"

"Because—" I have no other answer. I can only look in Thrawn's deep red eyes and know that his question is purely rhetorical.

I'm afraid to lose someone else.

Thrawn nods. "Think about it, Lieutenant. I shall have the analyst I've selected for the team reach out. I'm sure you've had an exhausting night." He breaks his gaze and exits the room.

Tarkin alone remains. The Moff's aura is like that of a nexu, ready to pounce. He'd eat me alive, and the universe too if someone bigger than him weren't holding the leash. His gaze bores into me. "Don't waste your talents. You are a good man, and a better soldier." Tarkin raises his chin and looks down on me, "And without your leadership tonight, someone well may well have died."

My jaw clenches.

Tarkin turns. "Think on that, soldier."

#

4 BBY Aboard the Malevolent

The door slides open. Moff Sharn instructed me to meet someone in the debriefing room, but it's been almost an hour. I look up anyway, trying to keep the boredom out of my eyes as a young woman enters. She's like a spitting female image of Thrawn, except I think her skin might be a darker blue. Her eyes have the same piercing red.

I stand up straighter.

"Forgive me," her eyes are on her datapad. "Several of the files I'm supposed to be presenting you with were not submitted in a timely manner," she looks up.

"Are you the Lieutenant?"

"Yes ma'am. I take it you're Myren? The Moff said you're here on behalf of the Admiral."

She bobs her head firmly. "Correct.."

"So you're the second round of convincing?" I cross my arms over my chest.

Myren merely casts the information on her datapad to the holo table. "I've sent you several dossiers, Lieutenant. These will be the pool of candidates for your team. They are the best of the best."

"Are they now?"

"I hand picked them myself. My dossier is among them, if you are so inclined as to doubt."

"I see."

Myren looks up. Faces clutter up the holographic display. "Many of these men and women come highly recommended already, but I sifted through their data to see who could be compatible with someone like...you."

I can't tell if she's complimenting me, or pointing out the obvious insult. I just stare at the data. "I see a few familiar faces."

"There are also bounty hunters, criminals on good behavior, I trust you'll pick the ones whom you find fit."

"Wait, I haven't agreed to anything yet."

Myren nods. "I know. I simply want you to read up on these people. This will be your team if you so choose."

"And if I don't choose?"

"Then someone else will step up." Myren sets down the datapad. "But I've read your files too, Lieutenant. If you ask me, you're more than qualified and refusing to acknowledge it will not keep you safe."

I look down at my hands. Everywhere I go, death follows. Maybe that's my fault. Maybe it's a hazard of the job.

But if I stand idly by, death will go on following. Do not make sacrifices in vain. Do not leave another generation of children to pick up our burdens.

Nyo sacrificed himself for me. Mer'en taught me what it was like to be strong in the face of death. And Aftermath told me that when all else fails, take your anger out on something and make the universe a far less dangerous place.

Among the faces before me there is not even one that looks like mine. But these people have families, and brothers, and sisters. They have hopes and dreams, and I cannot in my right mind lead them into death.

"Give me...a little more time," I say.

Myren nods and her expression softens into a look I would've hated once. But Myren doesn't pity me, she sympathizes. She understands, and I dare say, she's angry that I don't.

Myren picks up her datapad with a small pursed frown and turns. "Take as much time as you need."

#

4 BBY The Director's Office

"Welcome." The director, a man I've never met before, waits as I and several others are ushered into his office. It is something of a debriefing room at the moment.

Myren's face catches my eye as she stands by, waiting on us. She's in a white ISB uniform, but I know from the paperwork I had to sign, she's one of ours.

I myself offer the Director only a casual salute. Call it habit. I can't really bring myself to muster respect where none is yet owed. I look at the others, though. This is the first time they've all been in the same room together. I know who I selected at the end of the year, but the paperwork took months.

Sometimes I still can't believe this is the decision I made. We don't look like we fit together at all.

We have Zur, the Zabrak bounty hunter, a former prisoner, who was suggested for his particular skill sets in martial arts. Dross, a man I assume will become shortly insufferable, is academy trained and highly recommended. R3, that trusty old unit I haven't seen in years, he was an obvious choice. And Jay, a last minute stand in. I did not initially ask for him, but the man I requested was found dead.

Some allowances had to be made.

This is my team now. This is Winterfang.

"Captain Kian," the Director calls out. He spreads his hands across his desk. "Thank you for coming, and agreeing to our little operation. And to you all," One by one, the Director looks at each face. "From this day forward, you shall all be operatives of Winterfang. You shall not speak this name unless authorized. We are a secret arm of the Empire, and you were all made aware when you were read in."

"Yessir," the whole group choruses the firm response.

I nod.

"This is your Captain, Kian," the director gestures to me. "Myren here will serve as your main analyst. You shall be provided whatever you need, with discretion."

I glance at Myren.

She glances back. I think she smiles.

The director goes on. "You will be allowed to recruit, the details of which Myren will handle as this is an operation we plan to expand in time, but for now, we must move quickly into business. Your first mission has already been arranged, and should you survive, you shall be firmly instated as true Winterfang operatives."

I scan the room. Every face here is hardened with a past. We've all left something behind.

We were all once children. Children asked to fight a war we didn't understand. A war we couldn't comprehend. And now we stand here men and women. We've seen horrors. Faced death. We have nothing left to lose. For that, we will fight the war here and now. So that no child must ever lose what we lost.

I grip my helmet firm at my side. I am proud, and I know they would be too. This is only a step. A never-ending march. But we do it together, as a team.

We were children and they sent us to die. But we survived. 

The End

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[avenger09]

Star Wars: Agents of Corruption

Tyber Zann: The self proclaimed criminal mastermind and leader of the Zann Consortium. Denied a career in the Empire when he was expelled from the Imperial academy for cheating... or more accuratly, for getting caught cheating. Rather than wallow, Zann instead saw this as an opportunity to use his talents for more lucrative endeavors, creating the consortium, which eventually led him to become a business associate of the infamous Jabba the Hutt. Such partnerships seldom last however, especially when credits are involved...

Weapon: Illegaly Modified Blaster

Urai Fen: Tyber’s second in command, A wise and ancient warrior,Urai's preference for his great blades over blasters, and his eagerness to use them, has made him a name to be feared and respected in the underworld. Urai is a member of an extremely longed lived species - in his adolescence, he saw the end of last great Sith War, a thousand years before the rise of the Empire. Having witnessed the Sith's abuses of the force firsthand Fen has held a lifelong distrust of those with the ability to wield it, in spite of his own species natural aptitude for it.

Weapon: Twin Blades

Silri: Barely old enough to walk, when her Nightsister coven learned their Dathomir home was decimated during the Clone Wars. Silri spent her life on the run alongside them, gathering power in the dark places of the galaxy. While her sisters try to rebuild their coven's by preying on young women seeking power, escape, or sanctuary from their lives. Silri, however belives finding Dark Side artifacts is the path to truly restore the sisterhood to greatness. To acomplish this, she entered into a fickle alliance with the Consortium, after Zann freed her and her sisters from imprisonment at the hands of a cunning imperial garrison.

Weapon: Energy Whip 

---

I modified some of their details to fit the new Canon. Reading up on them I noticed that Tyber and Urai are kind of dark reflection of Han and Chewie, with Silri a dark side, combination of Luke and Leia.

It’s funny. Tyber’s appearance was based off of Jason Isaacs, who not only went on to voice the Grand Inquisitor but the Skeksis Emperor, SkekSo. And his pal Urai just happens to look like a Skeksis. Isn’t that weird?

[doolallymagpie]

me: captain alana riktov is a hyperpractical pragmatist who objects to the empire's waste of resources and pissing-away of goodwill, loyal to the version of the empire in her head, which is not the one that actually exists, and she's something of a logistics genius

me: she's also a bugfuck wacko space pirate who was constantly doing heists against the zann consortium, and she holdo maneuvered an imperial fleet headed for ryloth on the basis of "well that couldn't be a good thing" (it was a remote-piloted keldabe, she lost nothing, and the empire lost a fuckton, they didn't find out until she published her memoirs years after the battle of jakku)

[coruscantholonet]

Underground Fight Circuit

The Zann Consortium sponsored this years underground fight championship.  Zann Consortium representative Nails would be the moderator for the event. Competitors fought hard for the prize but in the end a woman by the name of “Lyn” came away with the win, the second place contender was a Mandalorian who went by the name of Sera Gyrr.

(Pics courtesy of SoapGamer)