The Harpy: Chapter 2 “The Alaris Prophecies”

JOURNEY OF THE HARPY

Main OCs: Grand-Master Bathor, Temple-Master Terrogate, Doctor Otis

NPCs: Amelia West, Doc Emmett Lathrop, Marten, Galmar Darsten, Jovian Kargri, PH-10X, Ania Solo, Admiral Gar Stazi.

Pets: Jimmy the Exploder

Equipped:

* Ziyal's Ginivex-class starfighter

Prologue summary:

Exciting the wormhole in the Berchest system the heavily damaged Harpy finds itself next to an equally damaged Galactic Alliance ship the Hammer of Justice, who had also been transported from the battle of Tython through the wormhole.

The Grand Master Bathor passes out during the wormhole travel then was sent to the Battle Cruisers head physician Dr Otis Sylas to be checked out. There the Grand Master and her lifemate Terrogate learn of Mabs previously thought impossible pregnancy.

In the meantime, Commander West sends a rescue ship to the Hammerhead Battle Cruiser following it's repeated failure to communicate and recovers a small number of remaining crew including an unconscious Duros Admiral Gar Stazi and his Human second in command Ania Solo.

After agreeing to meet Ania Solo in the Medbay Master Terrogate tasks the Je’daii chief science officer ‘Doc’ to repair the navigation system while he and the Grand Master take an audience with the 2nd in charge of the Federation ship.

A short time later after hearing an official but very sad mission report from Ania Solo regarding her crew's fate, Doc rushes into the Medbay to inform the Je’daii Masters of the fixed Navcom. A scan of old star charts now confirms the Grand Masters vision of traveling through time. As well as that, Commander West had sent a repair team to fix the Harpys short range communications antenna and there were several transmissions coming through from the crystal planet below.

Our story continues….

Start journey:

* Location: Berchest
* Ship status: Navcom offline
* Company: friendly none responding

~\*~

JOURNEY OF THE HARPY

CHAPTER TWO: THE ALARIS PROPHECIES

GM: Game Master Yoda

Music: https://youtu.be/mxay1y0Blv4 Snow ghosts “The Hunted”

Date: 1259 BBY

// Inner Rim, Anthos Sector, N-8, Berchest System. //

\*\*\*\*\*

GM UPDATE:

Mab, Terrogate, Ania Solo and Doc quickly make their way back to the Harpys bridge to find Commander West already standing over near the communications desk listening intensely to the incoming radio frequencies from the world below. A look of worry is plastered across her otherwise moderately attractive middle aged face.

As the group moves closer, Commander West speaks even before being addressed. “Grand Master Bathor.. Master Terrogate!” she said with some urgency in her voice. “We're picking up several transmissions..” She continued and flicked a small silver switch on the control panel in front of her that caused the audio to switch between the hand held headset she was holding to her ear, to an external speaker that was loud enough for all within a six or seven metre radius to be able to hear.

As the transmissions were heard, the Bridge Commander rotated a large black dial mounted next to the flicked switch, changing between the frequencies and naturally also the many messages being intercepted by the Je’daii flagship from Berchest below.

As the leaders listened in, several dozen transmissions were heard. Snippets that were broken apart with random static and com interference. Some of the voices were alien they noticed but most were in galactic basic and mostly able to be understood.

The vast majority of the transmissions were from various agencies, directed off world in panic and urgently asking for assistance or extraction. It seems, after listening to many interceptions, that an intense shockwave from the wormhole had reverberated down onto the planet below, and a major city known as Calius saj Leeloo had now all but broken apart. Its huge crystal buildings shattered to pieces, causing massive panic and a state of emergency among the city's populace.

However, amongst the static and cries for help one other transmission stands out among the rest. A man's voice, old and gruff but confident and even, similar to that of their Bothan friend Yeg Sunnar. And it was repeating itself every thirty seconds as if on an automated loop or like someone repeating a well rehearsed mantra..

“At the cracking of the glowing crystal does it begin. Calius saj Leeloo has spoken.”

~\*~

As the leaders listened to one of the bridge crew, a young tan skinned human male in his early twenties with dark brown hair and a thick accent hinting to an upbringing along one of the outer rim worlds, suddenly turns his chair and speaks aloud. “Forgive me Grand Master and Commander West, but a ship has just come out of hyperspace in close proximity. They are hailing us and sensors indicate a weapons lock. Would you like me to patch them through?”

Outside the viewport but still somewhat in the distance of space a vessel can be seen. It was an Acclamator-class assault ship, and it held a strange emblem branded onto its port side.

~\*~

IC: Commander West.

Amelia flicked the switch again, isolating the transmissions back to the headset and looked at the Grand Master. The weapons lock made her nervous and it was the Commanders first instinct to call those crew where still able bodied enough to their battle stations. But they were hardly in any shape for another fight so soon after their narrow escape during the battle of Tython. Even with a smaller enemy vessel. So this would have to be the Grand Masters call.

“I await your command Grandmaster Bathor.” she said obediently.

~\*~

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

Leaning against the cabin wall for support, Mab glances at the panel next to the doors. Rapidly the number changes as the lift zooms up to the command deck, almost as fast as her mind buzzes with thoughts. 'How could this have happened?' And 'how was she going to fix this?"

The lift slowed down and came to a full stop at the bridge. Before the doors opened she glanced at the others, all of them were on edge just like her but she couldn't permit to show it.

~\*~

"Grand Master on the bridge!" an officer announced the moment she stepped out of the lift and approached Commander West.

Standing besides the commander she listened to the overwhelming amount of messages, trying to make sense of them all. "Our arrival has caused chaos and destruction to this world" Mab said in shock and glanced at her husband with a look of guilt.

Then they noticed a message from a Bothan male that kept repeating itself. "What is he saying?" She asked as she tilted her head "At the cracking of the glowing crystal does it begin?... what does that even mean?” Mab  paused trying to understand but before she could say anything her train of thoughts was interrupted…

~\*~

"Weapons lock?" Her eyes widened as she saw the Acclamator-class assault ship.. "Raise shields, if we have any that is… but do not engage weapons." Mab replied Instantly. "After having heard these distress calls from the surface it is obvious they see us as responsible… we do not want to provoke them any further. So be ready but don't power up our weapons." She ordered.. "now, let's open a channel and see what they have to say" she added with confidence.

But as she waited she couldn't help but think about that odd message; At the cracking of the glowing crystal does it begin. "It sounds like a prophecy" she whispered softly, wondering what would begin, or had it already begun?

\*\*\*\*\*

Terrogate followed Mab into the turbolift on the way to the bridge, Ania and Doc following closely behind him. His head still was spinning with the impossible news of Mab being pregnant with his cubs and he barely noticed the lift doors close and then begin moving. There was so many questions still unanswered, how would they return? What happened to the rest of the fleet? Where were their children and the others? And did the Darkshield also follow them through time.? So many uncertainties and yet they were still gifted a seemingly single bright star amidst the otherwise black night sky of the day's events. Against his instincts as a warrior and a leader of the Je’daii the large warrior allowed himself to be distracted from these problems. His attention briefly caught up in the delight of the moment and thoughts of cubs and of being a father to his true loves children, if only for the duration of the trip up the turbolift shaft.

~\*~

Jaja walked next to his life mate as they approached the Commander and remained at her side as the urgent messages of fear and suffering from the planet below echoed out from the communications speaker. All pleasant thoughts of the future now dissipated and replaced with a steely well trained focus to try and assess the current situation. Hard choices would need to be made, and he needed to be sharp if he was to be of use to Mab and their people.

"Our arrival has caused chaos and destruction to this world" Mab said in shock, glancing a guilty look at him. Terrogate, wondering if there was any way they could send aid, looked up at Amelia. The Commander, as if reading his thoughts, shook her head. And she was right, despite the devastation below they needed to think of themselves right now. There were too many of their own peoples' lives at stake.

What is he saying?" Mab asked as she tilted her head "At the cracking of the glowing crystal does it begin?... what does that even mean?” it was a message that seemed to repeat itself amidst the scrambled plethora of emergency communications coming in. “I've no idea…” replied her lifemate. “I haven't heard anything like this before.. But I've got a bad feeling about it.” he admitted thoughtfully.

“Forgive me Grand Master and Commander West, but a ship has just come out of hyperspace in close proximity. They are hailing us and sensors indicate a weapons lock. Would you like me to patch them through?” shouted out one of the bridge crew suddenly.

“I await your command Grandmaster Bathor.” said Amelia, switching off the communications from the speakers.

"Weapons lock?" said Mab surprised, as the Acclamator-class assault ship exited hyperspace and came into view from across the bridge's viewport.. "Raise shields, if we have any that is… but do not engage weapons. After having heard these distress calls from the surface it is obvious they see us as responsible… we do not want to provoke them any further. So be ready but don't power up our weapons." the Grand Master ordered.. "Now, let's open a channel and see what they have to say," she added with confidence.

Terrogate didn't like this at all. “It doesn't look to be a Darksider vessel… Those markings do look familiar though, but can't quite place where from.” Terrogate added after getting a better look at the starship. They were sitting ducks out here and now they had a strange ship on them weapons at the ready. However if anyone could get them though this alive it was Mab.

\*\*\*\*\*

GM: UPDATE

“You heard the Grand Master. All available auxiliary power to forward shields now!” commanded Amelia West.

“Commander, shields seem to be down, system is unresponsive to power redirection attempts”. Replied the responsible bridge crewman.

“What?!” Replied Commander West confused, looking around as if to find some invisible gremlin who had been tampering with it. “They were still working when we arrived. Severely weakened… but still operational!”

“Umm….. Well I, errhhmmm I may have the answer to that specific problem Commander.” said Doc somewhat sheepishly from his position standing behind Ania Solo. “You see… Tasked with fixing the Navigation system.. I needed another 3-RT-32/J silicone micro transponder chip to activate the system's fl-ux capacitor. The current one was destroyed from excessive ion charge exposure. The only other close by we had not being currently utilised was….”

“Was in the ship's main defensive system.. DOC!” yelled Commander West casting a sharp stair that if looks could kill would have instantly vaporised the old Arkanian scientist. “But it was an order… It was urgent..!” he pleaded.

“You left us defenceless!! Get him out of here…. And open the channel.” said Amelia, closing her eyes and rubbing her temples with her right hand thumb and middle finger. Things just kept getting kriffing worse… And she was feeling a migraine starting to set in.

“Common Doc. Take me to the Engineering bay, we’ll see if we can find another of those chips.” said Ania Solo to Emmitt. “You know I used to own a junk yard. If we hurry I bet we can get the shields back up in no time.” she said, quickly walking him from the bridge and ouI into the corridor. “But it was an order….” Doc repeated to her as the bridge doors sharply closed behind him.

“Opening the Channel now”. Relayed the bridge crew in the affirmative to Grand Master Bathors request.

~\*~

Within moments the Harpy’s large communication screen sprang to life revealing a dark skinned, broad shouldered human male dressed in simple brown and cream coloured clothes. On his left breast was a metallic pin bearing the same emblem as the starship he was transmitting from.

“This is Grand Inquisitor Master Antonios Dekker from the The Disciples of light starship The Vigilance. By the authority of the Republic I demand you identify yourself and your purpose here immediately.”

Commander West immediately raised her head and walked forwards towards the Commanders control console and rested her finger on a blue toggle switch but did not press down. Instead she looked at the GrandMaster and waited for her affirmation before activating their own communication feed in response.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

After giving the orders, Terrogate added that the vessel did not look like it belonged to the Dark Regime. Mab nods, "you are right" she noted as she glanced at the strange ship on the view screen. "Might not be the Dark Shield, but they are pointing their guns at us" she added and nodded to Commander West to proceed.

But to their surprise, the shields were down, unresponsive to the transfer of power and no one understood how it was possible. But then the old Arkanian scientist came with an explanation. Mab's eyes widened, she was stunned, she couldn't believe the old man had disabled their shields for a chip. Before she could get between the Commander and the Doc, the communications officer opened the channel.

~\*~

A human male, or so it seemed at first glance, introduced himself as the Grand Inquisitor of the Disciples of light. He spoke of the Republic, that was at least something that put Mab's mind a little at ease. Mab gave Commander West the signal.

"Greetings Grand inquisitor" Mab said as stepped forward. "I am Grand Master Bathor of the New Je'daii Order, speaking to you from the Harpy" she added and paused for a moment. What was their purpose? How was she going to explain to them how they got there that the destruction they caused was just an accident. She looked at Terrogate, letting him know she could use his help.

"Please, I assure you, we did not come here with Hostile intentions.. there is no need for weapons. We are a peaceful people, all of this is simply a misunderstanding" she tried her best to deescalate the situation. But she knew, after all the distress their arrival had caused, it wasn't going to be easy. "We are lost…Please, lower your weapons and let us speak in person… to explain how we got here."

\*\*\*\*\*

Terrogate stepped forwards, alongside his wife who had looked over to him indicating her need for his help in the situation. “Grand Inquisitor, my name is Master Jaja Deké” he said, glancing a sideways look over to his lifemate then back to the dark skinned human on the large flatscreen. “The GrandMaster speaks the truth. We have no wish to fight.. our situation is… well.. it's complicated.” Terrogate says, trying to reassure the Grand Inquisitor it would be best to arrange a formal meeting as Mab had suggested.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor, Master Antonios Dekker

“Peaceful?” the Grand Inquisitor responded with a tone of mild surprise and raised eyebrows.

“I have received intelligence that several war vessels have been engaged over a dozen different worlds, some claiming they are of the same long extinct order and another claimed to belong to something known as The Darkshield before it destroyed three Republic security ships and then fled. I then receive an urgent distress from Berchest that two unidentified warships have entered the system and are refusing to respond to communications.” his eyebrows lower, and his tone now becomes more serious.

“I then arrive to find both vessels with evidence of extensive battle damage, and below the sacred crystal city of Calius saj Leeloo shattered into pieces, furthermore you refuse to explain your intentions. No, I do not believe you wish to fight, but only due to the reason that I have you locked in my sights and my sensors indicate your shields are down.. But that will not absolve you of your crimes for which you will pay dearly. I will not be lured into a trap.. You have no idea what you've done. What that City means to the safety of the entire Galaxy.”

The fire in the Inquisitor's eyes was rising and a fury was building inside him. But before he could continue a woman came into view from outside the view screens field of vision and leant in to speak toMaster Dekker, directly into his ear in a voice so low it was inaudible over the ship to ship communications. She was blond, slender and attractive. On her forehead was a golden circlet with a green gem that was a perfect match to a necklace she was also wearing. Her eyes were an unusually dull blue yet that made them no less striking. She moved slowly and with the fluidity of water, almost ghostly in her movements.

Quickly the fire in Dekkers eyes were replaced with a look of frustration. And then a look of reluctant yet hardened acceptance. There was no telling how long this woman had been nearby. Perhaps she had heard the entire conversation.

“It seems, my adviser believes it important that I should hear you out Grand Master Bathor. You are most fortunate that my trust in her is absolute. Unlike my trust in your peaceful intent. As it stands, the planet below will inot suffice as a neutral location for our meeting.. But this is what I offer.

My weapons will remain locked onto your ship. I and two of my people will personally meet you aboard my transport at the halfway point between both of our vessels. There, you and Master Deké can explain your… complicated situation in person. I will then decide your fate. Any hint of deception and we will not hesitate to destroy your ship and arrest you both.”

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

With a loving smile, she watched Terrogate step forward and speak to this Grand Inquisitor, ensuring him that she spoke the truth. Mab was truly thankful for her life mate's support, without him she could never do any of it especially now that she felt so vulnerable she needed him the most.

The Grand Inquisitor was surprised by their words and informed them of the reports they had received from all over the galaxy. "Oh lord" Mab gasped and grabbed Terrogate's arm, "It is worse than we anticipated'' she whispered with genuine shock.

"This is truly devastating to hear Grand Inquisitor, I know it's difficult to believe but we have no ill intentions. But what had happened is far too complicated to explain over a holo link. I don't even know where to start but I assure you I do want to explain everything to you and your people" she said overflowing with emotions; guilt, pain and sadness for all that has happened.

Before the Grand Inquisitor could even respond to her pleas, another individual stepped into view and whispered to him. Mab wasn't able to hear what was said but from Inquisitor's expression she could tell he wasn't happy about it. The sudden change of tides surprised Mab greatly, but the outcome was in their favour for now. At least now they had a chance to explain themselves.

"I understand your caution and accept your terms" she said respectfully and gave a signal to the comms officer to close the channel. As soon as the feed was ended Mab gasped as if she had held her breath the entire time. "This is awful, even now these Darkshield cause mayhem across the galaxy" she said in anger but then suddenly there was a small spark of hope in her golden eyes "but at least we know we aren't the only ones…there others are out there, we just need to find them."

"Commander West, you have the bridge. And continue with repairs" Mab said and then turned away to leave the bridge. "I hope there are still any transports left which we can use to meet them" she muttered softly as she approached the turbo lifts.

\*\*\*\*\*

“Kas’spaar.. Khara..” Terrogate whispered thoughtfully as his wife gripped his arm then handed the bridge over to the Commander. He was just as enraged to hear some of those kriffing evil Darkshield had made it through as well, but also just as relieved as Mab to realise that some of their own people had also made it through the time-space anomaly. A small spark of hope for possibly still finding their children alive ignited inside of him.. Yet the fact that these reports had been scattered throughout known space concerned him greatly. They just had to meet this Grand Inquisitor and find out if he knew anything about The Serpent Stinger or The Busted Plugga. Perhaps they had already been picked up by Republic Security Forces? Or perhaps… perhaps something much worse….

“The troop transport that returned from the Hammer of Justice is still operational.” he replied to Mab as his feline hearing picked up on her mutterings while he walked to the turbo lift closely behind her. His hand instinctively reached down and brushed his lightsaber that hung on his waist underneath his brown robes. He only hoped this Inquisitor wasn't so stupid as to try and set a trap. Terrogate would gut him and his entire crew if they even thought about touching a hair on Mab's horned head and the very image of it rushed through his mind's eye. The warrior took a deep breath and tried to centre himself as he took his place next to Mab in the lift. He had to focus hard now, focus on resisting the temptation of Bogan that was stirring inside of him like a wildfire.. As he calmed himself, he found his mind slowly becoming more clear.. The rage subsiding and making way for tranquillity. \*Balance Jaja… Find the balance..\* He thought to himself.

\*\*\*\*\*

GM UPDATE:

Nearly half an hour later, in the open space between the two still active warships above the planet Berchest, a small troop transport sent from the Je’daii flagship docks with a slightly larger but much more impressive early model Consular-Class Republic Cruiser. As the airlock opens the troop transports only two passengers, our one armed Iktotchi Grandmaster Bathor and her Cathar lifemate Temple Master Terrogate come face to face with their interrogators.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker.

“Greetings. Follow me, and don't try anything.” grumbled a large male Besalisk who greeted them both at the airlock. He had four lightsabers attached to his belt, dressed in the same simple earthy colored tunic as the Grand Inquisitor and was of an imposing broad stature. Without waiting for a reply he turned and led the way down a short corridor. At the other end of the corridor was an opened doorway, inside stood the Grand Inquisitor in what was clearly an office, and next to him stood the same blond woman in her flowing red gown who had whispered to him in the ship's holo screen.

“Thank you Inquisitor Rokal.” said Grand Inquisitor Dekker, inclining his head to the four armed male. The Besalisk nodded and then moved aside, next to the door. It was a tactical move to surround the two Je’daii soon to be on trial in case they were actually to be arrested.

“At the cracking of the glowing crystal does it begin” whispered aloud the blond woman as she first saw the two Masters. Her voice was soft and eerie and her eyes were unfocused as though she was caught in some kind trance.

Antonios however, stern-faced and looking impatient, decided not to acknowledge the woman's words and only pointed to two seats positioned in the center of the room. “Please, sit. Then you may tell me why I am getting reports of an ancient civilization back from the dead as well as this Dark Shield.. and why I should not immediately arrest you both as Galactic terrorists to Republic Space.”

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

Mab sensed the rush of darkside emotions inside her life mate as they stood in the lift. She gently touched his hand, trying to send him calming and balancing vibes but even for her that was difficult, she still felt overwhelmed by everything that had happened in such a short time. For them it was already hard to make sense off so she couldn't imagine how they were gonna make sense of it.

~\*~

Thirty minutes later, their transport had docked with the Consular-class Republic Cruiser. Her heart was racing in her chest as she stepped through the airlock to meet the negotiators. All she could think of was 'how am I going to tell them?'

"Greetings…" Mab said to the large besalisk but he didn't seem to care and just turned around.. "ofcourse, lead the way" she nodded in acknowledgment before following him to an office where the Grand Inquisitor and the blond haired woman were waiting for them.

"First of all, thank you for wanting to listen to us" she then glanced at the two seats at the center of the room and began to feel more and more worried. But the golden horned Iktochi nodded and quietly walked to the chairs and sat down. She waited for Terrogate to sit next to her before she began their story. Mab cleared her throat and looked up at the two individuals in front of them. "I'm sure where to start, because what I'm about to tell you will sound ridiculous, even we" she glanced at Terrogate before continuing "who lived through still have trouble making sense of it all… we are not from here Grand Inquisitor and I don't mean this sector… we are from a different time. According to our star maps we travelled thousands of years into the past." She paused, allowing them to take it in before continuing.

"We are from a time where there was supposed to be peace between factions. The last Empire fell nearly a decade ago and new orders had formed, including ours, the new Je'daii order. But one faction grew darker, hungry for more power. I think you know who we are talking about; The Dark shield. Once he was a high ranking member of the Eternal Sith Empire, a founder of an influential Sith house that began to rebel against the throne. We both knew him from that time, he was ordered to be executed for his crimes but managed to escape. And when the Empire finally fell things were supposed to be different, and at first they were different. There was peace between his new Sith order and our new Je'daii order, but he and his bride wanted more. They found out how important and powerful Tython is and wanted it for themselves. They made restrictions for our small order and when we didn't give them what they wanted the threats came and a blockade… there was no negotiating, they were gonna take Tython by force. We couldn't let that happen, the Sith, the darkness cannot take Tython, it would mean the end of the galaxy." Mab paused again, she was struggling emotionally. Tears began to flow.

"My Apologies" she said trying to wipe the tears away. Then a sharp pain shot through her abdomen, one that made her hunch over. But she tried to relax and continue their story. "The Darkshield, had found the plans of an ancient weapon, one that could destroy worlds. When the battle for Tython came they attempted to fuel that weapon with dark matter from sunspot. But something went wrong, there was.. aaarghh!" She felt another sharp pain.. "an explosion. One so powerful it created the portal that led us here here. A wormhole through time and space.. aaargh " Mab clutched her abdomen and hunched over in her seat.. it was obvious the stress she was going through caused distress for their unborn litter..

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

Terrogate slid into his chair and following the chain of command said little as Mab spoke the unbelievable story of how they had got here. All the while, he couldn’t stop glancing over to the red dressed woman standing behind the Grand Inquisitor. Her ethereal like presence was mesmerising to him. Looking into her eyes was like looking into a galaxy of swirling stars millions of lightyears away, and she seemed to flow and move with the very air around her.

Her face was sporting a perpetually blank expression however he could tell she was listening intently to every one of Mab's words. The Grandmaster cried out and hunched over holding her stomach as she finished the tale and Terrogate quickly turned to her with concern. “Ma...Master Bathor.” He said, struggling against the urge to place his hand on her belly. Instead, he looked up at the dark skinned Master Dekker who stared down at them both, silently judging them from the edge of his desk. There was no telling what he was thinking and Terrogate was not game enough to attempt to touch his mind in any way to find out. Even a slight misstep in this moment could spell the end for countless beings, least of all his wife and their unborn children inside her womb.

“The GrandMaster speaks the truth, Grand Inquisitor. I know it is hard to believe.” Terrogate said, backing up Mab's recollection of the events. “The planet below, that was not of our doing I promise you. The other vessel here is an allied ship, an alliance vessel that came through the wormhole. They were damaged heavily during the flight and most of those aboard had already perished. We rescued what remained of the crew only hours before you arrived.” he added, pleading their case.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker.

“Tell me..” said Master Dekker, placing his hand to his chin thoughtfully. “Say that I do believe you, which so far I do not. What would you have me do? Just let you go free?”

Beside him, the woman in red slowly started moving towards them.. Her unfocused eyes now looked down towards Mab as she held her golden hand against her abdomen.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

“Our flagship, the Harpy, has many aboard that are wounded including the Alliance ships commander Admiral Gar Stazi and many civilians” answered the Cathar Master who's eyes now watched the woman begin to approach them, unsure of what the lady in red was doing. “We have lost much, and have many ships of our order and allies unaccounted for. Some of which had our family members aboard.”

Terrogate continued. “We would ask that you assist us in aiding the wounded, repairing our vessel and recovering our people.” It was a bold suggestion, provocative even, but he had nothing to lose by speaking it. Perhaps there was good in this Master Inquisitor and the man was just skillsd at hiding it behind a tough exterior. They would find out soon he suspected.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker.

The inquisitor chuckled mockingly at Terrogates request. “You would ask that I help you? That we expend so much of our resources to assist your rogue faction to recover? To what end exactly? You make bold outlandish claims yet I see no evidence beside..”

“She is pregnant…” said the woman in red softly, her words cutting off the Grand Inquisitor mid sentence as she moved right next to Mab. The woman looked as though she was looking not at Mab, but right through the Iktotchi Grand Master. “We must take her to Alaris… we must see if she is the one..”

“You expect me to believe THIS is the one? It's preposterous.. The Meera To’ek prophecies are well over a thousand years old! There is no chance that THIS is anything more than just another attempted..…” retorted the Grand Inquisitor, clearly aggravated by even the suggestion.

Suddenly, the woman in the red gown lowered her hand and without permission pulled up the Grand Masters sleeve, revealing her golden ultra chrome arm. She was surprisingly fast, and the movement made Inquisitor Rokal, who was still stationed at the door, take a step forward and defensively place two of his four hands on his belt's frontmost lightsabers.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

“What is this!? ” snapped Terrogate, He turned to look at the Besalisk who also moved other then the single step forwards, then back to the Grand Inquisitor who hadn't moved at all. Only stood staring at Mab’s arm. “What are you talking about? The One?.. Explain yourselves!” said Terrogate. He made no movement to go for his weapons, however the Temple Master was preparing himself to defend with force should it come to it.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

"I'm fine" she lied, she was far from fine. It felt like someone stabbed her in the abdomen, she could feel the distress of their unborn children but she didn't want to make their current situation worse. She tried to sit up straight and compose herself allowing Terrogate to speak.

Mab focused on the Grand Inquisitor, it was clear as day he did not trust them nor believed their story. Terrogate's request was met with mockery. But the woman beside him, she was far more difficult to read. Clutching her abdomen she glanced up at the woman as she approached, part of her felt threatened. But the she suddenly revealed that Mab was with child.

Mab's eyes widened, she had only just found out and this woman.. she just saw it.. "take me where..  what?" The Grand Master responded in shock before the Grand Inquisitor even spoke up. Glancing between the woman and the Inquisitor, Mab shook her head "I have no idea what you are talking about.. I'm…" but then the woman just pulled up her sleeve, exposing her golden arm. "What are you doing? You've mistaken me with someone else..  I have no idea what you are talking about" the grand master said and pulled her arm back.

The tension in the room was rising. "Who is this Meera To’ek?" Mab asked with a worried look on her face. "Aaghhh… what prophecies?"

\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker.

“At the cracking of the glowing crystal shall it begin.” Suddenly said Inquisitor Rokal from behind Mab, the Besalisk seemingly happy to ignore the two Je’daiis’ demands for answers in favour of continuing the debate. “With all respect, you know the words Grand Inquisitor. As we all do. What if she’s right? What if this is what was foreseen. We must take them to Alaris, to the Master Sage.. We must discover if she has the sight..”

“Meera To’ek….was once a Master Jedi and famed seer.” said the Grand Inquisitor. He sounded like he was replying to the Je’daii demand yet looking behind them to Inquisitor Rokal as he spoke. His voice was reluctantly restrained, like he was fighting an internal battle with himself. He looked back down to Mab then continued his explanation.

“Fifteen hundred years ago, it's said Meera travelled to Alaris Prime for reasons unknown, there she recorded a vision. It was, we are told, a powerful force vision of the future. She claimed that one day the force will send us a saviour. One with the power to foresee a series of events that could herald the end of days. She recorded this vision on a stone slab she found in a long lost ruin.”

Antonius looked back to the Besalisk and continued, “Of course, as all prophecies seem to be, she did not record any actual details of what these events are, when or where they would happen, and much of what is known is gibberish and likely to be entirely metaphorical.” he continued pessimistically.

“Finally, after returning to the order Meera recruited several followers. After which she returned to Alaris and created a temple around the stone slab before finally leaving the Jedi order to live out her days on the jungle world. The Protectors of the Alaris prophecies have made it their home ever since, foolishly waiting for the one to just show up.” he finished. Rounding off the tale.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

“This sounds insane.. What makes you think it's the Grandmaster?” he asked, looking bewildered at what he had just heard.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

“We don't know! That's my point!!  We don't even know that the glowing crystal is Berchest! The seers have their musings, their hunches.. but how can they be sure? It could mean one of any thousands of glowing crystals. What I do know is, sitting around in the shadows just expecting prophecies to come true does nothing to prevent the REAL threats that are out there right now! Pirates, slavers.. Sith! This is why we created the Disciples of Light. Me, and so many others of the Republic are sick of just waiting around while worlds burn.” he said, letting out some of the anger that was brooding underneath the surface. “The Jedi refuse to act, and so we do what we must to flush out evil at its core.” He concluded sternly.

“You cannot ignore the signs Antonius” said the woman in red. “Lest you tempt all our fates. Remember our duty to the Protectors Grand Master Inquisitor. We must bring them before the Sages.” This time, it was not a request. The strange woman’s words, however soft like a gentle breeze, now had a distinct resolve pressing up behind the tranquillity of her being.

“Duty… Bah! Perhaps once long ago it called to me. But now…..”

Antonius trailed off. He had once believed as they did, but he had turned from that path long ago when the envoy of several wealthy senators had sought him out as an answer to their frustration of an inactive Jedi Council when the Galaxy was in utter turmoil. Since then he and his Inquisitors had done so much good in the name of the Republic. His followers were previously isolated on Alaris Prime. Hidden, living and training forever among the trees but with no one to fight.. No evil to vanquish. Only watching for those blasted signs just as those before them had done for over twenty generations.. But now they were militarised. Funded. And perhaps one day… They would cease to be the secret investigators of the Republic, but an army! An army of light.. With himself at the helm. He liked the sound of that. And Antonious knew it was the very reason he was so conflicted at this moment. He was torn over listening to his companions, or his desire to become Supreme Commander of the Republic army.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

Terrogates head was spinning trying to keep up with what they were saying.  From what he could tell they wanted to take Mab to Alaris Prime.. To meet a Master Sage because they think she might be the “chosen one”  thanks to a Jedi vision fifteen hundred years old… However, there was still one thing missing. “You still haven't told us.” The Cathar said aloud, cutting into the conversation. “You still haven't said why you think the Grand Master is this…. One.” Could it be? Could she be as they suggested? Mab was powerful, and he always felt something had changed inside her since her near death encounter on Prakith. It was clear to see, but did this have anything to do with it? He wasn't sure. All he knew was he needed to protect her, love her and do whatever he could to get his people home and safe.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

Before Antonius or Inquisitor Rokal could even respond, the lady in red started to recite the prophecy as though she had been born with the knowledge already inside her mind. As though the recollection was as natural to her as breathing.

“As past, future and present meld, through a wound in the force shall arrive the one. The chosen one. The one who will usher in an age of unprecedented destruction and death upon the galaxy. The end of days.

Apon a great bird of death shall they ride, donning a crown of bone and fist of blooded gold. Only they shall have the sight to see our doom for they are the broken, once dead now reborn not as one but as many.

At the cracking of the glowing crystal shall it begin. The five seals of darkness, each born with the power to unmake reality shall be broken. Only the chosen one can save us…”

For a time the room fell silent as she finished speaking.. All eyes were now on the Je’daii Grand Master.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

Despite the pain, Mab tried her best to compose herself. It was obvious, they had already noticed but she still did not want to show weaknesses in front of these people. The besalisk spoke up behind her, more riddles and no answers. 'Prophecy? The one?' What did it all mean? Not knowing was actually quite frightening.

Finally, the Grand Inquisitor began to answer their demands for an explanation, telling them about Meera To'ek, a Jedi Master and seer from hundreds of years ago. Mab quietly listend to the story about To'ek and her vision.

Mab shook her head slightly, still not believing it had anything to do with her but before she could say it, Terrogate already spoke up. The Grand Inquisitor was just as sceptical than the two Je'daii, Mab sensed his anger and frustration about the topic. But one thing was clear; that this Grand Inquisitor cared for his people, he was loyal to them and willing to whatever it took to keep them safe.

The mysterious woman in red began ro recite the prophecy before Mab could even say anything. 'as Past, future and present meld, through a wound in the force shall arrive the one.' Mab could see the similarities with their arrival, especially after finding out that the wormhole had taken them back in time. "A bird of death? Crown of bone and fist of blooded gold?" Mab responded in disbelief "it could mean anything" she said and raised her ultra chrome arm "and this? This is a curse and coincidence" she said with a hint of anger in her voice.

"I'm sorry" she said and glanced at Terrogate for a moment. "But I'm not convinced, I am not the one you are looking for" she turned to the woman in red "and there is no time to find out.. our people, those that survived are lost in this galaxy, unaware of the time shift. My children are out there.. as is our enemy, I have to fix this. We have no time for prophecies." She paused for a moment, to think.

"We asked for your help and I understand if you refuse. But I can't waste any more time, we have to act now before more damage is done"

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

“And what time do you think you possess GrandMaster?”

Said Inquisitor Rokal rounding the two Je’daii Masters now in order to face them, all four hands now removed from his still holstered weapons.

“If what you say is correct, your vessel is heavily damaged and you possess many wounded. Who will help you? The crystal planet below? They believe you just attacked them and immediately called for Republic aid. For us, to either arrest or destroy you. Their capital now lays in ruins with how many innocent lives already lost? Yet you dismiss this fortelling as mere coincidence.“

The Besalisk was talking to the Je’daii, but a glance to the Grand Inquisitor during the last sentence suggested there were more than just two Masters intended to hear it.

“Do you think you will find anyone willing to aid you? And how many more lives would you put at risk by ignoring the signs..? We could help each other if you just agree to….”

“ENOUGH!” interjected the Grand Inquisitor cutting off Inquisitor Rokal before he could say any more. “The Je’daii have made their position clear. If they are unwilling to cooperate and wish to leave, let them.”

The red dressed woman however said nothing, she merely stood by, her unfocused star like eyes watching, waiting to see how the Je’daii reacted.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

“Then we are done here.” Terrogate said sternly, standing up and ready to walk Mab back out their waiting shuttle. Mab didn't believe them and that was enough for him. They needed help, that was true, but together they would work it out. Together they would find their families and allies and vanquish the Dark Shield once and for all from the galaxy. And they would return to their ancestral homeworld to start over again.

This is what he so desperately wanted to believe in his heart.. But the Besalisk he had to concede had a point and from where they stood, the Harpy’s hyperdrive and long range communications being unoperational, the sheer amount of wounded aboard plus countless other immediate problems of their current situation… the Je'daiis’ future looked bleak indeed. But, Mab was both his Grandmaster and his true love. And he trusted her judgement completely. He would follow her to hell and back if that were her destination.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

"I don't know how much time we have… and you're probably right about not finding any help" Mab replied to the Baselisk as she clenched her golden fist. She knew the situation was dire and she felt awful about what their arrival caused to the innocent people of this crystal planet. But what choice did she have? There were others out there, lost and unaware about what had really happened and worst of all, the Dark Shield fleet was out there as well, causing more mayhem.

"But there is too much at stake, I can't just sit here and do nothing." She continued, speaking directly to the Basilisk as the Grand Inquisitor was more than happy to make them leave. "But tell me, what good will it do if I agreed to your terms and then it turns out it \*was\* just an unfortunate coincidence? You might not believe it, but the Je'daii aren't the bad guys here, there are others that came through that will cause real devastation across the galaxy. And I have to stop them" Mab explained.

Mab looked up at the woman in red, "surely you must understand our position" she said not expecting an answer from her. "It's not just my own people I worry about but the entire galaxy."

In the corner of her eye she saw Terrogate get up ready to leave. She sensed his emotions, she could feel his doubt. For a moment she just sat there. Was she wrong to refuse their terms? What if it wasn't a coincidence? She was beginning to doubt herself. But then she glanced at the Grand Inquisitor's cold gaze, he wanted them gone.

Mab got up and stepped closer to Terrogate, she looked at him and gave him a faint smile. She knew he would follow her anywhere, but if he'd told her she was wrong she would listen.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate

Ready to leave, Terrogate moved towards the door of the small room as Mab expressed her position, her concerns… her selflessness and care for others that the large Cathar had always wondered how she kept secret from her evil Sith Masters during her time as an apprentice and then also as a knight. To him it stood out more brightly than the glowing crystal planet that hung in ruins below them. He so wanted to believe they were going to be fine if they just left this meeting and returned to the Harpy, but the odds of that seems slim at best given the Grand Inquisitors ultimatum. If they leave… they and their faction would become enemies of the republic.. terrorists. And even if they happened to survive today, what then?

Mab got up and stepped closer to her lifemate, she looked at Terrogate, smiling gently at him with that look... and he knew she could sense his doubt inside.

“My Stars..” he began, his deep growling voice was soft as he spoke to her and his ears were lowered. He knew the others could hear him, but that mattered little at this point. “I’m not sure.. I’m not sure we should refuse..” he said, not at all confidently. “If we do, the Je’daii people will become enemies of the republic.. and while we here will endure of that I’m certain, we must think of those who are not here.. Khara.. Kas’sparr.. Faera.. Ziyal.. they are all still out there as are countless Je’daii.. our people..” Terrogate said.. “They will become hunted..” he added, glancing a look to the Grand Inquisitor Dekkor that, if looks could kill, would have shot a dagger directly into his heart.

\*\*\*\*\*

GM UPDATE:

Within moments, and before Mab could respond to her lifemate's request to reconsider, a faint shudder was felt in the small Consular-class Cruiser followed by a proximity alarm. As the small cruisers' stabilisers almost instantly kicked in settling the vibrations, two huge starships, each one almost two-thirds as large as the Harpy dropped out of hyperspace just a thousand metres above them.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

The Grand inquisitor silently seethed at the Je’daii woman, her arrogance picked at his patience despite the fact he still didn’t believe that she could possibly be the chosen one. Not as his companions clearly would have him believe.. but surprisingly, and only given the recent reaction of the Grand Master, he was now second-guessing himself if they had in fact attacked the planet below. Still, the senate would expect answers and someone to blame for the catastrophe. If he could give them one, it would grant significant boons to his importance in Galactic security.

He was careful to conceal this emotion inside of the force of course. Her Cathar companion was the largest of the species he’d ever seen and even though he and the Grand Master were just about to turn their backs and announce themselves an enemy to the Galactic Republic, he’d much rather wait until they were out of the small confines of his personal transport to begin the process of bringing them to justice if that’s what the force willed. When the odds would be tilted significantly more in his favour.

\*Beeerrrd, \*beeerrrd, \*beeerrrd, a proximity alarm suddenly rang out across the small cruiser and it’s repetitive sound was quickly replaced with a small vibration and then the appearance of two large Republic Capital ships.

\*beep\* a communication request sounded on the Grand Inquisitors communicator.

“What is it..” he said, lifting the communicator to his mouth and responding to the alert.

“My apologies Grand Inquisitor..” said the familiar male voice of the consular class cruisers pilot. “There are two Republic support vessels that have just entered from hyperspace, the lead is requesting you directly sir.”

“Of course… the local Republic response has arrived. OK patch them through.” Replied Antonius, keeping his eyes fixed on Terrogate and Mab as he spoke, well aware that everyone could clearly hear what was happening. “Roger. Patching through the hailing Commander now.”

“Greetings Grand Inquisitor.. this is Commander Thaxion of the Republic security vessel Dartmouth, we are responding to reports of terrorist attacks on Berchest.” Said a gruff voice from over the com.

“You are correct Commander Thaxion, we will be requiring immediate aid and potential immigration allowances to the planet below, focusing on the capital city of Calius saj Leeloo which has received the worst of the attack.” Replied the Grand Inquisitor.

“Indeed sir. We will give what aid we can until the rest of the response fleet arrives. It is comforting that the Inquisitors were able to mobilize so swiftly. I’m also picking up two large war vessels above orbit, sensors are indicating extensive damage to both, I’m assuming these are the perpetrators, if so then well-done sir. May I ask what are your orders?”

Antonius didn’t answer, he could feel Inquisitor Rokal’s eyes on him and the decision loomed heavily… there were children on board that vessel he knew. but often in war.. certain things must be overlooked for the greater good. Antonius paused still even longer, even after a second request from the Republic commander for orders echoed over the com.. the Grand Inquisitor just continued to look at the Je’daii Grand Master… waiting for her to speak.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

They didn't need to exchange words to understand each other. Standing before him, her life mate could feel her doubt and answered the question she hadn't even asked yet. Am I making a mistake?' Her chin dipped to her chest as she silently listened to the Cathar.

She nodded, Terrogate was right as always. But still, it pained her to know that staying here would mean her people, her children had to wait. They were lost, probably unaware of what had happened, she could imagine how scared they must be. Mab was about to respond but was interrupted by the two star ships that dropped out of hyperspace.

Mab remained quiet as the Grand Inquisitor responded to the incoming hails. She observed him closely and everything about him told her he wanted to bring them to justice, no matter what their decision would be. But she couldn't blame him, if she were in his position she would probably feel the same.

"There is no need for further action" Mab said. "We.. I will do what you asked" she said and glanced at the woman in red.  "We are not the enemy, but no matter what we say," she turned to the Grand Inquisitor and continued "\*you\* already made up your mind, you want someone to be responsible" she paused and gave a faint smile, indicating she understood his feelings towards them. "Our ships aren't going anywhere, and if it makes you feel more safe, we will allow a team of your people to board our ship and see for themselves while I will go with you to Alaris," she said, trying her best to ensure the safety of the people on board the Je'daii ships.

A sharp pain in her abdomen caused Mab to hunch forward. The stress was causing her body to respond.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate.

“No, I will not let you go alone!” exclaimed Terrogate sharply, his voice stern and resolved. There was not a chance he was going to let Mab out of his sight for even an instant. They had already lost the rest of their family. He would not allow it to be further placed at risk. He would die first.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

Antonius Dekker, Grand Inquisitor of the Disciples of Light made no movent as the Grand Master spoke accepting his companion's request, and only allowed a songle eyebrow to raise at her Cathar companions' outburst. Clearly, there was more to this couple than just belonging to the same order. He truly cared for her..  “You are right Grand Master Bathor, someone must pay for these crimes.” he finally said, breaking his silence and lifting his comlink to his mouth once more, activating the voice transponder.

“Commander Thaxion, this is Grand Master Dekker speaking. When I arrived in the Berchest system aboard the Vigilance, the Hammerhead war vessel had already completed its primary planetary bombardment of Berchest. The secondary Battle Cruiser brandishing Je’daii-like markings, through seemingly fortunate coincidence, intercepted the vessel before we could intervene and before attackers could do any more harm. As you can see, both vessels were heavily damaged during the engagement.”

As Antonius gave his report to the Republic Commander he never took his eyes off The Je’daii woman and his face remained as serious as though he were about to condemn her and her crew all to death.

“I will lodge an official report stating all of this to Coruscant directly of course. In the meantime Commander Thaxion, your primary directive is to assist with the evacuation of Berchest refugees and administer critical aid to those who need it. Secondary to that, you are also to provide medical aid and then towing assistance to the Je’daii vessel taking them to Alaris Prime for Inquisitorial inspection and repairs.”

“Yes, Grand Inquisitor, your orders are understood. And what of the Hammerhead war vessel sir?” asked the gruff-sounding voice over the comlink.

“Destroy it into space dust Commander. The Galactic Republic does not tolerate terrorists. And neither do I.” Antonius said coldly, then shut off his wrist-mounted comlink before even waiting to hear the confirmation of the order.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Je'daii Master Terrogate.

“Destroy it!?!” gasped Terrogate shocked, why!? He looked at Mab and then at the woman in red who was still staring at Mab’s belly as though she was busy watching a thoroughly engaging holo-drama.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Inquisitor Antonius Dekker

“Relax Temple Master.. as your Master said… the Republic senate will need someone to blame, and there are no active lifeforms aboard. Be grateful it isn't your ship I’m ordering destroyed. You have one standard hour to return to your battle cruiser, gather your belongings and return to the Vigilance ready for Hyperspace travel.” Commanded Antonius. “Your vessel may take several weeks to get to Alaris however Republic soldiers and aid will be assisting you and your wounded during the trip, so you may bring a small entourage if you wish. I would never ask a Grand Master to go anywhere alone after all. Especially one in your…. condition.” he said almost sarcastically and waited for the Je’daii Grand Master to respond.

He had done the right thing he knew deep down in his gut by giving his companions the benefit of the doubt regarding the prophecy, but he still didn't like it.

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

Mab smiled and squeezed Terrogate's arm as he exclaimed that he wasn't going to let her go alone. She was about to speak up, telling her lifemate it was ok, that their people needed him more than she did, but before she could the Grand Inquisitor interrupted. “You are right Grand Master Bathor, someone must pay for these crimes.” his words stung, Mab lowered her gaze and went silent.

A soft gasp escaped her lips as she listened to the Grand Inquisitor lie to his colleagues, telling them that the 'Hammer of Justice' had bombarded their planet before their arrival. Wide eyed she glanced up at the Inquisitor as he continued his report. He stared right back at her, with an ice cold look that brought shivers down her spine. Again she gasped in shock when she heard his final order to destroy Stazi's Hammerhead, but she knew this had to be done to keep all parties happy.

Still holding his arm, she turned to Terrogate, "it's ok. They are safe" she said trying to reassure him despite the fact that she still needed a lot of reassuring herself. The Grand Inquisitor then continued, telling them they had one hour to get their belongings and inform their crew about what was going to happen.

Mab turned to face the room "thank you Grand Inquisitor" she said respectfully "we will be ready" she added and glanced at the woman in red who had been silent most of the time. "Let's not waste time" Mab turned away, ready to return to their ship.

~\*~

When they were finally alone, on board their transport she wanted to burst out in tears, to release all the stress and despair she felt. But Mab stopped herself, bottling it up, 'no time for emotions, have to deal with it later' she told herself and then turned her face to Terrogate. "Did I do the right thing?" She asked softly, still feeling unsure about any decision she had made.

Mab sat down in the pilot's seat and disengaged the docking clamps. "You should stay with the Harpy" she then said as she engaged the thrusters "they need a leader, especially now" she added but her voice and every inch of her body said something else. She didn't want to go alone, she needed him. "I can go alone… there's too many wounded, too much damage.. we need everyone on the Harpy." And continued their short trip back.

\*\*\*\*\*

"Did I do the right thing?" Mab asked, as they closed the airlock of the small vessel. She looked worried and the Cathar knew she was trying to stay strong for him, and for the order and their remaining people. Terrogate embraced her and placed his forehead to hers and closed his eyes, silently breathing her in for a moment. It was a gesture of love and kinship within the Cathar race, and a tradition he had continued to do through his re-emergence after his several thousand years trapped in stasis. “You did what you thought was right. That is all anyone can truly do.” he whispered back to her as he opened his eyes and pulled back his head, looking down at her tattooed face. “Your decision has granted the promise of aid to our people, and repairs to our ship. Whatever the future holds, your intentions and sacrifices were made to help the Je'daii people..” he smiled softly and took her hand.. “Come on, it's time to go.”

~\*~

Terrogate sat back in the navigator's seat of the transport, his wife had the piloting controls and they had just left the Grand Inquisitors personal shuttle on their way back to the Harpy Battle Cruiser. In the distance, outside the viewport was the silhouette of two enormous galactic alliance vessels moving to flank the Hammer Of Justice in preparation for its ordered destruction.

Terrogate did not answer Mab's suggestion of him staying on the Harpy as she went with the Disciples of Light back to their ancestral homeworld of Alaris Prime. He knew she didn't want to leave without him, just as well as he knew that she knew he would never agree to it. But instead of starting a fight… He remained silent on the subject and gave her time to think over it. “The woman in red…” The Cathar suddenly said aloud. “She was very quiet.. don't you think?” he said entirely rhetorically. “They said the guardians of the prophecies are ruled by seers.” he continued thoughtfully. “Do you think that the reason she didn't say anything to persuade Dekker, was because she already knew what was going to happen? That she knew you'd agree to go along, and that Antonius would ultimately accept her prediction about you?” The question was not a cryptic one, but the warrior knew his wifes power among the force as a darkside seer even if she turned from that particular path many years ago. And her vision during the battle was nothing if not a sign her power to see the future was growing.. He wondered if the timing of his unborn cubs had anything to do with it? His mind wandered back to the time they spent together on Cathar for their wedding. And how Kadji had told him of their families ability to “truly see” past the realm of the physical world and uncover the truth of things by touching them.

“We won't have long to tell everyone what is happening..” Terrogate said, “And I think you should start thinking about who will accompany you to Alaris.. I think you know I will not accept you to go alone. There are others aboard the Harpy with experience who can help… Je’daii and friends who have proven themselves, who have risked their lives for us and would gladly do so again. They believe in you... You should trust them.. For us. And for our family..” he added, placing a gentle loving hand softly against her womb.

\*\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

His silence when she suggested he'd stay behind on Harpy, told her enough. Neither of them liked the idea, still Mab believed it would be best. She trusted the others, they were more than capable to lead but evenso, she felt more comfortable with Terrogate in charge. He wouldn't just lead them, he would guide them. But Mab understood very well that he would never let her go with these people by herself.

After a few moments, as she navigated their transport back to the Harpy, Terrogate broke the silence. He mentioned the woman in red, wondering out loud if she might have known the outcome of their meeting beforehand. "Could be" Mab replied timidly, her mind still pondering on what was going to happen. "If I wasn't…" she paused for a moment and glanced down at her own abdomen "if i wasn't…this weakened, I might have tried using the Force to probe their minds. Sorry I didn't, I was overwhelmed, I guess" she said and brought her focus back to the controls. "Might have been able to persuade them to help us without all this prophecy stuff" Mab let out a sigh and sent a message to the Harpy that they would arrive soon.

"Accompany me?" Mab responded with slight surprise as she felt his hand on her abdomen. She paused, letting him touch and sense the cubs inside her womb. "But we need everyone on board the Harpy, to start repairs and take care of the wounded" she eventually broke the silence, "wouldn't you agree?" She added but still took a moment to think about it. Commander West, she has to stay behind to lead the crew. Doctor Otis has to stay to tend to the wounded. "What about Lathrop?, from a scientific perspective?" She suddenly suggested, "he might shed some light on everything that happened and is supposed to happen?"

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Temple Master Terrogate

“You are right, and it pains me to have to split our forces… But I cannot allow you to go alone, you are everything to me.. And to the Je'daii.” Repeated Terrogate. “Doc? Said Terrogate in surprise to Mabs reply, “you mean the same doc who disabled our shields and left us defenceless?” He let the question hang for a moment before stubbornly agreeing. She was the Grandmaster as well as his lifemate, and if that was her wish then so be it. “Ok, but as a precaution, his assistant Marty will accompany you as well…if only to keep the old man out of trouble. But, you will need someone to protect you.” The Cathar looked to his wife, “this must be your decision. Of course I would insist it be me, however this Dekker character obviously doesn't trust me. And it is possible that my very presence could hinder your mission. We do however have alternatives aboard should you choose.. Ania Solo, Master Darsten’s son Galmar and of course Aries is aboard with Kadji.. Not that the old woman will protect you.. But I would trust Aries with my life.” the warrior's ears flatten, and does his best to hide his fear of what was to come on this mission. They were risking much, but much more would be risked not allowing Mab to go and see the Master Sage. “Unless of course, there was any other you would prefer?”

\*\*\*\*\*

IC: Grand Master Bathor

"Yes the Same Doc" Mab responded sharply and looked Terrogate directly in his eyes. "Lathrop has served the order since the beginning. We made him head of science at Anil Kesh, remember? Despite the fact that he doesn't have the Force.." she paused to take a deep breath. Of course Mab understood Terrogate's worries after what happened, but everything the Doc had done for the order weighed heavier in her opinion. "He made a  mistake, but we all do sometimes. Picking up arms against the Regime was mine, it is my fault we are all here! We should have evacuated, brought our people to safety" again tears welled up with the feeling of guilt she now carried. "We trusted Lathrop, I still trust him.. and he doesn't \*need\* Marty to keep him out of trouble." she said and used her sleeve to wipe away the tears..

For a moment she remained silent, again thinking about who she should take with them. "I'm sure Ania Solo would take the task seriously but we've only met. I'd feel more comfortable with Aries on my side." She finally replied, letting out another deep breath. "Galmar may be young, but he's a lot like his father." She nodded "yes.. Lathrop, Aries and Galmar.. I'll take them with me.. and if you really insist Marty as well but I still believe he will be of more use on the Harpy." she finally decided.

In the meantime they were almost at the Harpy, Mab signalled the bridge that they were making their final approach. "I doubt they would approve if I take more with me.." Mab glanced at her life mate again, her eyes glistening. "You need to be with our people, I trust you and they do as well."

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IC: Temple Master Terrogate

“I am sorry my Stars” replied Terrogate. “I know Doc has been a faithful servant.. And I trust your judgment.. Marty will stay with me on the Harpey” Said Terrogate, letting Mab’s choices of companions sink in.”Their is no doubt his skills would be better served tending the wounded and repairing damaged systems” he admitted. “But…my Stars… you must know, It is never a mistake to stand against tyranny,” said Terrogate softly, looking across the cockpit into her teary golden eyes. His also were now welling and his ears were flat on his head as he realised the weight of this decision. Unsurprisingly, in response mab still harboured fault for the entire situation. Her guilt was understandable, indeed much had happened since the decision to face the Darkshield on a military front rather than just inside the phoney re-instated senate, but her guilt was also, in his opinion, entirely unwarranted. In the warrior's mind and heart, he believed with every inch of his being that she did the right thing for the Je’daii, their people, and the galaxy.“ You are right of course..… we may have evacuated….ran for our lives and escaped the battles…fleeing our people to safety…” he paused for a moment, and as he blinked, he caught a glimpse of the golden helmet of Mandalore the Ultimate.. And he thought for just a moment…. That his nostrils may have caught the faint smell of burning wood… “But for how long? And how many planets would have burned in the meantime…?” He asked rhetorically.. “How many systems would have been forced into slavery? How many trillions would have suffered and how many innocents put to the sword once the Darkside regime took total and unchallenged control of the galaxy…?”  Terrogate looked forwards as Mab brought the small transport into the docking bay of the heavily damaged Harpey Battle Cruiser. “They lied to us… there was never a rebellion against Dreadwar and the Dark Council.... Only a war between those in power and the many exiles who jealously lusted after it” The large warrior paused for a moment.. Trying to shake the images of death from his mind's eye.. “....We were the galaxy's last hope…It was our duty to defent those who could not defend themselves..” he whispered thoughtfully as the memory of the gruesome slaughter he had lived through over four thousand years earlier slowly dissipated from his thoughts..

Reaching down, he placed his hand on Mabs knee and gave it a light squeeze before forcing a small smile to cross his face. Mab, tears in her eyes brought the small craft into landing.. “Best you get yourself ready for your mission to Alaris, I’ll ensure the others you’ve selected are prepared to leave within the hour.”

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End of Chapter 2.