I Master The Force, The Force Serves Me

[maul-from-shadows]

Rules

Ask/rp blog for Maul from Star Wars

Mun is 21+

No nsfw, thanks to a certain Jedi master he ain’t got the stuff for that anyway

No godmodding

Be respectful

[maul-from-shadows]

@dathomirian-dumbass

Ferocious walks into the meeting room he'd been directed to, giving some guy outside the room some serious side eye, not used to hearing men so bossy. He shakes it off as he walks further into the room, spotting the woman who had hired him to protect another dathomirian zabrak, though he had no idea why she would want him protecting another male, they weren't usually in all that important of roles in his experience

Rook glanced at Ferocious. “You’ll do.” She said after a moment. “While Lord Maul can protect himself,extra security never hurts.” She said leading him to a chamber. “The meeting’s not for a few hours, but it’s best you meet Maul now.”

Inside the chamber, Maul was meditating. He doesn’t even glance at the door as it opens.

[dathomirian-dumbass]

"Right... and why is this guy important? My sisters always say men ain't that big a deal and they're usually right, they're pretty smart. 'Cept the youngest, but mama says that's just because she's barely a cycle old." He glances to Maul, raising a brow at his tattoos. He'd yet to meet another dathomirian with such tattoos but he had heard of the valley clan growing up so he knew some had tattoos

[maul-from-shadows]

“I wasn’t raised on Dathomir.” Maul said opening his eyes and standing up. “If I were, then I doubt Mother Talzin would let me remain uneducated. She had plans for me before my former master took me away.” He added walking up to the younger zabrak, his footsteps echoing loudly in the chamber. “You however, look like you were raised in the mountains.”

[dathomirian-dumbass]

He smiles brightly and nods, "yup! My mama is one of the community leaders! She ain't exactly in charge but she has a very important, very busy job. My oldest sister raised me, she says I'm special. Guess I can't ask ya what the valley was like if you didn't grow up there, huh?"

[maul-from-shadows]

“According to my brother, when the Nightsisters left the males alone, they were a close community. Sharing food, teaching the young how to hunt and fight.” Maul listed casually. “I have two nightbrothers working for me, Icarus and Scorn, they can tell you more.”

[dathomirian-dumbass]

"Oh, cool! I've always been curious but my sisters don't let me go there. I was shocked they let me leave the planet at all, really. But they said it's probably safer than letting me lead a hunt like my dad did when he died. Fell down a cliff," he shrugs. "Oh! I almost forgot, I gotta introduce myself!" He offers his hand to shake. "I'm Ferocious Kedat!" His stutter gets worse trying to say the R in his own name, his botched tongue piercing glinting in the dim light

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul shook his hand. “I am Maul.” He introduced himself casually. “Not the name I was born with, but it is the name I remember.”

[maul-from-shadows]

@dathomirian-dumbass

Ferocious walks into the meeting room he'd been directed to, giving some guy outside the room some serious side eye, not used to hearing men so bossy. He shakes it off as he walks further into the room, spotting the woman who had hired him to protect another dathomirian zabrak, though he had no idea why she would want him protecting another male, they weren't usually in all that important of roles in his experience

Rook glanced at Ferocious. “You’ll do.” She said after a moment. “While Lord Maul can protect himself,extra security never hurts.” She said leading him to a chamber. “The meeting’s not for a few hours, but it’s best you meet Maul now.”

Inside the chamber, Maul was meditating. He doesn’t even glance at the door as it opens.

[dathomirian-dumbass]

"Right... and why is this guy important? My sisters always say men ain't that big a deal and they're usually right, they're pretty smart. 'Cept the youngest, but mama says that's just because she's barely a cycle old." He glances to Maul, raising a brow at his tattoos. He'd yet to meet another dathomirian with such tattoos but he had heard of the valley clan growing up so he knew some had tattoos

[maul-from-shadows]

“I wasn’t raised on Dathomir.” Maul said opening his eyes and standing up. “If I were, then I doubt Mother Talzin would let me remain uneducated. She had plans for me before my former master took me away.” He added walking up to the younger zabrak, his footsteps echoing loudly in the chamber. “You however, look like you were raised in the mountains.”

[dathomirian-dumbass]

He smiles brightly and nods, "yup! My mama is one of the community leaders! She ain't exactly in charge but she has a very important, very busy job. My oldest sister raised me, she says I'm special. Guess I can't ask ya what the valley was like if you didn't grow up there, huh?"

[maul-from-shadows]

“According to my brother, when the Nightsisters left the males alone, they were a close community. Sharing food, teaching the young how to hunt and fight.” Maul listed casually. “I have two nightbrothers working for me, Icarus and Scorn, they can tell you more.”

[maul-from-shadows]

@dathomirian-dumbass

Ferocious walks into the meeting room he'd been directed to, giving some guy outside the room some serious side eye, not used to hearing men so bossy. He shakes it off as he walks further into the room, spotting the woman who had hired him to protect another dathomirian zabrak, though he had no idea why she would want him protecting another male, they weren't usually in all that important of roles in his experience

Rook glanced at Ferocious. “You’ll do.” She said after a moment. “While Lord Maul can protect himself,extra security never hurts.” She said leading him to a chamber. “The meeting’s not for a few hours, but it’s best you meet Maul now.”

Inside the chamber, Maul was meditating. He doesn’t even glance at the door as it opens.

[dathomirian-dumbass]

"Right... and why is this guy important? My sisters always say men ain't that big a deal and they're usually right, they're pretty smart. 'Cept the youngest, but mama says that's just because she's barely a cycle old." He glances to Maul, raising a brow at his tattoos. He'd yet to meet another dathomirian with such tattoos but he had heard of the valley clan growing up so he knew some had tattoos

[maul-from-shadows]

“I wasn’t raised on Dathomir.” Maul said opening his eyes and standing up. “If I were, then I doubt Mother Talzin would let me remain uneducated. She had plans for me before my former master took me away.” He added walking up to the younger zabrak, his footsteps echoing loudly in the chamber. “You however, look like you were raised in the mountains.”

[maul-from-shadows]

@dathomirian-dumbass

Ferocious walks into the meeting room he'd been directed to, giving some guy outside the room some serious side eye, not used to hearing men so bossy. He shakes it off as he walks further into the room, spotting the woman who had hired him to protect another dathomirian zabrak, though he had no idea why she would want him protecting another male, they weren't usually in all that important of roles in his experience

Rook glanced at Ferocious. “You’ll do.” She said after a moment. “While Lord Maul can protect himself,extra security never hurts.” She said leading him to a chamber. “The meeting’s not for a few hours, but it’s best you meet Maul now.”

Inside the chamber, Maul was meditating. He doesn’t even glance at the door as it opens.

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

Lora nods. “Guess we need to take out the inquisitors then.” She shrugs.

[maul-from-shadows]

“They did just build a fortress on an aquatic moon called Nur.” Maul mused. “It orbits a planet called Mustafar. However for some reason, Mustafar has one of the largest fleets in the galaxy in orbit.”

[refracting-light]

“I’ve been to Mustafar.” Lora replies softly. “Obi Wan’s Padewan died there.” She whispers.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul sat there in disbelief. “How?” He asked interested. “How did Skywalker die? Sidious wanted him to be his apprentice, he was the key to everything and the whole reason for the length of the war so tell me, how did he die?”

[refracting-light]

Her eyes go somewhere very far away.

“Kenobi killed him.” She sighs clearly grieved. “There was no other choice. He was… insane.” Her eyes well up with unshed tears.

“He… he killed Padme Amidala. I tried to save her.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul was silent for a moment. “Was his head cut off? Or was he wounded? Remember that Kenobi cut me in half and I survived because of hatred and the dark side, so is it at all possible that Skywalker survived?”

[refracting-light]

“I- I don’t know. I didn’t exactly ask Obi Wan… I was focused on trying to save… her.” Lora replies softly.

Her and the babies. Two out of three wasn’t bad right? It felt bad.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul thought about it for a moment. “It is possible that Skywalker lived then.” He decided. “He was strong in the force and the Darkside would make him even more powerful.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

Lora nods. “Guess we need to take out the inquisitors then.” She shrugs.

[maul-from-shadows]

“They did just build a fortress on an aquatic moon called Nur.” Maul mused. “It orbits a planet called Mustafar. However for some reason, Mustafar has one of the largest fleets in the galaxy in orbit.”

[refracting-light]

“I’ve been to Mustafar.” Lora replies softly. “Obi Wan’s Padewan died there.” She whispers.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul sat there in disbelief. “How?” He asked interested. “How did Skywalker die? Sidious wanted him to be his apprentice, he was the key to everything and the whole reason for the length of the war so tell me, how did he die?”

[refracting-light]

Her eyes go somewhere very far away.

“Kenobi killed him.” She sighs clearly grieved. “There was no other choice. He was… insane.” Her eyes well up with unshed tears.

“He… he killed Padme Amidala. I tried to save her.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul was silent for a moment. “Was his head cut off? Or was he wounded? Remember that Kenobi cut me in half and I survived because of hatred and the dark side, so is it at all possible that Skywalker survived?”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

Lora nods. “Guess we need to take out the inquisitors then.” She shrugs.

[maul-from-shadows]

“They did just build a fortress on an aquatic moon called Nur.” Maul mused. “It orbits a planet called Mustafar. However for some reason, Mustafar has one of the largest fleets in the galaxy in orbit.”

[refracting-light]

“I’ve been to Mustafar.” Lora replies softly. “Obi Wan’s Padewan died there.” She whispers.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul sat there in disbelief. “How?” He asked interested. “How did Skywalker die? Sidious wanted him to be his apprentice, he was the key to everything and the whole reason for the length of the war so tell me, how did he die?”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

Lora nods. “Guess we need to take out the inquisitors then.” She shrugs.

[maul-from-shadows]

“They did just build a fortress on an aquatic moon called Nur.” Maul mused. “It orbits a planet called Mustafar. However for some reason, Mustafar has one of the largest fleets in the galaxy in orbit.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[refracting-light]

Lora frowns. “Kenobi?” She asks softly. Her face and stance getting slightly defensive.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Yes. He was sitting in a desert, meditating.” Maul explained. “I will not ask you to betray him, I know you two were close, but ask yourself this, is it fair that you had to hide who you are while he can openly be himself on a remote world?”

[refracting-light]

Obi Wan would not be stupid enough to be openly Jedi even where he was. But Lora knew she was being baited so she might give some information. She merely gives him a knowing smile. Before moving to take a seat and buckle herself in.

“If I recall correctly Dathomir would be your home planet am I correct?” Lora asks. “Perhaps if we have time you could show me around. If any place in particular holds significance for you.” She suggests.

[maul-from-shadows]

“There’s not much left. Sidious had it destroyed during the Clone Wars.” Maul said somberly. The two other Zabraks looked down sadly as well. “The only things left there are ghosts, and a small collection I have built…” he trailed off as he looked at the Mandalorians, and figured out what that part of the vision was telling him.

[refracting-light]

“I’m sorry…” Lora says softly.

“I’m from Coruscant lower levels. Not much there to miss. I do miss the temple though… that was home more than anything.” She moves to take his hand.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul hums. “Then what Sidious did to the temple after the purge might enrage you.” He said hesitantly. Like he’s not sure if he should share this piece of intel.

[refracting-light]

Lora gives him some serious side eye. She knew his plan. To try and make her fall to the darkness. His fake hesitancy was below him.

“Come now. I’m not a child who will fall for your play acting.” Lora replies evenly.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Oh then I suppose it won’t bother you then that he converted the temple into his palace? Or that thousands of years ago the temple was built over a dark side shrine?” Maul asked casually. “Then the thought of all those holocrons with their secrets in his possession won’t unnerve you at all. Or the lists of known force sensitive children either.”

[refracting-light]

The lists of children get her. There’s an almost palpable warble in the force as the Darkness licks at her heart.

“That makes a lot of sense. As to why the force was so heavy before the purge.” She replies. “I always felt better on away missions too…”

She sighs heavily. “Well… they can’t find the new ones. More force sensitives will continue to be born.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“That’s likely what the inquisitors are for.” Maul hypothesized. “To identify force sensitive children, and kidnap them. For I doubt they will ask like the Jedi did.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[refracting-light]

Lora frowns. “Kenobi?” She asks softly. Her face and stance getting slightly defensive.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Yes. He was sitting in a desert, meditating.” Maul explained. “I will not ask you to betray him, I know you two were close, but ask yourself this, is it fair that you had to hide who you are while he can openly be himself on a remote world?”

[refracting-light]

Obi Wan would not be stupid enough to be openly Jedi even where he was. But Lora knew she was being baited so she might give some information. She merely gives him a knowing smile. Before moving to take a seat and buckle herself in.

“If I recall correctly Dathomir would be your home planet am I correct?” Lora asks. “Perhaps if we have time you could show me around. If any place in particular holds significance for you.” She suggests.

[maul-from-shadows]

“There’s not much left. Sidious had it destroyed during the Clone Wars.” Maul said somberly. The two other Zabraks looked down sadly as well. “The only things left there are ghosts, and a small collection I have built…” he trailed off as he looked at the Mandalorians, and figured out what that part of the vision was telling him.

[refracting-light]

“I’m sorry…” Lora says softly.

“I’m from Coruscant lower levels. Not much there to miss. I do miss the temple though… that was home more than anything.” She moves to take his hand.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul hums. “Then what Sidious did to the temple after the purge might enrage you.” He said hesitantly. Like he’s not sure if he should share this piece of intel.

[refracting-light]

Lora gives him some serious side eye. She knew his plan. To try and make her fall to the darkness. His fake hesitancy was below him.

“Come now. I’m not a child who will fall for your play acting.” Lora replies evenly.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Oh then I suppose it won’t bother you then that he converted the temple into his palace? Or that thousands of years ago the temple was built over a dark side shrine?” Maul asked casually. “Then the thought of all those holocrons with their secrets in his possession won’t unnerve you at all. Or the lists of known force sensitive children either.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[refracting-light]

Lora frowns. “Kenobi?” She asks softly. Her face and stance getting slightly defensive.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Yes. He was sitting in a desert, meditating.” Maul explained. “I will not ask you to betray him, I know you two were close, but ask yourself this, is it fair that you had to hide who you are while he can openly be himself on a remote world?”

[refracting-light]

Obi Wan would not be stupid enough to be openly Jedi even where he was. But Lora knew she was being baited so she might give some information. She merely gives him a knowing smile. Before moving to take a seat and buckle herself in.

“If I recall correctly Dathomir would be your home planet am I correct?” Lora asks. “Perhaps if we have time you could show me around. If any place in particular holds significance for you.” She suggests.

[maul-from-shadows]

“There’s not much left. Sidious had it destroyed during the Clone Wars.” Maul said somberly. The two other Zabraks looked down sadly as well. “The only things left there are ghosts, and a small collection I have built…” he trailed off as he looked at the Mandalorians, and figured out what that part of the vision was telling him.

[refracting-light]

“I’m sorry…” Lora says softly.

“I’m from Coruscant lower levels. Not much there to miss. I do miss the temple though… that was home more than anything.” She moves to take his hand.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul hums. “Then what Sidious did to the temple after the purge might enrage you.” He said hesitantly. Like he’s not sure if he should share this piece of intel.

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[refracting-light]

Lora frowns. “Kenobi?” She asks softly. Her face and stance getting slightly defensive.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Yes. He was sitting in a desert, meditating.” Maul explained. “I will not ask you to betray him, I know you two were close, but ask yourself this, is it fair that you had to hide who you are while he can openly be himself on a remote world?”

[refracting-light]

Obi Wan would not be stupid enough to be openly Jedi even where he was. But Lora knew she was being baited so she might give some information. She merely gives him a knowing smile. Before moving to take a seat and buckle herself in.

“If I recall correctly Dathomir would be your home planet am I correct?” Lora asks. “Perhaps if we have time you could show me around. If any place in particular holds significance for you.” She suggests.

[maul-from-shadows]

“There’s not much left. Sidious had it destroyed during the Clone Wars.” Maul said somberly. The two other Zabraks looked down sadly as well. “The only things left there are ghosts, and a small collection I have built…” he trailed off as he looked at the Mandalorians, and figured out what that part of the vision was telling him.

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[refracting-light]

Lora frowns. “Kenobi?” She asks softly. Her face and stance getting slightly defensive.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Yes. He was sitting in a desert, meditating.” Maul explained. “I will not ask you to betray him, I know you two were close, but ask yourself this, is it fair that you had to hide who you are while he can openly be himself on a remote world?”

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[refracting-light]

Lora moves towards him. “What did you see?” She asks softly. Reaching out to help stabilize him.

[maul-from-shadows]

“The Emperor, I heard mechanical breathing, Kenobi…and for some reason, Dathomir.” He explained panting.

“Should we pack up and go to Dathomir before the Empire locks down the planet?” Rook asked from the pilot seat.

“Yes. We can deal with the Pykes another day.” Maul instructed.

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route. 

[refracting-light]

I haven’t been alright since I saw my people slaughtered. But I appreciate you checking up on me.” Lora replies honestly.

“I should have known better. The Empire wouldn’t keep prisoners. Not even a couple days. They want us exterminated. We’re a threat.” She adds gruffly.

Determination glints in her eyes. “And, If they see us as a threat. That means they’re weaker than I thought… which means there is hope.”

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul nods. “Hope is useful, the Empire has weaknesses, and with the death of the Grand Inquisitor, a chance…” he trailed off as he had another vision. A void, mechanical breathing, the cackle of the Emperor, a planet exploding, Kenobi in a desert, and…Dathomir? Maul panted as he leaned against the bulkhead. Why was Dathomir in his vision?

[maul-from-shadows]

Lora’s head pounded. She didn’t remember much. Flashes of blaster shots. A fight. And the overwhelming presence of the dark side of the force.

She groans as she comes back to consciousness.

@refracting-light

Outside the there’s a Mandalorian standing guard, the Mando is wearing black armor with red markings. He noticed her waking up and muttered something into his comms.

A moment later, Maul walked up to the door of her cell. “You’ve awakened.” He observed.

[refracting-light]

“I once persuaded one of the other Padewan to give me his pants. He had been rude to a friend. He had to walk back to the temple without them. For I lit them on fire with my lightsaber.” Lora whispers, then gives Maul an impish grin.

She’s telling the truth.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul smiles back. It’s clear he approves of that. “Care to convince those two to leave Master Unduli’s cell then?”

[refracting-light]

“Certainly.” Lora replies. She moves to unbutton a few buttons on her shirt. And fluffs her hair. Before standing up and making her way down the hallway. Her walk very determined. Her face professional as she approaches. She’s holding a can of disinfectant spray in her one hand and a roll of bandages in the other. Both procured from her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul glances at her, then accidentally glanced at her chest, then found the ceiling very interesting.

“Hey! Who are you?” One stormtrooper said, his helmet not hiding his cracking voice. “This is a restricted area! Identify yourself!” He ordered as they both aimed their blasters at her.

[refracting-light]

“I’m the healer! Do you honestly think the emperor wants an injured Jedi executed?! What would that say about our treatment of prisoners?!” Lora snaps.

“Now move out of the way so I can work!” She glares at them. At the same time using the force to manipulate their minds.

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should move out of her way.” The younger stormtrooper said dully.

“We should let her work.” The other agreed with the same tone of voice. Both of them lowering their blasters.

[refracting-light]

“What you should do is go guard that hallway.” She points to the hallway opposite the way they came in.

“Nobody gets past unless I say so.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“We should guard the hallway.” The first trooper said.

“Nobody gets past without your say so.” The other says. They then run dow the hallway, and past Maul’s hiding spot.

“Impressive.” He complements walking up to her. “Quick question, why did you unbutton your shirt?” He asked looking at a spot over her shoulder.

[refracting-light]

“So they wouldn’t shoot immediately.” She replies. Doing up a few buttons. “Distraction.” She shrugs. “I wish I could say I learned that after the academy. But that would be a lie…” she shoves the healing supplies back into her pockets.

“Shall we?”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Impressive. Forgive the saying, but it is the best comparison I can think of, but you would’ve done well as a Sith.” Maul complemented her as he opened the door.

Sitting on a bunk in the cell was Luminara. Wearing a prison jumpsuit, staring almost blankly ahead.

[refracting-light]

“Master Luminara. It’s me Lora Auter.” Lots speaks stepping into the room. Hand outstretched to the master.

“We need to go.”

[maul-from-shadows]

As Lora’s hand makes contact with Luminara’s shoulder, it passes through. Luminara stood up, walked to her left towards a metallic cabinet, turned around so she’s facing them, and stepped backwards into the cabinet. There’s a single window showing Luminara’s face, and the hologram deactivated revealing that it’s not a cabinet, but a coffin. With Luminara’s dried preserved corpse inside.

“Clever.” Maul said stepping into the cell.

[refracting-light]

Lora goes completely silent. Her face a frozen picture of horror. Tears well up in her eyes as she draws her saber. And slices through the hologram projector.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul gently puts a hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Ordinarily I’d suggest we take her remains with us, to give her a proper funeral. But we can’t.”

“Indeed you can’t.” A voice said from behind them. Entering the cell is an Utapauian male with crimson markings and eyes turned yellow from the Dark Side. “I’m the Grand Inquisitor, welcome.” He said activating a crimson lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora turns. Blinking for a moment as she recognizes him. And his name comes to her. “Korin Frostfall.” She raises her saber in a defensive stance.

“By the force. What did they do to you?” Her voice is soft.

[maul-from-shadows]

The Grand Inquisitor glared at Lora. “Lora Auter. Trained under Master Windu, proficient in the Vapaad style of form seven.” He lists coldly. “That name is dead. Has been dead since Lord Sidious promised me knowledge that the Jedi kept from me.”

“…that’s all it took?” Maul asked unamused, and unimpressed. “The promise of unrestricted access to the Jedi archives?”

“Ah yes, the rogue Sith assassin, Maul.” The Grand Inquisitor sneered. “One of our few targets that is not a Jedi.”

[refracting-light]

“It would be wise of you to let us go Korin. I would hate to have to kill you.” Lora replies seriously.

“Traitor or not.”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Captain Korin is dead.” Grand Inquisitor sneered.

“Then let us put him to rest.” Maul said holding his lightsaber out in front of him, then igniting both blades before getting into a ready stance.

[refracting-light]

Lora raises her free hand and Korin’s dragged out of the room by his ankles. And standing in the cell of an old master who this traitor might have sold out.

She pulls him so hard and so fast that his head bounces off the floor.

“Kriff. Sorry!”

[maul-from-shadows]

“Now now, don’t apologize to a foe.” Maul said clearly amused as he followed them out.

The Grand Inquisitor growled and pushed Lora with the force to make her let go.

[refracting-light]

“Try and stop me Maul.” Lora retorts playfully.

She grunts as she’s shoved back. And focuses herself back into her training. Advancing with steady steps. Willing the force around her to protect her.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul chuckles at her and stands next to her, ready to take on the Inquisitor.

The inquisitor growls as he stands up. “I’m going to personally present your heads to Lord Vader for that.” He growls activating the second blade emitter of his lightsaber. The half circle shaped hand guard then unfolds making a perfect circle and the two emitters start spinning.

“Look at that, they need a gimmick.” Maul sneers.

[refracting-light]

“Wouldn’t recommend that unless you wish to die. I know Vader.” Lora replies.

“That’s… a terribly inefficient Saber design.” She comments.

[maul-from-shadows]

“Never correct an enemy when he is making a mistake.” Maul instructed. He then lept into the air, an eerie, haunting and fear inducing scream coming from him as he descended to the Inquisitor. The inquisitor’s blades stop spinning as he’s put on the defensive. It’s clear that Maul outmatches the inquisitor by a wide margin.

[refracting-light]

Lora thinks a moment. And then uses the force to keep the button on her saber down.

“I don’t suppose we could talk you out of this. And that’s a shame…” she remarks. “I hope you can find peace in the force Korin.”

And with that she sends her saber at his hand. Skewering him with it. Unfortunately for him he’s holding it in front of his heart. There’s a sizzle as the saber pokes out through his back. She then uses the force to draw the saber back into her hand.

“And never fight honourably with an enemy who won’t.” She adds darkly.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul snarled in frustration at the kill being stolen from him, then took a breath and calmed down. “Well done.” He says after a moment. “You would make a fine apprentice.” He complements walking down the hall, and past the two guards from earlier, now missing their heads thanks to the Inquisitor.

“You don’t know…what you’re unleashing.” The Inquisitor groaned, holding up a device with a button sticking out of the top. “There are fates…worse than death.” With that he presses the button and an explosion rocks the building.

Maul ran back, right as the Inquisitor breathed his last. “Time to go.” He said grabbing Lora’s wrist and just about dragging her along as he ran down the corridor.

[refracting-light]

Lora had been staring at the body. Somewhat numb. Remembering the smell of the younglings their burned flesh. She blinks as she’s dragged along. And eventually starts to run with maul.

[maul-from-shadows]

They get to the landing pad where the ship and the rest of the team were waiting. However, Maul stopped and turned around. Behind them was two more inquisitors. “Like a roach, kill one, more appear.” He growls activating his lightsaber.

[refracting-light]

Lora shoves one of the inquisitors off the landing pad. “The other is all yours.” She holsters her saber and tucks her hands into her pockets.

[maul-from-shadows]

Maul’s already fighting the other inquisitor. It’s clear that this one is a more cautious fighter than the Grand Inquisitor so Maul splits his lightsaber into two, and with this technique he quickly cuts the head off the inquisitor. “Time to leave.” He says to the team attaching the lightsabers back together.

Once on the ship he puts a gentle hand on Lora’s shoulder. “Are you alright?” He asked gently, as the ship flew to the base on a roundabout route.