The Origins of the Force

[philly]

“It's strange, you can feel it even now in the wake of such death and destruction. In each of us I can feel the darkness which we had claimed to have purged from the very foundations of the galaxy. With such terrible power infecting all things, how can we still believe in peace?”

~Tenkai

Chapter Fifteen: The Legend of Tenkai

It seems so real… the wind, the trees, the birds. The smell of the air during a late summers afternoon on Terresta, I was only five years old but I can still feel the touch of the grass and the warmth of the sun. As I run through the meadow I can see my Father in the distance returning home from a hard days work. I run to greet him and he drops his bags to embrace me. He looks at me and says something; I can see him even now but I cannot recall the sound of his voice…

Suddenly I am cold. Bloodied and running through the night, the ice and snow numbs my feet and soon I can no longer go on. And then they take me, chain me to the wall of that labyrinth, and as they burn my flesh I can finally hear him again, my father screams in pain as they torture him in the exact spot which they’d brought me.

“I’ll be right back, Carashi. Everything’s going to be fine.”

“Wait! How does the story end Daddy?”

“… Goodbye Carashi…”

*WHAM!* The sound of my door slamming into the wall jolted me from my sleep. My hands were shaking and the room was freezing cold from the door being wide open. This same scenario had been occurring for the past several nights, my sleep plagued by these nightmares. But what could they be trying to tell me?

I climbed out of bed and put on my robes then went to the door. I checked the hinges and the knob, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Just then I heard her again, her voice carrying softly on the wind, each note illuminating the otherwise opaque night sky. I contemplated returning to my slumber, but I was weak. I ventured back out into the cold wilderness in search of Raina, her song led me back to the moonlit stream bed where I had first laid eyes on her, and she was even more radiant then before. As I slowly approached she stopped her singing and shot me a smile.

“Carashi… I was waiting.”

“How’d you know I’d come?” I asked.

“I didn’t…”

I leisurely sat down beside her at the edge of the stream and she began to sing again. Her words seemed to cause all of the light to dance around us.

“What is it that you’re singing?” I finally asked.

“It is an ancient poem,” Raina explained, “One passed down by the leaders of the Kumori. It tells the story of a man named Tenkai…”

“Tenkai? Who is that?”

Raina was silent, gazing into the glistening water.

“When Akari sealed the beast away… a long time ago… he made a promise to our people. That someday he would return and finally destroy the darkness once and for all. Many tales have been told, prophesizing his return. They say he will be a man in perfect balance with the force, not yin nor yang but one. Whole. The stories called this man Tenkai.”

“And this song you sing,” I asked, “Is it one of these legends?”

“One of them…” she answered, “This particular poem is said to awaken the spirit of Akari, to watch over you … to protect you.”

“And what, may I ask is it that you need protection from?”

Raina paused for a moment. She stared down at her reflection in the water, then slowly up towards the sky.

“Tell me Carashi,” she said, “What do you feel when you look at the full moon?”

I looked up into the sky, suddenly memories of running through the woods flashed into my head, my hands red with blood, being tortured by the elder’s lightning, and my father’s screams. I immediately shut my eyes and looked away.

“I feel… cold, lost… afraid.”

“Why do you fear to look into the light?”

“I don’t know.”

Raina slowly sat down beside me.

“You know, about a month before you arrived, my father became very sick,” Raina said, “It happens off and on now, but this time was particularly bad. I came out here every night, praying to Akari as his condition grew worse and worse… but then, you came, and my father recovered.”

“What are you saying?” I asked, “You think I healed your father?”

“I don’t know. I like to think that it’s not all just coincidence, that somehow it is connected. And the fact that they call you the son of Akari…”

Raina reached out to touch the scars on my face, this time I did not pull away.

“Akari abandoned me a long time ago, Raina,” I said, “I’m nobody’s savior. I don’t know what I am.”

“You don’t have to be. Just be Carashi.”

As I hung my head down, Raina grabbed my chin and turned my face to hers. I looked into her pale blue eyes and suddenly I wasn’t so alone, there was no more fear, no more Kumori, no more Luminos… just us. I leaned in closer and pressed my lips against hers and she kissed me back. At that moment I realized, maybe I don’t need to fulfill some ill fated destiny, maybe what I’ve spent my whole life searching for is right here in front of me.

* * *

The next morning, Anjuu, Senshi and Jack waited on the mountain summit as Raina and I finally made our appearance. Anjuu and Senshi stood to greet us but Jack continued to lie on his side, chewing a piece of grass.

“Late again I see,” Anjuu said to Raina, “And now Carashi too. Where were you two?”

Raina and I exchanged glances and goofy grins.

“Training,” I answered.

“Training, huh?” Jack said, flicking the piece of grass away “Is that what they’re callin it nowadays?”

“Good morning to you too, Jack,” I answered.

“Well,” Anjuu interrupted, “After yesterday’s tense training I’d figured we’d take it easy today. Now the four of you need to pair off, it’s best not to head down the mountain alone.”

“Ooo!” Jack suddenly called out, “I’m with Carashi!”

“Very well, Jack.” Anjuu answered.

I quickly grabbed Jack by the collar and pulled him aside.

“What are you doing? Why don’t you go with Senshi?”

“Senshi!? That guy’s a walking head case. Why, do you want to be with Raina?”

“Maybe I do,” I said, “Now go make up some excuse!”

“What are you gonna do? A little more ‘training’?”

“That’s none of your business, now say something damn it!”

“Alright, alright,” Jack said, pulling away from me, “No need to get all hostile, lover boy.”

As Jack and I turned back around we noticed that Senshi and Raina were already gone.

“Well, looks like they’re gone,” Jack said with a smile on his face, “Oh well! Seems like it’s just you and me again pal.”

“Crap… come on, maybe we can still find them.”

Meanwhile, Senshi and Raina walked alone through the woods, neither of them saying a word. Finally Senshi broke the silence.

“So, you and the new guy, huh?”

“What?”

“Heh, it’s funny… I don’t remember you ever spending the night training with me.”

“Give it a rest Senshi,” Raina said walking past him, “You and I are over, accept it.”

Senshi reached out and grabbed Raina’s arm, violently spinning her back around.

“Let me go!”

“Raina, Raina…” Senshi said, looking her up and down, “What am I to do with you? I tried to be nice. Ha, Akari knows I tried… but that just wasn’t good enough.”

“You’re hurting my arm, let go!”

Senshi’s face twisted in anger and he pulled her in closer as she continued to struggle against him.

“You know, you’re a very beautiful woman Raina. It saddens me to see you lower yourself like this. I’m afraid it’s something I cannot allow…”

Not too far away, Jack and I were stumbling down the mountain in an attempt to catch up with the others.

“Carashi, I have a question,” Jack said following behind me.

“Yeah, what is it?”

“Yesterday you mentioned that you learned to fight on a planet called ‘Terresta’. I was just wondering, what kind of place is Terresta?”

“Was,” I replied.

“Pardon?”

“Was Terresta, the planet is gone now. It was swallowed up by a black hole.”

“Really?” Jack asked inquisitively, “And what of your kin? Were they all destroyed too?”

“Most of them,” I answered, “There were four others that survived… but that’s all ancient history now.”

“These others… were they friends of yours?”

“For my part, I guess they were… why so curious?”

“Oh, no reason…” Jack responded. Suddenly the sound of Raina’s voice caught my attention.

“Let go of me!”

“Raina… Jack, wait here!”

I ran off into the woods toward the sound of her voice, finally I found her struggling to fight off Senshi. The sound of my lightsaber igniting drew his attention.

“Did I come at a bad time, Senshi?”

I could see the hate in Senshi’s eyes as he glared at me. He let go of Raina causing her to fall backwards.

“Back off Wonder boy,” Senshi yelled at me, “This doesn’t concern you!”

“Just walk away, Senshi. This doesn’t have to end with anyone getting hurt.”

“You think I’m afraid of you?”

“No, but if you touch her again, I’ll give you a reason to be.”

Senshi scowled at me and then glanced over at Raina.

“This isn’t over…” he said through his teeth as he turned and walked off into the woods. I quickly turned off my lightsaber and ran over to Raina.

“Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” Raina said, “Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it. Just stick with me from now on, you won’t have to worry about him anymore.”

As Raina and I walked off together, Senshi stomped bitterly through the woods muttering curses to himself. As his anger grew he lost his focus and tripped over a tree root, falling flat on his face. As he hit the ground he found himself at the feet of a man cloaked in black. Senshi looked up to see Jack extending his hand to him.

“Senshi, right?” Jack asked, helping Senshi to his feet.

“Yeah that’s me, what do you want?”

“What do I want?” Jack answered, “What I want is irrelevant, it’s what you want that’s important.”

“What do you mean?”

“You want the girl, Senshi, don’t you? But the off worlder stands in your way… what are you to do?”

“He’s just too strong,” Senshi said, shaking his head, “there isn’t much I can do.”

“Oh, but that is where you’re wrong my friend,” Jack snickered, “You want power? We can help you…”

“You have my attention.”

“Heh, follow me. My master will fill you in on all the details…”

Jack led Senshi deeper and deeper into the forest. The trees twisted and grew more menacing as if the forest it self was closing in around them. Finally they came to a marsh that was covered by a thick mist. The ground below them was heavily saturated and slurped with their every step. As Senshi parted aside the sheets of moss that hung from the trees he found himself standing before a large dark structure.

“Come.” Jack said, pulling his hood up over his head. Senshi followed Jack deep into the darkened building into a room lined with candles. Jack knelt before the altar.

“Lord Shokun, I have good news…”

From the shadows behind the altar, Shokun emerged. The very sight of him caused Senshi to take a step back.

“What is it,” Shokun asked in a low booming voice.

“The blood of Lucias is all but spent,” Jack answered, “The off worlder confirmed it himself. It would seem only five remain…”

“Excellent. We are so close now, his power is returning…”

“Who’s power?” Senshi asked.

“Who is this?”

“This is Senshi of Shadows, my lord. He too wishes to be rid of the off worlder.”

“I’m here because Jack promised me power!” Senshi interrupted.

“You want power? Ha!” Shokun laughed, “Do you know who we are, boy?”

Senshi shook his head. Shokun smiled and extended his hand causing the flames on all of the candles to shrink.

“We are the Samasu,” Shokun explained, “Servants of Anemos.”

“The power of the dark one is returning,” Jack said, “The seal must be broken, then all that is conceived in darkness shall bring life to Moujuu. And when he returns, only his servants shall share in his power.”

“That’s all well and good,” Senshi answered, “But I need this power now.”

“Hmph,” Shokun chuckled, “Tell me Senshi, what do you know of the dark side?”

* * *

A few weeks later Raina and I were sitting watching the sunrise together at our stream. Everything had become so peaceful and I was so happy I found that I was hardly able to even hold a thought in my head.

“Carashi,” Raina said, breaking the silence, “I’ve been meaning to ask you something, and you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to.”

“You can ask me anything,” I answered.

“How did you get those scars on your face?”

I turned my attention back to the stream, struggling to think of a way to explain it.

“I was… accused of a crime. They imprisoned me and tortured me.”

“What did you do?”

I hesitated for a moment. I could hear the word in my head, “murder”. I had almost forgotten about it. But still, I wasn’t afraid to say it. I trusted her.

“I… murdered my mother…”

Raina was silent for a moment. I continued to focus straight ahead, unsure of how she had taken it.

“I’m so sorry Carashi,” She finally said, “I had no idea.”

“I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my past,” I replied, “But whatever my crimes may have been I’ve paid for them and then some. That’s not who I am anymore.”

I finally looked up at Raina to see her smiling face looking at mine.

“I’m glad to hear it,” She said.

As I smiled back at her suddenly I heard something in the brush behind us. I perked up and spun my head around.

“What is it?” Raina asked.

“We’re not alone…”

I stepped in front of Raina and ignited my lightsaber. From behind one of the trees a sinister laugh slowly rose up, and out of the shadows stepped Senshi. There was something definitely different about him, his face was pale and his skin looked almost rotten. Then he opened his eyes. I was stunned to see them glowing a sickly yellow color.

“Senshi…” I said, “What happened to you?”

“Hehehehe…” Senshi continued to laugh, “Carashi of Shadows… protector of the seal. How did I know I’d find you here?”

“Senshi, listen to me,” I said, “It’s over between you and Raina. Now you obviously are not well, come, let us help you.”

“You fool,” Senshi croaked, “I don’t want the girl anymore… your blood will do just fine.”

“You can’t win Senshi, don’t do this.”

“You underestimate the power of the dark side. I have become stronger then you could ever dream to be, and when he returns, on that glorious day when all the Kumori are brought to their knees, then you will beg me for forgiveness!”

“Senshi!” Raina shouted, “Have you gone completely insane?”

“Heh, heh. No my dear, I’ve actually never seen things more clearly…”

Senshi slowly raised his hands toward me and suddenly ten bolts of lightning shot out of his finger tips in my direction. My eyes widened as I quickly raised my lightsaber to block it, but the force of the blow knocked the saber from my hand.

“Raina, take cover!” I shouted.

Senshi sent another wave of force lightning my way which I barely avoided and then darted off into the woods.

“Hahahaha!” Senshi cackled loudly, “Run Carashi, run!”

Senshi continued to shoot lightning at me as I raced between the trees, the dark energy splintering the wood sending shards of it flying in all directions. Finally he lost sight of me.

“Go ahead and hide, Carashi,” Senshi taunted, “After all, that is what you do best.”

Senshi suddenly spun around, unsheathing his katana. His blade crashed into mine and we pressed our two swords against each other. Senshi smirked at me.

“No in atrum; addo vita ut Moujuu…”

“What did you say?” I had heard those words before… in the cave during my trials. What could they mean?

“The Samasu are returning Carashi… your time is over!”

I pushed Senshi forward with my katana and kicked him aside. He regained his balance and came back at me; his attack style was far more aggressive then before. He swung his katana at me with reckless abandon, but still I dodged his every swipe. Finally our swords locked again. This time I used the force to shove him back into a tree and separate him from his katana. As he scurried back to his feet I placed my blade at his neck.

“Talk, who are the Samasu?”

“It’s too late,” Senshi said, “Even if I don’t finish you… he will…”

“Who!?”

Senshi didn’t answer. He quickly shot out his hand to summon back his sword. Without hesitation I slid my katana across his neck sending blood spurting upward. Senshi collapsed to the ground. As I shook the blood off of my blade, I heard Raina coming up behind me.

“This is yours,” She handed me back my lightsaber. I sheathed my katana and clipped the saber back onto my belt.

“I’m sorry you had to see that, Raina,” I said.

“You did what you had to,” Raina answered, “Whatever that was… it wasn’t Senshi... not anymore.”

* * *

In the darkness of the shadow sanctum, Jack approached the altar where Shokun sat.

“It would appear that Senshi has failed, my lord.”

“Hmm… indeed this Carashi is as powerful as you had predicted,” Shokun said, “There can be no room for error from here on in.”

“I have felt the dark one’s power growing these past months my lord, the time is now.”

“What do you suggest we do?” Shokun asked.

“The blood of Akari is strong,” Jack answered, “And if this one were to realize his true potential then he could destroy us… but, for all of his strengths he still has one weakness…”

[philly]

“The path of the warrior is defined by a lust for power. Even the most virtuous of men find their paths twisted in the darkness and eventually consumed by it. Death stalks us all, power shall be my epitaph.”

~Anemos of Shadows

Chapter Sixteen: The Power of the Dark Side

And so it has come to this. I can see no recourse, if the Luminos are to survive then I must take these matters into my own hands. My siblings have committed an unforgivable sin, they can no longer be trusted with the purity of our race. Apostates of the house of my father, all of them! And so they all must be punished. It didn’t have to come to this, but the Luminos will be a great people again, no matter who would stand in my way.

As night fell on the city of Coruscant I stood before my brothers and sister a changed man. When my blade pierced the flesh of my sister’s lover it became clear to me that my father’s dream; that peace would require blood. After all, death is a natural part of life. Even Lucias had to slay the armies of the wicked to achieve peace, and so shall it be with me…

The Jedi we had been training, now armed to the teeth with katanas of their own, they rushed into the courtyard standing among the slain Libertas. As I raised my hand to push them back, suddenly I felt strange. The force seemed to feed off of my anger in a way I could scarcely control. As I extended my hand I held nothing back, the force flowed through me and the energy shot out of my hand in the form of lightning that spewed over the unsuspecting Jedi. My entire body seared and ached with the raw power of it… but I liked it.

As the Jedi began to advance forward, Ajunta tugged at my arm.

“Come on, this way! We can’t take them all on down here!”

We turned and retreated into the palace where several Libertas were standing at attention. Ajunta quickly signaled them and they all rushed in to meet the Jedi head on. The two sides crashed into each other, the Jedi gaining the upper hand as their numbers pushed the few palace guards back.

“Atredious!” Terentius yelled as he took off one of the Libertas’ hands with his saber, “we cannot let him escape!”

“You three go after him!” Miles yelled back at Terentius kicking an enemy aside, “We can handle ourselves here.”

“Are you sure?”

“Just go! None of this will mean anything if Ajunta escapes!”

“Very well. Secure the palace, we’ll be back!” Terentius turned to Constans and Eva and motioned for them to follow. The three of them headed down a long corridor after Ajunta and I and finally to a hanger in the rear of the palace. They arrived just in time to see our ship take off.

“They escaped…” Constans said.

“Not yet,” Terentius answered pointing toward the familiar old battered spacecraft still in the hanger.

“Our old ship,” Eva said, “Do you think it’s flyable?”

“There’s only one way to find out,” Terentius answered. He rushed up the ship’s ramp and into the cockpit where he punched at several buttons, but to no avail. Just then Constans and Eva entered the cockpit after him. Constans watched as Terentius fumbled at the controls, finally interrupting him.

“Here, let me try,” Constans nudged Terentius aside, stared at the controls for a second while scratching his chin, then finally raised his fist and slammed it into the panel. Suddenly the controls lit up.

“Nice,” Terentius commented.

“She just needed a little love, that’s all,” Constans answered. Terentius sat down in the pilot’s seat and slowly eased the old ship out of the hanger.

“Where do you think they went?” Eva asked.

“Libertas station,” Terentius answered, “All of Ajunta’s back up is there.”

“Do you think we can take them all by ourselves?” Constans asked.

“We won’t have to, so long as we can get to Ajunta first and talk some sense into Atredious…”

Meanwhile, back in the palace Miles Drake and the other Jedi finished off the last of the remaining Libertas. As the last of them fell, from inside the throne room stepped a man in dark armor wielding a lightsaber of his own. It was Ajunta’s right hand man, Jurran Reed.

“Well, it would seem we underestimated you,” Jurran said with a sneer, “But this time there will be no mistake.”

“Jurran,” Miles called back, “Don’t go through with this, Ajunta has lost his mind! He’s become even worse then James Cell ever was!”

“Heh heh, you don’t get it do you? The power that Carashi taught us, the power that those Luminos taught you… it’s nothing! We’ve discovered something far greater.”

“You can’t win Jurran. Not against all of us,” Miles lowered his sword and extended his hand to Jurran, “Come with us. There’s no need to throw your life away.”

“Hahahahaha… the force is a living thing Miles. It needs to feed, and emotion is its fuel. Give in to your anger, Miles. Fuel your hatred and feel its power,” Jurran raised his blade above his head, “Bring it on, all of you! You can’t possibly defeat me now!”

Miles was still for a moment, a look of dejection on his face. Finally he too raised his katana. Jurran didn’t hesitate, charging at Miles and slamming his sword into his. After a brief jockeying of strength Jurran extended his hand and shoved Miles back with the force. Just then all of the other Jedi swarmed over Jurran who, in an unnatural display of muscle, knocked them each aside one by one. Finally he ended this exhibition by decapitating one of the Jedi and with a powerful thrust, kicked his limp body aside.

“Is that all you’ve got?” Jurran taunted as the Jedi slowly rose back to their feet. Jurran readied himself for another wave when he noticed the Jedi were just staring at him. Quickly he spun around and came face to face with Miles, with a flash of light his blade swept across Jurran’s chest. Jurran fell to his knees, his katana rolled off of his finger tips and clattered onto the floor. He looked on in utter disbelief at the blood pouring from his chest.

“And now that it is over, what has your power brought you?” Miles said to Jurran as he collapsed, “I’m sorry old friend.”

* * *

On the bridge of Libertas station, Ajunta Pall quickly punched a code into the panel on the wall. It slid open to reveal a weapons cache of katanas and rifles. As Ajunta frantically dug through the weapons, I just gazed out into space, transfixed on the stars. My mind was racing, so many thoughts at once each of which was more and more sickening. As my mind wandered I steadily became aware of Ajunta babbling on about something.

“Silence!” I yelled, “They’re coming…”

“Of course they’ll come,” Ajunta answered, “But their army won’t be any match for ours, not with all of these weapons.”

“No you fool. Not the Jedi… my kin… they’re coming.”

“What? Just the three of them? They’ll never get past all of the Libertas, even without the weapons, three kids are no match for my army.”

I slowly turned away from the window and looked at Ajunta.

“They’re here.”

Just then a lightsaber burst through the bridge door cutting a clean circular hole into it. The hunk of metal was kicked inward and through the breach came Terentius, Constans and Eva.

“Atredious!” Terentius yelled, there was a clear strain in his voice.

“Good of you to come, brother,” I answered, “You always were very dependable. Father would be proud…”

“Enough of this! You have to understand, this isn’t what Father wanted!”

“Such an ego…” I scolded, my gaze never leaving Terentius, “Do you remember what you said to me, that last day on Terresta? You said, ‘Have faith in Lucias.’… Do you now think yourself so great that you are above the word of Lucias himself?”

“Atredious…” Terentius said, almost exhausted, “The council was wrong about humans, there is no more evil in them then any of us. The council was evil!”

“Hmph,” I laughed to myself, “That’s what I thought,” I ignited my lightsaber and closed my eyes. All of my dark thoughts continued to swirl in my head until finally I could hold it back no longer. Slowly I reopened my eyes and my sibling recoiled. My eyes had began to glow as red as my saber’s blade.

“The penalty for treason is death!” I yelled, “Now come!”

Terentius hesitated no longer; he came at me with his saber and attacked with skilled precision. I was able to match him blow for blow, but then Eva attacked as well. Meanwhile, Constans was able to keep Ajunta busy. With a single swing of his lightsaber he cut Ajunta’s carefully sharpened katana in two. Dropping the broken hilt Ajunta then pulled out his lightsaber only to have Constans yank it away from him with the force. Desperate, Ajunta extended his hand, shoving Constans back, he quickly turned and dashed for the weapons cache. As he made his way inside Constans stood up and used the force to slide the blast door shut and lock Ajunta inside.

Constans then too joined my other siblings in attacking me. I continued to slash wildly at Terentius and Eva, my body was moving almost completely out of my control. As Constans entered the fray I was backed into a corner and surrounded.

“So this is it?” I said, “This is how the Luminos die…”

“We’re not going to kill you,” Terentius said, “But you have gone too far this time. Murder, anarchy, and malicious use of the force, you have deliberately violated every law passed down by Lucias himself and you would claim that we are the traitors?”

“If we allow these humans to rule then the Luminos are finished! Father said that…”

“Father is dead Atredious!” Terentius interrupted, “Accept it!”

“That is something I cannot do…” I turned off my lightsaber in an attempt to get them to lower their guard, then quickly raised both my hands to shower them with lightning. However, they simply redirected the lightning back at me with their lightsabers.

I pushed as hard as I could but it was no use. I soon collapsed, my skin burning. The only thing running through my mind was the promise I had failed to keep…

* * *

As I lay unconscious on the floor my siblings stood at the bridge controls.

“What are we to do with them?” Constans asked, “We can’t just kill all of Libertas.”

“I know,” Terentius answered, “But they can’t stay here…”

“Then what are you suggesting? Exile? But to where?”

Terentius brought up the ship’s navicomputer and scanned the list of planets. One in particular caught his eye.

“There,” Terentius said, tapping on a small orange world in the far corner of the screen, “this one is barren… no known life forms.”

“Korriban…” Eva read aloud.

“We’ll send the station there,” Terentius said, “If they should survive the crash well… may Lucias help them…”

Constans punched in the coordinates and the station slowly made its turn. The three of them exchanged despondent glances as the station finally settled into position.

“She’ll jump into hyperspace in twenty minutes, which should be plenty of time if we don’t do anything…”

“Freeze!”

“…stupid.”

Behind the three Luminos the Libertas blocked the exit wielding blasters and katanas. Terentius looked over at Eva and nodded, then to Constans. All three at once used force push on the control panel, breaking it off and sending it flying at the exit. The explosion knocked the Libertas aside allowing the Luminos to dash past.

“Well there’s no stopping it now,” Constans said, “This ship is headed for Korriban.”

Terentius ignited his lightsaber and cut an opening into one of the vents.

“Hurry, we can get to the hanger through here.”

The three Luminos shuffled there way through the ventilation shaft, finally arriving at the hanger. As they dropped down and reentered their shuttle, a squad of Libertas suddenly rushed in and began to set up an ion cannon.

“Get this thing in the air!” Eva shouted as Terentius scrambled to the pilot’s seat and began punching wildly at the controls.

“Damn it! Where’s the start button on this thing!?”

“Outta the way,” Constans yelled giving the control panel a swift kick. The instruments suddenly lit up and the Luminos were thrust backward as the ship took off.

* * *

Back on the bridge, Ajunta’s beating on the blast door finally caught the attention of some of the Libertas who rushed over to open it. Ajunta fell out, gasping for air.

“Where… where are they!?” He gasped. The Libertas looked at each other stupefied. “Idiots!” Ajunta shoved the guards aside and walked over to where I lay unconscious. He gave me a hard kick in the ribs. “Wake up!”

“What…”

“They got away.”

I sat up and looked around the room, immediately I noticed the instrument panel missing. I quickly turned my head out the window and noticed Coruscant was no longer in view.

“What happened to Coruscant?” I asked. The others became dead silent as they stared out the window as well. Suddenly the stars began to elongate and with a sudden flash of light the ship was sent hurtling into hyperspace.

* * *

It seemed like days that we sat on that ship until it finally exited hyperspace. Outside of the bridge window I could see an orange rocky planet growing larger and larger.

“Where the hell are we?” I asked.

“Could be anywhere,” Ajunta answered, “Since those bastards destroyed the control panel, we have no way of knowing where we are or which way is home.”

“Send all our troops to the hanger, we’re going to the surface. If there’s anything intelligent on that planet it could be our only hope.”

“Yes m’lord, but it will take some time, we have to test the atmosphere and run several…”

“Now, Ajunta,” I yelled, “In case you hadn’t noticed, this station is on a collision course, and we have no way of slowing it down.”

Ajunta looked up out the window again and noticed the planet growing rapidly. He silently nodded and took off towards the hanger. I turned to leave as well when I noticed my lightsaber still lying on the floor. I summoned it back to my hand and followed after Ajunta.

There were only a few ships in the hanger, each packed to capacity with what was left of the Libertas. Our ships took off and out into space. Once we got enough distance between ourselves and the station, we watched as it plummeted toward the surface. The massive fire ball was visible even from our position miles over head.

“Take us down,” I ordered.

“Where?” the pilot asked.

As I scanned the planet’s surface I noticed a large valley cutting through the barren wastes.

“There,” I said pointing to the valley, “If there’s any life, that’s where I’m betting it would be…”

[philly]

“Go forth my sons, be a beacon for those who are lost and immersed in darkness. Even though I may be gone, the name of Lucias shall live on in my children forever. Never forget who and what you are; pure of mind, of body, and of spirit.”

~Excerpt from the Book of Lucias

Chapter Seventeen: Shadows to Dust…

I still couldn’t sleep. Something dark in the depths of my mind was tormenting me. No matter how hard I try to make things right, it’s always there. I stood at my window, staring out at the blackened trees and listening to the muted sound of the branches swaying in the wind from behind the glass.

It was so cold on Chinine at night, almost as if life itself just stopped. In the bed behind me Raina slowly awakened. I didn’t turn, just continued to gaze blankly into the darkness.

“Still having nightmares?” Raina asked.

“Yes,” I answered softly, “I thought I would be able to shake them… but they just get worse as time passes.”

“Are you sure you’re not just putting too much pressure on yourself?”

“I stayed here because I felt I finally belonged somewhere. But the longer I’m here the more I feel…” I hesitated for a moment.

“Feel what?” Raina asked.

“I feel like I’m still running from my past. I know what I have to do but… maybe I’m just afraid of what it would mean if I did it.”

Raina came over from the bed and wrapped her arms around me.

“I love you. You belong here, with the Kumori… and with me.”

I smiled and placed my hands on hers.

“You’re right. I love you too.”

“Carashi…” Raina trailed off. She had a concerned tone in her voice which caught my attention. I immediately turned to her.

“What? What’s wrong?”

Raina seemed distant for a moment, then finally her eyes came back to mine.

“Carashi I’m… I’m pregnant.”

I was at a loss for words, so naturally I spit out the first thing that came to mind.

“How!?”

Raina raised her eyebrow, staring at me as I continued to fumble with my words.

“Well obviously… I know how. But… when did you?...”

“Just yesterday.”

“Your father doesn’t know, does he?”

“No. What are we going to do? We can’t tell him, can we?

“I’ll tell him,” I said almost cringing at the thought, “Anjuu is a good man, he’ll understand. I’ll go over there first thing tomorrow morning.”

Raina smiled and gave me a big hug and kiss.

“Thank you.”

As she returned to the bed I turned back to the window. Just two seconds ago I thought I knew what I had to do. But now things were even more complicated then before…

“Aren’t you coming back to bed?” Raina asked.

“Yeah,” I answered quietly, “Just gimme a minute.”

I leaned back in my chair listening to the wind howl outside. I remained there, transfixed, until morning.

* * *

The very next day I left early to head for Anjuu’s home. I couldn’t even begin to fathom how I was going to tell him or what words I might use, but my feet kept me moving forwards anyway. Finally I arrived and noticed his door was open. I leaned in and saw Anjuu sitting meditating on the floor. I knocked gently on the door to get his attention.

“Excuse me, Anjuu,” I said shyly, as if I’d never spoken to the man before. He perked up from his position and turned to face me.

“Carashi,” Anjuu said with enthusiasm, “well I must say this is an unexpected surprise. Please, come in.”

“Do you want me to close the door?” I asked.

“No no,” Anjuu exclaimed, “I always leave it open. The fresh air is good for the soul. Come on in and make yourself comfortable, I believe I still have some tea on the stove.”

“Oh that’s quite alright, I won’t be long…”

“Nonsense. You just have a seat and I’ll be back before you know it.”

Anjuu scurried off into the kitchen, he probably didn’t get very many guests and considering the news that I had come to deliver, I figured it would be in my best interest to be as polite as possible. As I looked around the room I noticed all sorts of trinkets and artifacts, the old man had quite a collection. One piece in particular was especially stunning; a bronze relief that hung on the wall. It depicted a winged man of gold falling from the heavens and into a pit of fire. As I stared at the piece, Anjuu emerged from the kitchen and handed me my tea.

“An impressive collection you have here,” I said.

“Oh yes,” Anjuu replied, “Priceless treasures from throughout our history… it always is comforting to me to be reminded of where I come from… who I am.”

“I was just admiring that one,” I said, pointing towards the relief. Anjuu smiled, almost laughing to himself.

“Intangible,” He said.

“I beg your pardon?”

“It is said that the first beings to have been created by the gods… were godlike themselves.”

“You mean like the Luminos?”

“Oh no… far more powerful then that I’m afraid. The Intangibles were as indestructible as the gods themselves. But naturally such power went to their heads. They tried to become greater then the gods, and so they were cursed and cast down.”

“Indestructible?”

“Ha ha, don’t worry my boy. It’s only a myth. And even if it were true, the Intangibles would be long extinct by now, I assure you.”

After that there was a long and awkward silence. I sipped my tea trying to think of what to say next when Anjuu finally spoke up.

“I have a feeling you didn’t come here just to keep me company, so what troubles you my son?”

“What do you mean? I don’t mind keeping you company…”

“Oh don’t give me that,” Anjuu interrupted, “I’m old, not stupid. Now tell me, what’s on your mind?”

I placed my tea cup down on the table in front of me and collected my thoughts.

“It’s about… Raina.”

“Oh? Nothing’s wrong I hope.”

“No, nothing’s wrong… well as you know, Raina and I have become very close in these recent months…”

“Careful Carashi,” Anjuu warned, “You have pledged yourself to the shadows… and one can only dwell within shadow alone.”

“I know but…”

“But what?”

I took a deep breath and looked Anjuu in the eyes.

“I just found out last night… Raina is pregnant…”

Anjuu was silent as he stared off into space for a moment. He then rose to his feet without saying a word and walked over to the bronze relief on the wall.

“And you are the father I presume.”

“Yes…”

“That is unfortunate… you would’ve become one of our finest warriors…”

“I can still be a Kumori.”

“No!” Anjuu shouted back, “That is no life for a man with a family… trust me, I know. To be Kumori is to be alone. It is a simple and unavoidable truth.”

“Then what?” I asked.

“What? You’re going to be a father and a husband… that is your duty now. This is the path you and Raina have chosen… and I am happy for you…you do intend to marry her, don’t you?”

“Of course.”

“Hmph… well then you better get going. I’m going to need total peace and quiet if I’m going to plan a wedding.”

“Thank you, Anjuu.”

“Go on then… Lucias be with all three of you my son.”

* * *

That night I was again disturbed by nightmares. The beautiful field I had once embraced my father in on Terresta was now frozen and dead, covered in a thick sheet of snow. My home was old and worn… I drudged through the cold and entered the open door to find an old man staring back at me. I called out to him.

“Father!”

But there was no answer. Consumed by a feeling of rage, I watched myself from afar as I withdrew my katana and thrust it into his stomach.

“Be strong for me, Father…”

With the sound of cracking metal I was suddenly jolted awake. My door was open again and Raina was gone… I shot up out of the bed and out the door, looking frantically in all directions.

“Raina! Raina!” I yelled as loud as I could, but there was no answer. It was then I saw a man running down the road toward me, it was Jack.

“Carashi!” Jack shouted, “There you are!”

“Jack? What’s wrong? Where’s Raina?”

“She’s fine,” Jack said out of breath, “She’s in the village, you have to come quick!”

“What is it?”

“It’s Anjuu…”

My eyes widened and I motioned for Jack to lead the way. I followed Jack back into town where the commotion had awakened the other villagers; they were all gathered around Anjuu’s home. Jack and I pushed our way through the crowd and into the house where Raina held her father in his arms. A katana lay lodged in his stomach, the hilt having been broken off.

“Is he?...”

Raina nodded slowly, whipping the tears away from her face.

“I’m so sorry Raina…”

“His attacker must have snuck in while he was asleep,” Jack said, examining the room, “From the looks of things here, there was definitely a struggle.”

It was then I became aware of my surroundings, the room was trashed. The artifacts that had been placed around the room were now strewn about the floor, most of which were destroyed beyond repair. Only the relief of the Intangible remained untouched.

“Such a terrible tragedy,” Jack said shaking his head, “For our leader to die so soon.”

I walked over to Raina and put my arms around her to try and comfort her.

“Then… who will lead the Kumori now?” I asked.

“According to our laws the eldest of the tribe must always lead,” Jack explained, “Wisdom is of great importance among the Kumori.”

“But who?”

“That would be me.”

A tall and muscular man with long dark hair entered the home. He had a large scar on his face and his eyes were cold and emotionless.

“My name is Shokun… Shokun of Shadows.”

“I’ve never seen you around the village before…” I said to Shokun.

“There is no need for concern Carashi,” Jack said, “Shokun is a wise and powerful leader. He will find Anjuu’s murderer and bring him to justice.”

“That I can guarantee,” Shokun said.

I looked at Shokun suspiciously. There was definitely something dark about him.

“Well I guess we don’t have much choice, do we? If Jack trusts you… then I will trust you.”

Shokun nodded slightly and turned around, exiting the home to address the crowd that had gathered. Inside, Jack, Raina and I sat in silence trying to make sense of what had just occurred.

“I… I can’t believe this is happening,” Raina finally said carefully laying Anjuu’s body onto the floor. I helped her back to her feet.

“I had just spoken with him yesterday…” I said in a daze staring at the old man with whom I had just recently had tea. It was then that the murder weapon caught my attention.

“Then you were the last one to see him alive,” Jack answered, “Other then the murderer of course…”

“I have to go back to my home.” I suddenly shouted.

“Buy why?” Raina asked.

“There is something I must check. Wait for me here.”

I abruptly dashed out of the house, leaving Jack and Raina dumbfounded by my sudden change in behavior. I pushed through the crowd again and ran as fast as I could back down the road and through the open door of my home. I immediately went to the closet and began rummaging through my robes. I paused as I came across what I was looking for. A look of horror swept across my face as out from one of my robes I slowly pulled the hilt of a katana, the blade was broken off and missing.

I stood up and stumbled back away from the closet shaking my head. I dropped the hilt and it hit the floor with a thud.

“I-I couldn’t have… it’s not possible!”

“Couldn’t have what?”

Startled, I spun around to see Jack standing in the doorway. His gaze slowly transferred from me to the hilt on the floor.

“You…” he said slowly.

“No…it couldn’t have been… at least I don’t think it could…”

“If Shokun were to discover this, they would have to kill you… and if Raina found out…”

“You can’t!” I shouted back, “You wouldn’t tell her…”

“I’m not so sure…”

“Jack, I have to get out of here… you have to help me.”

A smirk came over Jack’s face as he closed his eyes and lowered his head.

“I’ll do what I can.”

“Thank you Jack, you’re a good friend. You have to tell Raina to meet me by our stream at sunrise, tell her it’s important.”

“Where are you going to go?” Jack asked.

“Back where I belong,” I answered, “I’m a Kumori now, I can’t keep running any longer.”

“Very well… but you owe me one.”

“You’re a life saver Jack. I won’t forget this.”

* * *

Later that night, after the crowd had dispersed, Jack returned to Anjuu’s home. Only Shokun remained inside, sitting in the darkness.

“It would seem things have taken an unexpected turn in our favor, my lord.”

“You may see it that way, but I do not,” Shokun said, “The girl now too carries the blood of Akari within her.”

“Do not worry my lord,” Jack answered, “These recent turn of events have convinced our Luminos friend to return to his home world. I’m certain that if any sons of Akari still live, I will find them there.”

“Go then, wipe them all out. Once the line of Lucias is destroyed then the seal will be broken… and our King will return to rule once more…”

“I will not fail Lord Shokun. Anemos shall live again.”

With that Jack left the home and Shokun alone. The sun was rising and down by the stream I nervously awaited Raina. Finally from the forest, she and Jack arrived.

“Carashi, there you are!” Raina said, giving me a hug, “What is it you had to tell me here?”

“We have to leave, Raina. It’s no longer safe here.”

“Leave? But where will we go?”

“Back to where I came from, to Coruscant. I have friends there, we will be safe.”

“I don’t understand, what’s going on?”

“Raina, you have to trust me.”

“I do trust you Carashi.”

“The ship you landed in is just behind the tower,” Jack said, “And if you’re leaving then I’m coming too.”

“Jack… you don’t have to do this.”

“But I want to… what are friends for?”

I smiled and patted Jack on the shoulder.

“Well then it’s good to have you with us. Come on, let’s get out of here.”

[Cain]

“As the spirit of Moujuu was purged from the galaxy and sent to the void, the vessel that was Anemos remained. Even though slain, his worldly form still possessed a dark and corruptive power. And so he was cast away to the farthest corner of the galaxy so that darkness could no longer infect those whom Lucias had saved.”

~Excerpt from the Book of Lucias

Chapter Eighteen: Rise of the Sith

Our ships entered the atmosphere of the strange planet and we began our decent towards the valley. As we approached, suddenly all the instruments in our shuttle went haywire. The pilot struggled with the controls.

“What’s going on?” Ajunta asked.

“I don’t know,” The pilot said, “Something is interfering with our computers, they’ve take control of the ship.”

“What do you mean they’ve taken control of the ship! Who!?” I shouted.

“The computer system has been totally overridden and the controls are non-responsive…”

As we looked on nervously, our ships continued in toward the valley, finally touching down on the rough and dusty surface. The ramps all dropped on their own and we cautiously exited out into the strange new world. It was quiet… too quiet. The planet seemed dead, the surface was dry and barren without a hint of life.

There were over a hundred Libertas left. We all came together and began to move through the valley. It was then I felt it, a dark presence that seemed to come from everywhere its eyes upon me, watching. I abruptly stopped and ignited my lightsaber.

“I feel it also,” Ajunta said, unsheathing his katana. Slowly from behind the rocks they began to reveal themselves. They looked like men, but their skin was a dark red and they had beards that wriggled and squirmed independently like tentacles. The wielded spears and were dressed in dirty brown rags. As I raised my lightsaber I quickly noticed that we were surrounded.

“Unsheathe your swords!” Ajunta shouted. The Libertas all unsheathed their katanas. It was then that one of the creatures spoke.

“I would not think that very wise off worlder,” The creature raised his arm and several more appeared up on the ridge pointing rifles in our direction. By this time I had just about enough of people giving me orders. I hesitated for just a moment before extending my hand toward the ridge and blasting it with lightning. The rocks blew apart and the riflemen tumbled down to into the valley below. The creatures surrounding us immediately raised their spears and pointed them at my neck. The creature that had spoken earlier stared at me in amazement.

“That lightning…” he said, “Only us Sith can harness such power. Where do you come from off worlder that you would’ve learned such things?”

“My name is Atredious,” I answered, “and I am the last of a great civilization.”

The creatures all looked at each other and finally lowered their spears.

“Indeed? You must come with us. Our leader will wish to speak with you…”

The creatures began to file away, entering the side of the valley through a small opening in the rock face. As I began to follow, Ajunta stopped me.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

“To speak with their leader, these things may prove of some use to us.”

“And what could we possibly hope to gain from allying ourselves with these savages?”

I smiled at Ajunta.

“Revenge.”

I entered the cave with the Libertas following after me. After passing through a narrow dark passageway, we finally entered the main chamber. It was massive. Thousands of the red skinned creatures were gathered around a large pyramid structure on their knees with their heads lowered in reverence. Around them there were ships, hundreds of them, an entire fleet’s worth. All of which must have been seized from unfortunate travelers who landed on their planet.

We followed our guide through the crowd and towards the pyramid. As I stared at the strangely glowing structure suddenly I felt cold. I could hear the faint sound of voices speaking in dark tongues all around me until finally I came to entrance. One of the creatures stood before the brink, he was carrying a staff and wearing long black robes. He stared into my eyes for a long time before speaking.

“Do you know what this is?” He asked.

“I do not.”

“It is a tomb… surely one such as you has already felt its dark power. It is from here where we Sith draw our strength. I am Darth Salasaar, lord of the Sith. My men tell me that you too have mastered this dark power. How could this be?”

“Those from my planet are naturally born with such power,” I answered, “But only I now wield this ‘dark side’ of the force. If I may ask, who exactly taught you to use the force?”

“As I mentioned before,” Salasaar said, “Our strength is drawn from within this tomb.”

Salasaar stepped aside revealing a corridor that led into the pyramid. Ajunta’s eye’s where fixated into the abyss almost as if someone was beckoning him into the darkness.

“Can we go inside?” Ajunta asked.

“I would advise against that…” Salasaar said, “All who have entered the tomb have never returned.”

Ajunta’s expression remained almost comatose as he began to lurch forward. I quickly grabbed him by the shoulder and tossed him back.

“Snap out of it!” I yelled, “Salasaar, we need your assistance.”

“Yes, I know,” Salasaar answered, “Your coming has been long prophesized. A dark lord sent by the spirit within the tomb who was endowed with his powers that would lead our people to war. We have been amassing our army in preparation for your arrival.”

“Is that so?” I asked, smiling grimly. It seemed that convincing these ‘Sith’ to help us would not be as difficult as I had first assumed. Salasaar slowly kneeled before me.

“You are the true lord of the Sith,” he said, “We are prepared to do battle for you, Darth Atredious.”

Darth Atredious… I liked the sound of that. With these Sith at my command, the Jedi would surely fall. I leaned over to one of my men.

“Check these ships for maps,” I said, “Tell the Sith to ready there forces, we leave for Coruscant first thing tomorrow.”

“Yes sir.”

“Come Lord Atredious,” Salasaar said, “I’ll show you and your men our flagship.”

Salasaar led us away toward the fleet and the crowd of Sith dispersed as well. However, Ajunta managed to slip away from the group and back to the pyramid. As he stood before the entrance of the tomb he could hear a voice speaking to him.

“Hac colligo noster cruentus progenies per pugna itaque odium…” (Here gathers together our bloody history of war and hatred…)

Ajunta began to move forward and into the tomb, his body moving beyond his control. As he passed through the halls Ajunta could feel the dark energy wrapping around him, chilling him to the bone. Upon entering the central chambers, fantastic terrors began to fill Ajunta’s head. His heart raced and he struggled to catch his breath. The walls seemed to be alive. Ajunta quickly began to panic, swatting around as if something was grabbing at him.

“Are you the dark lord of the Sith?...”

Startled, Ajunta spun around to see a man in black armor standing in the center of the chamber. His face was pale and distorted. His very presence struck a terrible fear into Ajunta and he struggled to respond.

“Y-yes!” He finally answered, “I am the lord of the Sith!”

“Your thoughts betray you… you would openly lie to me…” the man said. Ajunta began to step backwards, clinching at the hilt of his katana.

“But yet… there is truth in your words. The man you follow… he is Luminos, is he not?”

“Yes…” Ajunta said, slowly letting his fingers slip away from his weapon, “How did you…”

“Do you wish to wield his power?”

Ajunta fell to his knees.

“I could have such power?… What must I do?”

“You must… destroy the Luminos.”

“But how?” Ajunta asked, “They are too powerful and I am but a human.”

“Search my tomb young one,” the man said, “and you will find the means to destroy your enemies.”

The man slowly began to fade away into the darkness. He still spoke to Ajunta, his voice echoing all around him.

“Ego sum fui futurus qui unde edi viscus in atrocitas, audio noctis, itaque decido luminarium…” (I am that which grips the heart in fright, hearkens night, and slices the light…)

Ajunta stood back up and stumbled forward to where the man has once stood. He found a sarcophagus covered in a thin layer of dust. He struggled to lift the lid and push it aside. Inside the sarcophagus Ajunta found bones and tattered cloth, but there was something else as well. Ajunta reached in and slowly lifted out a sheathe that housed a katana. As he wrapped his fingers around the hilt, the power was intoxicating. He quickly ripped the blade from it’s sheathe to reveal a steel notched sword. The blade was almost alive with dark power. Ajunta took the sword and sheathe that was already on his belt and dropped it into the sarcophagus, replacing it with the new one. He then turned and hurried out of the tomb.

Upon exiting the tomb, Ajunta found Salasaar and me waiting for him.

“There you are,” I said, “What were you doing in there?”

“Just doing some investigating…” Ajunta said hesitantly.

“You made it out alive,” Salasaar said, “What was inside? Did you find anything?”

We both stared at Ajunta as he seemed to be thinking over his response.

“No… there was nothing inside,” He finally answered. I looked at him suspiciously, my eyes drawn to the blade at his side for some reason. He quickly tucked it underneath his robe.

“Nothing?” Salasaar said, “How disappointing…”

“Come on, Ajunta,” I said, “We have a war to plan.”

“Yes… my lord…”

Together the three of us headed back to the ship that would lead our fleet into battle when I noticed something glimmering out of the corner of my eye.

“What are those?” I asked.

“They’re crystals that form only in this cave due to the dark power of the tomb,” Salasaar explained, “We carry them with us when we go to war far from this valley. They are charged with dark side energy.”

I continued to stare at the crystals, they seemed to glow with an inner red light. It was then that my attention turned to the lightsaber at my side.

“I think I have an idea…”

* * *

The next day I watched as the Sith scurried about making the final preparations before we left for battle. The fleet was almost ready for war. It was then that Salasaar approached me.

“We have constructed the weapons just as you asked my lord.”

“Good. Did you issue them to all of our men?”

“Yes m’lord. They seemed quite pleased. They are eager for battle.”

“Excellent. Then let us not disappoint them. Prepare the Heaven’s Wrath for my arrival.”

“It will be done, Lord Atredious.”

As I made my way to leave the cave, the ceiling of the cavern began to creek and grind. Slowly it came apart, letting the light pour in from the sky above. The ships in the cavern began to take off one at a time into orbit. As I exited back into the valley I came face to face with the massive capital ship; Heaven’s Wrath. There were Sith standing at attention as I entered the ship and made my way onto the bridge where Ajunta and Salasaar were waiting.

“The fleet has been given the hyperspace coordinates for the planet Coruscant,” Salasaar said, “They wait for your signal.”

I stood silent for a moment before finally turning back to answer Salasaar.

“Do it.”

With tremendous force the Heaven’s Wrath lurched off of the planet’s surface and into the air. We joined the rest of the fleet in orbit over the planet. All of the ships began to make the jump to light speed on their way to Coruscant… and to war.

[Cain]

“A man was brought in by the elder guard today, a peasant, poorly dressed in rags and carrying a suitcase that contained all of his meager possessions. Felix began to read the charges against him; treason, rape, heresy… all levied upon him due to the simple fact that he was a human man who had married a Luminos woman. I listened to his plight and it occurred to me… was I any better then this man? The members of this council had entertained plenty of human women in their life time, myself included. Who were we to cast such judgment? Then, after all his crimes had been read and his fate had been sealed, the man finally spoke. He pleaded with Marcus to have mercy upon him, for the sake of his wife and young son. Marcus would have none of it, the slam of his gavel opened my eyes. I could see myself standing in front of the tribunal, my wife and children taken from me. How many countless others had I sat back and allowed this fate in the name of Lucias? May my children forgive me…”

~Isaac’s Report

Chapter Nineteen: The Calm before the Storm

It was strange seeing Coruscant again. So much had changed since I last set foot on her surface. Raina and Jack were silent throughout most of the trip, I don’t think any of us knew what to expect. I couldn’t help but wonder what had become of my old friends, or if they’d even remember me.

All seemed quiet, our ship was directed to land in the palace hanger. As we flew in I noticed that there were five new spires reaching towards the heavens from atop the palace. As we entered the hanger I noticed many fighters and other types of warships, all part of the good King James’ old fleet.

There was only one man who arrived to greet us in the hanger, an old pupil of mine, Miles Drake.

“Well lookie who we have here,” Miles said with a smile on his face, “Carashi… it has been much too long my old friend.”

As I reached out to shake Miles’ hand but he pulled me in for a hug. Just then Raina and Jack made their way down the loading ramp.

“Made a few new friends in your travels, eh Carashi?” Miles asked.

“Ah yes, this is Raina and Jack Razor,” I answered.

Jack glanced over Miles and noticed the lightsaber on his belt.

“Now that’s interesting,” Jack said, “That’s the same sort of weapon Carashi has. Are you a Luminos too?”

“You mean the lightsaber?” Miles said placing his hand over the hilt, “Nah I’m not a Luminos, just a Jedi Knight. There are only three Luminos on this planet… other then Carashi that is.”

“A Jedi Knight!?” I exclaimed, “Ha! I’m out of it for a little while and suddenly everyone gets delusions of grandeur.”

“Tell me, master Jedi,” Jack interrupted, “Would it be possible to meet these other Luminos?”

“An excellent idea,” I said, “I do need to speak with them,”

“Of course,” Miles answered, “Right this way.”

“Um, Carashi,” Raina said silently tugging at my arm, “If it’s all the same to you I think I’d better go lie down. I’m suddenly not feeling very well.”

“Right. Miles, is there a medical room around here?”

“Certainly, right this way miss, I’ll have one of our knights escort you.”

Miles motioned for one of the other Jedi.Raina went off with him towards the medical room. Miles then turned back to Jack and I.

“Follow me gentlemen.”

Miles led us through the palace and up into one of the newly constructed spires. I could still smell the fresh paint. At the top we came to a large round room whose walls were made up of windows that gave a spectacular panoramic view of the city. There were four chairs on the far side of the room in which Terentius, Constans and Eva sat. One was empty. The three Luminos stood up as we entered the room.

“Carashi…” Eva said, almost speechless.

“Welcome to the Jedi Temple,” Constans said with a smile on his face, “We had a feeling you might be coming back.”

“So did I…” I answered, “Where’s Atredious?”

“It’s a… long story,” Eva said.

Terentius didn’t say anything to me, he was staring over at Jack the entire time.

“Who’s your friend?” Terentius asked.

“Oh this is Ja…”

“Jack Razor,” Jack interrupted, “And you must be the Luminos… I’ve heard so much about you.”

“We are, and what are you my friend,” Terentius asked, “The force is definitely very strong with you. Are you a student of Carashi’s?”

“No…” Jack answered.

“Well you’re definitely not a Luminos are you?”

“No. I’m something else.”

“He’s a Kumori,” I replied, “It also is a long story. Actually I came back here because I needed to speak with all of you… in private.”

Jack suddenly perked up, realizing we were talking about him.

“Oh don’t mind me,” He said, “I’ll just go find a nice quiet place to meditate…”

Jack lowered his head and slowly left the room. As he made his way back into the main hall he noticed several Jedi leaving one of the rooms near the hanger. As the last Jedi let the door close behind him Jack used the force to keep it open just a crack. He then snuck over and entered the room, closing and locking the door behind him. It was the air traffic control room. Outside of the window in front of him was the hanger which housed Coruscant’s meager navy.

Jack pulled his hood up over his head so that no one down below would catch a glimpse of his face. He began to access the system’s computer when suddenly a light on the panel started flashing. “Unidentified incoming ship detected” it read. Jack paused for a moment. He looked over his shoulder back at the door. No one was there. Jack then turned back to the control panel and pressed the flashing button.

* * *

Meanwhile, the Heaven’s Wrath exited hyperspace near Coruscant. Atredious looked over the system from the bridge. Just then, Ajunta Pall came over to speak with him.

“My lord, pardon me for interrupting, but we are receiving an incoming message from Coruscant.”

“What!?” Atredious shouted, “How could they have been alerted to our presence?”

“I’m not sure, but I think you should come have a look.”

Ajunta led Atredious over to the holo projector. As Atredious flipped it on suddenly Jack’s image appeared on the table in front of them.

“This is Darth Atredious, the dark lord of the Sith, to whom am I speaking?”

“Lord of the Sith, eh?” Jack answered casually, “I’m afraid I’ve never heard of any Sith… but Atredious? You wouldn’t happen to be a friend of the Luminos, would you?”

“I am the only true Luminos,” Atredious answered, “The inhabitants of your pathetic planet shall soon learn that. My brothers and sister shall be taught a lesson in what it means to be Luminos… all of you will!”

“Whoa, slow down there Darth,” Jack answered, “I take it you have a bit of a grudge against all these Jedi… the three Luminos in particular.”

“Are you not one of them?” Atredious asked.

“No… but I think you and I can help each other.”

“Yeah? And who the hell are you exactly?”

“I serve a higher power… It would seem that you and my master have similar interests.”

“And what would that be?”

“The destruction of the Jedi…”

Atredious and Ajunta looked at each other then back at the hologram.

“You have my attention,” Atredious said.

“I have come here in pursuit of a Luminos called Carashi,” Jack explained, “While I may be able to destroy him, all of these Jedi and their Luminos masters may be beyond my skill… that is where I will need you.”

“Carashi…” Ajunta said almost in disbelief, “How could that son of a bitch still be alive?”

“Why should I listen to you?” Atredious asked.

“Well you don’t have to,” Jack answered, “But it would be a shame if the Jedi were warned in advance of your little invasion. However, I could prevent that from happening…”

“What exactly is it you want from us, umm…”

“The name’s Jack. And what I need from you is for you to kill the three Luminos masters of this temple… I will take care of Carashi.”

“Well you need not worry, Jack. It will be my pleasure. My brother’s and sister will fall.

“Good. Once they’re all dead I’m sure my master will take good care of you.”

“Revenge is reward enough.”

“I couldn’t agree with you more…”

Jack smiled underneath his hood and the hologram faded out. Atredious slowly turned and began to walk away.

“I don’t trust him,” Ajunta said following after Atredious, “I’ve never seen that man before, he’s certainly not one of ours…”

“No, he’s not,” Atredious answered slowly, “But we could always use an inside man. Look on the bright side Ajunta, if he betrays us we’ll just kill him.”

“I don’t know,” Ajunta said, “I’ve got a bad feeling about this…”

* * *

As the day began to wind down, Jack sat in the temple court yard meditating. The setting sun cast a warm glow over the city as the wind began to pick up. Miles made his way out into the courtyard and approached Jack where he sat.

“Excuse me, Jack.”

“What is it?” Jack answered keeping his eyes closed.

“Carashi wanted me to tell you… Raina has just given birth… to a baby boy.”

Jack opened one eye and looked up at Miles.

“Say what?”

“She’s been in labor most of the day. She’s resting now. Carashi just wanted to know if you would like to see the child.”

Jack slowly opened his other eye and stood up off the ground.

“Actually, I would like to speak with Raina, if at all possible.”

“Of course, follow me.”

Miles led Jack into the temple and down to the medical room. Raina was resting in a bed, Carashi sitting besides her holding the new born baby in his arms. Carashi stood from his chair, his face lit up as Jack entered the room.

“Jack, there you are,” Carashi said.

“She gave birth already,” Jack said, “Isn’t this a little sooner then expected?”

“A little,” Carashi answered, “But the doctors say the baby should be just fine. Did you want to hold him?”

Jack recoiled, shaking his head.

“Oh well… no, I couldn’t… I wouldn’t know how…”

“Don’t be silly,” Carashi said, “It’s easy.”

Carashi gently handed over the baby to Jack whose face twisted. He almost couldn’t bear to look at the infant.

“What’s its name?” Jack asked.

“Alex,” Carashi answered, “Raina picked it out.”

“And how is she?”

“She’ll be fine,” Carashi said with a big yawn, “She just needs some rest.”

“You look like you could use some rest too. Why don’t you go get some sleep, I’ll keep an eye on things down here.”

“You’re probably right. Thanks Jack. You’ll come get me if anything happens?”

“Of course.”

Carashi smiled and nodded. He slowly left the medical room. Jack carefully placed Alex into the bed next to Raina and sat down in the chair besides them.

* * *

Constans stood on the balcony outside of the temple that overlooked the city watching the sun set. Terentius came out to join him. He stood besides Constans admiring the skyline for a moment. There were dark clouds off on the horizon and flashes of lightning could be seen inside of them but there was no thunder. Aside from the wind all was strangely quiet.

“Quite a view,” Terentius finally said.

“Indeed,” Constans answered.

“Looks like there’s a storm coming tonight.”

“It’s strange,” Constans said, “Even with it on the horizon, everything seems so peaceful.”

“It’s the calm before the storm,” Terentius answered. There was a pause where both men seemed to go off into their own little worlds.

“What do you make of what Carashi said?” Constans asked, “About the nightmares and the vision of Coruscant in flames?”

“I don’t know. Premonitions of the future are always fraught with emotion. One must wonder if this conflict is truly to be waged here, or if it is simply a war within Carashi.”

As the dark clouds grew ever closer they began to block out the sun and a long shadow was cast over the temple. The wind began to pick up as well.

“I’m not so sure,” Constans said, “I just get the feeling that there’s something he isn’t telling us. After the way he left that cannot be the only reason he came all the way back here.”

“You think he’s in some sort of danger?”

“I can’t say. It just doesn’t add up…”

“I know what you mean,” Terentius answered, “And there’s something odd about that Jack fellow. I can’t place my finger on it, he was extremely difficult to read… I just think we should keep an eye on him and Carashi.”

As Terentius finished his sentence the first few drops of rain began to hit the balcony. A bright flash of lightning was followed by a clap of thunder and the skies opened up as the rain poured down on the city.

“Come on,” Terentius said, “We’d better go inside.”

Terentius turned to go inside but Constans didn’t move. His eyes remained fixed out on the skies. Terentius stopped and turned his attention back to Constans.

“Constans, let’s go. What are you looking… at…”

As Terentius looked up to the sky he saw it too. Dipping in though the clouds were what appeared to be hundreds of black ships, many of them dropping off troops who were all making their way toward the temple.

“Terentius, go get Eva and sound the alarm,” Constans said calmly, never taking his eyes off of the ships, “Tell all the Knights to hurry to their posts… The storm is here.”

[Cain]

“You have seen much pain in your life, I know. But for me there is no pain. I cannot feel the sun on my face or the cold bite of winter... or even recall the touch of a loved one, lost. All I have is the hunger, and every day I struggle against it. That’s what the life of an Intangible is... live or be consumed. But that is not even the worst part; hunger for all of time is something I can deal with. It is memory that makes a curse of eternity.”

~Luster

Chapter Twenty: Judgment

A strike of lightning cut through the sky illuminating the throng of Sith as they made their march on the Jedi Temple. The Jedi pour out onto the steps to await the approaching army. Terentius stepped out in front of them and looked on at the hundreds of Sith now baring down upon the Jedi.

“Atredious?...” Terentius said to himself, “It cannot be…”

Terentius did not hesitate any longer, he unclipped the lightsaber from his belt and ignited it toward the sky. The Jedi behind him all ignited their lightsabers as well.

“Steady men!” Terentius yelled, “Wait for my signal!”

As the Sith reached the Temple gates they halted. In unison they each reached for their crudely fashioned lightsabers and ignited them, the blades glowing blood red.

“For the Jedi!” Terentius shouted as he twirled his lightsaber above his head, “Charge!”

Terentius sprinted forward and the Jedi did so as well. The Sith charged through the gates and the two armies collided in the courtyard in front of the temple. Immediately it was a blood bath, the two sides hacking each other apart with their lightsabers. Terentius leapt head long into the fray, skillfully spinning his lightsaber all about cutting down nearly anything that moved around him.

Meanwhile, in the hanger, Constans rushed all of the Jedi pilots to their fighters. As he entered the air traffic control room he found one of the Jedi struggling to piece back together the fried remains of the equipment.

“What happened here?” Constans asked.

“Someone fried the circuitry, a complete overload of electricity. The controls simply exploded.”

“So our fighters are flying blind?”

“I’m afraid so sir.”
Constans immediately turned to exit the room.

“Master, where are you going?”

“To my fighter. If I can’t help them from down here then I’m going up there.”

Constans hurried into the hanger and jumped into the last of the fighters. As he pulled out of the hanger Constans could see the chaotic flashing lights from the saber battle down below. Constans passed through the thick cloud cover and emerged on the other sided face to face with the Sith fleet and their massive Capital ship.

“Green two, do you read me?” Constans said into his communicator.

“Loud and clear Green Leader.”

“The enemy fleet has taken up a position in the upper atmosphere, set all power to front deflector shields. If we’re going in, we’re going in full bore, nothing half assed!”

“Copy that Green Leader.”

As the Jedi approached the Sith fleet, suddenly a swarm of fighters came pouring out at them, peppering them with laser fire.

“Here they come!” Constans shouted, “Give me some covering fire, I’m going in towards the big one.”

“Careful Green Leader, you wander off you’re gonna find yourself out numbered real fast.”

“You just worry about those fighters! Green three, Green four, follow me.”

Constans’ fighter flanked by the two others broke off from the main group and headed for the Heaven’s Wrath. On the bridge of the massive capital ship, Atredious watched as the two fleets engaged each other.

“My lord,” Salasaar said coming up behind Atredious, “Ajunta and the Sith have met the Jedi on the surface. The enemy has taken massive casualties.”

“Have they entered the temple yet?” Atredious asked.

“Yes, Lord Atredious.”

“Good. Prepare my shuttle.”

“As you wish…”

Back on the planet’s surface, inside the medical room, Raina was jolted awake by the sound of an explosion. She began to frantically look all around when Jack suddenly entered the room.

“Jack!” Raina yelled, “What’s going on? Where’s Alex!?”

“Don’t worry,” Jack said, “I had Miles take him to a safe place, atop the temple spire. We have to get you out of here now my dear, the temple is under attack.”

“Attack? Where’s Carashi?”

Jack was silent and he looked away from Raina. She began to grow concerned and tugged on Jack’s arm.

“Nothing’s happened to him, has it? Jack, tell me!”

“Very well,” Jack answered, “But it will not be easy for you to hear.”

“What is it!?”

“It would seem that Carashi has deceived us all…”

Raina leaned back in her bed, a bewildered look on her face.

“What do you mean?”

“As we speak this temple is under attack by the Samasu… Carashi apparently lead them here himself.”

“How could you say that!?” Raina asked, “Carashi would never do such a thing!”

“I know how you feel Raina, I too did not want to believe it. I suppose I am partially to blame, I should’ve spoken up when I found this in one of his robes…”

Jack slowly reached into his robes and pulled out the hilt of Carashi’s katana, the blade having been broken off.

“No…” Raina uttered in disbelief shaking her head from side to side.

“He made me swear to keep it a secret,” Jack explained, “He didn’t want you to know. And like a fool I trusted him.”

“He… he couldn’t have…”

“I know this is a lot to take in Raina, but we have to get out of here. We must return to Chinine as soon as possible. If Carashi finds out that I’ve told you he will surely kill us both.”

“I can’t!” Raina shouted. She hoped out of her bed and quickly put on her Kumori robes, “I can’t leave without Alex.” As Raina headed for the door Jack stopped her.

“Better take this with you.” Jack said handing Raina a lightsaber.

“Thank you Jack… I’ll meet you at the hanger.”

* * *

Outside the Jedi Temple, the rain water that had pooled in the courtyard was now red with blood. The bodies of countless Jedi were strewn about and inside the temple the few that remained struggled desperately to hold back the advancing Sith. Inside the King’s old throne room Eva hid with the younglings, the doors locked tight. Suddenly there was a loud banging at the door. Eva ignited her lightsaber and stepped in front of the younglings.

“Get back!” She yelled, “And stay down…”

The banging on the door stopped for a moment. Then suddenly it was ripped off its hinges by the force. Standing in the doorway was Terentius.

“Terentius!” Eva yelled.

“Eva, there you are,” Terentius said, “Thank Lucias you’re safe. Where is Constans?”

“I don’t know, I haven’t seen him since this whole mess began. You don’t think he’s…”

“I sure hope not. Come on Eva, we have to go. It’s not safe here anymore.”

As Terentius led Eva to the door, suddenly Ajunta Pall stepped in front of the exit.

“Going somewhere?” Ajunta asked with a cocky tone in his voice. Terentius immediately summoned his lightsaber to his hand and ignited the blade.

“Get outta my way, Ajunta!” Terentius shouted.

“What’s the hurry big brother? This party’s just getting started.”

Dressed in dark black armor, Atredious stepped around Ajunta and into the room. Terentius motioned for Eva to get back.

“Did you miss me?”

“Atredious… how could you have stooped this low?” Terentius asked, “So many innocent lives!”

“Innocent? Hardly. They are suffering for your crimes and now it is time that you paid. You and your brats!”

“You will not touch them!” Eva shouted.

“Heh heh heh,” Atredious chuckled to himself coldly, “Oh no? Ajunta!”

“Yes master?”

“Take care of my sister… and the children.”

“As you wish…” Ajunta answered with a sickly smile on his face.

Terentius suddenly charged at them. Atredious stepped aside, grabbing Terentius with the force and tossing him back out into the hallway. Atredious slowly followed him and watched as he struggled back to his feet in an attempt to make it back into the throne room. Atredious casually lifted the door off of the ground with the force and slammed it back into place before Terentius could reenter.

“You have bigger problems now, brother.” Atredious said.

“I don’t know what you’re trying to achieve,” Terentius said, “But no matter what happens here today, you cannot possibly win.”

“I fight for our father’s dream!” Atredious shouted back, “You were always jealous of him! Of me!”

“My father is dead… and my brother died with him.”

In a rage Atredious ignited his lightsaber and dove forward at Terentius who parried his blow and force pushed him back, knocking him down. Terentius then leapt high up into the air and plunged his lightsaber downward at Atredious who quickly rolled aside. Atredious jumped back to his feet and unleashed a force storm at Terentius that blasted his lightsaber from his hand. As Terentius turned to summon his saber back, Atredious hit him again with another force storm. This one hit him from behind and he was powerless to block it.

“Your ignorance has cost you…” Atredious said as he pummeled his brother with lightning, “Now you will experience first hand the true horrors of the dark side.”

Atredious doubled the output of his force storm, putting everything he had behind it. Terentius was knocked flat on the ground and as Atredious finally let up, Terentius lay twisting in pain.

“In the end… we’re all dead men.” Atredious said, “And now my brother, you will die…”

As Terentius lay on the ground in unimaginable pain, he noticed his lightsaber sitting across from him. With all the strength he could muster, Terentius ignited it through the force and sent it at Atredious. Atredious stuck out his hand and stopped the lightsaber, then snatched it out of the air. Terentius struggled back to his feet but then immediately fell to his knees.

“Pathetic…” Atredious muttered.

“It doesn’t end here…” Terentius gasped, “This will be the end for you… but not for me…”

Atredious scowled at Terentius and walked up behind him, pointing his lightsaber downward. Atredious then ignited it, the blue blade shot out slicing through the back of Terentius’ neck and out his chest. Atredious turned off the lightsaber and Terentius keeled over.

“I’m sorry brother, but you lost the faith.”

As Atredious turned to walk away Terentius’ body slowly vanished leaving only his robes.

Meanwhile, inside the throne room, Eva stood between Ajunta Pall and the younglings with her lightsaber ignited.

“Take one more step and you die.” Eva said.

“Good,” Ajunta snarled back, “You have anger, but you lack the will to do what must be done. That is what makes you weak.”

“Try me,” Eva answered raising her lightsaber.

Ajunta smiled and slowly wrapped his fingers around the hilt of his new katana. He could feel his heart thumping in his chest and the room began to grow dark. As Ajunta unsheathed the blade he could hear the voice in his head again. Almost unconsciously he chanted the words aloud.

“No in atrum; addo vita ut Moujuu…” (Forged in darkness; bring life to Anemos)

Ajunta’s eyes started to glow red and Eva didn’t hesitate to attack. She swung her lightsaber at Ajunta who suddenly raised his katana. To Eva’s surprise the katana was actually able to block her lightsaber. The blade howled as she pressed her saber against it, almost as if it were alive. Ajunta smiled and shoved Eva back with unnatural strength. The younglings could only look on in horror as Ajunta slowly gained the upper hand. Finally one of Ajunta’s slashes caught the hilt of Eva’s lightsaber and severed it in two. As Eva scrambled backwards a wicked smile spread over Ajunta’s face. He reached out with his arm and suddenly a red stream of light shot out from Eva and into Ajunta’s hand as he drained away her life force.

“Get away from her!” One of the younglings shouted charging at Ajunta. He turned his head and squinted his eyes, flinging the child back with the force.

Ajunta then discontinued his life drain and placed his blade at Eva’s throat. As a drop of blood hit the sword the energy became electric. The voices in his head began shouting all around him. Ajunta clinched the hilt tightly, his eyes rolled into the back of his head. Ajunta jerked his arm backwards and slit Eva’s throat, the blood spraying out everywhere. As Eva fell to the ground Ajunta stood motionless admiring what he had done. Slowly he turned towards the children, blood covering his hands and his face.

* * *

Raina entered the top of the center spire that was almost completely dark, only being lit by the constant strikes of lightning outside the windows and the fires burning in the city. Inside the chambers though it was eerily quite as Raina looked around nervously for Miles and Alex. Suddenly a voice called out from behind her.

“Raina…”

Startled, Raina spun around and ignited the green lightsaber that Jack had given her. I emerged slowly from the shadows.

“Stay back!” Raina shouted.

“Raina, what’s wrong?” I asked, “You need to come with me, where it’s safe.”

“How could you…” Raina said still pointing her lightsaber at me, “How?”

“What do you mean?”

“I saw your sword, Carashi.”

I could feel my heart sink as I listened to her words.

“You don’t understand, Raina,” I said, “It’s not what you think.”

“Then you didn’t kill my father?”

“I… I don’t know… possibly…”

“Possibly?”

“I can’t explain it,” I said, “The sword, my dream… it seemed so real. I never meant to hurt anyone…”

Raina stared at me, tears rolling down her cheeks. She raised her lightsaber once again.

“What are you doing?” I asked.

“My father deserved better,” Raina answered, “And so does my son.”

“Raina, you don’t have to do this.”

Raina shook her head and suddenly lurched forward swinging her lightsaber. I quickly ignited mine and blocked the strike. As she continued to swing her lightsaber at me I continued to simply block, putting forth no effort to attack.

“Please, don’t make this anymore painful then it already is,” Raina said.

“Raina,” I said pleading with her, “You have to trust me… I love you.”

“I… loved you too…”

I felt as if I had just been stabbed in the heart. I clinched my eyes shut tightly to try and hold back the tears, but it was to no avail.

“Then do what you must…” I finally said.

As Raina came forward again, this time I retreated until my back was pressed up against the window. As she took a swing I quickly ducked and the blade of her saber struck the glass, shattering it. A tremendous vacuum of wind sucked all of the air out of the room. I clung to one of the chairs that was bolted to the ground, but Raina was sucked out.

“Nooooo!” I let go of the chair and dove after her, grabbing the side of the window frame with one arm and Raina with the other. The wind and rain swirled all around us and I began to lose my grip on both the window frame and Raina.

“Raina! Hang on!” I shouted. I tried to pull her up but the glass that was still sticking out of the frame was digging into my arm, “I got you, but you need to pull yourself up!”

“I-I can’t…” Raina said, “I’m slipping.”

“Raina, don’t leave me. You have to try!”

I tried to pull her up again with all my strength but the glass just sliced my arm.

“I’m so sorry Carashi…”

I looked back down at Raina and into her eyes. Then suddenly her hand slipped away from mine and she disappeared into the storm.

I pulled myself back away from the window, sitting in the broken glass vigorously shaking my head.

“No… no, no, no,” I said to myself, “Not again. Please Lucias don’t let this happen to me again!”

I began to lose control when a sudden flash of lightning revealed I was not alone in the room. A figure in dark robes stood on the far side. He slowly stepped out of the shadows. It was Jack.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk… what a pity that she had to die in such a way,” Jack said calmly “But at least she put up a good fight. I wish I could say the same for her father…”

A cold shiver ran down my spine as it suddenly all hit me. I felt ill. I slowly looked up at Jack in disbelief.

“It was you?” I barely choked out, “How could you? I trusted you!”

Jack’s expression remained stoic as he stared down at me.

“Well you won’t make that mistake again,” He answered.

“Why?” I asked, “Why Raina!?”

“Young fool… The old man tried to warn you, didn’t he?”

“I… this wasn’t my destiny. This isn’t how things were supposed to be!”

“Still running from your past… Tell me, son of Akari, what do you feel when you look at the full moon?”

Jack smiled at me as I slowly stood back to my feet. Raina had asked me that before, I still didn’t know how to answer.

“Do you know why you are afraid when you look into the light?” Jack asked. I shook my head, “I do…” He said.

Jack then unclipped the top button on his robe and let it slide off. He was wearing black leather armor underneath. Then from behind his back, slowly two black wings unfolded. The wings spanned out stretching almost the length of the room.

“You can’t be…” I said in almost a whisper.

“Can’t be what? Intangible? We aren’t so different Carashi, you and I. We both see past the lies that have been woven before us, past the deception. We can see the truth.”

“What truth?”

“That there is no hope for this galaxy, Carashi. There never was. Shokun and the Samasu shall reawaken Anemos, and when they do all the anger, all the hatred, all the darkness that has festered in this galaxy shall be turned against that which created it, and the galaxy will destroy itself, completely and utterly…”

“If you know this… then why help them!?”

“Life is defined by pain, you know this better then anyone Carashi. But that is not my curse. The gods grant peace to the dead, but for those who cannot die there is no peace!”

Jack began to shake his head and laugh maniacally to himself.

“You don’t understand…” He growled, “You can’t understand… the hunger! No matter how much I feed… it only gets worse and there’s nothing that can stop it. I don’t want it anymore! And if this universe has to go down with me… then so be it.”

A lightsaber floated up from Jack’s belt and into his hand and a red blade shot out of it. Jack pointed the blade at me and I too ignited my lightsaber.

“The blood is the seal,” Jack explained, “And once the Luminos are dead this galaxy will fall! Fear the light Carashi, it cannot save you now!”

I clinched my lightsaber tightly and lunged forward at Jack. He stuck out his hand and the force exploded outward like a canon ball, hitting me like a punch in the face and driving me backward. I stumbled back to my feet and Jack was right over me. He moved with almost impossible speed and agility, dodging and countering my every advance. Finally I was able to clash my lightsaber with his, but he shoved me back with one arm as if I were a child. I scrambled to get up again but he kicked the lightsaber from my hand and grabbed me by the face, lifting me off the ground.

“Didn’t your father ever teach you?” Jack taunted, “You can’t kill a god.”

Jack then unleashed a hellish force lightning from point blank range right into my face. There was an enormous flash and then all at once the lights went out. With my eye sight gone all I could feel was the flesh burning around my eyes. But then suddenly there was more. I could feel the force flowing all around me. I could see Jack as plain as day, the force was everywhere. I could sense that my lightsaber was on the ground beside me. Without even turning to it I summoned it to my hand and ignited it. As I caught the lightsaber I spun it quickly and severed Jack’s arm. He stumbled backward and I leapt forward. Sensing his movements perfectly I plunged my lightsaber into his chest and then pulled it out again, causing him to fall to the floor.

“Good,” Jack shouted at me, “Use your anger!”

“Shut up!” I yelled back. As I pointed my lightsaber at him I could feel the warmth of my own blood running down my face from my eyes which were horribly scarred, “You’ve taken everything from me!”

“And what are you going to do?” Jack asked, “Kill me?” As Jack spoke I could sense through the force that his wounds were rapidly healing.

“I’m not going to kill you…” I said turning off my lightsaber. I turned away from Jack and began to leave.

“What’s wrong with you, you freak!?” Jack shouted after me, “You can’t stop it now Carashi, you’re too late!”

I paused in the doorway.

“To save Raina… yes. But to save the Luminos… there is still hope.”

I ripped a strip of cloth off of my sleeve and tied it around my eyes as a blindfold. Then I disappeared into the shadows, leaving Jack alone atop the spire.

[Cain]

Above Coruscant the Jedi fighters were in serious trouble. The swarms of Sith fighters had overwhelmed the Jedi while Constans continued his assault on the Heaven’s Wrath.

“Green three, get over here!” Constans shouted, “I need some cover, now!”

“I’m coming Green Leader, just gimme some time to… AHHH!...”

Off of Constans left wing he could see Green three explode.

“For the love of… isn’t there anyone left!?”

“We’re taking it bad here Green Leader. We have to fall back!”

“We can’t!” Constans shouted, “We have to take down that capital ship!”

“But sir, our fire power just simply isn’t doing enough damage. It’s useless.”

“There’s more then one way to take down a ship! Green two, get your men outta here. And see if you can take some of those fighters with you.”

“You sure about that?”

“I’m sure.”

“Roger that Green Leader. Alright you heard him boys, pull back!”

As the rest of the fleet began to pull back, Constans continued to plow forward. The Sith however were not fooled and continued to pursue Constans. The full might of the Sith fleet began to rain down on Constans and his ship took heavy damage. A direct hit on his right wing sent Constans’ ship spiraling out of control.

“You sons of bitches!” Constans yelled, “You aren’t taking me down without a fight!”

Constans ship began spiraling toward the bridge of the Heaven’s Wrath. Salasaar was scrambling to organize his men.

“Shoot him down! Shoot him down!” Salasaar shouted. As he turned to the window again he saw the ship bearing down upon him.

Constans closed his eyes and let go of the controls. His fighter slammed into the bridge with a tremendous fire ball. The Heaven’s Wrath slowly began to founder and fall towards the planet’s surface.

As the ship crashed into the jungles outside of the city it exploded and shook the ground fiercely. Inside the temple the shaking caught Atredious’ attention in the main hall. The Sith were finishing off the last of the Jedi and the temple was littered with their bodies. Ajunta slowly approached Atredious to join him, still stained with blood.

“Jack’s late,” Atredious said with his arms folded, “Where in the name of Lucias is that pirate!?”

“Jack sends his apologies, but he will be unable to attend this party!”

All the Sith in the main hall looked up onto the balcony where I was standing, the blindfold over my eyes and the blood still running down my cheeks.

“It’s him…” Atredious grumbled.

“He should not have come back!” Ajunta shouted unsheathing his blade.

“Foolish human,” Atredious yelled up at me, “Do you really think you can take us all?”

“You’d be surprised how little you actually know about humans…” I answered, “And who ever said I was one?”

“Hmph! You always did have a special knack for irritating me, freak! With your death there will be no one left to stop me!”

“Freak? Your lack of control over your emotions is your weakness. My name is Carashi of Shadows. Now come, if you wish to die!”

“Kill him!”

I ignited my lightsaber and jumped down from the balcony, suddenly I was surrounded by the Sith. I could feel each of them and as they came at me. I dodged their attacks, slashing each of them as they ran past. I then jumped high up over their heads and landed behind them. I clasped my hands together and the force began to swirl all around me. From the shadows it manifested itself in my form.

“Shadow clones…” Atredious muttered. “Impressive. Most impressive.”

Soon there were seven clones who charged forward at the Sith and began to cut them down. As the Sith cut through the clones they simply vanished into thin air.

When the last Sith sliced through the last shadow clone, I casually walked up behind him and plunged my lightsaber into his back. He collapsed to the floor and it was just me, Ajunta and Atredious.

“Your move.” I said.

“Ajunta!” Atredious yelled, “Crush him!”

“No…”

“What did you say!?”

“I said no,” Ajunta answered, “This is your battle. I cannot interfere… my lord.”

“Looks like you’re gonna have to do your own dirty work Atredious.”

“Fine!” Atredious shouted using the force to shove Ajunta back and slam him against the wall, “I don’t need you! I don’t need anyone!”

Atredious ignited his lightsaber and beckoned me to attack.

“Come.”

We both dashed forward at the same time and our lightsabers slammed together. As Atredious swung his saber at me I matched him blow for blow, sensing where all of his next movements would be. He then shoved me back with the force and raised his arm. I could see the darkness course through him and then eventually shoot out of his finger tips in the form of lightning. I simply lowered my lightsaber and stuck out my hand. The lightning was drawn into my palm and I began to absorb the energy. Then, in one large burst, I blasted the energy back at him. The lightning shot in every direction, obliterating support columns and sending Atredious crashing to the floor.

The temple began to shake as the support beams crumbled.

“I… I can’t move!” Atredious shouted, “My whole body’s numb. You have to get me out of here!”

I smiled at Atredious. I turned off my lightsaber and simply turned to walk away.

“You can’t leave me here! Carashi!”

Just then the shaking brought Ajunta back to his senses. He hurried over to Atredious who was lying on the ground.

“Ajunta! Help me up, we need to get out of here!”

Ajunta slowly looked at his blade, then at Atredious. He then pointed the blade downward towards the Sith Lord.

“No.”

Ajunta thrust the blade down through Atredious’ chest and pulled it out.

“Sorry master,” Ajunta said, “But you lost the faith.”

Ajunta left Atredious in the temple as it began to come down all around him. Atredious was still sputtering out words to his last breath.

“I’m sorry father… I won’t fail you… I can’t… fail….”

From outside the temple I stood silently as it all came crumbling down. Raina… Alex… How could I have let this happen? As the temple finally came down the rain suddenly let up. The clouds parted and the full moon shone through. Even though I could no longer see it, I swear I could feel it. And I wasn’t afraid anymore…

* * *

Elsewhere in the galaxy, a lone Jedi shuttle exited hyperspace over a remote planet called Naboo. The shuttle came to a landing outside of a small farm house. A woman exited the house and as the hatch opened, Miles Drake appeared with a baby boy in his arms.

“Miles! You’re back!”

“Hello Elora,” Miles said.

“Where did you get this baby?”

“His parents were killed on Coruscant,” Miles said, “I couldn’t just leave him there, I had to take him with me. This is the only place I knew he’d be safe.”

“You want to keep him?”

“He has no place else to go…”

Elora smiled and took the baby from Miles. As she smiled at him, Alex smiled back.

“What’s his name?”

“Alex,” Miles answered.

“Well he must be starving after such a long trip. Come on; let’s take him inside out of the cold…”

* * *

Back in the wilderness of Chinine, I sat alone by the stream bathing in the light of the full moon. I’m not afraid anymore. And perhaps that was the greatest gift she gave me. It’s a terrible thing, to live in fear. All my life I had hated them for what they had done to me. I allowed anger and self pity to fill my heart and I became exactly what they wanted me to become; a recluse… alone. Accepting death is the first step toward peace… I understand that now. It took the lives of those I held most dear for me to finally realize who I am. I am Carashi of Shadows, and I am the last of the Luminos.

Star Wars Theme Plays

Credits

Written by Matt Whitmore

Cast of Characters (In order of appearance)

Atredious
Isaac
Ludovicus
Marcus
Felix
Sylvanus
Terentius
Constans
Eva
Carashi
Carashi’s mother
Splin Cell
Ajunta Pall
James Cell V
Jurran Reed
Anjuu
Anemos
Raina
Miles Drake
Senshi
Jack Razor
Shokun
Salasaar
Alex
Elora

Special Thanks…

Mathew Landers – For inspiring the character Carashi.
Shadow Walker – For inspiring the character Jack Razor.
Nex – For inspiring the character Splin Cell.
John Goodacre – For moral support.
Tim June – For encouraging me to write this story in the first place.
Everyone still reading this – I admire your commitment.
And of course, George Lucas – For making it all possible a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…