On street outside Onderonian Naval Academy

Cayden walked down the street from the Academy, still fuming about what the instructor had said to him.  More like yelled... Cayden thought, kicking a rock into a nearby wall.  Now what the hell am I to do?  Without the Academy, I have no future... no job, no income, nothing... absolutely nothing... well, better go see how Ashley's doing.  Maybe she can cheer me up...  He walked down the street until he stopped in front of a rather large, and expensive, house.  For a ship mechanic, he sure makes a lot of money...  He knocked on the door, hoping that Ashley answered.  Instead, it was her father, Bob Clearwater, who answered.

"Ah, hello Cayden... what brings you here on this lovely day?" he asked, holding a glass full of blue milk.

Cayden noticed that he was dressed in the ceremonial garb of the Onderonian fire dancers of old.  "Ummm... is Ashley home?" he asked, trying not to laugh.

"Yeah, she's up in her room," he said, drinking his milk, a blue mustache on his upper lip when he removed the glass.

Cayden, trying very hard not to laugh, thanked him and ran up the stairs.  When he was sure Bob couldn't hear him, he let out a chuckle, then continued down the hall to Ashley's room.  He knocked on the door, and smiled as Ashley opened the door.

"Cayden!  What a surprise!  Aren't you... supposed to be in the Academy right now?" she asked, giving him a quizzical look.

"Ummm... about that... I was expelled by my instructor..." he stammered out, trying not to sound stupid.  Too late for that now, Cayden... getting expelled from the Naval Academy was stupid to begin with...

"Expelled?  But he can't do that... the Queen specifically said that..." she started.

Cayden interjected.  "Except should I be deemed a hazard to the learning environment.  In his report, my instructor wrote that I was putting the safety of my fellow students in danger with my constant arguing, and occasional outburst of rage.  What he failed to mention, was why I was arguing, or why I was in a rage... because of that, he got an okay from the Governing Board to expel me... not even the Queen can overrule the Governing Board."

"I'm so sorry, Cayden... I can only imagine what this feels like for you..." she said, holding him close.  "What will you do now, without the Academy?"

That's a good question Cayden, what are you going to do? He smiled.  I know exactly what I'll do... but I need the Queen's blessing first...  "I don't know yet, Ashley..." he lied, trying to keep a straight face.

"Well, whatever you decide, I'm in full-support all the way," she stated, kissing his cheek.  "Now... you feel better?"

He smiled.  "You always make me feel better, Ashley," he said, kissing her passionately, rubbing his hands across her back.  Then, he broke away from her.  "I'm sorry, but I have to go take care of something."

"Alright," she said, looking rather upset.

"Ashley..." he started, guilt in his voice.

"It's alright, Cayden... go do what you have to do.  I'm not going anywhere... I'll be here when you get back," she said, looking up at him and attempting to smile.

"Alright... but I will be back as soon as I can... I promise," he said, kissing her cheek.  He turned around and walked out of the house, heading down the street toward the Palace.

Inside Royal Onderonian Palace

Cayden walked up the stair to the Palace gates, flashing an ID badge at the guards.  The guards nodded at him, and opened the gates.  Can't be too careful... no telling who could be an assassin...  He stopped at the guard checkpoint, where a sample of his blood was taken to be tested, to make sure he was the real Cayden.  When his test came back positive, they waved him through.  He walked down the main hall leading to the Throne Room.  He walked through the entry way and stopped as he admired the multiple peach-colored columns scattered around the large chamber, supporting the grand, intricate, stone roof above.  He saw in front of him, the Queen of Onderon, AKA, his grandmother, seated on the Throne.  Next to her are several security guards, bearing the Royal Seal of Onderon on their shoulders.  He approached the Throne and knelt before the Queen.

She waved to the guards.  "Leave us."  The guards exited the room, leaving Cayden and the Queen alone.

Heh... if I wanted to... I could kill her right now... and no one could stop me... but why would I kill my own grandmother?

"Rise, Cayden," she said, standing up herself.  "Rise, and give me a hug."

Cayden stood up and hugged her.  "Listen... Your Majesty..." he started.

"Grandma... call me grandma... it's always 'Your Majesty' this, 'Your Highness' that... can't we be casual once in a while?" she exclaimed, holding Cayden at arms length.

"Yeah... Grandma... ummm... I need your help..." he said, trying not to impose.

"I heard the Governing Board approved your expulsion from the Academy... I expect you'll be looking for a job, now?  Is that what you were going to ask me?" she asked, frowning.

"Actually, no... I was going to ask if you could help me leave Onderon," he said, looking her in the eye.

She stared at him, and sighed.  "Somehow, I knew that was what you had decided on... walk with me, child," she said, walking towards the door.

Cayden followed her closely.  Damn... she's pretty old for an old lady... sure as hell is in shape... damn...

"I can't provide you transport off the planet, that would look suspicious to my opponents on the Governing Board.  But, what I can do, is give you the credits to buy your way off," she said, opening the chamber door and walking out into the hall.

"You mean, hire a pilot to fly me away from here?" he asked, following her.

"Yes, silly child... what did you think I meant, buy your own ship and fly it away from here yourself?  Nonsense!  I saw the report from your little joy-ride a couple years back... and I heard about your oath to never fly a starfighter.  I may be old, but my memory is still good as a bantha!" she said, walking out onto the outer balcony overlooking Iziz.

Cayden looked out onto the city-scape, admiring the architecture of the city, as well the abundance of nature outside and in the city.  In the distance, he could see smoke plumes where battles were taking place.  "Yeah... my oath..." he said, remembering his rash actions back then, remembering the adrenalin rush he got piloting the ARC-170 through the atmosphere, the sheer enjoyment he got when he shot down his first enemy fighter.  My presence wasn't very significant... but I guess the fact that I took charge in the battle led to a Royalist victory... too bad I went and got expelled...

She turned to him and handed him a sack holding 8,000 IC's.  "Use this to buy transport off of Onderon.  Oh, how I wish I could go with you, my grandson..." she said, a tear rolling down her cheek.

"I know, grandma... I promise to return some day," he said, hugging her again.

"Good, its never nice to leave an old lade such as myself waiting for too long!" she said, patting his back.

He smiled.  "I know... good bye, grandma..." he said, turning to leave.

"Good bye, Cayden... may we meet again in the future..." she said, watching him leave.

Onderonian Cantina: The Drexel Den

Cayden walked in, breathing in the atmosphere of the room.  Pain, loss, rage, lust... all the characteristics of a good cantina... also a good sign that good pilots are to be found...  He walked around, looking at the patrons, trying to see who looks like a fair pilot.

He stopped in front of the bar, looking around at all the various species.  The one problem with this galaxy: everyone looks like they're gonna just rip out a knife and cut out your throat... good thing I keep a blaster at my side at all times... he thought, smiling to himself.

A nearby Mon Calamari, wearing a Hawaiian shirt of all things, noticed his smile and asked "What you smiling about?"

He turned to look the Mon Cal in the face and asked "I beg your pardon?"

"I was just wondering... you don't usually see someone smile unless they just won a big pot... or killed someone for it," he said, extending his hand.  "Name's Stewart-Power."

"Cayden Tavers," he said, shaking the Mon Cal's hand.  Can I even call it a hand?  "So, by the looks of it, you're a pilot.  Am i correct?"

"How'd you figure that?" Stewart asked, testing the young man.

"Well, for one: you have the look of a seasoned flyboy in your eyes.  Plus, your flight boots also give you away," Cayden said, pointing at Stewart's boots.

"Interesting assessment.  Well, yes, I am a pilot... and a damn good one too," he said.  "Why do you ask?"

"I was looking to hire a pilot to take me out to Rhen Var, in the Tobali System," Cayden said, holding out a datapad containing the coordinates.

"Rhen Var?  What could possibly be there that you'd be looking for?" Stewart asked, taking the datapad.

"Well, rumor says that the ice on Rhen Var is ladened with ancient ruins and Jedi artifacts, all hidden away, just waiting to be discovered," Cayden said, eyes filled with light.

"Well, like most pilots, I don't transport for free..." Stewart started.

"I'm way ahead of you... 8,000 IC's for transport to Rhen Var," Cayden said, holding out the sack of credits.

Stewart grabbed the sack, then smiled.  "Well, my ship is this way Cayden..." he said, walking out of the cantina, Cayden following behind.

OOC:

WC: 1657  Have fun Stewart... I sure did... and now, I am off to bed

Cayden followed the Mon Cal closely, feeling him study the human behind him.  Now, I'm probably going to say I'm crazy for saying this, but I feel like I can trust him... something in his eyes tell me that he can be trusted...  Let's hope I'm not wrong...  He was startled when Stewart whipped around and pointed his his blaster behind him.  The random action by Stewart caused Cayden to fall.  He hit the ground, barely uttering a noise.  The would-be assailant fled, leaving the two of them alone.

Stewart walked over and helped Cayden up, saying "Sorry about that. Next time your travelling with a pilot, you might not want to wear something so upper-class."

Cayden smirked.  Great... not even off the planet yet, and already you're making mistakes.  Let's see what I do next... he thought, following the Mon Cal to the hangar, in which sat a Firefly-class bulk transport.

"Well, here it is, the ship that will be taking you to Rhen Var.  The Longshot!" Stewart said, opening the loading hatch.

Cayden stared at the ship in awe.  So this is what it feels like to finally leave... feels good...  Cayden followed the Mon Cal onto the ship.  They walked through the nearly empty cargo hold, crates bearing an Imperial insignia stacked up neatly against the starboard wall.  Hmmm... interesting... he keeps his ship clean... well, at least the cargo hold clean... which is good, considering that the first thing people see when they walk on board... he thought as he followed Stewart into the mess hall.

"... and this is the chow hall, where all meals will be eaten, regardless of your societal or religious practices," Stewart said, turning to face Cayden.  "Do you understand?"

Cayden snapped to, and nodded in affirmation.  "I understand perfectly."

"Good.  Now, your quarters are going to be down the hall and to the left.  Mine will be across the way.  They are to never be entered, understand?" he emphasized.

"Yes sir, I understand 100%," Cayden said, smiling.

"Good, now strap yourself in.  I'm going to get us cleared for take-off," he said, walking towards the cockpit.

Cayden sat down in the nearest chair, and strapped himself in.  Wait a minute... we aren't even off the ground yet... why the hell am I... His thought was cut short when he felt the ship rock.  Damnit!  We must be entering the troposphere... I sure hope he isn't heading towards Dxun for an exit path...

And, sure enough, that was exactly what Stewart did.  He piloted the Longshot through the Onderonian atmosphere, approaching the small, forested moon.  He flew around it, using both the planet's and the moon's gravity to slingshot the Longshot out of the gravity range of the planet.

Cayden unstrapped himself when he felt the ride smooth out.  Well... lets see what I can learn about Stewart... he thought as he walked up to the cockpit, feeling the ship shake as it entered hyperspace.

"Cayden... what brings you to this part of the ship?" Stewart asked, turning to face the young man.

"Well, I was just wondering if I could get to know you a little bit, so we don't feel like total strangers here," Cayden said, sitting in a nearby seat.  "Also... why were those crates marked with the Imperial insignia?"

OOC:

WC: 550  Have fun... my brain died on Onderon apparently...

"Well, as you know I'm a pilot. As you've seen, I'm a good pilot. The reason for that, is simple. I'm a pilot in the Vast Empire," Stewart said.

Silence sat between them as Cayden tried to formulate a question.

But, before he could ask, Stewart said "Cayden, I'd like to introduce you to the ship's mechanic; Jayke Solaris!"

Cayden turned around to see a sort of stocky man in his late twenties, early thirties, with a sort of scruffy-looking beard.  "Cayden Tavers, nice to meet you," he said, holding out his hand.

A rather thick hand, stained with grease and oil, grabbed his hand and shook it.  "Jayke Solaris, pleasure's all mine.  So Boss, where's this one going?" he asked Stewart.

"Rhen Var... says there's a rather nice deposit of ruins and artifacts in the ice.  I don't know how he intends to melt the ice, but I guess he has a plan," Stewart replied.

"Rhen Var?  Kinda, out of the way, especially for someone dressed as nicely as you are..." Jayke observed.

"Yes, well... when we land, I intend to be in more appropriate attire, like Stewart pointed out earlier," Cayden said, gesturing to him.

Jayke gave Stewart a questioning look, who shrugged back.  "Well, I'm sure you'd like to rest after..." Jayke started.

"Actually, I'd like to see more of the ship, that is, if you wouldn't mind Stewart?" Cayden asked, turning towards the Mon Cal.

"Not at all, feel free to explore... just stay out of the crew quarters, and my private quarters, alright?" Stewart said.

"Yes sir," Cayden said, saluting.  Wow... saluting some one other than the instructor feels... great... as does the feel of deck plates under my feet, the hum of the hyperdrive, the rumble of the hyperspace tunnel... it feels great and... familiar... like I belong out here... he thought, walking down the corridor back into the lounge.  He looked around him, then thought I wonder what the Vast Empire is... now I'm intrigued... he practically cut me off before I could ask... almost as if he wants me to ask at a different time...  Cayden looked around, and noticed the medbay.  He walked in and looked over the medical instruments.  Interesting... for a private ship owner, he has state-of-the-art medical equipment.  He must be paid quite handsomely for cargo shipping... and in the Vast Empire...  He laid his hand on a tray covered with surgical instruments and felt a chill run up his spine.  Heh... if I knew what he did with these instruments, I bet I'd be deeply disturbed...  He took his hand away moments before Stewart walked in.

"What are you doing in the medbay?" he asked.

"I was exploring.  I find medical equipment rather interesting..." Cayden said.

"You... find them interesting?  Have you considered taking a profession in the medical field?" Stewart asked.

"I did... when I went to a seminar... let's just say I found out I can't stomach the sight of internal organs being removed," Cayden said, shuddering again.

"Ah... so, what do you want to do?" the Mon Cal asked, crossing his arms.

"Not sure... I was going to be in the Onderonian Air Force, but that door was shut on me due to corruption in the Governing Board... so, I might travel for a while, see the galaxy... then decide to settle down.  You mentioned 'Vast Empire' earlier... what exactly, is the 'Vast Empire'?" Cayden asked, pulling up a chair and sitting down.

OOC:

WC: 579  Now comes the best part: what is the Vast Empire?  XD 

Stewart glanced at his chrono. "It's time to for me, and you, to retire to our quarters. If you have any problems, they can wait until morning."

Cayden quickly acknowledged, then stood up. Stewart let the other man leave first. Cayden had just stepped out of the door, when Stewart called out to him.

"Hey, in the morning, your telling me why you're so interested in the  Vast Empire. But for now, good night."

"Good night to you as well Stewart. One more thing, where are the wash rooms?" Cayden said, half reluctantly.  I really do need to wash up a bit...

"There is one in your room, it slides out. I'll send Jayke to check on you later so don't be alarmed." Stewart said, while subtly gesturing out of the door.

He followed Cayden up the stairs, until where they had to split up.

"Thanks." Cayden said with a nod of his head.  Heh... and now, to prepare myself for sleep... though, Jayke will enter later on... damn... oh well, nothing's perfect...

Stewart nodded in return, and continued down the opposite corridor as Cayden walked to his room.  He shut the door behind him, and looked around.  Well... its not bad... feels like the barracks at the Academy, actually... Then he felt a pain in his chest.  He sat down on his bed as he tried to figure out what was causing it.  Then he realized.  Oh crap... I never knew how much I need Ashley until now... its going to be real hard trying to live without seeing her everyday... but this had to be done... I had to leave Onderon... I can't be a foot soldier...  He felt a tear fall down his face, then looked into the mirror opposite of him.  When he looked into the mirror, he didn't see himself as he was then, but he saw himself where he wanted to be standing next to what he would be if he didn't leave.  He saw a man wearing the uniform of an Imperial Officer standing next to an Onderonian soldier.  The officer stood holding what looked like a small model of a battle cruiser, while the soldier only held a blaster and a fistful of dirt.

Then, just as quickly as they appeared, they vanished, leaving an image of how Cayden is now sitting there.  He then realized that what he did was right.  If I stayed... I'd be a foot soldier... but, I have the chance to be somebody... the chance to bring aid to Onderon from the outside... the chance to end the war forever... At this thought, Cayden smiled... his first true smile since he walked down the Academy steps earlier that day.  That's what I'll do... I'll become an officer in this 'Vast Empire,' then I'll liberate Onderon from the Imperialists, bringing Onderon into Imperial control once more.  He stood up and walked over to the spot in the wall where the wash station was.  He pressed a button, and the wash station slid out.  Heh... if we had one of these in the Academy dorms... the entire place would be packed.  He looked around, found a wash cloth, and cleaned off his face.  He looked back into the mirror, and smiled.  Heh... now comes the part where I wonder how Ashley could love a guy like me... I have wondered, off and on, for about a year now... I guess the fact that we're still together after 3 years means I'm doing something right... well, I'm not sure how much longer it'll last though, seeing as how I'm not going back to Onderon anytime soon...  When he thought this, he almost began to cry, but stopped himself before he did, remembering why he had to leave.  He pushed the button again, retracting the wash station.

Cayden un-shouldered the pack on his back and began pulling out a pair of night clothes when a knock rang out.  "Who is it?" Cayden asked, setting his night clothes to the side.

"Its Jayke, Stewart sent me here to check up on you," Jayke responded from the other side of the door.  "You mind if I come in?"

"No, come on in," Cayden said, closing his bag as Jayke walked in.

Jayke took several steps into the room and looked around.  "So, how do you like your room?" he asked.

Cayden looked up at him.  "Its a little cramped, but I'm used to it.  I've been in places smaller than this in the Academy, so I'm pretty happy with it," he said.  "So... that all?  I was just about to finish up getting ready."

"Of course, good night sir," he said, turning around.  Before he shut the door, he asked "So, why did you leave Onderon, if you don't mind me asking?"

Cayden looked down, then said "I left because I was expelled from the Onderonian Naval Academy.  The Academy was my life, besides Ashley... it was my future... without it, I can never hope to be a part of the Onderonian Air Force... let alone, the Onderonian Starfighter Corps... I was the top student in my class... hell, the best they've ever seen... I was even put on the must-keep list by the Queen... but, like all governments, corruption took hold and forced my instructor's hand.  So, here I am... fleeing my past... looking for my future."

"Wow... it must be hard going from the top student at the Academy to just another civilian," Jayke said.

"Yeah... you have no idea..." he said, frowning.

"I'm sorry, just one more question: why did you ask about the Vast Empire?" Jayke asked, folding his arms.

Cayden shrugged.  "I was just curious... though, now that I think about it... maybe I'll look into the Vast Empire... maybe thats where my future will lead me..." he said.  If I join, I start at the very bottom... as a TIE pilot... I will have to work my butt off in order to get to a command position... but once I get there, then I'll end the war on Onderon once and for all, and no one will stand in my way...

"Well, should you decide to join, be sure to look up Stewart... I'm sure he'd be more than happy to help you out when you get there," Jayke said, unfolding his arms.

"Alright, will do.  Good night, Jayke," Cayden said, grabbing his night clothes.

"Good night, Cayden... see you in the AM," he said, closing the door behind him as he left.

"Alright... and now, to sleep."  Cayden changed out of his clothes and set them in a neat pile on the desk.  He then changed into his night clothes, and set his pack on the floor near the bed.  I hope tomorrow goes by quickly... the sooner I do my work on Rhen Var, the better... he thought as he turned off the lights.  He climbed into the bed, and stared into the darkness.  I just hope the rumors of it being Republic-controlled were just rumors... of they board us and see those crates, we're history... he thought as sleep took him.

Onderon: 3 years into the future

Cayden piloted the ship, a Lambda-class Ta-4 Shuttle, through the atmosphere, watching for any sign of incoming fighters.  No one requested his IDC, nor did anyone challenge him when he entered Iziz air space.  This is strange... did they change policy after I left?  He landed at the Iziz spaceport, and lowered the loading ramp of the ship before powering down the reactor.  He walked down the ramp, and looked for the port authority.  Strange... no port authority, no air craft, not even the out-dated Acclamator in orbit... what in blazes is going on? he thought as he walked out of the spaceport and into the Commoner Quarter.  He walked across the square, noticing no one in the streets.  Okay... now I'm scared... where the hell are the soldiers, civilians?  Hell, I'll even welcome Imperialist soldiers right now... this is freaking the living poodoo out of me...  He passed the main gate and entered the Merchant Quarter.  He looked around and gasped.

All around him, buildings laid in ruins, vines and creatures crawling through the broken structures, as if they've been there for centuries.  Now, I remember there being a war... but not one THIS bad...  As Cayden walked, several of the more passive creatures took notice of him, while the larger, more aggressive ones stalked him in the shadows of the ruins, waiting for him to break into a run.  He walked to the Sky Ramp, the only entrance to the Palace, and noticed that a pair of drexl sat on top of the main archway leading on to the Sky Ramp.  Oh boy... just when I thought things couldn't get any worse... drexl... inside of Iziz... now I'm sure that something major went down while I was away...  He walked beneath the archway, never taking his eyes off the beasts above, and walked onto the Sky Ramp.  As he walked across the Ramp, he noticed flipdarters everywhere, darting away when he came close to them.  Damn things... annoying as hell when entire flocks of the dart every which way, effectively distracting me... he thought as he climbed the Ramp.  He stopped when he saw the Palace, its gates smashed in.  Along the exterior walls, he saw signs that bomas, and even zakkegs, attacked the Palace, smashing through the gates and entering its halls.  Well... do I go in?  Do I want to know what happened?  He was about to enter when the familiar sound of ship engines roared overhead.  He looked up and couldn't believe what he saw.  It can't be... a Basilisk War Droid?!?  But... it's not possible... he thought as the Basilisk opened fire on the Sky Ramp.  He ran for the Palace, hoping to avoid the War Droid's pulse wave cannon's.  "Damn... who in blazes could be shooting me?" he said, ducking into the Palace halls to avoid the Basilisk's plasma bursts.

He ran down the halls, plasma bursts cascading into the doorway, but not reaching deep enough to reach him.  He ran into the throne room, the very room he was in 3 years previous, and gasped.  "This... is impossible..." he said, falling to his knees.  In front of him was the various banners of every single government to control Onderon, starting from the Infinite Empire, going to the Republic, the Mandalorians, the Empire, the Royal Family... then finally ending with the banner of the Imperialist forces.  Superior technology, superior tactics, even greater numbers... how did we lose?

Then, the pilot of the Basilisk War Droid, his sister Angie Tavers, walked into the chamber and stood right next of him.  "Cayden... it has been 3 years since you left us... why did it take you 3 years to return?" she asked, kneeling beside him.

He turned to face her and said "I don't know, Angie..."  He looked around, then asked "How did this happen?  How did we lose the war?"

She sighed, then said "We lost because you left, Cayden... because you never returned, like you promised.  After you left, the Imperialists knew it was a matter of time before father gave up, so they consolidated their numbers, and when it seemed as though father would kill himself, they struck, pushing all the way to the Ramp.  Then, just as things couldn't get any worse, Imperial vessels in orbit rained turbolaser fire on our positions, forcing us to retreat to the Palace..."

Onderonian Civil War: Final Battle

'Imperialist soldiers, along with Stormtroopers, began blasting at the Palace gates.  The shields held for several days.  Finally... they fell, and the Imperials stormed the Palace, killing everyone inside.  However, not everyone loyal to the Queen died in that war...  Several of us fled through hidden passages underneath the Palace, and hid in an ancient Mandalorian outpost outside the city-limits.  We spent the next 2 years assaulting Imperial holdings inside of Iziz, trying to get close to the Palace.  But, instead, the Imperial Government had other plans...  Using their superior Imperial allies, they began genetically-modifying the native fauna, using them as a kind of super-soldier to try and wipe us out.  At the end of that year, though... all hell broke loose.  The creatures under Imperial control broke free, and began slaughtering the innocent people.  The city was in another civil war, ending in the release of a retro-virus, killing every single one of the creatures... and, inadvertently, every single sentient in the city.  Our little band of soldiers began leaving the planet, believing that we could never retake Iziz from the elements...'

Onderon Palace - "Present Day"

"But, I remained... waiting for when those who left during the Civil War would return, so I could tell them what happened, so I could warn them of the dangers of the Imperial government," she said, sitting across from him.

Cayden sat there, thinking of what she just told him.  I can't believe it... everyone... dead?  Even the Queen?  Mom?  Ashley?  At this last thought, tears threatened to pour out, but Cayden resisted.  "Then why did you fire on me?" he asked.

"You landed in an Imperial shuttle bearing Imperial markings... for all I knew, you were an Imperial soldier scouting the planet for recolonization," she said, moving right next to him.

"You're lucky I ducked in here before you hit me," he said.

"Yeah... its not like me to miss targets..." she said, trying to figure out what happened earlier.

"Hey... I'm glad you missed me... at least I know what happened here..." he said, holding her close.  "I just have one question..."

"Hmmm?" she said, burying her face into his chest.

"Did Ashley die here on that day?"

Angie looked into his eyes, then said "No... she left three days after you did... she said something about going out to find you and bringing you back home... I can assume she didn't succeed..."

"I haven't seen her since the day I left... " he said, standing up.  "Come on, Angie... we're leaving."

"But..." she began.  "What about anyone who should come back?"

"Leave a datapad here, detailing what happened here... we need to leave though... right now," he said, grabbing her hand.  He started towards the entrance hall, dragging her behind.

"Why do we need to leave, Cayden?" she asked, a hint of fear resonating in her voice.

"Because, when I came here, I was..." he started to say just as turbolaser fore rained down onto the Palace, burying them alive.

Firefly-class Midbulk Cruiser Longshot - Cayden's room - Present Day

Cayden woke up, covered in sweat.  He noticed that he was on the floor, and apparently did not awake when he fell.  That was weird... that dream felt way too real to be just a dream...  He sat there, thinking about the dream.  I'm just imagining things...  He got up, pressed the wash station button, and wiped himself off with the wash cloth.  He then pulled out an Onderonian military uniform, and sighed.  You're imagining things... there is no way that dad would kill himself over you leaving... and there is no way that me leaving would plunge the entire planet into chaos that would result in mass-genocide...  I just have an over-active imagination... he thought as he pulled the uniform on, feeling the familiar fabric against his skin.  Now this is more my style... this, I can wear and HOPEFULLY not be judged...

He pulled on his boots and walked out of the room, headed down the stairs, and noticed Stewart sitting at the table, already eating.

"Good morning, Cayden," Stewart said.  "Help yourself to some breakfast."

"Thank you, Captain," he said, grabbing some food from the dispenser.

Stewart looked him over, then said "Why are you wearing a military uniform?"

Cayden sat down before he answered.  "Because, Stewart... I was thinking that maybe in a military uniform, people would stop giving me crap," he said, taking a bite out of his toast.

"I was only asking..." Stewart said, eating his own food.

"Sorry... I had a rough night..." he said.

"I could tell... you talk in your sleep, you know that?" Stewart said, trying not to smile.

"Heh... no, I didn't know that..." Cayden said, drinking some water.

"Yeah, you do... Angie is your sister, I take it?" he asked.

"Yes, she is... my older sister by one year... back on Onderon, we did everything together... ranging from homework to combat scenarios," he said, taking a vicious bite out of his steak.

"You must have had a rather interesting childhood..." Stewart observed.

"Yeah... it had its ups and downs... but I wouldn't change any bit of it... not for any amount of money... not for anything..." he said, drinking his water again.

"Now, I do have one more question to ask..." Stewart started.

"Why am I so interested in the Vast Empire?" Cayden finished.  "Well... to be honest, I was initially just interested, since I've never heard of them... but then you mentioned being a pilot with them, and told me a bit about them... so I started thinking that maybe I should check them out... maybe enlist in the Navy..."

Stewart looked at him, smiling.  "You should... you'd probably enjoy flying with us," he said moments before the ship shook violently, then the alarms began wailing.

"Whats going on?" Cayden asked, anxiety in his voice.

"We've been pulled out of hyperspace..." Stewart said, getting up and heading up the stairs.  He ran to the cockpit and looked out the viewport to see a Nebulon-B Frigate bearing down on them, a New Republic insignia branded on their hull.

Cayden ran into the cockpit, then gasped.  So the rumers were true... he thought.  "I pray they don't want to board..."

A male voice rang out over the comm.  "Attention, Imperial Firefly-class Midbulk Cruiser, this is New Republic Warship Alderaanian Pride, requesting that you power down and prepare to be boarded!" a Republic officer said.

Stewart looked out the viewport, then said "It's a trap!"

Just as he said that, an umbilical from the Alderaanian Pride extended from the frigate and attached itself onto the loading bay of the Longshot.

OOC:

WC: 3036
I WAY surpassed my goal... and the dream in this post (yes, ridiculously long and written as it is) will become important in future squadron stories as more and more things are revealed about Cayden...  oh, and Stewart... have fun

Stewart slowed down to a halt, and the Officer looked disdainfully at the Mon Cal. before saying:

"Are you aware that a Firefly -class ship was almost caught smuggling Imperial Supplies on A..." His voice trailed off as his eyes locked on to the Imperial Symbols on the crates neatly stacked along one side of the wall. "Arrest them all! Move!"

As the the troopers raised their guns at him, Stewart's combat reflexes had already kicked in. He rolled to the relative cover of the crates, and drew his carbine that was strapped to his hip.

"Cayden, get to the bridge and fly us out of here, I'll deal with the troops!" Stewart yelled, at Cayden who lay prone on the deck to avoid the blaster fire.

Cayden nodded, jumped up, and ran to the bay doors.  He tripped on the top of the stairs, blaster bolts flying over his head.  He turned around quickly to see Stewart crouched behind a nearby crate, firing at the New Repubic soldiers.  One of the soldiers saw him and fired at the stairs, causing Cayden to jump up and continue running to the bridge.  He ran out the bay doors and turned towards the bridge, not checking to see if Stewart was behind.  I sure hope he knows what he's doing... I sure as hell don't.  He rounded the corner and heard the reassuring sound of the bay doors closing.  Well... I guess I have my answer...  He heard a thud behind him as he reached the table.  Why do I get the feeling that that thud was not a Republic soldier?

He entered the bridge and scrambled for the cockpit.  He looked at the controls and froze.  What the hell?  Why can't I just grab and go?  He stared at them for another second, then realized why.  Because I don't want to repeat what happened on Onderon... he thought moments before Stewart ripped him out of the seat and climbed in himself.

Luckily the Neb-B hadn't turned on any of it's tractor beams, so with engines at full reverse, the Firefly transport broke away with an audible groan as the umbilical and the docking bay were ripped apart. Alarms went off, alerting him that the cargo bay was venting atmosphere.

As Stewart turned off the alarms, Cayden thought What the hell happened...?

Stewart turned and saw a look of bewilderment replace the stunned look on Cayden's face as he sat there gazing out of the view port.  Floating in clear view was a New Republic trooper.  The Neb-B could see it as well.  Stewart immediately banked hard to port, and burned as fast as he could towards the atmosphere of Rhen Var.

The volley of ruby bolts from the New Republic ship was faster. It smashed into the rear of the Firefly, knocking out all maneuverability, and movement. If it weren't for the momentum, of the ship, the transport wouldn't be going anywhere, the engine had been slagged to oblivion. The Firefly hung dead in the atmosphere, and the occupants were very nearly in the same state.

Cayden's mind was all in a rush, trying to process what just happened.  Did we... get hit?  I don't know... Where the hell is Stewart?  Is he still flying?  Are we dead?  Am I dead?!? he thought as he stood up, trying to ecover his balance.  He looked out the viewport as he saw the snow-capped mountains of the planet surface get closer.  He looked at the pilot's seat and saw the unconscious Mon Cal.  He shoved him into the co-pilot's seat and took control of the ship, trying to use what remained of the ship to get them away from the mountain tops.  We will die if we crash into those mountain tops... thats unacceptable... I still have plans to execute... Come on, Cayden!  Get this damn ship under your control!!!  He pulled hard on the control stick, trying to level out the ship to prevent a crash into the mountain side.

The ship gradually leveled out, barely missing the mountain tops.  He looked out the viewport and saw a small valley amongst the mountains.  Such a small target to shoot for at these speeds with minimal control... I pray I can do it...  He attempted to guide the ship in for a crash landing in the valley, but instead hit one of the mountain tops.  The ship shook violently, alarms blaring.  The impact tore off the port wing, rendering all manual navigation useless.  The ship tore through the sky, spinning out of control, and impacted the lower edge of the valley.  The ship bounced several times, making craters in the snow, then finally just tearing though it.  The ship stopped at the edge of the valley and rocked back and forth to regain stability.  Cayden sat back in the seat and exhaled a sigh of relief.  Never... have I ever had to make a crash landing... it could have been worse... we could be dead...  He then looked to his left and exclaimed "Stewart!"

OOC:

WC: 841
Yes Stewart... you're unconscious... have fun! 

Right after crash landing - Rhen Var valley - Wreckage of Longshot

Cayden moved to check on Stewart, then remembered something he learned in the Naval Academy.

Flashback: Onderonian Naval Academy Simulator Deck - 1 year ago

Cayden was strapped into a simulator, prepping the ship for take-off.

"Today, we are simulating a crash-landing.  I don't want your first time to be out there defending us from the Imperialists, so we're going to teach you how to handle yourself and the ship in a crash landing.  Well..." the instructor said.  "More like we're going to tell you what you're doing, and see what happens then."

Cayden listened as the instructor told the class what to do in an emergency situation.  A lot of this is common knowledge... to restate it is just stupid...

"Are we clear on what has to be done?" the instructor asked.

"Yes sir!" the class responded, saluting.

"Then take to your ships, and may the Force be with you."

Cayden watched as the rest of the class strapped in.  He looked over to Ashley and smiled as she waved at him.  He waved back, then remembered that he was supposed to strap in.  He climbed into his simulator and strapped himself in.  What ship am I flying today?  He flipped the power switch and saw the schematics for a Lambda-class Shuttle.  Great... I get to fly a piece of shit... better this than a damn Skyhopper.  He grabbed the controls, and the simulation began.

He flew down a familiar obstacle course, avoiding the barriers placed in front of him.  Then, something unexpected flew at him and broke off his port-side stabilizer.  Damn... so much for the usual training run...  He tried to keep the ship from veering off to the right, but lost control of the ship as it plummeted into the barrier in front of him, ending his simulation.  What the hell just happened? he thought as he climbed out of his simulator.

Rhen Var planet surface: wreckage of Longshot - Present Day

Heh... I'm so glad that I didn't repeat the failures of that simulation.  Wait... that was the last simulation run I flew in... the instructor cut me off after that. Cayden thought as he felt the icy wind blow through the damaged hull.  Damn... its cold out here.  Cayden walked down the corridor leading to his room, taking care to avoid holes in the deck.  He pried open the door and grabbed his bag.  Okay... I'll need my blaster, my ID, and this... he thought as he pulled out his blaster, his ID card, and a picture of Ashley and him sitting underneath a tree in the Onderonian Gardens.  He sighed as he looked at the photo.  Damn do I miss her... I wish I didn't have to leave her... I wish I could have brought her... but she needs to finish up in the Academy. he told himself, trying to justify his actions.  He felt the ship rock as a strong gust of wind blew against it.  Damn... is there a blizzard going on out there?  Cayden grabbed his bag and headed up to the bridge. He crouched beneath an opening in the ceiling above and started piling his extra clothes up.  Once he had a sizable pile, he pulled out his blaster and shot at it, the pile bursting into flames.  That should keep me warm for a while... oh damn!  I forgot about Stewart! He was about to turn around when he heard something shuffle behind him.  He turned and exclaimed through chattering teeth "Stewart!  You're alive!"

He watched as Stewart shuffled over to the fire to get warm.

"You mus-st b-be f-freez-zing, in th-that sh-shirt" he said, pointing at Stewart's Hawaiian shirt.  He watched as Stewart looked at the shirt, then look to the ceiling, looking for something.

Cayden watched as Stewart pried open a compartment and take out 2 Imperial pilot uniforms.  He tossed one to Cayden, who looked at it in shock.  They started pulling on the uniforms in silence.  Stewart grabbed his carbine and used the butt of the stock to punch out a hole big enough for them to crawl out of.

They emerged to the bottom of a deep valley, sheer frozen cliffs rising high above, the mid-day sun glinting of the frozen white snow, consuming both their visions. With the wreckage of the transport behind them, and the cliffs on either side, there was only one way to go, forward. They emerged from the miniature cove created by the noses of the ship, and the valley walls, into the true wind of Rhen Var, amplified by the natural funnelling of the valley.

They walked through the onslaught of snow, the cold air stinging then through the suits.  They reached the top of a snow bank when Cayden asked "So where to now, sir?"

Stewart was scanning the area with his scope when he stopped in one direction.  "Mountains." He said, lowering his blaster. "The mountains are our best bet, I'd say"

They continued trudging on, the wind and falling snow violently blowing against them, making the journey to the mountains harder than it needed to be.  As they hiked through the mountain range, memories from the past flooded into Cayden's mind.

Flashback: Onderonian Forest - 2 months ago

Cayden and Ashley were walking through the forest, talking about whatever came to mind.

"Well, if we were to get married, Cayden... we'd need the approvals of both my parents and your's," Ashley said, giving his hand a squeeze.

Cayden looked over to her in bewilderment.  "Married?  At our age?" he exclaimed.  "Is that even legal?"

She looked at him and smiled.  "Not on Onderon, its not," she said.  "But, it is legal on Dantooine to be married at our age..."

"Dantooine?!?  That's hundreds of parsecs from here!" Cayden said, stopping and turning to look at her.  "How do you propose we get there, anyway?"

"By ship.  You're grandmother is the Queen, after all... she'll be able to give us the credits to buy a ship to fly to Dantooine," Ashley said, grabbing his other hand.

"But... what about our families?" he asked.

"We'll bring them to Dantooine for the wedding, then back to Onderon.  It's that simple!" she exclaimed, eyes shining brightly.

"But... what if... fine.  I'll tell you what: we tell our families what we are planning to do before we leave, and even if they object, we'll leave.  My grandmother... I mean, the Queen, will side with me no matter what.  Plus, she really likes you, which helps tremendously.  Its just... finding a ship that'll be the hard part," he said, sitting down on a nearby log.

"Don't worry about the ship.  I know someone who can get one for us.  Just be sure to get those credits... We don't want this plan going sour because we don't have the money, now do we?" she asked, rubbing her hand down the side of his face, sending chills down his spine.

He smiled.  "No ma'am... no we do not.  I'll be ready... just be sure to get us a large enough ship," he said, pulling her close.  "Listen to us, we sound like we're going to perform a raid or something." he said, laughing.

"Haha!  We do... that's funny!" she said, laughing.

He sighed and looked into her eyes.  "You know, this is the exact spot we shared our first kiss three years ago," he said, smiling.

"Is it now?  Well... question is, are you going to just shut up and kiss me?" she asked, putting her hand on his upper thigh.

He smiled and kissed her passionately, holding her body close to his.

A twig snapped behind them, and Cayden stood up, hand on his blaster, alert and ready for anything.

"Cayden...?  What's wrong?" Ashley asked, placing a hand on his arm.

He looked around them, hand resting on his blaster.  He looked behind them for almost five minutes, then sat back down.  "Nothing... just thought I heard something..." he said, turning towards her.

"Maybe we should head back... just in case..." she said, standing up.

"Yeah... just in case..." he repeated, standing up too.  More like, the mood was ruined, now no 'reward' for you... too bad, so sad... sorry! :P

They started walking back to the city, when Ashley began talking about the test they were going to have next week.

Rhen Var planet surface: Deep in the mountains - Present Day

Why did I have to remember that?  All that showed me is that I broke yet another promise... and how did trudging through the frozen hell-hole jog my memory into remembering that?!? he sighed as he thought this.  "Maybe I shouldn't have left her on Onderon..." he mumbled into the wind.

Stewart stopped to look at him.  Cayden shrugged, and Stewart kept moving deeper into the mountains.

Cayden was following Stewart, trying to keep up with the seasoned pilot.  Damn... I really should have stayed in shape... this hiking is killing me! he thought as he felt his leg start to get sore.  At least the burning sensation will be a lot more welcome than the freezing cold.

They continued trudging through the tundra when Stewart stopped.  He dropped into a crouch and shouldered his carbine.  He looked down the path, then said "There's a small building up ahead.  Looks deserted.  We'll head there for the night, then find out where in the hell we're at."

Cayden nodded, and they continued towards the seemingly abandoned building.  After about twenty more minutes of walking, they reached the building.

Stewart shouldered his carbine and moved to the door, motioning Cayden to do the same.  Cayden drew his blaster and readied himself opposite of Stewart.  He opened the door, and Stewart rushed in, Cayden following quickly behind him.  They stopped two feet into the room and saw that it was empty.  Cayden closed the door as Stewart began exploring the room.  He noticed that there was a thin layer of dust on everything.

"Keep your guard up... it might be a trap," Stewart said, moving deeper into the room.

Cayden followed, looking around.  "I don't know, Stewart... I have this feeling like we shouldn't be here..." he said, trying to remain calm.  He walked out of the entrance room and entered the next room.  Wow... whoever lived here either lived under the poverty line, or... or were murdered...

Cayden looked around and noticed that he was in a kitchen.  What in the...?  Oh... I found the kitchen... now I'm hungry... why am I hungry?  Hmmm...  He walked over to the table and sat down in a chair.  Damn... this thing is comfy... reminds me of when Ashley and I were in... Snap out of it, Cayden!  You know for a fact that you miss her out of your freaking mind, but that doesn't mean you have to CONSTANTLY think about her! he thought, standing up.  But... I need her...  He sat back down, dropped his blaster, and placed his head into his hands.

Flashback: Onderonian Palace - 1 month ago

"No, I said the blue tapestries, not the indigo ones!" Cayden said a servant.

"I'm sorry, Cayden... its just that, we used all the blue in your room," the servant said, bowing to Cayden.

Cayden sighed.  "Very well, I guess indigo will have to do for my sister... though, I pray for your safety if she doesn't like it."

"Understood, your Highness... I will have the architects put them up now," he said, bowing again, then leaving the room.

Ashley walked in past the servant and hugged Cayden.  "I heard the news!  Angie is really going to be placed as the head of her own squadron?" she asked.

"Yeah, its a real big day for her... for all of us.  I just hope everything moves smoothly tonight..." he said ominously, walking over to the window to overlook the city.  "Iziz is surely quiet today... a very good change from the bomb sirens going off every 2 hours... though, now I kinda miss it... the silence makes me feel... anxious..."

"Like its the quiet before the storm?" a female officer in royal ceremonial armor, walking through the door up to Cayden.  "Hey Ashley, nice to see you up and about."

"Thanks, Angie... I was afraid that illness would prevent me from coming... luckily, we both know a very good doctor," she said, motioning towards Cayden.

"Ahhh... has he...?" Angie began to ask.

"Not yet," Ashley interjected.  "But I'm hoping its soon... once we leave the Academy, it will get harder to get married."

"Yeah, I know what you mean..." Angie said, staring off into space.

Cayden walked over to Angie and gave her a hug.  "Congratulations, sis... I'm real proud of you.  I just know you'll do great as a squadron commander," he said, smiling at her.

"Thank you, Cayden... for everything," she said, smiling back.

"No problem, sis... I'd do anything for you.  Now..." he said, taking out his datapad.  "I need to know where you want the giant panda to go..." he said as two men carrying a giant panda statue walk in.

Angie and Ashley laugh as Cayden moves over to the men.  He looks over at them, a bewildered look on his face, and says "What's so funny?"

"The fact that you actually thought I wanted a giant panda at the party!" Angie said, laughing.

"Well, for your information, it isn't for your party... its going in your room.  Now... where do you want it?" he asked, smiling.

"Oh... well, where ever you think is best, I suppose..." she said.

"Great, cause it'll be going in the south corner... always had better lighting over there..." he said, walking to the south corner with the panda-carrying men.

The girls left as Cayden was telling them where to place it.  When they were gone, he knocked on the stomach.  "The coast is all clear!  Come on out!"

The stomach opened up, and out walked a man in a Royalist Army uniform.  "Thanks for helping me sneak in, bro," the man said, giving Cayden a hug.

"No problem, Cam... just glad to know that 1) you aren't dead..." he started.

"Gee, thanks... no faith in my abilities?" Cameron said, punching him in the arm.

"... 2) you haven't been ingesting illicit drugs..." he said.

"No faith in my integrity?" he asked.

"... And 3) you remembered you have a family," he finished, smiling.

"Okay... now you're gonna get it!" he said, tackling Cayden.

They fell to the ground, wrestling.  "Your days in the Army will not help you today, because..." Cayden said.  "We still need to be operational for tonight!"

Cam looked at him, then let go.  "You're right... we'll finish this after the party, when most of the others have went to bed," he said, helping Cayden up.

"You got it," he replied, grabbing Cam's hand.  "So... here's the plan..."

Rhen Var planet surface: Abandoned building - Present Day

Cayden sighed as he looked up, and smiled.  That was a very good day... I had fun at the party, got to spend some alone time with Ashley, and... I showed Cam that I can still take him down, even with his army training.  He sighed again.  Just makes me miss home even more... who knows?  Maybe getting shot at out in space, crash-landing on an alien planet, avoiding detection by the enemy forces, and getting back to allied territory is the life-style for me...

His hand reached down to his blaster that was on the ground and picked it up, reholstering it.  There isn't anyone here... whoever lived here left a long time ago... that means we can use this as a safe-house as we look for a way to get off this rock. he thought as Stewart walked in.

"Stewart, I have a question," Cayden said, looking up at him.

"Hmmm?" the Mon Cal grunted, looking over at Cayden.

"Ummm... If one were to consider joining the Vast Empire... where would he go to enlist?" he asked, sitting upright.

OOC:

WC: 2680
Okay Stewart and Hunter... this is FAR bigger than it used to be... like, 731 more words bigger... enjoy!

===== Abandoned House, Rhen Var surface =====

Stewart-Power rushed inside the apparently abandoned building, sweeping the room as Amacuse closed the door behind them.

"Keep your guard up... it might be a trap," Thel warned, directed behind him as he moved deeper into the room.

With one eye, Thel watched Cayden look around apprehensively. "I don't know, Stewart... I have this feeling like we shouldn't be here..." Cayden said, tension creeping into his voice.

Thel continued searching the near empty room for signs of life as Cayden walked into the next room. As he was searching the room Thel, noticed that Cayden was acting like he was in a dream, an almost trance like state, as he walked into the room which turned out to be a kitchen upon first glance. After he finished checking the room, he entered the kitchen, where Cayden was sitting one of the chairs, looking thoughtful.

Thel was just standing in the doorway when Cayden asked: “Stewart, I have a question," looking up from his reverie.

"Hmmm?" Thel grunted in response as he scanned the kitchen.

"Ummm... If one were to consider joining the Vast Empire... where would he go to enlist?" Cayden asked awkwardly, sitting upright.

Thel cocked his head as he answered "The Naval Training Academy on Abrea." he said matter-of-factly, clearly distracted.
"If we find a ship, I could take you there aft..." His voice trailed off as the gentle hum he had been listening for, became the subdued roar of repulsor lifts.

"Landing Party!" Thel said to Cayden, a look of worry overcoming his face.


Thel ran to the main room, taking cover underneath one of the two windows on either side of the door. When running he had spotted a New Republic landing craft, and could hear the troops filling out of it as he sat up against the window. The think rock make-up of the house would repel ordinary blaster fire, so they were fine as long as the trooper's didn't have any thermal detonators. He fully expected them to have some, as just because they’re the enemy didn’t mean they’re stupid.

Thel called over to Cayden, who looked almost too shacked to speak, but had taken cover underneath the opposite window nonetheless. "Hey Cayden, if you don't like this, don't join the army!"

"Hey, I think we've been shot at enough to-day" Cayden replied, colour returning to his face along with the humour.

"Try being a TIE pilot, getting shot at is your job!" Thel called back.

At this point it didn't matter whether of not the trooper's could hear them or not. Even if Thel and Cayden had tried to hide, the tracks are too obvious not to be found. There best chance was to fight, and a slim one at that.

OOC:

465 Words Short and sweet. Just one thing, hey Hunter? Help would be appreciated...