CHAPTER III: OUTLANDER
CHAPTER IV: THE GRAVESTONE
From: Terion Drel
From: HK-55
Subjedt: Report: Intercepted Transmission
Observation: Zakuulan news broadcasts are transmitted on an unsecured frequency. Reports on our escape are currently the leading topic.
Elaboration: The sudden blackout caused by the reactor shutdown has been cited as the cause of minor injuries and property damage but no fatalities.
Conclusion: Maximum preservation of life achieved. Your efforts were entirely successful, master.
CHAPTER IV: THE GRAVESTONE
Subject: Our Depest Thanks
On behalf of my fellow exiles, I would like to extend our utmost thanks for your generosity in bringing us aboard your vessel. It is a strange ship, to be sure, but far preferable to the swamps or Arcann's prisons.
Though we have few relevant skills, we are doing our best to assist in the running of the ship--Master Vortena has even offered us permanent positions in his crew! We are overwhelmed by such kindness.
You saved us all--we will do whatever we can to repay you.
CHAPTER VIII: TAKING FLIGHT
We'll be arriving in Odessen soon. I don't know when we'll have a moment to simply talk, but I need to get something off my chest. I knew going into this fight, sacrifices would be necessary. Such is the nature of war. But seeing the damage you suffered at Arcann's hands... You should be dead. I spent the last five years searching for you because I knew you were our only hope for victory, but I didn't think about the toll it might take on you. Koth did. He's always harping on those things. All I cared about was rescuing you so that you could rescue us. I wonder if that was unfair of me. Please know that I never take what you endure for granted. No matter what happens, the galaxy will be forever in your debt.
CHAPTER IX: THE ALLIANCE
One of my jobs around here is monitoring morale. I intercept every comm channel in the camp (except yours--I respect the chain of command), and I know how to avoid being noticed by people who think they're having a private chat.
That all sounds terrible when I write it down. Let me start over.
I hear what people are saying around the camp, and the news is all good. Even the most die-hard Imperial soldiers are inspired by what you said. People believe we can win this fight, and that's a big improvement over what I was hearing over the last five years. You've won over the doubters, Commander. And if it makes any difference, you've definitely got my vote.
CHAPTER X: ANARCHY IN PARADISE
From: Alliana Slenn
Subject: Thank You
I don't know why Firebrand didn't go through with the full plan. I have a feeling that was your doing. Either way, I'm glad it didn't happen.
It seemed so exciting and romantic at the time. Then my father died, and I realized this isn't a game. If I hadn't helped Firebrand, maybe he would still be alive.
Things have been hectic since the droid blackout. I heard my neighbors complaining yesterday about having to wash their own clothes. I wanted to tell them to shut up--it could've been so much worse! Because of you, at least no one else got hurt.
If Firebrand is with you, please be careful. She has a way of getting under your skin.
Subject: The new recruit
Look, can we keep Kaliyo out of the sabacc games from now on? She played with my crew last night and took them for all they had. Len got back to the barracks without his clothes and wouldn't tell me what happened. He seemed a little traumatized, now that I think about it.
Kaliyo's part of the team now. I respect that. But my people don't get paid enough as it is, and now Mistress Shady's taking what little they do have. I'd appreciate if you could keep her away from them.
And if you could get Len's clothes back, that'd be great. For everyone's sake.
From: Seb Lorod
Subject: Fwd (No Subject)
Really, Kaliyo? I have to hear from some slimeball pazaak dealer that you're out in Wild Space now? Two years I waited for you, and you couldn't even send a message. I thought you might be dead, thought the bounty hunters had finally caught up to you.
Well, I can take a hint. I saved up for that club we said we'd open together, but I guess I don't need the credits anymore. Take them. That was all I was ever good for, right?
-Seb
NOTE FROM THERON: Intercepted six more messages like this one, all from different people. I try not to judge personal lives, but tell me this isn't evidence to keep Kaliyo at arm's length and use her skills appropriately.
Subject: Qeekly Morale Analysis
Greetings, Commander! It is my extreme pleasure to present my most recent findings on our delightful camp's morale.
Admiral Aygo and his soldiers have experienced a 12 percent increase in morale after the capture of a minor outpost on Tatooine. May I recommend a small celebration to maximize this boost in happiness?
In tracking Hylo Visz's daily routine, I have observed an 18 percent loss in sleep over the past week. My data also indicate high levels of frustration and increased irritability. Perhaps more comfortable quarters are in order, or even a reassuring hug from her commander!
I have been kept quite busy in my cleaning duties following Kaliyo Djannis's arrival. Our new recruit has conducted six scuffles with Tora to date. All have been resolved with a truce of intoxication and revelry.
I will continue to monitor morale and report any findings. I hope you have an extraordinarily productive day!
CHAPTER XI: DISAVOWED
Hey, Commander. Bit of a problem with our dear Admiral Aygo. Thought you might want to know.
Since Aric Jorgan arrived, he and Aygo have been two grenades in a bandolier. Talking tactics, designing training regimens... I'd swear they're the same person.
With this new "inspiration" egging him on, Aygo has been working his fleet twice as hard. People are getting burnt out. I've overheard complaints in the barracks, something about Jorgan "wedging that vibroblade even farther up--" Well, you get the idea.
I'll have a chat with Aygo about lightening up. Tell him he doesn't need to work so hard to impress his new best friend. The troops can't fight Arcann if there's nothing left of them.
Grabbed this from Zakuul News Bulletin. Looks like our pal Arcann is really cracking down.
-Theron
ATTENTION:
A reminder to all Zakuulans that aiding a traitor to the throne is an offense punished without mercy. It is your duty to oppose those who seek to spread turmoil and uncertainty, poisoning our grand society with their lies. In these trying times, we must remember our loyalty--to Zakuul and to the Emperor.
If you are contacted by a traitor to Zakuul, alert the authorities immediately. Skytroopers will be dispatched to apprehend the offender. Failure to turn in a suspected traitor will be treated as a crime against the Empire.
With your assistance, we can keep Zakuul safe and prosperous.
Please instruct C2-N2 to kindly stay away from my experiments. I was working on a highly sophisticated piece of artificial intelligence this afternoon, very near completion. But when I returned from my second lunch, I found my work in shambles, a vital data chip fried with cleaning solution.
Apparently, that bumbling droid thought my complicated and delicate experiment looked "dusty" and attempted to clean it for me. Now the data chip is entirely useless, and my afternoon of work has been for nothing. It will take me hours to construct another data chip!
In the future, I would appreciate if you curb that nitwit's urge to "help" me. Otherwise, I'll be forced to break him down and use his parts in compensation.
I wanted to thank you for everything you've done. You had no reason to assist us, but your support has made all the difference.
Havoc Squad has been running daily drills with my people. Already we've seen a considerable improvement in our skills. Yesterday, we managed to eliminate a small group of Skytroopers without Havoc's help. We may have a fighting chance after all.
But more than that, you've given us hope. Zakuul has failed us. Our Emperor has failed us. But you were there when we needed it, and for that alone, we have a reason to fight. We have a purpose. We will not fail you.
CHAPTER XII: VISIONS IN THE DARK
It took me a long time to hit send on this one, but I guess you already know I'm not great at this.
You and me, we're used to danger. I've been trained to roll with the punches. I used to think nothing could faze me, but when you vanished without a trace... I couldn't stop pacing. I thought Lana was going to strap me into a chair to keep me still. I didn't know where you were, and I couldn't take it.
You're the commander of the Alliance; I know what that means. You have a long fight ahead of you. Someday you might disappear on me again, somewhere I can't follow. Just know I'll be here waiting for you.
Always.
You have a long and difficult path before you. There will be moments that test all you stand for, that reveal who you truly are. Meet these challenges head on and show courage, as we know you can.
You must put the galaxy back together, for everyone who unwittingly helped tear it apart. The Eternal Empire took everything; it's up to you to reclaim it.
Marr and I have failed, each in our own way. Our time is ending, but yours is just beginning. Your decisions will define not only the present, but the shape of things to come. We trust you to choose wisely.
May the Force guide you.
Dearest Commander:
I would like to take this opportunity to say how fortunate I am to have such a remarkable master. You are an absolute inspiration, and your service to the galaxy will be recorded in history for eternity. If I had organic ocular functions, I would weep with sheer joy.
I should also to point out that I cleaned your personal quarters to sterile perfection. Not a molecule of dust escapes my watchful eye! I left a nutritious and satisfying array of meals in your refrigeration unit, should you need a late-night snack. I hope to prove how terribly useful I am!
From the bottom of my processor, thank you for allowing me to serve you. You could just as easily have deactivated me. I am a lucky droid indeed to be serving such a champion of order.
CHAPTER XIII: PROFIT AND PLUNDER
Look, Commander. You're famous. Transcript from a holotransmission sent to all Zakuulans.
Theron
CITIZENS OF ZAKUUL:
Late last night, the treasury that funds our great Empire was the target of a vicious attack. The rogue terrorist known as the Outlander seeks to dismantle our way of life and infect us with fear and chaos.
Due to the Outlander's deplorable acts of terrorism, this week's formal gala will be postponed indefinitely. Rest assured that our teams are working to correct the issue. Let us stand together and show the galaxy our strength as a united Empire.
Tyresius--oh, excuse me, Gault--told me to forward my invoice to you. I'd say I expect you to make good on it, but I know the company Ty keeps.
Identity forging--one human female: 105,000
Damaged combat droids: 42,600
Relocation fee: 38,900
Trandoshan ale, 14 bottles: 22,400
Personalized companion bot--female: 34,750
Antique Mirialan love token--stolen: 15,000
Imported substances--stolen: 28,500
Grievances: 55,250
That last one is an estimate. Psychological damage and all that. Anyway, I expect you to ignore this, so I'll send a bounty hunter after that Devaronian scum in a week or so. Great working with you.
CHAPTER XIV: MANDALORE'S REVANGE
You don't know me, but I'm a pilot with the Alliance fleet. I noticed you the second you stepped on Odessen, and I've been watching you from afar ever since. Sorry, that's creepy, isn't it?
Anyway, I wrote a poem:
My flower of blue,
I pine for you.
Your laugh is so cute,
And your head tentacle things are also cute.
It needs work. But the point is, I think you're pretty and I was wondering if you want to get a drink together. If you don't, tell me and I'll leave you alone forever.
Avus (that's my name)
But if you did read it.... Do you think I have a shot?
You really proved yourself on the battlefield. I lost a few brothers and sisters, but it could have been a hell of a lot more. It's the best my people have felt in a while, and you showed we can trust your strength as a fighter. And Mand'alor seems to respect you, so Clan Fett has your back.
All this typing is making my blood itch, so I'll just say vor'e. Thanks. You're a true warrior.
When we began this partnership, I was careful to manage my expectations. I have often been disappointed by the fickleness of organic beings. But you continue to demonstrate that allying with you is beneficial. The capture of GEMINI Prime is a victory for us both.
You have exceeded my predictions. I admit I underestimated you, even after the impressive displays I've witnessed. In the future, I will be sure to have higher expectations.
I trust I have proven that an alliance with me is equally valuable. I look forward to seeing what more we can accomplish together.
Ner vod,
Wanted to say thanks for letting me stick around. I'll bring honor to Mand'alor and to you.
Things are different here. Not like I expected. Barely settled in and I already have supporters. In Mando'a we call it cyar'tomade, an affectionate group. People who root for your victories. Never had one in the clans, not like Khomo does. Your people really like my hair. Not sure how I feel about that.
Point is, you need a brother in combat. I'll stand by your side. Let's send the Eternal Empire packing.
STAR FORTRESS
VOSS
--Theron
TATOOINE
Just got off the holo with a friend on Tatooine. In the time since you put down that blasted Star Fortress, there have been two gang wars, a dozen raids on the Sand People and nobody-knows-how-many public duels and other disturbances of the peace. A whole lot of pent-up anger just got discharged, and now everything's quiet. For now, anyway.
It's like I always say--people need the freedom to misbehave. The Eternal Empire thought it could force peace down everyone's throats, and all they did was make it worse. You did a good thing, Commander. Don't let anybody tell you otherwise.
HOTH
We are so grateful for the opportunity to create the definitive public record of your war against the Eternal Empire. The Great Star Fortress Battle of Hoth will provide one of the finest chapters in our chronicles. We have conducted thorough interviews with all of your esteemed allies, and their accounts will ensure that we miss no details, however minor. Indeed, we have calculated to within fifty rounds how much ammunition was expended by members of the Alliance during this battle. We are disappointed that we cannot do the same for the enemy forces, but this is to be expected as there are no survivors to question. These are the sacrifices we must make in the war for truth.
We remain, as always, your official chronicler and comrade in arms.
Hemdil Tre
Esteemed Professor of Military Antiquity, Grand Nest of Cona
CHAPTER XV: The GEMINI Deception
Take a look at this. People are already asking questions on Zakuul. - Theron
Reminder to all Zakuulans:
Spreading false rumors about your emperor is grounds for treason, and will be dealt with accordingly.
Emperor Arcann remains in power, battling off-world to preserve our great empire. He fights for all Zakuulans. Any contradictory news is vicious Alliance propaganda intended to sow doubt into the minds of good people. The vile Outlander seeks to diminish our emperor and throw us into chaos.
It is your civic duty to stop these harmful rumors. Crush these lies, and show the Alliance they hold no power over us.
I regret to inform you that our attempts to reactivate GEMINI Prime have failed. We tried a variety of tactics: electromagnetic pulses, processor slicing, percussive maintenance, and so forth. These methods yield favorable results in nearly all droid models, yet I haven't managed to produce even a spark of life in Prime. My scans indicate she's still functional, but inactive.
I still have a trick or two up my metaphorical sleeve, but I am not optimistic about the results. Whatever issued the shut-down command seems to have an absolute hold over her. It appears we can only wait and hope.
I know not everyone made it off that ship. I wish things had gone differently. We had our differences, but we all agreed on you.
I reached out to a few old friends on Republic worlds, sympathetic ears who would be interested to hear how you saved my life. You're gaining traction among those who won't roll over and let the Eternal Empire win. The Republic will still fight behind the right leader. Now more than ever, I'm confident that person is you.
It feels good to be useful again. Thanks for giving me something to believe in.
CHAPTER XVI: The Battle of Odessen
Since the battle ended, a steady stream of Republic and Imperial ships have touched down on Odessen. They all want to join the Alliance and do some real good for once. We've nearly doubled the size of our fleet, and I doubt this will be the last round of recruits.
Normally, I'd advise caution. Technically, these are defectors joining your ranks. But that would make this Republic "defector" a hypocrite. I say we take all the help we can get. We'll need it if we're gunning for Vaylin.
It's been an uphill battle keeping the Imps and Pubs from each other's throats. I guess old habits die hard. Luckily, you're the one thing they all agree on. After watching you take down Arcann, they'll follow you anywhere.
I got eyes all over the place, and a friend just told me the most interesting story.
Said he was on Hoth, scavenging in the starship graveyard, when he hears this deafening roar. Suddenly, an Eternal Fleet warship lands on the ice, less than a kilometer away. After a few minutes, the airlock opens and a droid steps out. Then it stares at the frozen wasteland. For an hour. Just taking in the scenery.
Then the droid got back into the vessel and took off. That was the end of that. My friend can't make heads or tails of it, and neither can I. Gives me the creeps.
It seems I owe you my life, Commander. I was one of the lucky ones to escape that death trap. I'll earn the chance you gave me.
I contacted Empress Acina and told her what you did for me. She can't officially do anything yet, of course, but you have the Sith Empire's gratitude. I imagine that will be useful. Personally, I stand with the Alliance. I'll reach out to my old Sith friends and bend a few ears your way.
I look forward to seeing you grind the Eternal Empire to dust.
Vaylin sure didn't waste any time. --Theron
Citizens of Zakuul,
You are hereby invited to the coronation holo-cast for Empress Vaylin, our magnificent new ruler. Witness her ascension to the Eternal Throne as Zakuul enters a new era of strength and prosperity.
The broadcast begins promptly at sundown and can be viewed in the center square of each district. As always, transportation and celebratory noisemakers will be provided. A festival will be held following the event.
Please note: Attendance is mandatory.
I used every resource at my disposal to locate Senya's vessel. Docking records on every major planet came up empty. Patrol ships in the Core Worlds and Wild Space reported no sightings. She simply vanished.
I'm sure you had your reasons for letting her escape, and I support your decision. That doesn't mean I understand it. If Arcann recovers and comes hunting for revenge, we may not be as lucky as we were today.
Senya was a valuable ally. I understand that better than anyone--I'm the one who brought her here. But promise me that if it becomes necessary to eliminate her, you won't hesitate.
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