Blurred Lines

[borgmatrix]

I don't believe I've ever posted here in the fiction board. I started writing a story a couple years back and posted the first couple parts on another board. Things got busy, and I never ended up finishing it. I'd like to give it a shot here. The first part is below. I'll start getting other parts up in the near future, as well as continue work toward finishing it. There seems to be a lot of great fiction here, and I know time's limited, but if anyone's willing to give this a chance, I'd love to receive feedback.

So, here it begins:


Star Wars: Blurred Lines (5000 years after ROTJ)

It is a period of relative peace and order 2000 years after the last great war and the formation of the Galactic Federation. The many worlds of the galaxy have experienced security and stability under the watchful guardianship of their longtime protectors, as well as from the Federation fleet. But an enemy of the past, long returned and hidden, is about to be discovered, threatening to renew a power struggle between two ancient orders that could consume the galaxy.


Part I

Jadon Rand stood motionless amidst the steady stream of passers-by, individuals of seemingly every size, shape, and color. His gaze took in the towering Coruscant high-rises and the pink-purple of the darkening sky, which seemed just as overcrowded with traffic. Though his senses were bombarded by the congestion of the planet, he felt calm and at peace. Stretching out with the Force, he could feel the flow of life and energy. This world, the heart of the Galactic Federation, was so alive.

The dark-haired, olive-skinned Rand shifted his attention to the many sparkles in the Force, ripples created by others like him. Apprentices, Knights, Masters. Spread out over this world and beyond, they formed a network of communion and refuge. And for a moment, he felt as though he could sense them all, every member of the Order. It gave him an overwhelming sense of pride. Pride in serving and protecting this Federation, which had existed for over 2,000 years. Pride in being a Knight of the Order, which had existed far longer.

He snapped out of his reverie as feelings of irritation and restlessness washed over him. “Come on, Jadon, let’s move. You can meditate on your own time.”

Jadon smiled, turning to the source of impatience. She was garbed in a flowing, light gray robe, similar to the one he wore, though it was impressed upon him yet again how much better she looked in it. “Lara, if you can’t learn to appreciate the moment, life’s going to pass you by.”

Blond-haired and fair-skinned, Lara Willows tilted her head to the right, shooting him a look of exasperation. “Save it, Jay. I prefer to live life.” She stepped past him, grabbing his arm. “Come on, let’s hit the Outlander.”

“All right,” he said, allowing her to pull him along.

Moments later, they stepped into the crowded club. Various scents and sounds pervaded the dimly lit room, but Jadon’s attention was drawn to the large sports screens. “I wonder if the Smugglers’ are playing,” he said, looking from monitor to monitor. As they walked past the bar, there were whistles from several guys. Lara stopped, a smile playing at her lips. “Is there gonna be trouble here, boys?” Jadon shook his head as she approached the bar. He couldn’t understand why she loved to flirt with those lowlifes. It was beneath her. With a sigh, he took a seat at a table, watching.

She said something, which he didn’t catch, and drew out her lightsaber hilt, twirling it casually. As she did so, a sudden movement caught Jadon’s eye. A dark-haired, bearded man sitting to Lara’s left had reached into his jacket, almost reflexively, his weight shifting nearly imperceptibly off his barstool. Jadon caught a glimpse of metal, cylindrical…was that a…

“Lara!” He vaulted toward her, his own lightsaber flying from his belt to his hand, igniting.

***

Lara wasn’t sure what had happened. She heard Jadon shout her name, saw him moving out of the corner of her eye, and then was thrown off her feet. As she tumbled through the air, she caught a glimpse of blue and red sabers clashing. Lara landed on a table and it flipped, dumping her on the ground. The impact was jarring and she grimaced as she pulled herself up. She had hardly steadied herself when Jadon came crashing against the table, knocking her back down. Lara saw movement toward the Club entrance and then Jadon was on his feet. “Come on!” he shouted.

She leapt to her feet, summoning her saber to her hand, and took off after him.

As she cleared the entrance of the Outlander, she saw Jadon ahead, pushing his way past throngs of people. Three law enforcement officers in crimson uniforms were starting after him. “Captain!” she called out.

The lead officer turned back and snapped to attention upon seeing her. “Ma’am. We were just—“

“Cordon off all access ways, two-block radius.”

One of the officers spoke into his wrist communicator, relaying the order.

“One suspect,” Lara continued.

Two. Male and Female.

Lara jerked her head to the side slightly as Jadon’s words flashed in her mind. “Correction. My partner is in pursuit of two individuals. Male and female.

“Armed?” asked the captain.

Lara nodded, her facial muscles tightening. “One for certain. With a lightsaber.”

The officer continued to relay the information, though his eyes betrayed a flash of fear.

The captain, though more composed, was staring at her just as intently. “Are you saying they’re— "

“Treat them like one of us, Captain. Tell your men to be on their guard.”

***

Minutes later, Jadon slowed to a stop, searching desperately. They were gone. He cursed under his breath.

“Sir?” Two officers approached from the left, blasters drawn.

“All major access ways were to be cut off! Where were you?” Jadon asked.

“Sorry, sir. We moved as quickly as we could.”

Jadon walked up swiftly to the closest, holding the man intensely in his gaze. “Searches need to be conducted immediately. We must find them.”

“Yes, sir. Can you describe…” The officer trailed off, his eyes widening slightly as Jadon touched him through the Force. “I…I see them.”

“Good,” said Jadon. “Get the descriptions out to the others and locate them.”

The officer nodded, looking shaken, and moved away. He seemed so young, Jadon thought. But then, he was only five years out of the Academy himself. A youngster himself among Force-users.

“Jay?”

He turned to face Lara who was jogging over with a police captain.

“They got away?” she asked.

Jadon nodded. “I got hung up trying to get through the crowds.” He turned to the captain. “How many of the surrounding intersections were covered?”

“We were able to respond promptly to all except this area. None of my people were in the immediate vicinity.”

“Well, they knew exactly where to go.” Jadon turned slightly, his eyes on the cityscape, but his mind whirling. “Probed with the Force, perhaps?”

“I felt nothing,” Lara said.

“Neither did I.” Jadon frowned. “And in the club…” He shook his head, turning to the officer. “Captain, coordinate with your people. I want these individuals found and in custody.”

“Yes, sir.”

As the captain left, Jadon placed his hands on Lara shoulders, about to speak when he noticed her grimace at his touch. “Lara, are you okay?” he asked, pulling his hands away.

“Yeah, it’s nothing,” she said, massaging her left shoulder. “That ******* Force-shoved me over a table. I landed hard.”

Jadon lowered his head, awkward. “Well, actually, that was me.”

“You?” She punched his arm, grinning. “What the hell?”

“I thought he was going to hurt you,” Jadon answered, pulling away laughing. He studied her face for a moment, his smile fading. “You know…you could have been—“

“I know.” Lara sighed. “I know…thanks.”

They exchanged a glance, then looked away.

After a moment, Jadon broke the silence, his expression serious. “It’s getting dark fast. I’m not sure they’ll find them. Lara, go to the President. Tell him what we’ve seen.” He turned and started toward the Temple. “I have to inform Master Skywalker and the Council.”

Lara’s voice stopped him. “Jay, in the Outlander…he had a lightsaber.”

His back to her, Jadon closed his eyes, the image of his opponent, saber raised, locked in his mind. He couldn’t get over it, either. “Yeah,” he said.

“2000 years, Jadon. After all that time, is it possible they’ve returned?”

Lips pursed, he resumed walking. “I don’t know, Lara. I don’t know.”

[borgmatrix]

Part II

Jadon Rand swept swiftly past the many padawans, coming and going from the various training facilities housed within the Temple spires. Leaving the main lobby of the central spire, he bounded up five dark blue, carpeted steps leading to the turbolifts. He marched past six of them, three on each side, and headed for the one directly ahead of him at the far end. Two massive, black metal droids flanked the lift doors. They angled their heads slowly down his body as he approached, the red lights of their eye visors moving rapidly from side to side as they scanned him.

“Convene the High Council,” Jadon ordered. The only response was an extended hand from one of the droids. Jadon unhooked his lightsaber from his belt and placed it in the outstretched hand. An opening in the droid’s wrist appeared and his weapon disappeared within it. The turbolift doors slid open and he stepped inside. As the doors shut, Jadon slid his security card down the reader. There was a slight hum as the lift began moving up.

Relax. Jadon took in a slow, deep breath. Lara was probably already with the President by now and he had informed the Bureau of their encounter when he arrived at the Temple. All that remained was to inform the Masters.

The doors opened and he stepped out between two guardians. A combination of dark masks and long, bulky shawls hid any trace of their identities or gender. Jadon closed his eyes and tensed as the mind probes began. Though it felt like an eternity, in seconds it was over.

He let out the breath he had been holding and opened his eyes to face the long hallway lined with droids and many more guardians, each awaiting their turn. Taking a slow, deep breath, he stepped forward.

***

“The President will see you now.” The attendant swung the doors open and Lara Willows nodded to her as she strode quickly into the office chambers of President Wesley Coren. She slowed as she became aware of the guardians, one on each side of the room. To reach the President’s desk, she’d have to pass through their “probe zone”. Of course, that was the point. And, she reminded herself, Jadon was the one who had the truly unenviable task of passing through Council security. Fists clenched, she walked forward and was hit immediately. Lara inhaled sharply, audibly, as she felt them pressing on her from both sides. And then, almost abruptly, it ended.

Lara raised her head to look at the President, determined to appear composed. She saw his eyes flick quickly to one of the guardians, perhaps for some sign, and then he was looking at her. As she neared, he rose, buttoning his dark suit coat. Offering his hand, Coren flashed her that smile, the one she’d seen on so many broadcasts…so disarming, so…wonderful.

“Lara, it’s a pleasure to see you again.”

They had met once before. And he remembered. “Yes…it’s good to see you, Mr. President.”

“Please, have a seat.”

She was smiling, taking in his eyes, so intense, his light brown hair…and his touch…she felt her face redden as she realized she was still holding his hand. Releasing it, Lara moved away slightly. What had he just said? Take a seat. “Yes. Thank you.” She sat in the middle of three light blue chairs arranged in front of the President’s desk. She chided herself mentally. Why was she acting like this? Maybe an after-effect of the guardians’ probes?

“So, I understand you and your partner had some trouble today?”

“Yes.” As their eyes met, she felt herself returning his smile and with effort kept her expression neutral. “Yes, at the Outlander. Jadon Rand and I were attacked by a man with a lightsaber.”

The smile remained on his face, though tempered now. “I see. And he escaped?”

“Yes.” Lara shifted slightly in her seat. “There were two of them, actually. A woman was with him, though I don’t know if she was armed, too. They both eluded us.”

He swiveled his chair to the right slightly, crossing his legs and resting his left arm on his desk. Eyes lowered, he tapped his fingers gently against the desk surface.

Cognizant that she should be mindful of her thoughts, especially now, Lara tore her gaze from him and looked out the large window behind him. Against the dark backdrop of the night sky, and through the reflection of the room, she could only make out lights from passing traffic.

“Is he one of yours?” the President asked, looking up at her.

“I don’t believe so, sir.”

“Mmm.” He nodded slowly. “And you understand the implication of that?”

“Yes, Mr. President.”

He nodded again. “How have you proceeded?”

“Officers are conducting searches now. They have physical descriptions of our assailants. Jadon went to inform the High Council. Following procedure, he would have made a report with the Bureau upon arriving at the Temple.”

“Good, good. And the Council will know soon, then.” He stood, stretching. Lara looked away as he started to turn toward her. “Well, Lara, thank you for coming.”

“Of course,” she answered, standing. “I would advise remaining here, Mr. President, at least until the situation has been better assessed, as well as increasing your security.”

“Yes, I agree.” He came around the desk, offering his right hand, palm up. Lara gave him hers and he took it, drawing her closer. “And perhaps,” he said, his broad smile returning, “you could remain here and handle the security arrangements personally. I would feel safer with your presence.”

“I’d like that.” Blushing, Lara quickly added. “I mean, I’d be honored. I can, uh--”

“Good.” She looked up at him, wondering if he was aware of the effect he was having on her. A soft buzz from his desk snapped her out of her reverie. He turned, moving back to his desk. “Lara, would you excuse me for moment please?”

“Of course, Mr. President. I’ll be right outside.” With a short bow, she turned and walked back out, her thoughts and emotions in turmoil. Be professional, Lara, she reminded herself. Be mindful.

***

“I’m sorry,” Kyle Haron said, for what had to have been the tenth time. “I overreacted. I thought…well, she approached me…” Seated, the young man nervously stroked his beard. “All I did was reach into my jacket.”

Across from Kyle, Jarret Keloni sat impassively. Human, his hair graying, Jarret was dressed in a dark brown tunic and pants. He and three others, including Kyle, were in a small, cramped basement room in one of the Coruscant sub-levels. The austure, copper-colored walls showcased only peeling paint and numerous cracks. About 4 feet behind Kyle was a door leading upstairs. A lamp in one corner, to Jarret’s right, provided the room’s sole source of light. To his left was an adjoining kitchen within which Nalesh Jist, a nautolan, toiled. Jarret frowned as the sound of Jist’s efforts momentarily distracted him. The man was always hungry, no matter what the hour or the situation.

Jarret returned his attention to Kyle. “At least you weren’t captured.”

That prompted a snort of disgust from the right side of the room where Jas-Mar sat slouched. The zabrak, at 6’ 2” and massive in size, was an imposing figure. He was dressed in full black with his long hair hanging loose. And at the moment, he was clearly struggling to contain his fury. “The damage has been done. They know we’re here now, undermining everything we‘ve worked toward.” There was an edge to the Jas-Mar’s voice as he glared at Kyle. “You’re fortunate Selen was there to bail your sorry--”

“Listen, I told you I hadn’t even pulled out my saber yet when he rushed me. What was I supposed to--”

“Enough,” said Jarret. He looked from one to the other, his glance hard. “What’s done is done. Now we deal with it.” He closed his eyes and massaged his forehead. Letting out a sigh, he leaned back in the couch. Jas-Mar was right, of course. This made a mess of things. “Suggestions?” he asked, opening his eyes.

Jas-Mar exhaled slowly through gritted teeth, his gaze still fixed on Kyle. “We move on the Council tonight.”

Jarret looked at Jas-Mar wearily. “Is that wise? We’re not close to being ready.”

“We have no choice. Our hand’s been forced. It has to be tonight.”

“We’re not ready,” Jarret repeated forcefully. “We’re months away, at least, from beginning. If we approach this haphazardly…Are you listening to me?”

The zabrak had been shifting restlessly, eyes averted, but now pounced to his feet, agitated. “There’s no time for caution! Soon, if not already, news will reach the Council of our presence here. Here,” Jas-Mar said, clenching his fist, “at the heart of the Federation. They’ll scatter and we’ll lose our best opportunity. We cannot allow that. They have to fall or the galaxy will never be ours again.”

“There is much we don’t know,” Jarret said evenly. “If we simply jump in now we could get slaughtered.”

“We’ll get slaughtered if we do nothing! They’ll hunt down every last one of us.” Jas-Mar pointed a finger at Jarret. “There’s no time for weakness. If you don’t have what it takes to handle this--”

“Then what?“ Anger rising, Jarret rose to his feet. “You will show respect, Apprentice. Never forget your place.” Jas-Mar took a step forward, bringing him within inches, but Jarret refused to flinch, his eyes locked on the slightly taller man. “Step back now, Jas-Mar.”

The zabrak’s every facial muscle seemed tense. After a moment he allowed a smile, though his eyes reflected something entirely different. “Yes. Master.” He said the last with a snarl, but moved away. Throwing another withering look Kyle’s way, he paced toward the opposite wall.

“Jas is right, Master Keloni.” The sound of Anks’ele’nando’s soft, melodic voice surprised Jarret. He had forgotten she was in the room. The female chiss, Selen as they called her, was leaning against the counter that separated the room from the kitchen. She straightened, pulling her black robe tightly around her, covering the dull red shirt and trousers she wore underneath. “The Council will go into hiding when they learn of our presence. And we will be hunted.”

Jarret sat back down, throwing a glance at Nalesh who now stood in the kitchen entrance eating…something. “Anybody want anything?” he asked.

Jarret ignored him, looking back at Selen. “All they know is that there are two of us here,” he said. “Nothing more. They cannot possibly imagine the extent of our infiltration.”

Jas-Mar seemed about to speak, but Selen silenced him with a raised hand. “Can we take that chance, Master?” she asked. “We’re a threat to everything they represent. They will assume the worst. It would be too dangerous for them to do otherwise.”

“We have to move now,” Jas-Mar said.

Elbows resting on his knees, Jarret closed his eyes and put his face in his hands. The weight of the situation was getting to him. The most prudent course of action would ordinarily have been to confer with the other masters. But Jas and Selen were right. Time was of the essence. By the time the masters gathered, it could be too late. And prolonged holo or audio communication was a risk. He would have to make a decision now.

Jarret opened his eyes with a start at the touch of hands on his shoulders. “Relax, Master.” Selen’s quiet, soothing voice came from just behind his right ear. “You’re tense,” she said, caressing his shoulders and neck. So silent. He hadn’t even heard her come up behind him.

Jarret sank back slowly. He released a sigh as she worked on him. “It’s taken us hundreds of years to reach this point. Years spent hiding in the shadows. Years spent slowly, every so slowly, adding to our numbers. Centuries spent insinuating our away back into this galaxy. We cannot…we must not throw that away.”

“Which is why we must act now, my Master, to preserve all that has been done,” Selen said.

“We have teams in proximity to move on both the President and the Council. Give the order, Master,” Jas-Mar said, “and we will carry out your will.”

Jarret held his impatient apprentice‘s gaze for a moment, then gave a slow nod. With a look of satisfaction, Jas-Mar tagged a wall console, opening the door. “Nalesh,” Jarret said, “Go with him. Kyle, Selen, remain here. You’ll be part of the second wave. We can’t risk either of you being spotted now. Not after the Outlander incident.”

Kyle nodded and Nalesh put down his bowl, jogging over to Jas-Mar. As the two started out the door, Jarret stopped them. “There can be no failure. Can it be done?”

“They will die, Master,” answered Jas-Mar. “After tonight, the Council will be no more."

[borgmatrix]

I haven't gotten any replies yet. Not sure if that's normal for this board, or whether it means my work stinks. :scratchchin: But, assuming (and hoping) its not the latter, here's the next part:


Part III

Security Chief Lance Michaelis ambled along under the night sky, only minutes away from his home. He could have driven, but there were times, like tonight, when he just wanted to clear his mind. And the walk home usually allowed him to do just that. It was far preferable to attempting navigation through the mess of vehicles that dominated the skies. Of course, as close as his residential area was to the Senate district and the department headquarters he oversaw, he still had to stomach air travel part of the way. But that was Coruscant. There was no way around it. Well, that wasn’t strictly true. He could move. And he knew that would likely make Kayla happy. After all, this planet was hardly the best place for a family. But business…it kept him here. Coruscant, for all intents, was the Federation. There was no greater need for security than here. No more suitable place for his talents and abilities.

Still, there were days… Lance laughed, humorlessly. Like today. Two of the Order’s knights had been attacked, unprovoked, by two individuals. Equipped with lightsabers, no less. Not for the first time, Lance wondered just what kind of training these knights were being given. If they had handled the situation when it had arisen…

“No,“ Lance said to himself, shaking his head. That wasn’t the way to think. Not now. This was why law enforcement was needed. And he, and his people, would do their jobs. And who knew. If nothing developed in the next hour or two, maybe he could head out and resolve the situation personally. Lance grinned. There wasn’t anything quite like being out there doing things yourself.

As he neared his place, he pulled his keycard out from the pocket of his crimson uniform jacket, which hung open, revealing the plain white shirt he wore underneath. His thoughts shifted to his lovely Kayla as he slid his card along the reader. The door slid open, admitting him, and there she was. Reclining on the couch, his wife opened her eyes, smiling. “Hey.”

That was all it took to melt his heart. “Hey, yourself,” Lance said, taking a seat at the edge of couch and leaning down to kiss her. He smiled, mesmerized by her glittering, green eyes. “How was your day?”

“Fine. I missed you. We missed you.”

Straightening, Lance’s smile broadened. He placed his left hand gently on her slightly swollen belly and sighed. “Thank you.”

Kayla shook her head ever so slightly, her lips forming a shy smile. She had long since given up protesting his gratitude and adoration for their impending arrival. And he was glad, for he would never stop worshiping her. She had brought more into his life than he ever could have imagined. If anything every happened to her or their child…

Lance looked away, troubled again by the possible threat that had arisen in the last couple hours. He felt her squeeze his hand. “What’s wrong, love?”

He looked back at her, his smile renewed by her radiant features. “Nothing,” he said, running a hand through her long, red hair. “Nothing at all.” And then the pager on his belt began to vibrate. Frowning, Lance glanced at it quickly.

“Are you sure?” Kayla asked.

She started up, but he eased her back down. “It’s all right. Things were just a little crazy today.” He stroked her cheek. “I…” Oh, what a hold she had on him. He could hardly get himself to leave her, even for a moment. “There are just some things I need to check on. Okay?”

She nodded.

“I’ll be in my study if you need anything.” He kissed her and then rose. “This won’t take long,” he said, silently hoping that was true.

***

Menton Rollis stood quietly, his eyes fixed on the spires of the Temple that stood three kilometers out. His hands were in the pockets of his long, dark overcoat, which was buttoned. He was at ease, despite what they were about to do. For this was their purpose. This was what they had trained to do.

“Interference teams will deploy in moments, Master,” said Jas-Mar. The zabrak, standing to his right, was wearing a similar coat. All eight of them were.

“Good,” said Menton. “We’ll give them time to produce the intended effect.”

“And then the slaughter begins.” Jas-Mar was grinning.

He was eager, Menton knew. Perhaps too eager. And aggressive. It was that combination that had brought him to Menton. Though separated by race, one human, one zabrak, they were similar in so many ways. In build, in hair color and length, in their appreciation for the fighting arts. Even, to a degree, in temperament. They could have been brothers. Menton smiled. If not for the color of their skin, of course.

Too much, at times, for Master Jarret Keloni to handle, and more interested in outright battle than the subtlety of covert operations, Jas-Mar was a perfect fit for this assault team. Though he was technically still Keloni’s student, the other master had approved the “loan”. And Menton had welcomed it. So Jas-Mar had joined his team, sparring and training with them often, nearly always brilliant. It had been a perfect way to safely channel his aggression and quick temper. Ironically, the exposing incident they had always feared Jas might initiate had still occurred, but as a result of another of Master Keloni’s students.

But Menton wasn’t going to complain. Recently, he had become anxious as well, hoping to kick-start this operation that had been brewing for so long. Now, finally, it was time. Time to reclaim what was theirs. Time to seek out their revenge.

“Remember,” Menton warned Jas-Mar, “who are targets are.” He turned to face the others. “No prolonged battles. Put them down efficiently, permanently. But never stop moving. Not until we reach the Council. They‘re the ones we‘re after. They cannot escape with their lives. They must not. Everything depends on it.”

***

Jadon stood nervously in the ornately decorated antechamber. The soft red hues that made up the color scheme of the room were soothing, inviting, but the wait…it was wreaking havoc on his nerves. To have audience before the greatest masters of the Order was intimidating enough. But to report what he had to. Jadon sat down, clasping his hands distractedly. He could hardly believe it himself. But he had seen them. Here. On Coruscant. They had to be…well, there was no other explanation. And what did it mean? Were they on the verge of another war?

He looked up as the doors under the archway to the Council chamber parted. “The Council will see you now,” said the droid that stood to the right of the arch, a similar model to the ones he’d encountered earlier.

Collecting himself, Jadon entered. All twelve members were present, seated in a circle that filled most of the room and each dressed in brilliant white, hoods drawn. The room was partially illuminated by four lights, one in each of the chamber’s upper corners. The Council members’ faces, though, remained mostly hidden in the shadows of their shrouds.

Jadon walked briskly to the center of the circle and, facing Master Skywalker, dropped to one knee, head bowed low. “My Masters.”

“Rise, child.” That was Master Keevan, seated to Skywalker’s right.

“You have had an encounter,” said Master Allora, on Skywalker‘s left. Skywalker himself remained silent and still.

“Yes,” said Jadon, as he stood. “Lara and I were attacked at the Outlander Club by a man and woman.”

“Surely they provided no challenge for two so well-trained?”

Jadon turned to address the voice, bracing himself. Might as well get the bad news out immediately. “They were versed in the ways of the Force.”

A few of the council members shared quick glances, after which came Master Udora‘s belated answer. “Even so.”

Jadon nodded slowly, acknowledging his and Lara’s less-than-stellar showing. “It was…unexpected. We were taken by surprise.”

“Hmm. Always mindful, you must be.”

Jadon turned to face the diminutive Master to his left. “Yes, Master Korik.”

“Tell us…how do you know they were trained in the Force?”

Jadon frowned as he faced Master Allora once more. “One carried a lightsaber.”

“A lightsaber.” There was silence as the words were contemplated. “Many on this world carry lightsabers. Many in the galaxy.”

“Yes, but it’s color. I’ve never seen one like it. They couldn’t have been one of us.”

“So certain, are you?”

Jadon nodded. “Yes, Master Korik.”

There was silence again, lingering. Then, finally, Master Skywalker spoke. “Does the use of a lightsaber require the Force?” The Grandmaster’s voice was almost a whisper, yet it seemed to fill the room, commanding attention.

“No, Master.”

“Then why do you assume…”

“Well…a lightsaber is a--”

“Weapon. Nothing more. Nothing less.” Master Skywalker remained motionless, his eyes hidden. “Did you feel either of them? Did you feel any stirring among the threads of the Force?”

Jadon furrowed his brow. That was something that had bothered him. He replayed the scene at the Outlander in his mind. “Not from them. Not exactly. I…” How could he describe it? “I felt something, but it was…distant.”

“Distant. Not from them,” Skywalker repeated. “So then, do you still believe they are Force-sensitives?”

Jadon looked down, frustrated. “I…” He looked up, his expression firm. “Yes.”

Keevan and Allora turned to Skywalker, then looked back at Jadon. “That would be most disturbing,” Master Keevan said. “Are you suggesting, then, what we think you are?”

Jadon nodded. “Yes. The Jedi have returned.”

[borgmatrix]

Part IV

Skywalker stood. “They have not been seen for two millennia,” he said, his voice rising. “They have long since been vanquished.”

“Master--”

“Apprehend them!” Skywalker interrupted, pointing a finger at Jadon Rand. “Bring them to me. And then this…this deception will be revealed for what it is.”

“Yes, Lord Skywalker,” Jadon answered, quietly.

“Now leave us.”

“My masters,” Jadon said, returning to one knee and then sweeping quickly from the room.

The rest of the Council stood. Agitated, Skywalker walked out of the circle and to the window. Arms crossed against his chest, he contemplated Jadon‘s words. It couldn’t be. They could not have returned.

“Can you be so certain?” asked Keevan.

Skywalker felt another flash of rage and saw in the reflection before him his eyes blaze yellow. Keevan had a gift for getting into his head. “Have you foreseen the return of the Jedi? Have any of you?” Skywalker answered.

“That was always your gift.”

Skywalker nodded. “And I have seen no such return.”

“What have you seen?”

Skywalker turned to face Allora. “Nothing of consequence.” He looked back out into the night, failing to mention that he had sensed something out there. Something that felt very familiar, yet remained elusive, even to him.

***

“More reports are coming in, sir. Continued outbreaks of violence and property destruction.”

“Dispatch more units,” said Deputy Chief Jace Waters, straightening his uniform jacket. “All available officers. I want order re-established immediately.”

“We should alert--”

“Let me handle the decision-making," Waters said. He and officer Raylon Jens stood in the information center of the security station located in the Senate district. The darkened room was lit from the glare of the many screens and projections that were bringing in the latest information. The station had been abuzz with activity ever since the incident at the Outlander. The tension was only rising with the arrival of these new reports. "Let me see where this is happening.”

Jens' fingers flew over a nearby console and a blue-white holo-map flashed into existence above the small, dark circular table Waters stood beside. "Here, here, here," Jens said, as he indicated portions of the map that flashed in red. They were all in outer-lying areas, a good distance from the Sith Temple and the Executive Tower.

It had begun, Jace realized, tensely. This was the work of the interference teams. There could be no doubt. And that meant the assault on the Temple was about to commence. But so soon. This had to be the result of the debacle at the Outlander. The masters had apparently decided to step up the timetable.

"Should we contact the Chief?" Jens asked.

"No. Not yet. Contact the Temple. Request as many apprentices as possible be sent out to those areas. They'll be anxious for some action. With all luck, we can get this resolved without disturbing the Chief."

"Are you sure?"

“Just do it, Jens.” Waters pursed his lips as he looked at the flashing area. Hopefully, the situation would be resolved as planned and quickly. Otherwise, and if his cover was blown, he'd soon be a man on the run.


***

"That should be the last of them," Jas-Mar noted. He was crouched, flexing the fingers of one hand, as they watched the Sith apprentices leave the Temple.

Menton nodded. Jace Waters had done his job. With the apprentices responding to the diversionary attacks, the path to the Council of Lords would be an easier one. "We'll wait a moment longer," he said. Reaching for the back of his belt, Menton grasped his lightsaber hilt and pulled it out from under his coat. "Once again, remember our objective. We take down any who stand in our way, but quickly. We must get to the Council." He took a deep breath. This was it. He tapped a small device on his belt. "All right. Let's do it."

He began walking briskly. Above, the traffic continued to flow and the many buildings that were visible as far as the eye could see remained illuminated. Even at night, the city-planet remained alive, throbbing with activity. That would change. The peace was about to be shattered.

Menton picked up his pace, igniting his lightsaber. Together, he and his team broke into a sprint toward the Temple.

***

Selen’s eyes were on the Executive Tower that stood within the Senate structures when Menton’s signal came in. “They’re moving on the Temple now,” she said to Kyle Haron, who sat beside her in the yellow-green airspeeder that was moving slowly amidst the thick Coruscant traffic. She pressed the simple communications device that was on her belt and looked at Kyle. “Are you ready?’

“Do I have a choice?” He leaned his head back against his headrest. “How much time?”

“We’ll make one more pass around the building,” Selen said.

“And what if he’s left the office.”

“Just relax, all right? We know he was in there as of fifteen minutes ago. He can’t go far.” She looked over her right shoulder to watch several vehicles speed by, her dark hair blowing violently around her face. Spotting an opening, Selen swerved quickly into the adjoining lane. “This'll all be over soon.”

***


“Bureau agents will be investigating the matter,” Allora said, standing in one of the far corners of the Council chambers. “If there is anything to be found, they’ll uncover it.”

“Even so, we should begin deploying troops. At least here in the Senate district,” Lord Keevan said. “If there’s even the possibility of Jedi on the planet, we must protect ourselves.”

“I agree. Protection, we must have,” said Master Korik.

“There is nothing to worry about,” Skywalker said, an edge to his voice. He still stood by the large windows, his back to the others. “We ha—“

***

Lance Michaelis pulled back from his desk suddenly, his eyes flashing opening. “Kayla, you know I don’t like being disturbed.” His wife stood in the doorway to his study.

“I know,” she said. “I wouldn’t ordinarily, but…”

“What’s wrong,” Lance asked, noting the worry on her face.

“Jens just called. He said there’s some kind of problem,” she sighed. “I told him they could surely handle whatever it is without you. But he was insistent. He’s sending someone to pick you up.”

“Pick me up?” Lance stood. “Why? What’s going on?”

“Lance…for once let them handle things without you. You work so many hours." Kayla held his gaze for a moment, then sighed again. “Some kind of disruption in the outer areas of the Capital. They’ve already dispatched officers as well as apprentices from the Temple.”

“What?” Lance rounded the desk quickly. “How long ago?”

“I don’t know.”

“He spoke to you?” he asked, his hands on his wife’s shoulders.

“Yes.”

“Why wasn’t I notified?” he asked, quietly, to himself.

Kayla put a hand to his face. “Because I’m sure they can handle it without you. They have the Sith to back them up.”

Lance shook his head in disbelief. “I’m the Chief. How could my people contact the Sith before me?” He moved back toward his desk. “And why is Jens sending someone if I’m not needed?” As he lowered himself into his chair, he noted the pained look on Kayla’s face. “I’m sorry, love. I am. But I have to find out what’s going on. Let me know when the officer arrives, all right?”

Kayla didn’t appear any happier, but nodded. “Okay,” she said, leaving the room.

***

Skywalker turned away from the window abruptly, walking to the middle of the floor. “Something’s wrong.”

“What?” Keevan asked.

“I don’t know.”

***

“Now the fun begins,” Selen said, grinning at Kyle. She pulled the airspeeder sharply away from the rest of the traffic and directed it toward the Tower.

***

Menton spun, slashing his saber in a figure-eight pattern. As the Sith fell around him, he continued to move, quickly making his way up the blue steps in front of him. The droids flanking the turbolift directly ahead of him were already moving, lightsabers appearing suddenly in their hands. His weapon raised, Menton kept walking and Jas-Mar fell in step beside him, his saber ready as well.

***

“They’re here,” Lord Udora said, looking at his comrades. “The Jedi are here, within the Temple.”

Those that were seated rose. They all withdrew their lightsabers.

***

As the airspeeder neared its target, one of the windows of the Tower, Selen and Kyle both pulled up to a standing position on their seats. They leapt up and forward into the air, as the speeder continued on unmanned, crashing through the window. The two Jedi, curled into balls, unfolded and gracefully flew in after the speeder into the Presidential antechamber. They rolled as they hit the ground, springing quickly to their feet.

***

Lord Dementor jerked suddenly. After a few seconds, he turned his head toward Skywalker. “The Executive Tower’s been hit. They’re going after the President.”

[sharyntyre]

interesting AU idea

[Master_Kinnon]

Sorry it's taken me so long to post on this, but I've only just read it!

I'm really enjoying this and really hope that we're going to see more of it really soon! I saw that you haven't posted an update in a while, but I hope that's just 'cause you're busy!

[borgmatrix]

Part V

Skywalker’s mind raced. An attack on the Executive Tower. Jedi, here, in the temple. It had begun. War was upon them. No buildup. Only minimal warning. Why hadn’t he sensed this coming?

“We should leave,” Dementor said.

“No!” Skywalker shouted. He faced Dementor, hunched slightly, muscles tensed. A slow, anticipatory smile crept onto his face. “Let them come.”

***

President Coren stood quietly by the door of his private office, blaster in hand. Readying himself mentally, he then tapped the door controls. As they slid open, he moved quickly through them into the larger, adjoining office chamber where he had recently met with Lara Willows. He took in the situation. The window was now mostly open space, glass all over the floor. Two Jedi stood poised, sabers ignited, where his desk had been. It was now at the opposite end of the room to his left, thoroughly smashed, with a smoldering airspeeder embedded in it.

The Guardians were facing the intruders, apparently also gauging the scene from beneath their masks. Though he couldn’t see their faces, surprise seemed evident. Near the wreckage of the desk and speeder, the main doors opened to reveal Lara and a couple armored troopers.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still.

Then all hell erupted. One Jedi lunged toward the Guardians, while the other catapulted directly toward him. Coren had barely begun to redirect his blaster when he heard Lara yell “Get back!” and felt her strong Force push. As he tumbled backward, he saw the Jedi raise his lightsaber in the doorway, blocking a down-swinging red saber. Beyond them, blue and red sabers flashed furiously as the female Jedi and Guardians battled.

***

Atop the Temple turbolift, Menton Rollis and Jas-Mar looked down through the open hatch at the persistant blaster fire that was filling the lift. “Good thing we didn’t ride in it,” Menton commented.

“How many do you think are waiting for us?” Jas-Mar shouted over the din.

“Too many, it seems.”

The shooting died down as whatever awaited them finally seemed to notice the lift compartment was empty. “Droids?” Jas asked, the question dripping with sarcasm.

Menton nodded. “Most likely the same models as the ones we encountered below.” He tossed a glance at his teammate. “Shall we make our entrance?”

“Let’s take ‘em out,” the zabrak said. He dropped his lightsaber hilt down into the lift. It stopped midway down, activated, and then, guided by a touch of the Force, shot out of the turbolift. The sound of shredding metal confirmed their assessment. As the blaster fire resumed, though this time not into the lift, Menton shifted his position. With a nod toward Jas-Mar, he dropped down. Jas followed, and they both leapt into the fray.

***

“Lance, she’s here.”

Michaelis left his desk immediately, tearing into the main living area, pulling on his jacket as he moved. “Stay where you are,” he said to his wife. Closing in on the couch, he bent down to kiss her. “You’re worried,” he said, squeezing her hand. “Don’t be. I’ll be back soon.” Lance grazed her cheek with his hand, smiling, then strode briskly to the door where Officer Sierra Banks waited. “Let’s go.”

Outside, the night air was cool, crisp. The area was quiet, belying the chaos that existed not far away in the Capital. Within moments, Michaelis was inside the vehicle, passenger side, while Banks slipped into the driver’s seat. As she shut her door, Lance glared at her. “Why weren’t all efforts made to alert me sooner?”

Sierra sighed as she started the car. As it began to move, she shot a quick glance at her superior. “It was Waters. He felt we could handle things and didn’t want to bother you.”

“Bother me? With my job?” His eyes continue to bore into her, even as she continued to avoid them, her focus on the sky ahead. “I have a wife. I don’t need another worrying about me. That kind of nonsense is better left for…” Lance let the thought fade, shifting his gaze to his window and the passing surroundings. “Things are going to hell.”

“So to speak.” Her voice sounded slightly less tense with his attention no longer on her.

“He needed to bother me after all, then.”

“Well…” Sierra hesitated. “It was actually Jens who sent me to get you.”

Lance didn’t answer, but felt his agitation rise. On top of everything else, he now had one officer going behind another’s back. He’d have to make sure to knock some heads together when this was all resolved.

“Sir, I—“

“We’ll ride in silence,” Michaelis said, closing his eyes and resting his head against the window.

[borgmatrix]

Continued...

In his private chambers, the President backed away slowly until he bumped up against his desk. His outer, public office was already in shambles. Now, it seemed, the violence was ready to take over this room as well.

Lara Willows was in front of him, lightsaber directed at the female Jedi. The other Jedi stood at the door, injured but still alive following his duel with one of the now dead Guardians.

“Kyle?” the chiss called back to her companion.

“Shaken, but fine, Selen. More than ready to finish this.”

“Good. Then, if you will step aside,” Selen said, her attention now fully on Lara, “we can end this and be on our way.”

“I don’t think so,” Lara said, tersely.

“Mmm. Mm-mm-mm.” And then she swung her saber in a right-sided arc toward Lara. Willows brought her weapon to her left to block, but the Jedi was already spinning in the opposite direction. With a gasp, Lara was flung back into the wall, landing on a couch and bouncing off to the floor. The path now clear, Coren found the chiss coming right at him. He threw himself back over his desk as the Jedi’s lightsaber cut partially into it. “Not bad,” she said. At first, he thought she meant the desk, which was surprisingly still in one piece. But no, her eyes were locked firmly on him. “Impressive, Mr. President,” Selen cooed. “Not just a pretty face, but athletic as well.” Coren stood up slowly as she sat casually at the edge of the desk, which creaked under the weight and damage. “You know, the vids don’t do you justice. You are quite the specimen.”

“You’re not so bad yourself,” Coren answered. That elicited a laugh from her. The sound was quite pleasant. He offered a smile. “Put down your weapon and I’m sure we can find…better ways to spend the next few moments.”

“Charming and remarkably calm under fire.” Her back toward Lara, Selen turned her head slightly toward the Sith who was now rising from the violent Force push that had downed her. Kyle had already closed in, his saber extended toward Lara. Selen returned her attention to Coren. “So, what exactly do you have in mind, Mr. President?”

“Oh, just to spend some quality time together,” he said, with that smile that now came so easily to him. “I’m sure, if we were to get to know one another, we could reach an understanding that would work for both of us. And please…call me, Wes.”

She laughed again. “Wes. I’m a Jedi, the significance of which I’m sure isn’t lost on you. And I’m here to kill you.” She angled her head slightly, her red eyes intent on his. “Yet somehow you seem oblivious to the context of the situation. And arrogant enough to believe your…assets…will not only pique my interest, but also earn yourself a reprieve.”

“It seems I already have your interest. As for the rest, why don’t we find out?”

“Selen—” Kyle started, but she cut him off with a gesture.

“You know, Wes, I would like to find out. Though I think, regardless, I will still have to kill you afterward.”

“Well, if I have to go, why not go with a smile on my face?”

“Mr. President…” Selen laughed. “That’s a refreshingly amenable attitude.”

“Selen, enough!” Kyle, clearly irritated, still had Lara locked in his sights.

Coren noticed Lara didn't seem particularly thrilled by the conversation, either. “You’re friend seems the jealous type, Selen,” Coren said.

“I can assure you—” As Kyle’s eyes shifted from Lara, she moved instantly, throwing her right shoulder at his chest, her right hand locking around his wrist to keep his weapon at bay. As Lara called for her lightsaber with her left, Kyle’s found her throat.

Selen, meanwhile, started to twist away from the desk. Coren lunged forward, grabbing her right arm. As she started to turn back toward him, he smashed his right hand, still holding his blaster, into her face. She crumpled.

As the other two continued to struggle, Coren vaulted the desk and re-adjusted his grip on the blaster. Lara threw her head back against Kyle’s face. As he took a step back, Coren fired twice. Falling, Kyle swung out, slashing across Lara’s back. She hit the ground a moment later.

At his feet, Selen was on all fours. The President delivered a kick to her midsection. Reaching down to firmly grasp her hair, he pulled her head back and reintroduced her face to the butt of his gun. Picking up her lightsaber, he tossed it over by Lara, and stepped over Selen toward Kyle. He fired twice more into him.

“So...you a have a…violent side…Wes.” Selen turned awkwardly onto her side.

Coren, still standing over Kyle, shrugged. “You’re colleague didn’t seem as…amenable.” He returned to the desk and sat back against it. Both hands were casually crossed in front of him at waist level, blaster still held in his right.

Selen brought a hand to her face, wincing as she made contact. “And you do know how to treat a woman, don’t you?” She rolled onto her back, groaning as she did so. Her eyes drifted to the weapon in his hand. “Are you planning on killing me?”

Coren smiled. “Actually, I was thinking more along the lines of that quality time I mentioned earlier.”

***

Menton sagged against the wall, bleeding from…he didn’t even know where. Pain seemed to be seeping in from everywhere. Jas-Mar didn’t appear much better. They had taken it the worst. Well, initially, anyway. Menton looked with sorrow at the dead form of apprentice Tara Blasé. He closed his eyes. It was his fault. He’d sensed the strong presence of the Dark Side and had attributed it entirely to the nearby presence of the Lords. And so they’d leapt into this hallway expecting only droids, and instead found the additional presence of these…Guardians.

The narrow, close quarter fighting had been near disasterous and their effort could have met with complete failure if not for Tara’s sacrifice. She had almost literally blown out her life with the Force explosion she had released. What little remained in her after that was extinguished by one of the few surviving Guardians. Rollis pushed himself away from the wall, stepping over metal fragments and bodies, his attention on that Guardian. Whatever was under the mask and robes struggled to rise. Menton ended that struggle with a slash of his saber. “Finish the rest of them,” he called out, his eyes still on the dead Guardian at his feet. He felt the others move past him. It would be quick work, as Tara had accomplished the bulk of it.

And spared the rest of them for what remained.

***

“What is the situation at the Executive Tower?” Lord Keevan asked.

“There is still some danger. However…” Dementor was seated, his body still. “It appears the President remains unharmed. For now.”

***

“Step away from her!” Willows appeared unsteady on her feet, but her expression was one of fierce determination.

“You’re hurt,” Coren said.

“I’m fine. Move away from her, Sir. Now.” Lara looked to the three troopers by the door. “One of you, take the Jedi into custody. You two remain where you are, weapons ready!”

The soldier advanced cautiously, blaster rifle in one hand, cuffs in the other.

“That won’t be necessary,” Coren said. “Give me the cuffs. And get that out of here.” He indicated the body of the dead Jedi, Kyle Haron. “Then leave us. All of you.”

“Sir—”

“That includes you, Ms. Willows.”

“I won’t leave you alone with her.”

“Who’s jealous now?” Selen commented, with a smirk.

“She’s too dangerous!” Lara clarified, tossing a withering look at the Jedi. “She’s a Force-user.”

“Yes, I know.”

“I don’t think you do. With a single thought, she could crush your windpipe.”

“She’s beaten. It’s over.”

“As long as she’s conscious, it’s not over. She must be taken into Sith custody!” Lara moved closer to Coren. “Only we can hold her and interrogate her.”

“I will interrogate her,” Coren said calmly, his gaze returning to Selen.

“Oh, that’s right. You’re planning on pumping her for information.” Lara’s expression shifted to intense fury. “This isn’t a game! She isn't...” The Sith was visibly trembling, strugging for words. "...whatever type of woman you're used to having in your company."

Now this one was certainly a spitfire, and a fetching one. But her tone was coming dangerously close to crossing the line. If there was one thing Coren didn't like being called on, it was his favored diversion and choice of company. Sith or not, he wouldn't accept that from her, especially not when it threatened to disrupt the particularly enticing opportunity that quite literally lay before him. Coren moved from the desk, towering over Lara at his full height. “You would do well to lose the attitude, Master Sith. Never forget who I am. I have the ears of the Council. If I survive this, I will inform your Lords and Masters of your insolence and inability to follow instruction. Now leave us!”

Lara’s face was noticeably red. She stepped back and bowed rigidly. “Mr. President. I will be in the next room if needed.” She took the cuffs from the one soldier, tossing them to Coren, and waved the other two, carrying Kyle Haron’s body, out of the room.

Coren waited until the doors slid shut behind them and then, dangling the cuffs in front of him, looked to Selen. “Now, will we be needing these?”

***

“The Jedi have overcome the Guardians,” Lord Udora called out.

With the exception of Dementor, they were all still standing. "Well, then," Skywalker said, as he pushed past the others, moving to the forefront. “Let's see what remains of our would-be assassins. Ready yourselves!” They angled themselves toward the entrance, their ignited lightsabers held outstretched. “We show them now who the true Masters of the Force are.”

[Darill Cyllem]

This is very enjoyable; a nice twist in the middle. Here's a story I'm glad you didn't say was AU right up front - that would've spoiled the fun :)
Hope we'll be seeing more of this, I'm anxious to learn more about just what the President's deal is.

One thing I'd comment on, particularly in the first parts, is the seeming change in the values of the Jedi... particularly the aggression and revenge aspects. This isn't bad, per se, but I'd love to have some more background on that, how it's changed over the years, etc.

[borgmatrix]

Hope we'll be seeing more of this, I'm anxious to learn more about just what the President's deal is.
Appreciate the comments, DC. Regarding the President, same here. :laughing: I've particularly had fun with his scenes, and while I have some thoughts on where I'm going with him, I'm nowhere close to 100% certain. So I'm eager, too, to see where this ends up.

One thing I'd comment on, particularly in the first parts, is the seeming change in the values of the Jedi... particularly the aggression and revenge aspects. This isn't bad, per se, but I'd love to have some more background on that, how it's changed over the years, etc.
Definitely. That's largely what I had in mind with the title Blurred Lines, the sense that whatever dividing line had separated the two orders was now no longer quite so concrete. My intention is to get into more specifics regarding what's happened with the two sides and how they arrived here.

[Darill Cyllem]

Excellent, excellent!
Of course it's still a work in progress, so you have time to get into more detail and so on. You've got some really interesting stuff here - I was enjoying it pretty well, but then got totally sucked in at the end of Part 3!
:thumbs-up: