Re: All In The Game

[Guest]

Luke had some dozen children that he had brought in from around the New Empire. They were strong with the force and in time would become Jedi Knights. The Order would be rebuilt and in time would once again be a force for good. He would teach them both sides of the Force, show them how to balance the two. Never again would the Jedi be forced to leave thier emotions behind. Yes they would have to keep a wary eye on them but they would be allowed to marry and raise families.

He was instructing them on the basics of becoming a Jedi. He already had plans for Serenity when she finally gave birth to her own child. She too would be given one of them to train since she also was now considered a Jedi Knight. He could already tell that her child would be atuned to the Force as well, something she would have to deal with later on.

He had felt the troubled mind of Serenity as had Jenny and he was sure that Serenity had felt something. He could not determine what it was but he was sure that what ever it was, Krell, Serenity, Jenny, and himself would take care of it. Even though Krell was not Force sensitive, he was a man that was a natural leader and remided him so much of his old friend Hans. He found Krell just leaving the Raven where the new weapons had been installed.

"So you are going to test them." Luke asked.

"A small test to see how it goes." Krell told him.

Luke nodded. "So another rebellion is about to begin." he smiled. "What will you do should you win? Are you going to rejoin the New Republic?"

"I will be leaving that up to the politicians. I am not cut out for that type of thing."

Luke laughed. "Oh you are cut out for alot of things my friend. Do not underestimate yourself."

Just then Luke stiffened. "You had best get to Communications. You are about to get a message from someone." The look on Luke's face was not one of happyness. Krell almost ran to Haven's communications Room.

[LadyRaven]

Havers happily sat at his comm, happily going through the rosters for the next day when he got an incoming message from a friggate. Furrowing his brow, he tapped the screen a few times to bring up the image. It looked basic, and a little damaged. "Unidentified freighter, you are tresppassing in our territory. Identify yourselves or be destroyed." A tinny and distorted voice came back to him, "This is the freighter Norson, heading for the Bearings Cluster. We've come to some trouble in the asteroid field and need assistance.".....

Krell came in as the comms officer took the message. "What do we have on that freighter?" he asked the officer. Being pirates or sorts they had to keep tabs on alot of ships to see what kind of cargo they would be carrying for the Empire.

Havers shrugged his shoulders, "I have no idea." He said, "The Norson isn't on any of our rosters. I've never heard of it before." He then went back to the comm, "What is your status and cargo load Norson?" He asked. The voice came back to him again, "We have some hull damage and a collapsed aft bulkhead. Our cargo is something your leader's wife might be interested in." Havers looked at Krell with total confusion.....

Krell was also a bit confused. No one knew where Haven was, except those that were there. And to have the captain of the freighter to say they had cargo that would be of intrest to his wife. That was definately strange. "And just what is that cargo." Krell pressed the comm button.

There was no answer at first, just static, but then there was a bang as the freighter was hit by another asteroid and the voice came back again, "Two passengers." He said, "Please, we're getting slaughtered out here!"......

Krell switched to his own comm channel, "Raven, we have a Freighter in the astoriod field that needs some assistance. Scan it first before aproaching." Then he went back to the freighter's. "Help is on the way. What passengers?"

"They didn't say who they were, just that they wished to speak to the Diamond Dogs.".....

"Put one of them on." Krell demanded. "I want to know who I am to be expecting."

The voice that came next was much darker and cold enough to send a chill down even the strongest spine. "Your wife and we have much to discuss Mr Krell and I would like very much to be alive when that happens."......

Krell's face became stone cold as he heard the voice. "I thought we finished that discussion some time ago." he said with distain in his voice.

"as much as we would have agreed with you, things have changed and we find ourselves somewhat changed of heart." said the voice, "Now, if you please. May we enter your home?".....

The Raven approached the ship and began it's scan. If it had troops or anything that would damage Haven, the Raven would blow it to dust. "This is the Raven. You will prepare to have a boarding party come aboard. Try anything funny......" they fired at a couple of the astoroids that were about to pound the ship and blew them away. "Get the picture."

In response, the freighter opened up the clamps and extended a small airlock tunnel......

The Raven moved up to the ship and locked on to the airlock tunnel. The boarding party went aboard with one pilot that now knew the way in. The pilot went straight to the bridge and took over the pilots seat. The other's made sure everyone was off the bridge before the two ships seperated and proceeded.

The captain made no argument and happily stepped aside to allow the Raven's crew to take control. Off to one side, two men sat silently. They were cloaked and their faces were well hidden. They made no move to attack or defend against the Raven's crew, simply sat there and waited patiently......

The ship was flown to Haven. Once the ships were within, the boarding party from Raven formed up around the two men. The Raven again docked with the Freighter and the boarding party escorted them aboard and to the shuttle bay where they were placed on board and taken over to an airlock. Krell was there to greet them.

The two men moved without any resistance and walked down the gangplank to meet with Krell. Back in the apartment, Serenity had been enjoying her bath somewhat, but that niggling got louder and heavier on her mind. With her eyes closed, she tried to focus so she could stop it from bothering her. Then, just like that, her eyes snapped open and she leapt out of the tub. "Oh no you fucking don't!" She yelled, grabbing for a robe and running as best she could for the door. The first hood man looked up to reveal bright red eyes and a rather sickening smile, "Mr Krell." He said in that same ice cold cringworthy tone.....

Luke now felt the presence and made his way to where the two men and Krell were, Jenny and Chloe also were making their way there with all haste. "Master, who are these men? I sence the force within them, but it is different."

The Sith Master smiled again as he felt the old one coming their way. The two younger ones were intriguing, but of no consequence right now. "Are we to be permitted into your holding area?" He asked politely, but that tone was still ice cold. "If you wish, my apprentice and I shall disarm ourselves. We pose no threat to you.".....

"Really? Why are you here? You working for the Emperess again?" he asked.

The Sith Master shook his head, "Our contract has been somewhat changed without my consideration." He replied smoothly, "And we found ourselves with information and a proposition that may benefit us both." At this point, Jenny arrived and took out her light sabre, "Back stabbing whores!" She cussed.....

Krell put up a hand to stop Jenny. "They have not done anything..... yet." he told her. "They have gone to a lot of trouble to find us and I would like to hear what they have to say." Luke by then showed up and had his light saber in hand but not activated. He gave the Sith Lord a long hard look.

Jenny grunted and took a step back, but her glaring eyes never left the two Sith. The Master nodded his head almost as though being rather polite, "Thank you." He said with an eerie charm, "But it is not just you that we wish to share our thoughts with. We would much prefer that Mrs Krell were to join us." Jenny scowled, "Why?2 She snapped, "So you can take a pot shot at her while she's vulnerable? You're head's up your arse, mate." The Master turned his eyes to Jenny and he actually smiled, "My my, so young and already so badly corrupted by a foul mouth. One could almost mistake you for the great pirate herself.".....

"Master?" Chloe held the light saber she had constructed. She eyed the two Sith. Luke moved forward. "Your kind have caused enough trouble for the galaxcy. What could you offer that would not mean having you control all."

The Master squared his eyes to the old one, "Because even Sith have a respect for a certain balance, Jedi." He sounded back firmly, "And as I recall, your kind have not been too respectful through the years either. Now, where is the pretty diamond? We have much to discuss."...........

Krell didn't want to have them near Serenity. "That will be up to her. If she wants to talk to you at all." he turned to the men that was escorting them. "Escort them to the holding area. Luke would you mind going along to make sure they don't try anything."
"Gladly." Luke said.

The Sith followed the officers obediently and took a seat in the holding area. While they waited, the apprentice turned his lowered head slightly, "Are you sure you know what you're doing, Master?" He asked cautiously, "She is still a pirate and the Empress' greates enemy." The Master didn't look back, but his words were plenty, "If you doubt me, you are not worth my time." He snapped. A few minutes later, Serenity arrived, but a little better dressed than she had gone for initially. The dress was simple and the slippers were just as. Her still damp hair was pinned back, but she glowed nontheless. She walked right into the holding area and to Krell. "Where are they?"......

Krell motioned to a room where they had been taken. Jenny and Chloe was there as well as Luke. "Are you sure that you want to talk to them?"

"I'd prefer to see them floating out of the airlock." She said, "But they're not here to fight this time, I can feel it. They have something to say and I'd like to hear it." She waddled to the door and walked in without knocking. Both Sith rose to their feet and the Master bowed his head to Serenity. "The rumours do you no justice, Lady Diamond." He said. Serenity scowled, "Fuck you."....

That was his wife. Krell smiled and watched. The Sith Lord resumed his seat and so did his apprentice. Krell then spoke, "Well she is here now get on with what you want to say."

The Sith Master nodded his head and then lifted his chin with pride. "The Empress has changed our contract with consideration and has changed her plans in hunting you." He began, but Serenity was more interested in the apprentice. The emotions he was giving off were making her angry. He wanted to attack, to kill her and everyone else. Without a word, Serenity moved around the table and came face to bump with the youth. "Go on then." She goaded, "Do you really think I need a weapon anymore to crush your mind to pulp?" The apprentice was clearly shaken at this point and backed up sharp. The Master then stood up and eyed Serenity squarely, "My apprentice is not of your concern." He said, "Empress Amelia is." Serenity scowled at the Master. "Then get the hell on with it."....

Krell was grinning from ear to ear, Jenny just smiled and was wanting to take the apprentace on herself. Luke stood there his face with out expression. "Anger is not the way Serenity. It is a powerful tool when used properly, but can lead you down the wrong path." he looked at the Sith Lord. "I would keep your welp on a tight leash, if you wish to finish your proposal."

The Sith Master agreed and waved his apprentice to the very back of the room. "He has much yet to learn." He said in apology, then turned his eyes back to Serenity. That sickly charming smile came back, "You look so much like her. I can see now why she wanted so badly to find you." Serenity scowled, "Get on with it." She demanded. The Sith master sat down again and lifted his head, "The Empress is no longer concerned with just hunting you down and killing you." He began, "The Emperor's plans to wed you were cut short with his neck a few months ago. Amelia is now running the show as it were." Now he had Serenity's attention. "She killed him?" The Sith shook his head, "She is smarter than that, my lovely. She had her shadow pay him a visit to discuss his plans on your replacement of her. At first, we were hired to find you and bring you to her, but you gave us the slip near the Void and then again through some manner of wormhole or cloaking device. After reporting our news, I felt a massive shift in the Force and in the Empress. She is not as sensitive as you and I, but her shadow is more attuned than you can imagine. My proposal is a simple bargain. You want the Empress; I want her shadow." Serenity seemed to think on the matter for a good few minutes, but then leaned over and put her hands on the table. "Do you think I'm stupid?" She asked. The Sith furrowed his brow, "I don't follow." He said. Serenity dipped her head to look him right in the eye. "If her shadow is as powerful as you say he is, why the hell would I hand him over to an evil bastard like you? I won't even think of the damage you'll do with him. I'd rather float in the 'verse than hand a weapon like that over to the likes of your lot. And I can get at Amelia anytime I like, so I don't need your help." At the back of the room, the apprentice looked up. "I told you she wouldn't go for it, Master." Serenity stood up again and scowled at the apprentice, feeling a desperate need now to evicerate him.....

[Guest]

As the Sith Apprentice looked up and made his statement Jenny's grip on her lightsaber tightned and her finger was hovering near the activation button. Luke put a hand on her shoulder. "What do you want with this 'Shadow', is he one of your kind, a Sith?" Luke asked. "If he is as powerful as you say he is, then it would be he that would be ruling over you and yours. Do you want him dead?"

If Krell understood what the Sith were from talking with the Ioains, they were power hungry users of the force, using their abilities to control and manipulate those in power to rule over them. The more powerful ones would have several systems under their control and have several Sith under them to do their bidding. To try and control one that was more powerful then you was folly.

He stood behind Serenity, his hands on her shoulders. "As Luke here has stated, why would you want one more powerful then you?"

[LadyRaven]

The Sith Master considered his thoughts carefully before answering and made absolutely sure his thoughts were his own too. He eyed Luke with something akin to snobbery, but made sure not to linger too long on him. His eyes then went to Krell and then Serenity. For just a split second, he wondered if the shadow was actually worth his time and if he should be persuing Serenity instead. The power she was giving off was almost intoxicating. In his mind, he pushed the idea away and came back to his main line of thought. His eyes went back to Luke.

"No." He said eventually, "The shadow is not Sith, but nor is he human. All I do know is that he is a 'he' and he is very powerful with the force." He sat back in his chair and put his black streaked hands on the table. "Why do I want him? I would say that my reasons were my own, but as I value my life somewhat more than you do, I'll tell you. I want to learn from him; to know what he knows and apply it on my own terms. Once I have learned all I can from him, I intend to kill him."

Across the table, Serenity started laughing, "You really believe he'll just hand over his knowledge to you?" She chortled, "Are you really that self centred? Even for a Sith, that's too much."
The Master squared his eyes, "What makes you think I cannot learn from him?"
"What makes you think you can?" Was her retort.
The Sith lifted his head again and cocked an eyebrow, "Do you want this bargain or not, Diamond?"
Serenity lifted her own head in defiance, "I'll think about it." She replied, "In the meantime, you and your little minion can count the stars from the prison windows." She looked to Krell for comfirmation on this and then made for the door.....

[Guest]

Krell listened to what the Sith Lord wanted to do and just shook his head. This shadow as he called him, was not a Sith Lord but not human either. So what was he then. A chill ran through his spine as a throught crossed his mind. They had not found a body on Vera Prime, though she had said he was dead. What if he wasn't dead. He along with the other Ioains had given the gift of the Force to the galaxcy. They in turn would surely be sensitive to it and know how to use it.

When Serenity looked to him for confirmation of putting the two in a holding celll, he nodded and said. "I think that would be best for now. I don't trust either of you and don't want you having the run of Haven." Luke, Jenny and Chloe would be able to keep an eye on them and make sure they didn't use thier abilities to escape."

"But before you are put there, what do you know of this shadow. Where did he come from and when did he show up? Or do you not know?"

[questor]

The Sith Master squared his eyes with Krell, "Perhaps you were not listening." He offered, "All we know is that he is indeed a he and he is very powerful. The best person to ask would be Amelia." He moved around the table and put his hands out to the guards to be shakled......

"That will not be necessary. I am sure that if you want our help you wouldn't try to escape." Krell told him. The guards lead the two away, followed by Luke. He would keep the guards from falling to the mind control game that both Sith and Jedi could do with those people that had lower mental guards. Krell looked at Serenity. "I don't like this Shadow. I have a bad feeling I know who it could be."

Serenity turned at the door and chewed her lip. She then nodded, "I know." She said quietly, "You think it's Alma Thur." She looked up at him, "You can feel your thoughts about it. We never did find his body on Vera Prime and there was something weird going on when she left for the new star energy." She moved back to him, "Could it be possible?".....

"He could have left Vera Prime a long time ago and since he did not return, she could have figured he was dead. He could have put himself into some sort of stasis for a number of years. Come out, find Ameila who is sensitive to the force and wife of the Emperor. What better way to become the power behind the throne." he told her.

Serenity nodded, "It sounds plausable enough." She replied, "Maybe we should find him and ask him." She was dadly serious, "Find out just what the hell they think they're playing at.".....

"So you want to just drop in at her palace?" he grinned. He would love nothing more to do that, but to get there would not be easy. Not with all the warships that would be in orbit about the planet and the planetary defence grid. "Or we could draw her out somehow."
:
Serenity gave a short smirk of a smile, "Wouldn't that be just shiny." She replied, "But useless. She isn't in her grand palace with her senators. She's out here with us.".....

"OH?" now that was intresting. "You can feel her?"

Serenity looked at him, "I can feel something." She said, "And if she's anything like me, she'll be a dog with a bone. She wouldn't have dropped the chase all those months ago. She's still looking and she's getting close.".....

"How Close?" he asked. He didn't want that witch anywhere near Haven. There were to many people there that she would not hesitate to blow away just to get to Serenity. "We need to set a trap for her. Draw her out to some where that we can control."

"You can't control everything." She replied, "And she's close enough that she may just find this place. If not her, then her shadow. Sometimes I wonder if it isn't him that's running the show, not her. She's a smart woman, but he's smarter.".....

"The power behind the throne. Why be the figurehead when you can have someone else do it and take the heat." he told her. "Well I say we lay a trap. Perhaps use our two friends to draw her out. Send them out, she will pick up their presence and we can be close by to criple her ship."

Serenity shook her head, "I don't think it will work." She said, "She changed their contract and if she's real smart, she'll know they would try and find us on their own. If we just let them walk, we play into her hands. We need something a little more subtle."......

"What would you suggest?" he asked

Serenity gave a sly grin and made her way back up to the communications deck. Once there, she tapped Havers on the shoulder. "What do we have out there with a little firepower?" She asked. Havers lifted an eyebrow and looked down the list. "Rahma's transport, the Griffin is in the outer rims doing some trade on Tattoine." He said, "And there's the Firehawk near Andorra. They're about the
best at the minute. Raven and Phoenix and the old Jezz are here. Why?" Serenity moved to the main screen. "Bring them up for me, would you?" Havers looked at Krell with confusion, "Sir?".....

"Bring them up. She has an idea for something we are working on." he told Havers.

"Ok." Havers replied and brought up the coordinates. Serenity studied the screen for a good long minute or so before pointing to a nebulae close to Naboo. It was about half way between. "Which ship is faster?" She asked. "Uh, Firehawk." Havers replied. Serenity nodded, "Ok, send it to Naboo's outer planets and tell them to gear up. There's gonna be an Imperial ship there and...." Havers
jumped to his feet, "Are you insane?!" He yelled, then looked at Krell, "Tell me she's joking!".....

He shook his head, "Nope she isn't. Just tell them to gear up and be prepared for that imperial ship." he told the man. "So what do you have in mind?"

Havers flopped back down in his seat and started tapping his consol, "I hope you know what you're doing, Ren." He said. Serenity moved back to Krell and cocked an eyebrow. "I'm gonna get their attention." She said, "Amelia will go there the minute she spots one of ours there. By the time the two meet, I'll have called in a few favours. Amelia is a Diamond. It's about time she met the
extended family." She moved to the door and half turned, "You comin'?".....

He chuckled. "I wouldn't miss this for anything." he followed her.

Serenity opened the door, but stopped just shy of leaving and turned back to Havers. "Have the ships ready to go." She said to him, "All crews to be on deck in one hour." Havers cocked an eyebrow, "Which ones?" he asked. "All but security." She replied simply. She then waddled back to the apartment and soon enough, she heard the bulletin for all crews to make ready to leave. "Have the
ships go to Naboo and wait for us. They can hide in the nebula. We have a few stops to make before we meet them." She said to Krell as she went about getting changed and packing a few items......

The Raven had been ready to go already and the Phoenix was about just as ready. Both ships were always going out. The Jesabell was docked in the Hold of the Phoenix and the only other ship besides the transport that brought the two sith was a Freighter by the name of the Tiger Claw. As the call went out the crews boarded the shuttles to the ships and began mobilizing.

Serenity finished packing her few things and a few extras just in case. Soon enough, she was stood by the door and waiting for Krell......

Krell only had to grab a ruck that had what he would need aboard the Raven. As Serenity finished getting ready he kissed her gently and took her by the arm and proceeded to the airlock, to an awaiting shuttle. He got on the com and had Havers put out to all Haven that they were to be ready for evacuation at a moment's notice. Krell was not taking any chances.

Havers did as ordered and once on the deck, Serenity was met by her faithful crew. And they didn't look happy to see her there. "You wanna tell me what this is all about?" Mac asked, "You're not seriously coming along on this in your condition?" Serenity smiled and patted the old chief on the shoulder. "I'm pregnant, Mac, not sick. I'm fully capable of space travel." Slyder lifted an eyebrow, "Yeh right!" He sniffed, "About as capable as a whale on a beech!" Serenity scowled and lifted her chin, "You're not Captain yet, pup, and I can still kick your ass anytime I want." Mac looked to Krell, "Please Krell, don't let her do this?" He pleaded quietly, "she should be resting ready for motherhood."....

Krell laughed. "You should know better then that Mac. She is sturbron and has a mind of her own. One of the reasons I love her." he put a hand on the man's shoulder. "But don't worry with you guys here and me, she will be alright. Do you know what we are going after?"

Mac half nodded, "Kinda." He said, "But I still don't like this." He shook his head and entered the Raven. Rat was close behind him, but Slyder lingered. "Are you coming with us, or on Pheonix?".....

Krell looked over at Serenity. It was her choice. It was her ship, though he would prefer her on the Raven with the Doc there just in case the little one decided to come.

oh yeh, raven is his ship, hers is pheonix lol
Not getting an answer, Slyder went onto the Phoenix and dumped his gear. Minutes later, Jenny arrived with her things and boarded, giving Krell a quick wave and a smile. Serenity looked between the ships, but then moved to the Phoenix's boarding ramp and looked at Krell. "Are you coming with me, or you going with the fleet?".....

Grinning he followed her aboard the Phoenix. "My crew will be good without me." It was definately going to get interesting.

Serenity smiled and boarded her ship. Ten minutes later, they had all left the asteroid field. Before they all parted ways though, she sent out a message. "Thank you all for doing this." She said. "You're all Diamond Dogs in my heart and I'm honoured to call you family. We'll meet up with you all in a couple of weeks in Nubien territory. Try to leave something for us, ok?" She then looked Jenny and smiled, "First stop, Dantoine." she said.....

"Why Dantoine?" krell asked.

Serenity smiled as she eased herself into her Captain's chair. "Jovu the Hut." She replied, "We collecting on a favour.".....

Krell groaned. Not a Hut. They were one of the worst criminal elements to deal with. It was probably a good thing Luke stayed back on Haven. He had grown up on Tatonie and had to deal with one. "He owes you a favor?"

Serenity smiled, "She." She said, "And yes, a very big one. A deal went bad for her and I bailed her out on her word she would repay me. You know what the Huts are like for keeping their word, so I'm collecting as promised.".....

"You saved a Hut's butt. Now that is different." he said and shook his head. "So what is the game plan here, so we all know what is going to happen."

Serenity turned her chair around to face him. "Depending on how many favours I can collect, I'm calling all my dogs to action." She told him. "Give Amelia something real nasty to chew on while we're chweing out her shadow.".....

"You think she will come out by herself?" he asked.

"If everything goes to plan, she won't know what hit her." She said...

"Well we will see if this all works out." As the Phoenix headed towards their destination, Jenny turned to Chloe and said, "Well my young student, now we will see how you do out in the field."

Serenity turned her head and smiled. "Only so much as she stays aboard the ship." She said. "At least for now." Jenny scowled a little, but Serenity paid her no mind. Soon enough, Dantooine came up on the scope and Serenity put in the coordinates to land the Jezzabel. The Phoenix would cause too much of a stir. Serenity, Mac, and Slyder boarded the old ship and Serenity took her old seat. "Hey old girl." She said, touching the consol gently, "Miss me?"

[questor]

"Not going anywhere with out me." Krell said as he followed her on board the Jezzabel. Jenny and Chloe wanted to go along but Krell shook his head. "You might be ready for anything that might come, but Chloe is not. She is your responsibility to train and insure she does not get herself killed while doing it." He looked down at her smiling but with an understanding look.

Jenny sighed, "Your right. But soon we will be backing you and Serenity up." she said with determination.

Krell chuckled, "That I can beleive. " As everyone took their seats Krell settled the lounge of the ship."

[LadyRaven]

It didn't take long for the Jezzabel to enter the dusty atmosphere of the planet and the second the clouds cleared, Serenity knew Jovu would be panicking that she was back. This being the case, Serenity decided to cruise for a while and let the ugly slug sweat for a bit longer. She would land the Jezz in the main port and pay the toll and make it all above board for the benefit of looking like the good guy. She turned to Jenny and smiled, "Cruise around the city for a while before we land. I'd like to get a better scope for the exit later." She said.
"Sure." Jenny said with a hint of knowing sarcasm.
"And when we do land, don't hide the weapons. I want Jovu to know I'm here peacefully. At least until I get what I'm after."
Jenny couldn't help but giggle, "Whatever you say Boss."

The Grand Hall -
Jovu slithered across her massive chair with a feeling of pride at her new acquisitions. A small fortune, but worth so much more on the black market and she was looking forward to raking in all those credits for her lackies' hard work. A slight tug of a silver chain and her pet slave stood up and started dancing and larking around for her amusement. She even began to clap as some musians gave the small creature something to dance to. To Jovu, things couldn't get any better right then.

A few doors away, an argument insued between some of Jovu's lackies. Something familiar had come up on the scope and neither wanted to tell their Mistress the bad news. One could guarantee a nasty death. The last one to die was dragged through the city hogtied to the tail of a nerf. There wasn't even enough left to bury the poor thing, let alone identify him. Eventually, it came to a coin toss and one of them had to go.

He entered the hall gingerly and approached with his head down and his hands out in front where Jovu could see them. "Mistress." He said quietly, "May I speak with you please?"
Jovu scowled, her entertainment interrupted, "What is it, slave?" She demanded.
"A ship." The lackie said, "It entered the atmosphere a few seconds ago."
"And?"
"It's the Jezzabel, Mistress." And he quickly backed away out of reach.
"What?!" Jovu howled. The music stopped and the pet slave froze to the spot and whimpered. Jovu took a few breaths and looked around. "Well don't just stand there!" She screamed, "Hide everything, you morons! she mustn't know my wealth!"

The entire hall was then in chaos as all Jovu's lackies began hiding the treasures their mistress had gained. Artwork was stripped from the walls, rugs rolled up and stuffed away into crates, paperwork was quickly destroyed and Jovu even lifted her enormous backside to hide away her new contracts. "I want to know the very second she lands!" She ordered, "I want her checked and rechecked for everything, understand? I even want the toll for the landing pad!" A few minutes later, eveything looked as bare, but still comfortable as possible and Jovu could only wait for the pirate to make her grand entrance.

Pheonix -
After cruising around for a good ten minutes, Serenity gave the order to land. Jenny's expert hands guided the ship onto the pad and the waiting security without so much as a pressure bump and opened the bay door. Serenity made her way down, making sure to secrete her light sabre behind her back under her shirt. It would have the appearance of a brace and considering her condition, she knew the guards wouldn't make a fuss of it. Mac and Slyder went with her and she knew Krell would be close behind, if not making his presence known up front with her.

"Make sure you register all our weapons." She ordered, "And no grenades, Slyder. I don't want her crawling the walls to kill us just yet, ok?"
Slyder groaned and dumped the grenade belt, "I'm still taking my blaster." He snapped, "So swivvle."
Serenity shrugged her shoulders and pulled a long black cloak around her shoulders. After pulling the hood over to cover her head, she moved down the ramp to the waiting guards and held both hands out in peace. "Afternoon gents." She said to them with a smile.....

[questor]

Krell moved up beside Serenity both his blasters sling low and the emblem of the Raven proudly shown on the left shoulder of his coat. He looked at the guards hard and a couple of them swallowed hard recgonizing the emblem. He grinned and hand his thumbs tucked into his belt near his blasters. "No problem is there gents. Just here on a social call." One of the guards looked them over and waved the others off. "You have the landing pad fee?" he held out his hand.

Serenity dipped her hand in her cloak and took out the necessary credits for the pad fee. She handed it over with a smile and was about to walk through when one guard half turned his head. "Wait a minute." He said, "We've orders to remove all your wepoans and search you." Serenity lifted her head slightly, "Fair enough." She said and held her arms out. "Just be careful around my back. A little tender right now if you know what I mean." And she stuck her bump out proudly.....

The guard generly searched her and stepped back. Krell looked hard at the guards and Jenny looked at the one in charge intently, "You don't need to tak anyone elses weapons." and made a slight gesture with her hand. "We don't need to take the other's weapons." the man said. "They may continue on their way. Move along." The man repeated what Jenny said and as they all moved off she smiled broadly. "Always wanted to do that."

Serenity gave a slight scowl as they walked away. "We're supposed to be here on the level." She told the girl quietly, but then smiled, "Was kinda cool though." They made their way through the main part of the city to the Grand Hall and Serenity stood at the door and smiled at Jovu's lackie. "She's expecting me." She said to the clearly disturbed youth. He let them in without question. Once inside, Serenity could feel the slimy one's nerves and grinned. "I'd love to strip this place to the rafters and take the lot for what she owes me." She said to Krell.....

With two Jedi/Sith decendents well trained now in the Force the Hutt would stand no chance, let alone with Mac, Slyder and Krell there to back them up. Krell could see that Jenny was itching to use her abilities on the Hutt's lackies. Krell whispered. "Just wait, you will be able to use your abilities soon enough. Lets see how things work out here first." Krell could not stand the Hutts and their ways. He didn't trust any of them. When they walked into the main chamber where the Hutt was he looked at her making sure she knew who he was.

Jovu lifted her slimy head up to look at Serenity and her cohorts and felt a sliver of ice go from her nose to her tail and back again. "The top dog herself." She said, trying to make light of things, "So nice to see you and belly full too, how nice." Serenity grinned coyly, "No, it isn't for sale." She said, halting the next line of thought for the slug, "And nice to see you too Jovu. You know why I'm here, don't you." Jovu scowled lightly, "Yes, I know why you are here." She replied, "But your timing is terrible. Your whelp over there has done terrible things for my trade, you know." Serenity looked at krell and smiled before turning to look back at Jovu. "He isn't my whelp." She corrected, "He's my alpha general.".....

Krell grinned, "You know if you want your cargo to be safe, you can always make a donation for every ship you wish to pass safely." that was something that the Hutt's would understand. "Though my sources say that you haven't been as hard hit as it seems you want it to appear." he looked at the Hutt with his no shit, business look.

Jovu laughed nervously and waved for Serenity to come forward. She did and quite boldly sat herself right in Jovu's lap. "Now." Serenity said, "You owe me and I've come to collect and we both know your hall isn't as empty as you'd have me believe. I can still see the nicotine stains on the walls from your pipe with the nice big voids in between, so drop the bull ok." Jovu slithered back as much as her chair allowed and tried to laugh it off. "You know you have no sway here, don't you, Diamond. This is my territory and I can have you killed, maimed or otherwise with a snap of my fingers." Serenity scooted up just a little more. "Yes." She admitted, "But you also know you'd be dead before you even farted a word." Jovu considered her options for a moment. "Fine." She said eventually, "How much do you want?" Serenity smiled, "Payment in full." She replied. Jovu flabbered her jowels, "I can't afford all that!"....

As Jovu made her threat, Jenny stepped forward, her hooded cloak over her head. She was dressed as Luke had been in the traditional Jedi clothing and the lightsaber hung at her side. There were plenty of thoughts racing around the room. Nothing was voiced, but the thought, Jedi, was in more then one mind. Krell even though he coulding read thoughts or sence them, could see their body language and the look in their eyes. "Could make your life even more misserable. You know my ship's capability. What would happen if it made a prolonged appearance in this system. I think I would pay up. I know you and your kind expect to be paid what you are owed when you want it. Time to do the same."

Jovu snapped her gaze at Krell and scowled, "Go play with bananas, you disgusting monkey!" She snapped back, at which point, Serenity pulled her light sabre out and put it under the Hutt's chin. "Now now." She said calmly, "Be nice to my husband." Jovu gulped down and rolled her eyes down to the sabre's hilt tucked neatly under a fold in her chin. Both hands went up in surrender. "Now, I'd like my payment in full please." Jovu nodded in defeat and snapped her chubby fingers to summon a lackie. "Go fetch my chest." She ordered gingerly. "Good sluggy.".....

Jenny's lightsaber was in hand as soon as Serenity had her's in hand. Krell had both blasters in hand pointed at the mercenaries and bounty hunters around the room. Most had went for their weapons as soon as Serenity had drew her lightsaber, but Krell and Jenny were faster. Krell chuckled. Making a Hutt pay would go down in history. As the chest was brought in, he wondered just what Serenity had in mind. What was this going to do to draw out the Emperess?

Jovu ordered the chest opened to reveal a mountainous stash of coined credits and on top, a very strange looking communicator device. Serenity smiled and hopped down from the Hutt's chair. A flash of pain went across her face at the move, but nothing these slow minded fools would see. "Tell me something before you go, Diamond." Jovu said, looking her up and down and then Jenny. "Is this the new Jedi Oder? A bunch of pirates and thieves?" Serenity stopped, turned and smiled back, moving her hood back. "What makes you think we're Jedi?" She said with a sly grin. Jovu's face went very pale very quickly, "Then you're Sith now?" Serenity laughed back as though it was the funniest thing she'd ever heard. "Jedi or not, Jovu, I'm a pirate first, middle and last and I'll always be a pirate first, middle and last. Being the new Jedi just makes me all the more dangerous to you folk." Jovu scowled and was about to slither away in disgust when Serenity held up a finger. "Just one more thing." She said. Jovu stopped, turned and folded her fat fingers over themselves. "Now what?" Serenity stepped forward. "Your slaves." She said, "I want them." Jovu flabbered again.....

Krell laughed when Serenity asked for Jovu's slaves. He had not expected that but he was more then willing to take them along. Jenny held up a hand and turned around in a circle. The manacles on the slaves fell to the floor. She wondered if what Serenity said was true, about always being a pirate even above being a Jedi.

The great slug could barely believe her bad luck as the young one made some motion and all the shackles dropped from her slaves. "That's not fair!" She yelled, "I've paid you in full! I'm taking this up with the Elders!" Serenity shrugged her shoulders. "Do as you wish." She replied, "I've taken full payment, but I wangted interest on top for the years I've had to wait. I'm sure the Elders would love to hear about it all." Jovu had no choice but to admit defeat and simply slithered away in shame. Serenity turned about and waddled back to Krell. Once all the slaves began filing out of the Hall, she let the pain show. "Ok, enough of that for a while." She hissed.....

As Mac and Slyder took the chest, Krell followed Serenity out his twin blasters covering their exit. Jenny turned off her lightsaber and helped Serenity. "You must take it easy." she told Serenity. Soon enough the slaves, and the landing party were back on board the Jezzebell. The slaves had to be put in the cargo hold.

"OK now that we have this chest full of credits and what not, how is this going to draw out the Emperess. The Empire doesn't like the Hutts that much as well you know." Krell asked. Jenney was already in the pilots seat and had the ship in the air before Jovu could do anything. They were on their way back to the Phoinex.

[LadyRaven]

Serenity made it back up to the bridge and eased herself into her seat. That little stunt hopping off Jovu's chair had definitely shifted something and it hurt like hell. After calming her nerves a little, she leaned back and rubbed the bump tenderly. She smiled to Krell and nodded to the chest of coins. "That's just payment for what we need to do next." She said, "And that old communicator. Could you pass it to me please, Mac?"

Mac got out of his chair and brought the communicator to her. He then went back to his position and carried on. Serenity turned it over in her hand, then gave it to Krell. "Part of my deal with the slug was that she hid this for me." She began, "Things were just as hot for me back then and I knew the Imperials were after my link with the rest of my dogs. If they had boarded me and I still had that thing, they would have used it to draw out the rest of us and kill us all in one go. I couldn't let that happen so I gave it to Jovu to hide along with the money I paid her debts with. I'm surprised she never figured out what it was, but then a dumb slug is always a dumb slug." She laughed lightly, but then hissed in pain as the pain came back.

"There's a frequency on it that the Imperials have never figured out; a direct line to all my dogs without any interference. Distance, stellar activity, anything like that doesn't effect it so there's always a clear signal and I can talk to all of them at the same time. It's how I dodged the Imperials on Corosant all those years ago. And it enables me to find them anywhere in the 'verse." The pain came again and Serenity decided she needed to lay down now. "I'm gonna go lay down for a while." She told Krell, "Let me know when we reach the Pheonix." She eased herself out of the chair and nodded at Mac, "Krell has the bridge." She told him, then waddled off the deck and disappeared behind the bulkhead.........

[LadyRaven]

Krell listened to what Serenity was saying and he wondered just how many were out there. At Haven he had a bunch of civilians and on the Phoinex and Raven were the bulk of his Pirates. They had a couple other small cargo ships and transports that would take the people of Haven away if the base was compromised. As he watched Serenity he noticed how she was getting pains at intervals. When she left he gave a call to the Phoinex, "Have the Doc standing by. I think it is almost time for Serenity." The voice on the other end became excited and said the Doc would be in the landing bay when they got there. Krell looked over at Mac and Slyder, a big grin on his face. "Looks like the drinks will be on me very soon." Jenny just chuckled and looked happy.

Serenity made it back to her quarters, but those last few steps to her bed seemed just impossible and she leaned against the wall. After a few deep breaths, she looked down at her bump and rubbed it. "Ok kid, you know this is real bad timing, don't you." She said to it, "Can you just hang on til we get back to the Pheonix so we can get on with this privately?" In response, Serenity felt a huge surge of pain move right the way around both hips and then across her belly. Serenity couldn't help but yelp in pain. "Guess not!" She breathed. With little else by the way of choice, she found herself on all fours crawling to her bed.....

With what Krell had said, Jenny threw the Jezzebel to full power and made for the Phoinex. She could feel her pain and took a quick look at Krell, "Better get back there, the little one is not wanting to wait. I'll get us there as soon as I can." Krell looked at Jenny and then bolted from the bridge and made his way through the ship to her old quarters. When he got there he helped her up and onto the bed. "Just take it easy and breath. We'll be back aboard the Phoinex in no time. The Doc is standing by."

Serenity nodded and was grateful for the help onto the bed, "Just make sure she doesn't scrape the paint putting her into dock?" She offered with a pained laugh. After kicking her boots off, Serenity felt she was getting hot. "I need to strip down." She said. She pulled off her shirt and felt somewhat better, "And a shower.".....

"That might have to wait until after the little one arrives." he told her chuckling. The Jezzebell moved through space towards the Phoinex and it made its way towards the Jezzebell. They would do a Barn Swallow and be on their way before anyone knew they were there. "Hold on." Came Jenny's voice over the intercom. "and don't worry boss. I won't scrap the paint."

"You'd better not!" Serenity shouted back, then shook her head at Krell, "Nope, I definitely need a shower." She told him and crawled across the bed. She felt the ship shudder as the pressure changed between space and the Pheonix's docking doors, then a thump as the clamps came down. Serenity made it off the bed and started towards the bathroom.....

He helped her and helped her get her clothes off. "Have the Doc come to Serenity's quarters as soon as he gets here." Krell called back to the bridge. "Aye, Aye Captain." Jenny's voice came over full of merriment. Krell got her into the shower and turned on the water for her. "Better make it quick. Doc will be here soon."

Serenity staggered into the shower and sat down in the tray as Krell turned the water on. She then shook her head at him, "We're going nowhere." She told him as she felt her waters go. Another intense pain came and went, followed quickly by another and Serenity could do little not to scream. "Why women put themselves through this I'll never know!" She hissed, "And more than once!" The water helped a great deal and she soon felt calm enough again to let it run over her. The pain was still very intense, but the heat from the water seemed to make it more bearable.....

A few minutes later Krell heard the running feet coming closer. Then the door opened and Doc entered, followed by Jenny. Slyder and Mac remained outside in the passageway. "He is going to have your temper." Jenny said as she felt a slight chill in the air. Krell could feel it also and looked at Serenity as the Doc began to examine her. "Best get you onto the bed and ready." he told her.

[LadyRaven]

Serenity tried to get up off the shower tray, but her legs seemed to disagree firmly. She shook her head at the doctor, "Not working." She told him as another pain washed over her. "We're staying right here.".....

The Doc sighed and nodded his head, "Ok." he turned off the water. He looked at her and said, "Just push when I tell you to and breath, we will get you through this." Krell could only stand there and watch as there was not that much room. "Looks like this one wants to be out in a hurry, he is coming fast."

Serenity laughed and shook her head, "Not quick enough." She breathed as yet more pain came and went again, "And turn the water back on, it's helping." She looked up at Krell and almost scowled, "I'm so gonna smack you one for this." She hissed, "You owe me big time.".....

"Hey it takes two to make one of these little rascles." he grinned and held up his hands. But the woman took the brunt of it all. The Doc turned the water back on and let it cascade over her. "Now push." he told her

Serenity shook her head, "Not yet." She said, "Too soon!" Truth be told, Serenity just wasn't ready for it yet and neither was baby. The way things were going, one of two things was going to happen. Serenity would pass out from exhaustion or the labor was stop.....

The Doc just nodded and let Serenity take her time at it. He knew she was wanting it to be over as soon as possible but it would be up to her. Krell began to pace.

Deep in her mind, Serenity began to feel a peace come over her. She closed her eyes and steadied her breathing and then leaned her head back to let the shower jets pour over her head and face. The feeling of peace began to grow and she gave a small smile. An image began to form in her mind, a person. It was one of the ghosts she had seen when they had gone to find Luke. Her great grandmother. The woman came to her and seemed to sit by her. She placed a soothing hand on her forhead and began to sing. Serenity felt such peace and calmness now, it was as though she relaxed entirely. Serenity kept her mind with her grandmother as her body suffered the pains, but the dream or whatever seemed to do more than just keep her calm. It seemed to ease the labor along as well. Her grandmother encouraged Serenity to let the pain go and flow along with what was happening; that it wasn't all that bad and it would end soon enough. She told Serenity that she would know when she was ready and she would be able to cope. In her mind, the two women even seemed to laugh and joke about things, sharing memories and enjoying each other's company. In her mind, Serenity felt she'd only been there a short time, but the hours were passing quite quickly for the doctor and for Krell. It was nearly five hours before Serenity opened her eyes again and she gave both men a dozy smile. "I'm ready now."....

The Doc smiled and nodded. It had seemed she had dozed off but Krell knew better, as did Jenny. She whispered to Krell what she was sencing. It seemed that her ancestors were there helping her out, insuring that her child would be born and everything would be alright. "Alright Serenity, lets do this now. Push." the Doc said.

Serenity gave a small nod and started pushing. she put her chin right down and lifted her knees as far up and back as she could manage. After a few minutes, nothing seemed to be happening and Serenity was getting more than tired. Then something told her to lean forward a little and squat, so she did. With one hand on the wall and the other gripped the doctor's shoulder tightly, she put her chin down again and pushed with all she had. The pressure and pain were unbelieveable and she gave such a look of shock as something popped from below. The pain still hadn't gone away, in fact, it was getting worse and she screamed as she felt somethign down there tear open. Then, just like that, it was over and she collapsed back against the wall in exhaustion.....

The Doc saw the top of the baby's head and as she gripped his shoulder and pushed the baby began coming out. Soon enough he had it in his hands and was cutting and tieing the cord and then gave the little one a good smack and it began crying. He quickly grabbed a towel and wrapped the baby in it to keep it warm. He then held it up for Serenity to see. "You have a healthy baby boy." he told her and then handed the little bundle to Krell to hold while he finished up with Serenity. The shower washed the blood down the drain but still there was the rest of the mess that had to be cleaned up and taken care of. Once he was done he stood up. "Give the baby to Jenny and then put Serenity in bed." Krell did what the Doc said and Soon he had Serenity in bed and under the blankets. Still wet but at the moment that didn't matter. Jenny then came by the bed side and handed Serenity her baby boy.

Serenity felt quite out of it by the time she was put back into the bed, but just then, a certain smell hit her nose and she was wide awake again and reaching out for her baby. It was the smell of him that did it. Once in her arms, she lifted his head and took a deep breath. Nothing else existed for that moment, just him and her. "Hello Kai." She whispered, then kissed his forehead, "Nice to meet you.".....

Krell sat on the edge of the bed looking at her and their son. "Kai is it?" he asked and smiled. "A fitting name for him." he nodded.

Serenity smiled and nodded again, but her eyes never left the tiny bundle in her arms, "He's so tiny." She whispered, "How could something this small cause that much pain?" She figured he weighed no more than 6lbs or thereabouts. Then the boy opened his tiny eyes to show stunning clear blue and Serenity smiled again. She wanted to stay in this moment forever. "Now I know why women do this over and over." She said, "It's the prize you get and the smell that comes with them." She breathed in his newborn scent again and closed her eyes. Just then, the comm link buzzed and Serenity flicked it over to Krell. "I'm busy.".....

Krell answered the call. "What is it?" It had best be good to be disturbing a moment like they were having.

It was Mac on the other end, "I'm sorry to interrupt Sir, but we're kind needing a destination here, or are to just fly around until she's feeling better?".....

Krell chuckled. "We make for the rendevou with the Raven and the others." He took out the old communicator. "You want to do the honors or do you want me to gather in the Diamonds?"

Serenity looked up and shook her head, "Not yet." She told him, "We have one more stop before we meet up with the fleet." She took the communicator off him, "Mac?"
"Yes Boss?"
"We need to head for the Alderan system before we meet with the rest of the fleet." She told him.
"Yes Boss." Mac replied.
Serenity put the communicator down again and took the old one from Krell. "There's one of my old generals on the remaining moon there and he can't be reached by this. I need to go to him in person."......

"General?" he asked. "What is a pirate doing with a General?"

Serenity gave a small laugh, "No, he was one of my generals." She said, "Alderan and the surrounding systems are his territory. Since the Empire lost interest after they destroyed Alderan itself, he took control and now any passing ship without an Imperial insignia has to pay a toll. Any shpi that does, well, he likes to play with them a little. You'll understand when you meet him.".....

"You heard her Mac, off we go to the Alderan system." he then turned to the others in the room. Jenny was grinning ear to ear, "MMMMMMMM I feel the force is strong in him." her eyes went big. She then left to let the entire crew know that they had a new member aboard. When she found Mac and Slyder on the bridge she told them what Serenity named the little guy.

When hearing of the newborn's name, both Mac and Slyder let a moment of emotion show. They both nodded and smiled, happy to know that Kai was back with them again, albeit quite a bit smaller and probably quite a bit louder. After that, the engines were cranked up to the maximum and Jenny put in the coordinates for the Alderan system. It would take a day or two to get there and there wouldn't be much there save for two tiny moons that seemed to drift around each other. Serenity's friend would be on the larger blue one and would know they were coming long before they could see him.....

Krell stayed with Serenity for the entire day and night, making sure she was comfortable. The Doc cleaned Kai up, washing him and wraping him in proper blankets and returning him to Sereinity. Krell got Serenity some bed clothing to wear as well wishers and those wanting to see the Kai came visiting. The day passed quite fast that way. Krell also made sure that she had time to sleep and recover from her ordeal. They were still aboard the Jezzeabell when the came within range of the moon.

Serenity barely had to say anything as Krell seemed to take over everything he was capable of. The only thing she had to do in fact, was feed Kai. The day and night passed quickly and soon enough Serenity began to feel when they were getting close. When Mac buzzed on the comm that they were in sight, Serenity handed Kai over to his father and got out of the bed. "Make sure we say 'hi' in a good manner." She said, "In other words, make him laugh."
"And how do you propse I do that?" Mac asked back.
Serenity thought for a second, "Two barrels and a lopp-da-loop. That should do it." She replied.
Mac asked Jenny to do as Serenity ordered and not a second later, the outside comm began buzzing. Mac answered it, telling Jenny it would best be someone he knows. "Howdy doody, ya ole dog." Mac said with a laugh, "Fancy a visit with the queen bitch herself?" The laughter on the other end was genuinely happy.
"Sure thing." The voice said, "Power down your navvy and I'll bring you in."......

Jenny slowed the Phoinex as they approached. Krell pointed to her clothing. "Before you go out I think you need to be dressed appropriately." he smiled down at their son, "Can't have your mother running around in her night clothes, now can we?"

Serenity looked at herself and sniggled a little, "True." She replied and dug out some comfortable leggings and a long shirt. She felt a slight shudder in the bowels of the ship, telling her that her friend had taken control of the ship. Once dressed and looking decent again, Serenity took Kai and wrapped him in an extra blanket before picking up a bag with what she needed for him and made for the door. By the time she, Mac, Slyder, Rat and Jenny had made it to the docking bay, the doors were open and a small troupe of guards were waiting for them. As soon as they saw Serenity, they shouldered their guns and relaxed. friendly words were exchanged before the main man himself arrived and he seemed genuinely happy to see her. However, when he saw the baby, he gave a look of shock and some concern. "Ren?" He asked, staring at the baby, "What exactly have I missed?"
Serenity moved forward and hugged the huge boulder of a man tenderly. "Nice to see you again, Mike." She said warmly, then looked down at her son, "And this is Kai."
Mike looked down at the tiny life, "Kai Junior?"
Serenity shook her head, "No. He's Kai's namesake and spirit."
Mike nodded, then looked over to Krell, "So this is the unlucky man then. Nice to meet you, I'm Mike Thurnsk.".....

Krell stood beside Serenity as they were greated by the guards and then the man she had come to see. She watched her hug the big man and then tell him about little Kai. He stepped forward "Captain Krell, Captain of the Raven." he shook the man's hand. "Unlucky?" he grinned, "I wouldn't say that."

Mike laughed and slapped Krell on the shoulder. It would have been enough to knock a smaller man down easily. "After nearly ten of my own, I know everything you're about to go through, my friend." He then moved between the pair and started walking towards the main doors. Inside was more a palace than a regular home and there were children of various ages running all over the place. "Rita!" He suddenly bellowed, it being plenty enough ti disturb Kai and make him cry. "We's got company! Hide the silver!" He then laughed and looked down at Kai, "Aww bless. Uncle Mike's big voice too much, hmmm?" He touched the boy's cheek tenderly and walked through to wear a rather tiny looking woman was stood almost frozen to the spot. His voice had the same effect on most small people, it seemed.....

Kai cried and then from the bag that Serenity carried a pacifer floated up and to his mouth. Krell Chuckled and shook his head, then looked around at all the kids and the small woman, that was evidently Mike's wife. He smiled and gave her a slight bow.

Rita finally began to move again, but she didn't smile. She knew Serenity well and knew that wherever she was, trouble wasn't far behind. "Nice baby." She said to Serenity, making it clear this was as polite as she would get, "Mine are better looking." And she walked off to fetch some drinks. Mike simply laughed and led them all to a massive sofa. After dislodging a number of smaller children, he sat down. One young girl came back and clambered up into his lap. "This is Missy, my second to youngest." He said. The girl gave a small wave, but then turned shy and cuddled into him.
Serenity sat down and gave Missy a smile before her face turned more serious. "Mike." She began, but the big man held a hand up.
"I know what you're gonna ask me." He said, "I know you better than most. You're here on business." He got up and shooed the children away before he moved to the doorway and pulled it closed quietly. Rita would know not to enter for a while. "It must be something big if you're here in person, so I'm all ears.".....

Krell stood looking around. When Mike shooed all the kids out and shut the door he sat down and watched Serenity. It would be interesting to see how she put the deal to him.

Serenity took her time so she could use the right words. "There's been a lot happening since you last saw me." She started.
Mike looked at Kai and krell again, "Clearly." He replied.
Serenity smiled lightly, "More than my new family life, trust me." She said, "It started last year. I was doing a run out of the Borean system, port 19 when I met up with Krell. He'd been sent out to look for me and run into a little trouble with the Imperials. Turned out, they were looking for me too and not just to hang me for piracy." She took a deep breath, "Mike, I'm related to the Imperial royal family."
At this point, Mike almost fell on his ass. "You're joking!"
Serenity shook her head. "The Empress is my aunt and she's the one wanting me dead. It turned out that the old Emperor wanted a younger and more powerful wife so my beloved aunt had him killed. She's now scouring the 'verse looking for me. She almost had us near the void a while back, but we managed to escape."
Mike sat down and blinked a few times, "So where are you guys hiding then?" He asked.
Serenity looked to Krell, "I've been made welcome in Haven, Krell's personal planet if you like and it's heavily protected so there's little chance an Imperial ship can break through, but Amelia is a little more dangerous than we planned. She has a shadow with her."
Mike furrowed his brow, "A shadow? What's a shadow?"
Serenity took out her light sabre and sat it on the table.
"Wow, a lot of years since I last saw that old thing." Mike said.
"Well, Amelia's shadow no doubt has one too and he's a lot more powerful than you can imagine."
Mike blew out a deep breath and leaned back on the sofa. "I take it then you're going after Amelia." He said.
Serenity nodded.
"And with that." he pointed to the sabre and Serenity nodded again. "You found the old Jedi Master yet?"
Serenity furrowed her brow, "How did you know about Luke?"
Mike smiled and touched his nose, "Little gets passed me, Ren
you know that." He got up again, paced a little, then stopped and nodded, "As always, my friend, I've got your back. Where's it going down?"
Serenity smiled and breathed a sigh of relief, "The nebulae in the Nubien territories. We're due to meet Krell's fleet there ten days from now."
Mike nodded, "You got the howler?" he asked.
Serenity nodded with another smile, "Of course." She replied.
"And something to butter Rita up with?"
Serenity laughed, "Enough credits to last her a year."
Mike stuck his thumbs in his belt and smiled, "Then I'll get ready to go."......

Krell listened and then said. "Well you know we are about to start another rebellion. If all this works out Serenity's uncle will probably be the new leader of a new republic or something." Krell didn't think it was going to be easy. If they did get Serenity's Aunt and capture her Shadow, they still had to deal with the governor's of the planets and the imperial fleet. He didn't think they would just give up when the Emperess went down.

Mike nodded, "Yup." He said, "And we gonna open up a whole can of worms in the doing too, but I'll tell ya summats. I ain't never been too friendly with the Empire and they's cost me more money and trouble than most peoples. Besides, Ren is family, ya know? We's all been together since the beginning and I ain't gonna say no just 'cause I's got some kids running around."
Serenity smiled widely, "Well said Mike." She told him.
Mike smiled back, "So you get on dat howler and we'll see how many we's get howlin' back."
Serenity got up and nodded at Mike before moving to the door.
Rita was waiting for her and she didn't look happy. "You get my hubby killed and I swear I'll rip you apart myself, understand?" She hissed.
Serenity nodded and then smiled, "I got you a present in the meantime to keep you company." She said, then took out her comm. "Could someone bring down the chest for Rita please?" She asked. A few minutes later, two of Mike's guards brought it in and opened it. Rita was happy again and Serenity left.....

Krell followed the others back aboard the Jezzebell, When Jenny took the pilots seat and lifted off Krell pointed up at the Phoinex. "That is Serenity's ship the Phoenix, a sister ship of mine, the Raven. They may not look to big but they have taken on the Imperial cruisers and won." Kai began figiting and Krell turned to Serenity. "Looks like feeding time for him."

Mike nodded and looked genuinely impressed, "I'll be seeing you in ten days." He said proudly. Once aboard, Serenity agreed as Kai was fidgiting and then crying. Instead of heading for the bridge, she went back to her quarters, changed Kai and then pulled her shirt open to feed him. "Tell the guys I'll be up shortly." She said to Krell and then sat back to feed Kai more comfortably......

[LadyRaven]

The Imperial Royal Cruiser -

Another expensive vase hit the wall, shattering into a thousand or so pieces. For such a small woman, Amelia had a great strength and she rarely showed it. Unfortunately for the vase, this was one of those rare times. And unfortunately for the poor lieutenant for whom it was aimed at. "How many more times must I give the same fucking order!" The Empress yelled. The lieutenant, actually fearing for his life, quickly left the state room and went back to his post. Amelia picked up another vase and threw it at the door. "Where are you?!" She screamed at her absent niece.

In a corner far away from the Empress' temper, the shadow sat quietly. He seemed content on lifting a peach from a bowl and making it twirl around in the air. The floating peach turned a few times, then dropped down again slowly into the bowl before rising up again and repeating the action. "Shouting your anger into the air will not bring Serenity any closer, Amelia." He offered calmly, "And maiming your staff with cermaics will not serve you well either."
"And what the hell would you know about it?" She snapped back, "You sit there and do nothing at all!"
"On the contrary, my Empress." Shadow told her, his voice still as calm as a lullaby. "I think."
"You think what exactly?" Amelia demanded, "On how to play some more with your damned fruit?" She stormed over to the table, picked up the peach and squished it. "This is what you do with a peach, Shadow." She dumped the pulp back in the bowl and stormed away again.
The shadow looked at the peach for a moment and then carefully picked up the smashed fruit. With a little thought, it became whole again; perfect as new and he placed it carefully back in the bowl once more. "Your temper is your downfall, Amelia." He offered carefully, "And your anger clouds your mind. You cannot expect to rule and Empire if you cannot control your agression."
"I've done well enough thus far." She said back sharply, "No thanks to you."
The shadow stood up slowly and moved over to Amelia, "You have only made it this far because of me." He told her quietly, "And you should remember what I have done for you. Were it not for me, your beloved niece would now be sat in your rightful place and you, my love, would be cast aside like an ageing plaything. Were it not for me, you would never have found her in the first place and were it not for me..."
"I get the picture." Amelia snapped.
"I understand that you are frustrated, but patience will prevail, I promise." Shadow said calmly.
"It's been nearly a year since we had her." She groaned, "And we had the chance to destroy them all right then and there. Why you wanted me to hesitate, I really don't know."

The shadow moved across the room silently and pixked up his peach. He brought it back to Amelia and placed it tenderly in her hand. "To pluck the fruit before it is ripe is an exercise in futility, my love." He told her.
Amelia looked at the perfect fruit again and blew out a breath, "Stop being so cryptic, Shadow."
Shadow took the peach back and took a long bite from it. He chewed, swallowed and savoured the sweet flavour. "Consider the peach to be Serenity." He said, "If we destroyed her then, we would never have known the extent of her gift, or that of her young cousin and we would not have known the growing conflict between them. Hesitating has given me that time to feel them out and study their new abilities for myself, in particular, the girl. Knowing what I know now, I can help you defeat your niece and the Diamond Dogs forever." He lifted his head just enough to show her the hint of colour in his pale eyes. "Do you understand now, my love?"

Amelia considered the explaination carefully and she had to admit that her shadow's plan had been perfect. Only one thing bugged her. "Why so interested in Serenity's cousin?" She asked.
Shadow took another bite of the peach and smiled coldly, "Her youth makes her vulnerable to interference." He replied, "And as much as the old Jedi Master tries to defend her thoughts from me, he does not cover them completely."
"And the conflict?"
"While she has given herself completely to the Jedi life, Serenity has not. She holds too much of her past to let it die away in favour of the nonsense Skywalker has been feeding them. I can use this to our advantage."
Amelia turned around and couldn't help but smile. "You really have thought this through carefully, haven't you." She said.
"As I have said." Shadow told her, "I do not sit here doing nothing. I think."

Amelia instantly felt her spirits lift and strode across the room to her shadow. "And your thoughts on finding them?" She asked.
Shadow sat back down again and placed the half eaten peach back in the bowl. "We will not have to wait much longer." He said with promise, "The Sith have made contact with them and are being detained. I will have their location shortly. Serenity has now given birth and she is up to something."
"How do you know she's had the baby?" Amelia asked.
Shadow touched his chest lightly, "I felt his presence here." He said, "As though he was my own child."
Amelia furrowed her brow, "How is that possible?" She asked.
Shadow looked up and smiled almost warmly, "That will be a tale for another time." He told her. "For now, we will wait. Soon enough, we will have a sign that she is on the move."

Almost immediately as he spoke those words, the comm link on the wall buzzed furiously. Amelia went to it and opened the link. "What is it?" She demanded.
"We have spotted a ship." The voice on the other end said, "It bears Krell's mark."
Amelia smiled icily, "Get a fixed position immediately and intercept them."
"Right away, Empress." The voice said.
Amelia turned back to her shadow and smiled again, "Well, my love." She said, "When you're right, you are most definitely right." She moved across the room smoothly and sat down across from him. "Perhaps you will tell me the tale?"

[questor]

Krell took a seat on the bridge of the Jezzabell and watched as the Phoenix got closer and closer. If they were going up against the emporess and the imperial fleet they would need alot more ships. He wondered how many Diamond Dogs there were out there and what type ships they had. After docking with the Phoenix, he went to her quarters and checked on her and their son. He picked up the communications device and asked. "Just how many are out there and what kind of ships do they have?"

By the time they had docked again with the Pheonix, Serenity had finished feeding Kai and had fashioned a sling from her bedsheets. With the baby now comfortable against her chest, she smiled at Krell, but then furrowed her brow when he opened up the comms link. "Who are you talking to?".....

"You of course." he said. "Wondering how many there are out there and if we will have the firepower to face the emperoress if need be." He looked the old communications device over.

"Oh." Serenity said and took the communicator from him. "I don't know really. The last time we all got together, there were over 300 of us."....

"Three hundred pirates?" he asked. "Now how did that all come about."

Serenity gave a small giggle, "It's a long story." She said, "To cut it short, some of them I beat in fights, others I stole from and they beat me for it back. Some of them were former crew of the Radience and the rest I guess were just good friends."....

"And they are all Diamond Dogs." He rubbed his chin. "So do they have any good ships?"

Serenity half nodded, "Sort of, yes." She replied, then, "Yeh, I would say so. Most of them were younger than Jezz and some of the richer Dogs had the new range etc.".....

Small ships then. Not something to put up against the imperial fleet. But perhaps they could keep them busy enough to allow the Phoenix and Raven to do their job. Meanwhile back on Tatooine, an imperial outpost was notified that Jovu had a visitor that had made the Hutt scared, and that it was evident that one with the ability to use the force had been with them. This information was immediately forwarded to the Emperoress' flag ship, and then to her.

Serenity gathered up the rest of her things, then made her way off the Jezzabel and onto the Pheonix. She went to her quarters where it seemed some of the crew had delivered a number of gifts for young Kai, including a crib, a portable carry chair, a proper sling and numerous toys and items of clothing. She smiled lightly and reminded herself to send out a message of thanks to them all later.
..
Amelia picked up the message and handed it to her Shadow. "She will be there." She said confidently, "And not just one of her lower ranking pirate friends. It will be her." Shadow looked up from his book and lifted an eyebrow, "Not just her." He replied, "The young one will also be there and the old Master.".....

Jenny had made her way to her quarters on the Phonenix and took off her long hooded cloak and laid it on her bunk. A knock came on her door and she opened it. Her padawan was there smiling. "How was it?" the young girl asked. Jenny smiled "Interesting. Got to do a couple things." She made sure she had her light saber, "OK time for some training. Lets go down to the Hanger deck where there is more room." when they left two forms appeared in the room. "She has come a long way in a short time. She has embrased the new order but Serenity has not fully accepted it." The woman had a worried look on her face. "There is a strange feeling in the Force. The man nodded "I have not felt that type of feeling in a very long time." The two figures vanished. Krell handed Serenity the communication device and asked, "So when are you going to call them in?"

Serenity held the device up and chweed her lip for a moment. "Now, I guess." She said, "But I don't know how many will answer." She carefully put Kai down in his new crib and then came back to Krell. She then went passed him to the door and the comm link to the bridge. "Mac?" The man answered immediately, "Yes Boss?" Serenity stared at the device, "I need you to boost the signal to the Howler." She said. Mac answered with a definite yes and Serenity turned the device on. It made a strange whistling sound that could just about be heard at first, but as she turned the base of it, it faded out to static and then another turn made it silent. "Calling all Dogs." She said into the top of it, "Alpha Bitch needs you. You guys out there?" She made the device whistle again and then turned it off. She then looked at Krell, "Let's see how many will get back to me." She said to him. She then looked over at Kai and tapped the comm link on the wall again, "Slyder?" The man responded. "Can you send Marrianne to come watch over Kai for me please? I need to be on the bridge." Kai responded again, "Sure thing Boss, I'll send her down asap." Serenity gave a small nod and went to the door to wait for Marrianne.....

As Serenity waited for Marrianne, Krell took a look at the scanners to see if anything was out there. He didn't want to run into anything unexpected. Those on the bridge wanted a closer look at Kai. When they could they made their way over and took a look at the little guy. He was all smiles and wiggly as they came over to say hello. Krell could only chuckle and love the attention his son was getting.

Marrianne finally arrived and Serenity smiled and thanked all that had come to say hi for their gifts and such. Soon enough though, kai was falling asleep again and Marrianne shooed everyone away, including Serenity and shut the door on them. With a kink in her brow, Serenity made her way up to the bridge and was greeted by smiles and congratulations from all her main crew. She took her seat and no sooner had she settled into it, the comms consol lit up like a supernova. "What the...?" She asked as four, then five, then ten, then fifty messages started pouring in. She handled half of them while she passed the other half to Mac. "There's my pups." She said on an open line to them all. They all wanted to know why she had called them and she explained some of what she was up to. All but five of them agreed to help and soon enough, she got through them all, learning the new Captains were they were ones, asking old friends how they were etc and telling them of the new arrivals to her own personal pack and of course, she told them about Krell. Most of them already knew who he was and some held the same opinion she had nearly a year ago, but once they learned he was the new Alpha, they seemed happy still to get involved. It took all afternoon to get through the messages and she gave them the time and place the fight was going down. They would all be there......

The chatter was comming in from all those that Serenity had called. Some were in the New Republic and the other assorted alliances. It was going to be interesting to see them all. He wondered what they would think about her Uncle. He would be there at the rendevou point along with Serenity's brother. (Trying to find the names we used for her ansestors that keep appearing.)

The rest of the afternoon was spent answering tail end calls that had only just been reached. Many of those were simply too far away to make it in time and those few that had just answered late told her that they had retired, but would send someone in their place if she needed them. She thanked them and stored the messages away with the first lot. One message that came in later that interested her greatly came from the cloners world (can't remember the name of that race) and so she took that particular call in private....

Lu"Sen and Magnus followed the troubling feeling in the force to an Imperial Ship. They did not materialize but looked upon an older version of Serenity. They felt she could use the force but had gone for the darkside of it. Then they felt and saw her companion. He was much different then any Jedi or Sith. This disturbed them. On the Phoenix Krell was not about to let Serenity take the last call alone. He had heard of the Cloner World. They had made the army the first Emperor used, in the Clone War. What did they want and how did they know of Serenity's comm device to answer the call?"

Serenity moved into her office and tapped her personal communications link on her desk. "President Thool." She said as she looked at Krell. "Kamino was the last planet I'd expect to hear from. Which of my friends is with you?" The president seemed happy to hear from her. "Captain Diamond." He said politely, "Your friend was Genk So'ol, yes?" Serenity replied positively, but the president's tone sadenned, "I'm afraid he died a few years ago." He said. "What was he doing there?" She asked. "He was receiving treatment for a genetic disorder." Thool said, "He came to us in search of a cure and hoped that our advances in cloning technology might hold the key. Sadly, we failed." Serenity's head dropped down and she rubbed her forehead. "Why do you still have his belongings then, if I may ask?" She asked politely. "He requested that we keep everything of his should we find a way to revive his mind in a cloned body. As yet, we have not been able to defeat the genetic abnormality, so I have his possessions still." Thool said. "I assume that you have called for his help and I am happy to offer my services in his place should you still require assistance." Serenity chewed her lip, not entirely sure whether to trust the Kimonian. She looked up at Krell. "What do you think?" She asked him.....

Krell shugged his shoulders. The last time they made clones they were programed to betray the Jedi on a signal. "I would prefer the original. One can not know what they might do with to a clone. What does he have in mind as far as help?"

Serenity shrugged her shoulders, she had no idea. She turned her head back to the comm, "President Thool." She said, "Please pardon my distrust here, but why would you help a hoarde of pirates? Your people have provided the Empire with clone soldiers for over a century, pre-programmed toa certain number of orders. If I agreed to your help, what assurances can you give me that you wouldn't
just send a load of your clones to turn us over to the Imperials?" There was a moment of silence before. "Kamino no longer holds any affiliation with the Empire." He told her, "President Vetal cancelled all orders and removed Imperial control over Kamino twenty years ago. He was clear that he would not be involved in the work the Empire was doing. Since that time, we have been as much on the fringes of the Empire as many of the outer rim systems. And I have no desire to go against my own father. Is that assurance enough, Captain? So'ol was a dear friend of mine and he told me much about your great family, hence my offer to help you." Serenity lifted her brow and looked back at Krell again, hoping for his input.....

"Ask him what kind of help he can offer." Krell told her. They needed powerful ships, troops would be nice if they were on ground missions, but they were at the moment more then likely going head to head with the imperial fleet.

Serenity nodded, "What kind of assistance are you willing to offer, President Thool?" She asked cautiously. The president's tone became happy again, "I can offer a select number of cloned humanoids we have in stasis, plus ships, weapons and some technological inputs for your existing armoury." He said, "And my personal services also as I would very much like to meet you in person." Serenity lifted her brow again and smiled at Krell. "That's one fine offer honey." She said to him.....

[questor]

Krell thought for a moment. They had men and ships and if they had some good warships then they might come in handy indeed. "Alright if he wants to help then we will take his offer. If we win we will need a good fleet and manpower to rid the empire of the govenors and their minions."

Serenity nodded in agreement. "Ok then President." She said, "We accept your offer. Look forward to seeing you at the fight." She signed off after the usual pleasantries and looked up at Krell. "That has to be a first." She said to him, "Kaminoans wanting to get involved in a rebellion...".....

Krell chuckled. "Perhaps business is slow. This might perk it up when others see what they can still do." He sat back in a chair and rubbed his chin. This was going to be an intresting confrontation with the Emperess. "Now how do we get your Aunt to join the party?"

Serenity smiled across the desk. "She's already on her way." She said. "She'll have seen our ship out there and won't resist the chance to get one back on us, if not try and destroy us all in one go." Just then, her comms went againa nd she tapped it. It was Marrianne. Their son needed feeding and she couldn't find any baby milk. Serenity blushed slightly, "Oh." She said, "I'll be right down." She got up and quickly made for the door, "I knew I forgot something."......

Krell laughed and let her go. It was going to take a lot of getting use to. Having a baby around, a son. He knew it was way to soon to be thinking of what to teach his boy. But he couldn't help it. He would teach him everything he knew about ships, from piloting them, to navigating and repairing. If he indeed was strong with the force, then he would also be learning to use his abilities. If Luke was correct, then that would come almost natural for him since it would be imbeded in his genes. Oh the boy had one crazy future instore for him. On the command ship, LuSen and Magnus listened to what the Emperess and Shadow talked about.

Shadow had been sat almost peacefully until he felt something that should not be; something that was far from being welcome in his presence. While Amelia seemed happy to voice her ideas about the amount of pleasure she would gain from watching Serenity and her pirates suffer, he stood up and quickly held up his hand. "Hold your tongue!" he snapped as he looked around the room. He couldn't actually see anyone, but he knew they were not alone. Amelia immediately saw the state of him and clamped her mouth shut. "I know you are here, Elders." He said openly, "Why hide yourself?"......

Lu'Sen turned to Magnus a smile on her lips. "He can't see or hear us unless we wish it. But it seems he can fell our presence." Magnus shook his head. "Such a waste of potential. Using the force to control and manipulate. He has been the source of great suffering and missery for centuries. Do you think Serenity and Jenny can take him down?" La'Sen shugged her shoulders. "I am not sure. Even the Master Jedi, Luke Skywalker might not be powerful enough to defeat him." With that the two fade back into the Force and made their way back to the Phoenix.

Shadow considered the silence carefully, feeling the concern in the two presences he'd felt and then they were gone. "Our plans are compromised." He said to Amelia. The Empress did not look happy as he explained what he had felt and who he believed the presences were. Amelia was instantly on her comms and ordering that they speed up immediately......

Krell left their quarters after a bit and went back up to the bridge. "Long range scanners has picked up a fleet of ships heading for Tatooine." The Security Officer informed him as he entered the bridge. "That would be the emperoress. Didn't take long for her to find out we were there. Probably thinks were still there waiting for something. Keep an eye on that fleet and let me know if it changes course." he settled himself into the command chair.

Serenity entered her quarters in a rush and smiled to Marrianne as she picked up Kai and cradled him tenderly. "I forgot to bring some formula milk with us." She said apologetically. Marrianne simply smiled, "That's not a bad thing." She said, "My mother always taught me that breast was best. He'll get all the good stuff he actually needs from you." Serenity smiled again and sat down to feed Kai. Marrianne stuck around and began to tidy up the place a little while Claire seemed happy to play with some toys near the bed. Serenity didn't seem to mind much either. Housekeeping wasn't exactly high on her agenda right now and it gave the other woman something to do on a ship that didn't really need her skills......

[LadyRaven]

Krell stayed on the bridge wondering if this Shadow was indeed the one Ioion that had plauged the galaxcy for so long with his interfearence. On Tatooine a Captain of the Imperial Guard made his way through the place of Jovu to her so called throne room. "The Emperess wants to know what the pirate called Serenity was doing here!" he demanded.

Jovu sat in her large chair and scowled at the Imperial bi-ped with disgust. "I have many pirates visit my planet." She hissed back, "Why would this particular one be so special?".....

"If you do not wish to have an imperial fleet dogging your every enterpirse you will tell me now what she wanted here." He stared at the slug with vemonous eyes. "Or perhaps the emperesss should confiscate everything you own and inprison you for helping an enemy of the empire."

Jovu leaned forward in her chair, "As we speak." She said, "My Elders are demanding to know why the Empire is encroaching on our territory. The laws were set down years ago that the Hutts and their territories were not under any control nor were affiliated to the Empire. Being here breaks that law, Imperial, so I would suggest you change your tone very fucking quickly before I decide to inform the Elders that their territory is being threatened." She sat back once more, "And arrest me if you like, you have no authority here and you will be shot for kidnapping a Hutt before you even left the building." And with a snap of her hideous fingers, the Imperial Captain was surrounded by her lackies. She then leaned forward a little. "Now, would you like to piss me off further, or would you like to make a request on your Empress' behalf instead?"......

The Captain only smiled. "We thought you would be like this." He stood there a moment as one of the bounty hunters approached and whispered to her. "Imperial troops have landed, we are out numbered and out gunned." The Captain chuckled. "The emperess cares not about your elders or what was agreed upon long ago. You are within Imperial Territory and therefore subject to Imperial law and rule. he looked around at the others, "Those of you that wish to remain loyal to the Hutts will be executed immediately." That caused the majority of those around to stand down and back away.

Jovu gasped in her chair in total disbelief. "This is an outrage!" She cried, "Treason against the laws your own Emperor set down! I will have your head for this!".....

"The Emperor is dead, and The Emperess rules now. It is her law now." Again turning to those around them. "If you wish to be in the favor of the Empire you will take this discusting slug to a cell where the Emperess will see to her torture at her pleasure." Many of the bounty hunters and mercenaries came forward their weapons aimed at Jovu. "You should have cooperated." he told Jovu

Jovu sat in her chair and considered her position carefully. Her jaw worked furiously as she battled with what little heart she actually had. "Diamond was here on business." She admitted finally, "I owed her a favour and she came to collect, that is all. A megre pot of credits and nothing more.".....

"She would not have just come for money!" the Captain said with distain. "She has robbed and plundered more then what you could have possibly have given her. Why would she need your money? There was another reason."

"That information was not made known." She spat back. "She turned up, made a fool of me and took my money!" She slithered off ehr chair and pushed passed the guards that would so easily turn on her, "Very much the same you and your disgusting ickiness has just done now." She waved him off and made for her private room, "Give this disgusting meat sack the security feed so he can see for himself and tell his precious fucking Empress!" One of her lackies stepped forward and offered to take the captain to the surveilance room.....

The Merceanries and Bounty Hunters that had sided with the Captain looked about nervously. They followed him to the surveilance room. He stood there and watched the vid screen as the scene played out before him. "Stop!" he called out and the man stopped the video. "There in the chest." he pointed. "I have seen what I needed." he turned and left. He spoke in to his comm link. "All troops are to return to the ships." he spoke into it. The mercs and bounty hunters followed him out. "You will fan out and seek out any information on Serenity. I want to know if anyone has been in contact with her." They disperced to their ships as he made his way to an imperial shuttle. "Level the place." he ordered as the shuttle lifted off. Small attack ships came screaming in firing their blasters and droping bombs onto the Hutt's palace. The Captain smiled. "You should have cooperated from the begining." he said to no one, as he watched the palace being destroyed.

Jovu could only watch as the fires came for her and her palace and didn't even try to slither away or defend herself. There was nothing she could have done. However, her death served a purpose as someone was able to get a message out on a locked frequency that even the Empire didn't know about and it went straight to one of Serenity's dogs. The message was passed quickly between all the ships and then to Serenity herself. Mac was the one to bring it to her. He hated having to disturb her while she was realxing with the new baby, but this was something that had to be done. He knocked, entered and then put the message down on the table while he gave a small smile at how tiny the baby was. "What is it, Chief?" She asked him.
The smile dropped and Mac cleared his throat, "An Imperial Warship has just destroyed Jovu's palace on Tattoine." He said, "And they were looking for you. I guess Jovu didn't like her tail being tramped on by the Empire."
Serenity took a deep breath, "She would have turned us in though, so I don't understand why they'd destroy her."
Mac moved closer and took a seat next to her, "Ren, they're going after anyone and everyone who has even the most remote connection to you."
Serenity chewed her lip again and finished up with Kai before she considered their options. "Do they know about the Howler yet?" She asked.
Mac shook his head, "I have no idea." He replied. Serenity stood over Kai's crib for a moment and then looked to Marrianne who seemed happy to shover her out of the door again.
"I'll call you when he needs you." The other woman said and shut the door.
Serenity moved quickly back up to the bridge, buttoning her shirt as she went. "We need to let everyone know they're hunting us all already." She ordered and Mac quickly went about telling all the ships......

Krell got a copy of the message when Mac did and he mulled over what it said. Typical of the Imperials to destroy what might have been a thorn in their side. Jovu probably didn't cooperate with them and they destroyed her palace and her as a warning to others. Especially other Hutts. Fear was a very effective tool to use against those with alot to lose. When Serenity came onto the bridge he stood up to allow her have the command chair.

Serenity took her place with a nod and a smile to him, but it was pained. She knew if the Imperials could do that to a Hutt, it was unimaingeable what they'd do if they caught one of her own. "Mac, get a message to Mike too." She ordered, "Have his wife and kids evacuated before they can figure out the Howler signal. I don't want anyone killed that don't need be, got it?"
Mac nodded, "Already done, Boss." He said, "Along with President Thool and all our dogs with family. They'll be safe on their way to Haven within the hour. Even the fastest Imperial ship can't be that quick."
Serenity nodded in thanks, "Ok, so much for a leisurely ride folks." She said to the entire bridge, "Time to get the skates on. Mac, give me full power to all engines, take it from any system you need. We have to be in the nebulae like yesterday."
Mac nodded again, "You got it." He said, "By the way, when you get chance, promote Reese so I don't have to do comms as well as engines."
Serenity half turned her head, "Done." She said, "Now get this fat ass in gear!" Seconds later, all available power went to the engines and the Pheonix shot into hyperspace.....

The Captain returned to the Command Ship and the Emperess. "Report!" she ordered. "She was there alright and collected a chest full of credits. But that was not the real reason she was there. In that chest was an old communications device. I recgonized its design. She is calling out for help."

Amelia paced the floor slightly and wrung her hands descretely against her stomach, "So she's getting all her muts together." She mused, "We could wipe them all out in one go. This could be interesting."
Behind her, Shadow also considered everything carefully, "Do not underestimate our little pirate, my Empress." He offered, "all our sources have said that Serenity has a long reach through most sectors of the outter rims. If she is indeed calling all her friends to action, we might be wise to consider a new tactic."
Amelia turned to her shadow and cocked her head, "Continue." She said.
Shadow moved to her side, "We know from past encounters already that there are now two hybrid predators, thanks to Krell and if she has as much reach as I believe she does, we may need more to gain victory here. Perhaps it is time we call in for reinforcements, Amelia. We cannot risk your rule here, nor your life. Remember our bargain, child."
Amelia considered his words carefully, but the temptation was too much. "Should we need reinforcements, I will send for them." She said firmly, then turned back to the soldier. "Keep all our troops on standby should we need them, but we don't have time to hang back and wait. We keep going."......

As they hit hyperspace a message came in, with a vido feed. "Put it on the screen." Krell said. An elderly man's image came on the screen. His hair was snow white and his blue eyes were bright and merry.
"Captain Tungstan at your service, as well as the Sengal Pirates. You going up against the Empire I have heard." he cocked his head a bit and leaned forward in his command chair, and laughed. "Well my boy, I see you took what I showed you to heart. Been hearing good things about you."
Krell looked at the man and smiled. "Serenity, meet Captain Tungstan, the man that changed my outlook on imperial life." Then to Captain Tungstan, "Good to see that you are still alive. Thought the Imperials had gotten you a long time ago."
Tungstan laughed. "Oh they tried, but I to damn onrey to die. But back to business my boy. The Sengal Pirates though basicly retired from the buisness have taken up a different life. We now have our own little piece of the galaxcy and have been busy over the last few years. If you will have us we can provide a few warships."

Serenity's grin was clear to see on the screen, "Glad to have you aboard Tungstan." She said happily, "The more dogs we got behind us, the better, I say. Give that bitch something real heavy to chew on. On a note of caution though, make sure all your crew's get their families hidden now. Amelia's already made a crater of Jovu's place just for me bein' there. No-one knows what she'll do with the rest of us."....

"Well to get to us they would have to enter New Republic space. Our small chunk of space is a few systems not to far from the boarder of the two. Don't think they want to chance a war with the New Republic. But we will ensure our little confederation is protected as well."
Krell would enjoy seeing the old man in person once again. The Sengal Pirates were legenday like the Diamond Dogs. But they disapeared shortly after Krell had been captured by Tungstan. Now he knew why they had not been heard of for so long.

Serenity nodded, "Wonderful." She replied, "Might pay a visit there some day." She smiled again and then caught a look from Krell. He had missed the old man, it seemed. "You're invited over for dinner if we get time in the Nebulae." She said, "comms should be sending over the coordinates for you now.".....

"I will look forward to it." Tungstan said with merriment in his voice. "Recieving the coordinates now. We are adjusting course now and will be with you shortly. I will expect a complete rundown of everything you have been up to boy." he told Krell. then the screen went blank.
"I have a feeling the Emperess doesn't have a clue what she is in for." he told Serenity.

"Not a clue." She replied. "The shadow however, I'm not so sure. We can't underestimate this guy in the slightest way." Just then, she got a call on her personal comms. Kai was awake and wanted her. Serenity got up and started off the bridge, "Call me if anything turns up."......

Krell laughed and gave her a salute. Down in the hold Jenny and her padawan were practicing. Jenny had the girl balanching on one hand and lifting small objects from the floor into the air. "Concentrate, let the force flow through you. Feel it suround you and everything around you." She lifted a couple more items in the air before she suddenly got a scared look on her face and she fell and the objects fell to the deck. Jenny's head jerked up as she felt the same chill. "You saw his face to?" she asked Jenny. Jenny nodded as she stood up and made for the door, running to find Serenity.

Serenity entered her quarters to find Kai screaming in his crib and Claire not too happy either. Serenity smiled and went to her baby son, picking him up and cradling him gently. "Hush now." She cooed as she gently rocked him in her arms. The infant settled again and Marrianne gave an apologetic look. Serenity shook her head as she put the boy back in his crib, "Don't worry about it." She said quietly, but then just as she put a blanket over the boy's middle, she got such a feeling of sickness and fear in her than she almost dropped to the floor. Seconds later, Jenny and her friend came running in. She waved her hand at them and then hushed them both with her finger, "I saw him too." She whispered before moving out of the room again. Those eyes would haunt her for a long time..

Chloe's eyes were wide. "Who is he?" she asked. "What does he want?"

Serenity lead them both back to the bridge. "He's called the Shadow." She told the girls, "And he wants us all dead." She took her seat, letting Jenny take her usual place and letting Chloe find a spare seat.....

Krell looked at Serenity as she came onto the bridge. At the mention of the Shadow he looked at all three of them. "What happened?" he asked.

Serenity gave Krell an almost tired look, "We saw an image of the Shadow." She told him, "Only his eyes so far, but I'll tell you something love, he's the stuff of nightmares."....

"Is he who we think he is? Krell asked.

serenity shook her head, "Not if he were a million times worse than we know." She said, "This shadow is evil itself and then some. I don't know what the hell he is, but I'm gonna find out.".....

He had hoped that it was the Ioian. Then he could have had them come and deal with him, since he was one of theirs. If he was something else then he wondered how they were going to deal with him. He was thinking of the Sith's offer. They might need them to help defeat the Shadow. "We might have to reconsider the offer of the Sith." he told her.

Serenity passed the comment off at first, but after some careful thought, "I might just have to agree with you." she said, then got out of her chair. "Send a message to the Raven, Reece." She ordered, "Tell Luke that I need his guidance, if only in my mind, that's enough." She then looked to Jenny, "You and Chloe come with me." A look to Krell, "One of my old shirts hs a milk stain on it. Get it down to the med bay and have it replicated. I might be out of it for a while and I don't want the feelings i'm gonna have going into our son. We'll be down in the secondary hanger. It's quiet there.".....

Krell nodded and sent one of the crew to fetch the shirt and take it down to med bay. The message was sent and Luke informed. He too had felt the presence of the Shadow and saw the eyes. He sat and calmed himself. "I am here Serenity."

Serenity heard the old man's voice in her head as though he were stood next to her. "I need your guindance." She said openly, "We need to know what this shadow is, I need to know. I have Jenny and Chloe with me for some extra support, but I need your mind to keep me grounded. can you do that for me? Please?".....

"I can try but I might need more help." he said.

"Then get in touch with our ghosts and see what they can do to help." She said as they reached the hanger. Rat was there, but quickly cleared out again and they were alone. After a quick check to make sure nothing could fly off or come charging at them, Serenity sat in the middle of the floor and bid the girls to do the same. "No matter what happens, girls." She said, "Don't stop it happening, ok? I need to get inside this guy's head and I need you to make sure I don't get interrupted or do anything universally stupid, understand?"....

Luke searched the Force and found Magnus and Lu'Sen and a couple others. He smiled. "Father, Obiwan." The four came together around him. "We are part of the Force now and we will do what we can to help." they formed a circle around Luke. "We are ready Serenity."

serenity nodded and closed her eyes. "Ok, you fucker." She said quietly, "Let's see how you like your head bein' screwed with." She took a few deep breaths and began to concentrate. Almost immediately, the air in the hanger chilled deeply as all the moisture in the air was suddenly sucked up and frozen. It even began to snow a little! "Shadow." She began to whisper over and over again, searching him out amongst the flotsum and jetsum that was the universe around her. Soon enough though, she found him. "Shadow."
The whisper seemed to reach through the nothing and Shadow felt a chill of real ice go down his spine. Instantly, the creature was on his feet and looking around for her. He knew she was searching for him. "You won't win, child." he said to his empty room, "You cannot defeat my mind."
Serenity felt him push back and shivered with the cold she had created. "Watch me." she said back. The fight was on.

For over an hour, the two tussled with their minds, one gaining, then having to back off. "Your mind is strong, Serenity." Shadow said, "But not strong enough!"
Serenity's nose began to bleed as he led his own attack on her. "Luke!" She breathed....
Luke pushed his conscienceness into the fray. "She is not alone." he told the Shadow. he added his strength to Serenity's. Obiwan, Magnus, Lu'Sen and Anikan also lent their strength. "You See Shadow, it is you that can not win."
"Then I shall even the odds!" Shadow howled and put all his energy into seperating them all from the living realm.
Serenity screamed in pain as she battled with the shadow's mind and all around her, things began to shudder and move. Crates and bulkheads began to creak and move of their own accord such was the strength she was giving off. But suddenly, she fell silent. Her body went limp as her mind and soul suddenly left the living plain and entered somewhere she had never been. With all her spirits behind her, she faced the shadow on a field of black sand. The pain had gone, but she knew the real fight would begin now.
"Afraid of me yet?" she called to him, "Can't stand to keep me in the living realms anymore, you have to bring me here to fight you!" She found her light sabre in her hand and activated it.
Shadow stood before her, but didn't draw his own. Instead, he threw a bolt of lightening at her. She dodged and caught the lightening in her sabre. "Drop your weapon and fight me proper!" he demanded.....

Luke and the others apeared behind Serenity and also there stood the Sith Lord. "Thought you could use a little more help." he said. Though the battle was between Serenity and the Shadow their strength flowed into her. "Just who are you." Luke demanded.
Under his hood, the shadow grinned evilly. His mouth was a frightening image of fangs while his skin seemed alabaster white. "Wouldn't you just love to find out." He hissed back.
Serenity held her weapon for a few seconds longer, but then dropped it. "Ok, we fight your way. I win, you tell us who and what you are." The shadow laughed, "When you lose, I'll see your ashes scattered to the stars!"

[LadyRaven]

((done with questor's permission))

"Don't be so sure of yourself, Shadow." Serenity said as she stood her ground, "Mum always used to say pride comes before a fall. Maybe you should take that advice."
Shadow sneered at Serenity and threw another lightening bolt at her. She dodged, but it still winged her and knocked her down and he didn't give her time to move before he threw another and another, and another. It was a constant torment of pain and anguish. "I should have stopped your line long before Magnus!" He shouted as he forced more and more of the deadly lightening into her.
Serenity screamed and writhed with pain, but he wouldn't give her chance to fight back. Behind her, she could see Lu'Sen and magnus close to real fear for her and Luke as well, but something told Lu'Sen that they could not get involved this time. Serenity had to fight on her own, albeit with just a little help from them through the Force.

As the pain intensified, Serenity could feel the life draining from her and Shadow came closer, pushing harder, deeper; doing all he could to destroy this puney woman. Sand began to blow up around her as the lightening pentrated deep into her body and soul and she felt she couldn't take anymore. Not even with her spirits trying to help, it felt suddenly very impossible. Sensing this, Shadow lowered his hands and smiled,
"You see, child?" He offered almost tenderly, "You cannot force my mind, defeat my will, nor can you destroy me." He looked at the spirits and carefully removed his hood. His face was hideous! What could once have been a handsome profile was deeply scarred and mutilated. His deep red eyes gleamed in the light in stark contrast to his white skin. He looked like he could have been Sith once, or even Human. Hell, this guy could have been any bi-ped race in the entire universe! Shadow stared at Luke and the others with a deep, evil smile. "I win."

Lu'Sen took a careful step forward as she watched Serenity seem to fade a little on the black ground. "Please." She pleaded, "No more? You have done what you intended. Whatever or whomever you are, please, no more."
Shadow grinned again and shook his head, "It doesn't work like that, woman." He told her, "Don't you understand at all what you've seen?"
"I've seen you destroy any hope for my granddaughter." Lu'Sen said painfully, "You've destroyed any hope for my line to continue as it should have done and you've left the most powerful Jedi at your feet, broken and defeated. What more do you want?"
Shadow stared down at Serenity and laughed, "To see her ashes scattered to the stars as promised."
Lu'Sen could have collapsed right then were it not for Magnus taking her shoulder. "Please?" He begged, "What are you? You've won, Shadow. What more harm could it do?"
Shadow considered the plea, but then laughed at them and started walking away.

On the ground and as close to death as Serenity had ever been, she barely heard of felt anything going on between the shadow and her ancestors. All she could see was her family. She could see them being defeated. Krell would be tortured and killed and Kai would be handed over to Amelia. Everything she had done would be for nothing. She watched in her mind as Kai grew up, renamed by Amelia, calling her his mother and revelling in all the hatred and evil she had to offer. And Shadow, still in the shadows, moulding the boy to his own ends. Any trace of her and Krell, the Diamond Dogs, the Rebellion, everything, would be long gone and removed from history. Kai would grow up to kill, maim and destroy. And there was nothing she could do about it. All the hurt, guilt, fear, anger and hatred welled up inside until something snapped in her soul. It was like a switch being turned on and Serenity suddenly felt aware of everything. Her body remained lifeless on the ground, but her senses were suddenly so attuned, she could hear and feel everything around her. The conversation and pleading coming from her ancestors and Shadow laughing at them. No. No. Her mind screamed it, but then she did.

Her eyes snapped open and she grabbed at Shadow's feet, pulling him down to the ground. "No!" She screamed, "No, I will not let you!"
The shadow was as shocked as the others. Not even the Sith or Magnus had felt her coming back. In an instant, Serenity was on her feet, facing her friends. She looked like Serenity, sounded like her, but something had changed. Lu'Sen and Magnus could feel the sheer power coming from her and backed off. They took Luke and the Sith with them. "Trust me." Magnus said, "She doesn't need us anymore."
"I can feel it too." Lu'Sen said quietly as she stared at Serenity, "But how"?
Magnus shook his head, "I don't know, but I think we should let them continue alone." He looked to Luke, who seemed only happy to agree.

Serenity turned to Shadow and stared at him with ice cold eyes. "You shouldn't have done that." She said calmly as the man got to his feet again quickly.
"Not possible!" Shadow shouted, "You're dead!"
Serenity shook her head and held out her hands, "You shouldn't judge a book by it's cover." She replied, "I've never felt so alive." Her eyes paled as she began to move forward.

Slowly, she began to lift her hands and the sand came with them in a huge dark mass. Then light seemed to fill them and she threw this new lightening at the shadow. It hit him dead on and sent the man soaring towards the stars. He fought back, throwing his own dark lightening to her, but even when it did hit her, she didn't flinch. "You can't hurt me anymore, Shadow!" She called as she relased him from the glowing cloud of sand. He dropped like a stone and scrambled to get away from her.
"We shall see!" He shouted back, "You still have to defeat us in the living realm!"
"And I will meet you there." She said calmly.

The Shadow vanished, leaving Serenity with her family. She stood for a moment or two, then dropped in a heap on the ground. Back in the living realm, the hanger was twisted and distorted, but as promised, Jenny and Chloe had done everything to protect Serenity and they'd had their work cut out. All manner of things had started flying around the hanger. Crates and storage containers had been ripped from the walls and floor as thought like paper and thrown at them, but Jenny and Chloe had held it all back. Serenity had been out cold for nearly four hours and the attacks weren't letting up. Jenny was running out of ideas, but suddenly, everything went silent. Everything that had been airborne suddenly dropped to the floor and the air warmed. In her soul, Jenny could feel something had changed, something huge and as she looked around, she could have sworn she'd seen black sand on her boots. And then Serenity came back with true style.

The woman had literally sat bolt upright, opened her eyes and screamed. The sound alone was enough for the girls to cover their eyes and was glass was left from the flying containers shattered everywhere. "Ren!" Jenny cried as the sound finally faded and Serenity fell back to the floor once more. She cradled her mentor's head in her lap and sent Chloe to get help. Within seconds, two medical droids arrived and carried their Captain away on a stretcher. Seconds after that, Serenity was placed on a bed and they began to find out what was wrong with her. However, what they found was that she wasn't injured at all. If anything, Serenity Diamond was the most healthy and alive person in the entire galaxy! The droids and the doctor himself couldn't fathom what was happening. The trauma from giving birth had disappeared; it was like she had never had a baby at all! And what was more, she seemed so much more alive than before. Even he could feel it. There was something about this woman that just oozed strength and power. He reported his findings to Krell immediately and then waited for the man to come down himself so he could at least try and explain what had happened.........

[questor]

Krell remained on the bridge. He had no idea of what Serenity was going to try and do. If he had he would have probably had tried to stop her. Hehad sent the message like she wanted and then after a bit things began to get wierd. The metal of the ship began groaning as if there was great stress being put on it. The air throughout the ship became cold and things began flying through the air.

The coldness told him Serenity was at it with her powers and he began making his way through the ship to the cargo hold. But as he got closeer to the cargo hold it was impossible to go any furher. Something seemed to be holding everyone back. He tied various routes but all were blocked by the same force.

Four hours later everything came back to normal. The objects that had been bouncing around off the walls fell to the floor and the groaning of th metal ended. Krell felt the force preventing him from going further towards the cargobay fade and he almost ran to it. When he reached the cargo bay he saw the medical droids and th strecher being taken to the Med bay. He followed behind.

Luke was astonished at the strength and power that Serenity had. It had been even more then he had. Lu'sen and Magnus stood there on the Raven along with Anakin and Obiwan. "I have never seen the like of that. Not even Palipatine had that kind of control or power. " Anakin said. "What happened."

Luke smiled, "The combination of the Dark Side and Light Side working in unison through her. I think it was what the Ioians had been striving for. She can control both without being swayed to use it for evil."

When the Doc sent for him he was already there. He listened to wat he said and tried to understand. He went to her side and took her hand and squeezed it. "What happened? What did you do?" he asked her.

[questor]

Krell got no answer from Serenity, she was still unconscious, but the doctor stood in for her. "Whatever she did do, she won." He said, then looked around the room, "If you can't feel it, you're dead, my friend.".......

Oh he felt something but he was not sure what it was. He looked at Jenny. "What happened down there?"

Jenny looked back with as much confusion as everyone else. "She sat in the middle of the floor and told us to keep watch over her and make sure nothing happened." she said, "Then the bulkheads started groaning and stuff was suddenly flying around the room. We fought it back as best we could and then it all suddenly stopped. Then she woke up, screamed, then fell back again. That's all I can tell you really, except....." She closed her eyes and reached out her feelings, "Something has changed; like a switch went on inside her or something." The doctor came forward and nodded in agreement. "I have her bio results here, Krell." He told his friend, "Any and all trauma this woman has suffered over the years has healed. To look at her charts, you'd think she'd never once been in a fight. And her midichlorine levels are through the roof; I've never seen levels like this.".....

Krell rubbed his chin. The only one that could probably explain it all was Luke. Serenity was out of it and probably need the rest. "Jenny go up to the bridge and get in touch with the Raven. I want Luke on the vid immediately." He then turned to the Doc, "How long do you think she will be out?"

The doctor shook his head, "As long as she wants to be." He said, then shrugged his shoulders. In the meantime, Jenny raced back up to the bridge and called the Raven. A few seconds later, Luke appeared on the screen and Jenny looked around for Krell......

Krell stayed there in the Med Bay. He gave Jenny time to get to the bridge and contact with the Raven. He pressed the comm button, "Patch it down here." Soon on a small screen on a desk Luke's face appeared. "What is going on Luke. What did Serenity do?"

Luke smiled lightly on the screen, "If I knew exactly, I would tell you." He said, "The shadow dragged us from the living realm to somewhere I've never seen save for in my dreams. Magnus and my father were with us there to help Serenity. All I truly know about the fight was that one minute, she was dead, the next, she was throwing him into space with balls of light and sand. What I can feel now is that she has unlocked the secret of the Force and she now holds it in her own soul. I've never seen power of the like, not even with Palpatine so many years ago.".....

Krell looked back at Serenity and shook his head. "What of this Shadadow. What happened to him?"

"He ran away back to his own mind." He replied, "Vowing vengeance, but he is shaken. He was as much as shocked as us when she came back. Has she woken yet? When we left, she was sleeping.".....

"Still sleeping." he told him. "I think from what you said that after a battle of wills like that she will be sleeping for a while." The Shadow would now know he faced a dangerous foe. He wondered what the foul thing was thinking now, and if the emperess had seen and felt the battle.

Luke lifted his brow, "Oh, I don't know about that." he said, "If you could only feel the power coming from her, Krell, I'd say she will be wide awake very soon.".......

Back on the Command Ship, things had also calmed down. There had been several hull breaches and several crew were dead and injured. Things had been flying around with deadly velosity and had done quite abit of damage. The emperess' private chambers were in a shambles. (Hope you don't mind.) The Shadow lay on the floor clutching his chest, his red eyes wide with disbelief, anger, and fear. He had never felt such power, never knew such power could be obtained.

Once all was done with Amelia raced to her chambres to find her shadow, only to find him a twisted wreck of a creature on the floor. "What happened!?" she demanded, "What did you do?!" The shadow could only lay there and breathe enough to concentrate on healing his wounds. Several doctors arrived, but Amelia shooed them away before turning back to her companion. By this time, he'd recovered enough to speak again. "We have a serious problem." He said, "Serenity is...... stronger than..... me." Amelia stepped back and almost fell over her own skirts. "Not possible!" She breathed, "Not possible!" The shadow got to his feet again and pulled his hood back over his face. "It is very possible." he said, "But for now, she will be unstable, if not completely comatosed. We may have a window of opportunity before she realizes what she has done." Amelia took the warning to heart and quickly barked her orders. Full speed, all weapons ready and nothing to be left to chance......

It was a good thing that the Emperoress didn't know where they were going. Even if Luke was a bit more optimistic about when she would wake up, Krell had a gut feeling that the Emperoress was going to be highly pissed and out for blood. There fore he had the crew go to battle stations. As soon as they came out of hyperspace he wanted to be fready for anything. Luke relayed his orders to the Raven.

Serenity slept for maybe another hour, but then woke as though she'd just had a good night's sleep. The doctor instantly came to the bed and leaned over her, smiling. "Welcome back." He said, then looked to Krell. Serenity gave a small yawn and smiled, "Thank you." She replied to him and then turned her head to her lover. "did you miss me?".....

Krell shook his head and grinned. "You scared the hell out of the entire ship." he looked down at her as he took her hand again and squeezed it. "We are almost at our destination." he told her. "How do you feel?" he didn't care what the Doc said, he wanted to hear it from her.

Serenity smiled and held his hand, "I've never felt better." She told him, "Where's Kai?"......

"In our quarters safe and sound." he told her, "Seems he was not bothered by what happened.

Serenity nodded, "Good." She replied, then sat up. Where her head had been, there now lay a small scattering of black sand. "I should go to him, he's probably hungry."....

"Are you sure you are up to it? From what Luke said you had quite a battle with the Shadow." he was still concerned. "What do you think he is doing now that you beat him?"

Serenity smiled again and hopped off the bed. "I got what I wanted." She said smoothly. "I know his limits and I know we can beat him." She picked up a small handful of the black sand and let it run through her fingers for a moment. "Right now, he's scared and scared people make mistakes. He'll dumb it down for his precious Empress, but he knows in his soul that as long as I'm alive, his days are numbered." She looked to one of the medical droids, "Whatever sand you find, save it. I want it bagged in silk for Kai."......

Krell looked at her, "Why do you want the sand? What is it?" On the Raven the Sith Lord stood up wide eyed after the battle and swallowed hard. Never had he saw such power, and he knew that he could never go up against Serenity. He paced the floor of his cell and tried to think of how he could use her to his advantage. But he could not think of any way around her knowing what he wanted. There were other Sith Lords out there, upcoming, emerging and taking control of systems of the old Sith Empire. He wanted to rule the old empire himself, but he knew he was not stong enought to do it. He finally saw that if he wanted pull the remaints of the once powerful empire back together that he would have to change his way of thinking and his whole way of being. He then thought of a way that perhaps Serenity would agree to help him. He told his guard to fetch Luke and he explained his plan to him. Luke was a bit skeptical of what he heard, but he felt that the Sith Lord's intentions were on the level. He would have to have a talk with Serenity.

[questor]

Serenity placed a small collection of the sand into Krell's hand. "It's for protection." She told him, "Whatever this stuff is, it saved my ass, so I'm passing it onto everyone I care about.".......
He took the sand in his hand and ran a finger through it. It felt strange but that was all. He could only think that perhaps it had something to do with the Force. "Probably should give this to Jenny then."
Serenity nodded, "If she doesn't have some already." She said, "And whatever won't hold in the baggie, pass it around to Mac and the others."......
Krell sent more men back to the cargo hold to look for any black sand there. On the bridge Jenny and Chloe found sand in their clothes. They held it in their hands and felt a strange sensation with it. "Serenity?" Jenny sent out a mental message.
Serenity felt the message in her mind and smiled, "Don't worry." She sent back, "It's a good thing." After a few minutes gathering her bearings proper, she was ready to leave the medical bay and thanked the doctor for his help. She went to her quarters first to check in on Kai and found him sleeping peacefully. Marrianne had received the cloned milk so Serenty had no use in being there until he woke again. That being so, she made her way to the bridge and smiled at her crew. "How far are we from the nebulae?" She asked. "About twenty minutes." Reese replied. Serenity took her seat and nodded in approval......
Krell followed her to their quarters and then to the bridge. She seemed to have an abundance of Energy. He stuffed the sand in a pocket of his pants and when they reached the bridge and got the status report, he was pleased. Soon they would be joining up with the Raven and hopefully some of the others. "Have a message from Luke sir." the Comms Officer reported. "Says he needs to talk to Serenity about the Sith Lord."
Serenity lifted an eyebrow. "Fair enough." She said, "Have him brought over with Luke. We can talk before dinner." The comms officer nodded and sent the message back and then a few minutes later, the Pheonix dropped out of hyerspace into the back end of the nebulae where Amelia wouldn't see them all arriving. "When Luke and the Sith get here, bring them to my office and by pass all the living quarters, I don't want him frightening the children
The Comms Officer nodded and sent the message. When they came out of hyperspace the Raven was there waiting for them with three other ships. Two of which he did not recgonize. Shortly after the message was sent a shuttle was launched from the Raven. "Wonder what the Sith wants now?" Krell said.
Serenity moved to her office and then stared out of the window at the approaching shuttle. "I have no idea." She replied. "I'm tempted to invade his thoughts, but I'll let him speak first." The ship arrived and Serenity took her seat behind her desk and waited for them to arrive......
The guards escorted the Sith Lord to Serenity's office on the Phoenix. Luke was with him and entered after the Sith Lord. Luke took a seat and looked over at Serenity. "He has a request of you, and a deal of sorts." Luke said.
Serenity looked up and lifgted an eyebrow, "Oh really." She replied, "Now this I would love to hear." She stared at the Sith and tilted her head, "You have my attention for five minutes. Make them count.".....
The Sith Lord Smiled. "There are by my count around a hundered up and coming Sith Lords in the old Sith Empire. Some of them like me have had an intrest in the Empire and the New Republic. Since the Jedi were basicly eradicated one could begin a slow and careful infiltration of the ruling factions. I was hoping to start something here but found that the Emperess had knowledge of the force and also had the Shadow. Could you stop 100 Sith Lords from making a mess of things should you manage to stop the Emperoress. Imagine if you would if one managed to again take control of the New Republic. What havoc that would cause. I propose you help me take control of the old Sith Empire, make the other Sith Lords swear allegence to me, and I in turn will swear allegance to you. I will rule the Sith Empire and be your ally." The last part was hard for him to say. He had to swallow his pride and desire to be in complete control.
Serenity gave him the five minutes she promised and she listened to every word in detail. The Sith did make a highly valueable offer, but there was a catch. "Your intentions and all seem real honourable, Sith Lord." She told him, "But you forget one vital thing. I don't do politics in any fashion. What the Empire and the Republic do after I kill Amelia and her little pet is not my business and to be perfectly honest, I don't really care either. Ihave far more important things in my life than dealing with backstabbing senate morons and power hungry idiots." She looked to Krell, "Your thoughts, my love?".....
He sighed. "That I do not doubt. But to have those same sith lords after your child, to do what the old emperor did to Luke's father? Would you be willing to take that chance?"
Serenity thought it over carefully again. Krell had a point. Could she really run the risk of them and Kai being hunted through the galaxies by Sith. She sat back in her chair and began to ponder. "I saw you in the nether realm." She mused, "I felt as though you weren't just there to lend a hand, but you were watching for something to happen." Her eyes squared with the Sith's again, "Why? And don't bother lying to me, I can smell your shite a mile away.".....
"I was there to help, to show that I am not your enemy. But yes I wanted to see how powerful the Shadow was. If I could some how control him I would have used him to help me. But I could see he could not be just as you could not be. You are more powerful, and I could feel your hate for him and desire for his death. Such feelings usually win out in the end. In his case, it is well warnted. So yes it was two fold. Tell me you would not do the same if the tables were turned, and you needed help."
Serenity leaned across the table and grinned, "For you?" She said, "I wouldn't piss on you if you were burning alive." She got up and moved to the door. "Take him back to the Raven while I think on his offer." She then looked to Krell and cleared her face of the annoyance from the Sith. "When is your friend coming over?" She asked, "And what food does he like?".....
Before he left the room he turned to Serenity. "I also offer my help with those gifted with the force. A new order needs to be formed, the combined teachings of Sith and Jedi, Light and Dark, a Grey Order. Even though the New Republic does not think those with the ability to use the force is needed, I think the Sith Empire, and what this Empire becomes will need them. Together we can train them. Think that over as well Captain Serenity, Grey Master. He gave a slight bow of respect before leaving the room. Krell raised a brow at the title he had given Serenity. Then he thought of her question. "Well he is not here yet. But when he does come I really have no idea. I would say anything would be fine."
Serenity nodded. "Anything it is then." She replied with a smile, but then let it drop, "If that thing thinks he can prick my conscience, he's can think again." She left the office and started back to her quarters, but not before stopping Luke and giving the old man a tender hug in thanks.......

[questor]

Luke hugged her back and said seriously. "Just think about his offer with some objectivity. From what I have been told by the crew of the Raven, your uncle, Vallis, might become the leader of what ever comes out of all of this. He could use a strong allie." He then left to accompany the Sith Lord.

Krell could see that Serenity was not in any real mood for anything that the Sith Lord had to say, even though he had a valid point. Their son would be a target for any one of the other Sith Lords. That he didn't want, and he knew he and Serenity could not protect Kai themselves. But he didn't say anything to her about it. He would let her mull it over and let her be the one to bring it up to discuss. "I'll have Cookie whip something up on the Raven and have it brought over. The man is a wonder with food." he told her.

[LadyRaven]

Serenity smiled at Krell and nodded. "He is the best." She said, "Don't know why I didn't snaffle him up for the Pheonix when I had the chance." She then made her way back to her quarters and to Kai......

It seemed that for the moment her mind was not on the Sith Lord at all. He went with her and picked Kai up from his crib and held him. He was so light in his arms and small. "Well little one we are about to have some fancy guests arriving. You will have to be on your best behavior when we introduce you to them all." he chuckled. He looked at Serenity grinning.

Serenity smiled back as she went about putting a few things away and then taking a few other things out. A change of clothes and a clean blanket for Kai, a change of clothes for herself and some decent cutlery for dinner. Reports came to her regularly about new ships turning up and all seemed to be going well so far.......

As the ships arrived Krell had their images passed on down to the vid screen. Some were ships like the Jezzeabell but a couple were small war ships used to protect systems. Nothing big though that could really go up against imperial war ships. Perhaps in groups they could do something against one ship but not alone. He handed Kai over to Serenity as he went to the docking bay to receive their visitors.

While Krell welcomed their guests, Serenity went about feeding Kai and getting him settled for the evening and then getting herself ready. A pair of soft leggings and a smooth flowing shirt made up her outift and she felt comfortable again. About half an hour after she was ready, the meal turned up and she had them set it up on the main table in the living area. She would sit where she could see into the bedroom.....

The Captains of the ships accompanied Krell back to their quarters. As they entered they grinned looking at Serenity. "Ahhhhhhh look at her lads. Now ain't she got a glow about her? Where is the newest member of the Diamonds." one asked.

Serenity smiled and welcomed them into her home. She blushed lightly at the compliments and then put a finger to her lips, "He's sleeping right now." She said, "But I'm sure he'll make his presence known after dinner. You can coo over him then." She moved forward to one of the older men and regarded him closely, "You're Krell's mentor, ain't ya."......

Tungstan smiled. "Wouldn't exactly call it being a mentor, but yeah I'm the one that opened the boys eyes to reality." he chuckled and then embrased Krell in a bear hug. Then he turned to Serenity. "You must be Serenity, the one that captured his heart." he grinned more. Looks like you two were made for each other." he opened his arms wide to hug her.

Serenity laughed and hugged him back warmly. "The one and only." She told him, then laughed again, "You could be right there, old man."....

"Well got three Collian Corvettes and a Cruiser on the way. I was in the neighborhood so to speak when I caught word of your gathering. Captain Frell there...." he pointed to one of the Diamond captains, and I were having a friendly chat when he got the call. Couldn't resist to join in, especially when i heard Krell here was involved."

Serenity smiled at Frell and nodded, "Sounds about right." She replied, then moved to get some drinks. "Rum or whiskey?"......

"Darton Rum for me lassey." Tungstan grinned. Everyone else just helped themselves to the small bar. "Hasn't been a gathering of the Diamonds like this in a very long time." Captain Frell said.

serenity nodded and poured herself a drink as the others seemed happy to help themselves. "Indeed." She said, "It's almost spooky, don't ya think?" She gave a small laugh and handed another glass to Tungstan. "What happened to Sparky and his crew? They never answered the howler."......

Frell's face got serious and he shook his head. "Poor bastard got caught in an imperial trap. His ship was blown to pieces along with him and his crew. Didn't even give them a chance to surrender." he said with a heavy voice.

Serenity's face sadenned and she looked down into her glass. "Who gave the order?" She asked, though she had a feeling she already knew the answer.......

"That bitch of an emperoress." he told her

Serenity nodded again, "And the ship involved?"......

"The Grand Admiral's own flag ship the Star Crusher." he answered.

Serenity nodded again. "Montrose certainly gets about, doesn't he." She offered quietly, not wanting to sadden the tone openly. "Well, now is our chance to get some back, yes?" She held up her drink to him......

All raised their glasses "Aye to pay back and more." Frell made the toast and downed his drink. After Krell had downed his, he asked. "How did he get traped?" Frell shugged his shoulders and said, "Sparky had told me a few days earlier he had come upon a strange looking craft on a moon of Capria and was going back to investigate it. It had strange markings and all. From what I heard the Star Crusher just suddenly appeared as he was lifting off the moon and was fired upon." he poured himself another drink. Erkin, my engineer heard one of the Star Crusher's crew talking about the whole thing at a bar. Some strange person was with the Emperoress and told her to have Sparky's ship destroyed." He looked at Serenity, "Then told her to have all batteries open up on the strange wrecked ship.

Serenity thought carefully before knowing who the stranger was. She nodded in understanding and then moved to the table, "Shall we eat fellas?" She asked, "Don't know about you lot, but I'm starved."......

Everyone took a seat and began passing the food around. There were many a compliment on the food. "Think I am going to steal you cook." Tungstan told Serenity. As they ate Krell looked over at Serenity. They both knew who really gave the order, but why. What was so important about that strange ship.

Serenity eyed Krell back, but then smiled and laughed with her guests, "You and me both." She said openly, "Cookie is Krell's chef, not mine."......

[questor]

Krell laughed, "Sorry but I doubt that Cookie will go anywhere." He was still wondering what had been so important about that ship that Shadow wanted it destroyed. Was it his?

Across the table, Serenity could feel Krell's thoughts, but she made no notion to agree with him yet. This would be something she discussed with him later. As they ate over dinner, they discussed some history and some good times, a few close encounters and many near miss adventures. All too soon though, it was down to business. Mike was the first to speak about it and he spoke to Krell. "So, what's the plan?" He asked, "Gung Ho, or sly and sneaky?"......

Krell Shugged his shoulders, "This is Serenitys plan. I think you need to ask her what she has up her sleave."

Mike looked down the table, "But I'm asking you?" He said....

He looked over at Serenity. "I would say a combination of both. We are waiting for some one to show and of course the rest of the Diamonds. When we are all together it will be time to let the Emperoress know where we are and have her come to us."

Mike nodded, "Who's the someone?" He asked, "If you don't mind me asking, that is."....
:
He again looked over at Serenity. This was her show and he didn't want to say something that might be out of line.

Mike looked across at Serenity again, "I'll only ask her later on, so what's the harm?"......
:
"President Thool of the Cloners." He said. "He offered us his help."

Mike lifted his brow, "A Kaminoan, eh?" He said, "I'm impressed." He nodded as he slugged back some whiskey, "We should give the Empress a good fight then."....

He wondered why Serenity was letting him give all the information. Was it because he was the "Man"of the House so to speak, or something else. "We hope to."

Mike nodded again and then finished his dinner, "Mighty fine, Krell." He said in compliment. Across the table, Serenity had begun speaking to Thunstan. "I've heard him tell me a few bits about his past and you, but nothing much more." She offered......
:
"Found him as a young ensign of the imperial navy. Thought he was a tough guy and would make a name for himself by bringing me and a couple of my boys in. But he didn't see my other crewmates. He put up one hell of a fight, knocked out two of my men, broke the nose of another and gave a couple good scars to a couple other men before we had him hog tied." Thunstan grinned. "Guess that was what made me take an intrest in him. Even when we had him down he went on about the empire and how good it was and all. Figured he needed a better education in Imperial ethics and such. For the next few days I hauled him around to various places to let him see what the local imperial big shots were like. Guess he learned fast. By the end of the fifth day all the spouting off about the empire had faded away. Thats when I let him go. Later on I heard about what he tried to do aboard his ship and what happened to him after that. Been keeping tabs on him ever since. I am right proud of him."

Serenity nodded with a warm smile, "I bet you are." She said, then cocked her head to one side, "You look at him like he's your own blood. Must be nice.".....

Thunstan closed his eyes for a moment then opened them a bit misty eyed. "I do in a way think of him as a son. If my boy had lived, I would have wanted him to be like Krell. The Empire killed him and my wife. That was what turned me to the pirates life back then."

Serenity looked down into her drink, "I didn't mean to bring up bad mamories." She offered apologetically and then looked up again. "Mac looks at me like that sometimes, but his family are still alive somewhere from what I gather.".....

About that time Kai woke up and began crying. Everyone stopped what they were doing and looked to the room he was in and then to Serenity.

Serenity smiled, "Excuse me fellas." She said politely and then disappeard into the bedroom. She gathered up the infant and cooed at him. After a quick change, she brought him through for the others to coo over also. "Here he is guys." She said quietly, "Now be nice.".....
:
They all gathered around and looked down at the little bundle. Kai looked around grinning and thrashing about in delight. His eyes sparkled with enjoyment. Everyone chuckled and looked at Serenity. "Well I think this calls for another round." Thurstan called out.
:
Serenity smiled proudly and then without warning, handed the baby over to the old man, "This is your grandpa." She said, smiling at Thungstan. "We're all family here and blood or not, Krell is your son, so here's your grandson.".....

Krell was a bit shocked at what Serenity said, but then he grinned. Thungstan was even more shocked and his eyes misted up again as he held Kai in his arms. "Grandpa......." he whispered, "I like the sound of that." he turned to Serenity. "Thankyou." he gave her a warm smile.

Serenity smiled back, "Don't tell Mac." She whispered in jest, "He reckons he's got first dibs on being Grandpa." She gave a small laugh and then smiled over to Serenity. Her eyes were warm and happy.....

[LadyRaven]

Krell could see how happy Thungstan was. He held Kai and tickled the little guy under the chin making Kai laugh. Reports kept coming down as more ships showed up. Most were Freighter type crafts, a few gun ships and finally Thungstan's Cruiser and Corvettes showed up. All began forming up behind the Phoenix and Raven. "Well looks like it is about time to let her know where to find us."

Serenity looked up and smiled, "Oh, she already knows." She said, "But she doesn't know everything just yet." Taking Kai back, she cooed at him and then moved to the comms. She called for Marianne to collect Kai and then turned to all the captains. "I need you to lead the main attack, Krell." She told her lover, "You have the skills.".......

Krell nodded, "Gentleman I suggest you return to your ships. The Phoenix and Raven will lead the attack with the Cruiser and corvettes. I expect that there will be imperial fighters and will need you to keep they busy as possible until President Thool and the fleet he promised gets here." As everyone left Thungston gave Serenity a wink. "You have made an old man happy." then left.

Serenity smiled back. "Just one more thing guys." She said as they were all leaving, "And this goes mostly to my dogs." Marianne arrived and after a quick kiss goodbye, left again with Kai. Serenity now gave them all her full attention. "From this point forward, Krell is Alpha Dog. That means, until I say otherwise, you take your orders direct from him. Amelia knows that I'm here, so she'll be expecting some of you to be here too. What she doesn't know yet is where I will be. With krell in charge, that means you won't know either until I let you know. Trust me, it's safer that way." She looked to Krell with a sly grin, "And she doesn't know just how many of us there are either, so let's keep that one a surprise, shall we?".....

They all looked over at Krell and nodded then made their way to shuttle bay to return to their ships. "Where are you going to be?" he asked his wife.

Serenity smiled, "I'll let you know." She said quietly, "But don't panic, I'll have Jenny and Luke with me and all our little ghosties. I'll send you a signal when I'm ready."......

Krell nodded and then headed up to the Bridge. As he left Jenny, Luke, Cloe and the Sith Lord came up in the opposite direction. "I know you dislike me, but I think you will need my help, and I am offering it."

Serenity met them in the corridor and smiled to her friends. Chloe however, she lifted an eyebrow, "I'd rather you stayed with the main fleet." She said to the girl, "And you." She looked at the Sith Lord, "I'd rather you were back in irons to be honest.".......

Cloe shook her head, "I'm staying with you. Where my teacher goes I go." she grinned. The Sith Lord just grinned, "Yes you would prefer that but......." He just gave her a slight nod, "Lead on Grey Master."

Serenity lifted an eyebrow again at Chloe and then at Jenny, "She's definitely your student." She said, "Stubborn as you to boot." Her eyes then landed on the Sith Lord once again, "Call me that again, and I'll personally rip your lips off, understand? I am not a Grey Master, I am a pirate that happens to have the gift and I have a name, so use it. Speaking of which, do you actually have one or did your parents negate to give you one?"......

"Darth Vargos." he gave a slight bow, "I ment no disrespect only contrary. You are the first to master both the Dark and Light side of the force. I only call you that out of respect." he said with a voice that spoke the truth.

Serenity lifted her eyebrow briefly, "Well then Vargos, your apology is accepted." she looked to Luke and then Jenny and then smiled, "Right, we's all shiny, so let's get going." She started down the corridor to the main hanger. "We're taking the Jezz. She won't be noticed so much with all the distraction the fleet will be causing. The plan is simple."......

Luke grinned, as much as he hated to admit it, Darth Vargos was not what he had known of the Sith Lords. As they entered the main Hanger the Sith Lord's apprentace was here with three guards. He went to one knee bowing his head. "I beg your forgiveness for my bad manners, Master Serenity."

Serenity looked down at the kneeling sith, but didn't stop. "You can kiss my ass later." She said as she passed him, "For now, you can take orders." She entered the Jezzabel and quickly made her way up to the Bridge. "Jenny, I want you on navigation, Vargos, you're on weapons. Keep your pet close, I need him for the engines. One fuck up from either of you and I blow you out the air lock. Chloe, sensors. I want to know exactly where we are and when we get there, ok?" her eyes then turned to Luke, "Old Timer, I need you, Magnus and Lu'Sen to create a diversion for us. I want them to think we're still with the main fleet. Can you do that for me?"......

Lu'Sen and Magnus appeared, surprising the Sith Lord and his apprentis. Luke chuckled and nodded, "I think we can manage that." Chloe and Jenny took their stations and Darth Vargps took the upper turret while his apprentis headed for the engine room of the Jezzebell.

"Shiny." Was her reply, then she spotted Vargos heading for the turrets and called him back, "Work them from the bridge!" She ordered, "Manual controls are glitchy and I want you where I can see you."......

He laughed and did as she bade. "Still you do not trust me." he sighed as he went to the Bridge. On the Command Ship Admiral Montrose was pacing on the bridge. The fleet of ships the Emperoress had gathered numbered twelve cruisers and ten Friggets. A powerful fleet but to what ends. She had not said why she wanted them nor what she thought they would be going up against. That he did not like. He cursed the priates Krell and Serenity for destroying his star destroyer. It would have been the most powerful ship in the empire and he could have used it to wrestle control from the emperor before his death and surely from the bitch of an empress.

Serenity didn't look at Vargos as she spoke, "Sith and Trust are not two words I would generally put together." She told him. A few seconds later, the Jezz was quickly leaving the fleet behind. It became clear after a few minutes that Serenity was going around the back as it were. As they exited the cloud from beneath, Amelia's convoy arrived. "Chloe, send a coded message tot he Raven. Tell them to begin the attack." Thanks to Jenny, the Jezz moved quickly enough to avoid being detected......

Krell had been seen the imperial fleet come out of hyper space. It was impressive and was going to be a tough one to deal with. The Corrliann Cruiser and three corvettes formed up behind the Raven and Phoenix. The others seperated into various groups. He hoped Serenity knew what she was doing. He looked out at the imperial fleet and as he knew it would be, the command ship was in the middle of the fleet. It would not be easy to get to. "Krell to all ships. We will go in after the cruisers. The rest of you keep those friggets busy." About then Amilla's image apeared on the screen. "Surrender and most of you will live. Fight and you will all die."

Serenity gave a small smile as she watched ehr friends emerge from the nebulae. "Don't show all our cards yet, love." She whispered, "Just give them enough to chase for now." Her head half turned to Jenny, "Get us up Amelia's ass if you can." She said, "Chloe, I wanna know the second we get spotted. Vargos, time to show your colours.".......

Vargos, hands flew over the weapons consol. "Ready when you are." he said.

[questor]

Jenny moved the Jezzabell around to the rear of the imperial fleet. All attention was on the small fleet of capital ships moving towards them. The Phoinex and Raven had the fire power to deal with the cruisers. The Corllian Cruiser and three Corvettes would be good back ups. The Gun Ships and freighters moved to keep themselves concealed in the Nebula until the engagement began, then they would come flying out to take the enemy by surpirse on their flanks.

"Prepare to engage the enemy." Krell sent out the messarge to all the ships.


Montrose just smiled. "Finally an end to the tratior Krell and the bitch Serenity.

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