CHAPTER 1 RESCUE

In a dimension pinned between ours and another exist worlds and beings which, while totally foreign, are also oddly familiar. The people, places and objects that compose, form, and fill that dimension have changed from inanimate to animate. From our fiction to their reality... Heros, villains, emperors and worlds are locked in a fierce battle. Beings from both ends of that galaxy struggle for a great cause. A cause for which both sides risk everything. A cause which would be dear to us as well.

PART I

CHOCOLATE FOR ALL

Joe Hagen September 11, 2011

CHAPTER I RESCUE

It was a dark and dismal night on a long dead world far, far away.

A small but full moon

shone dimly in a cloudless sky almost void of stars. A frigid wind wailed across a flat and barren landscape. Other than the skeletal remains of a few long, dead, and fossilized trees, the horizon was broken only by a large, heavily fortified structure. The structures lower levels were constructed of massive stones laid side by side and one upon the other. The stones masonry pattern was broken only at its upper levels by the presence of several large, seemingly impenetrable, metal doors which sealed access to the interior. The walls were windowless except at its uppermost levels. The lack of entrances at ground level directed that access to the interior was only available by air. At the stone walls summit two large landing pads jutted out from opposing ends of the structure. Both were unlit. On each were several small fighters. One also contained a larger, heavily armored and armed vessel. All but the large ship appeared to be powered down and unmanned. From that point, a narrower portion of the fortress continued upward for several more levels. That section of the structure had a flat metallic surface which dully reflected the minuscule amount of light that the pale moon provided. Its surface was studded with numerous balconies, large barred windows, dozens of shield projectors and blazer ports. Its top level was capped with a slightly angled, tiled, metal roof which was dotted with large skylights. Interior light shone upwards through several of them. At each of the roofs four corners stood tall turrets. An external staircase spiraled up each turrets outer wall. The fortress was the home and headquarters of Wardo the Nutt, one of the Empires most powerful, wealthy and vicious allies. Once an opponent of the Empire, the Nutt now defended, supported and pirated for Emperor Sakarin. Allowed to retain much of his bounty, Wardo had improved his situation greatly since betraying the Emperors opposition. At the peak of one of the fortress turrets, a lone figure, her face hidden by a breath shield, held a heavy cloak tight against the chilling wind while looking into the near empty heaven above. Other than movement caused by the powerful wind, the figure was still and despite the cold, patient, as she watched and waited. Her back stiffened when a shooting star appeared in the almost empty sky. The object flared brightly as it streaked through the planets upper atmosphere. Remaining still, she watched its progression for several seconds. Unconsciously, as her eyes tracked the object, her hand shifted to the weapon on her hip. 3

As the flare of the objects passage extinguished, the guard turned and, ignoring the external stairway, entered the turret through a narrow slit of a doorway. A metal door closed the opening after shed entered. Squeezing through an equally narrow passage she hurried past an atomizer cannon and shielding equipment whose operating screens read, AStanding By

Entering a less confined space she stepped up to a control station and paused while studying a data screen which read: Security System Status PASSWORD SECURED Sensors: Aerial - functioning normally Surface - functioning normally Visual motion detectors: Aerial - standing by Surface - functioning normally After a quick nod her eyes shifted to a screen at the next control station. That screen read: Security System Status All Systems - functioning normally With another nod she stepped away. Near the center of the rooms floor was a metal disk about a meter and a half in diameter. Stepping onto the disk, she depressed a button on her belt and instantly dropped into the floor. A moment later another disk lifted into place recovering the hole. *-* Above and through the darkness, a small armored ship pulled into level flight after having dropped beneath the planets upper atmosphere. The faintest shimmer of gold, forming a bubble around the ship, was the only hint of the masking device preventing its detection by any scanning device. Visual observation was the ships only weakness in avoiding notice. In the vastness of space a ship was very small and without the benefit of sensors, easily missed. Within the comparatively small area within a planets atmosphere however detection was far more likely. The ships second crew member checked his control panel for any sign that theyd been detected by their enemy. After several moments, satisfied that they had not, he signaled the pilot, Wardos transport ship is manned but her engines are cool and her weapon systems are down. Everything looks clear. Lets go. Nodding, the 4

pilot directed the ship back into a steep descent. Both of the ships two man crew were Chedi. The members of the Chedi order formed a fighting force of beings from many different worlds. Lead by M and M, their trainers and leaders, the Chedi, many of whom were born on the planet Choctooine, were based within the Wonka star system. The order was assisted by members of the Wonka Alliance, a collection of worlds, within and outside the system, whose people were also sworn enemies of the Empire. The Chedi served as the champions of all oppressed by the powerful and evil Emperor and his knights. Brave and valiant, they were strengthened and their varied abilities enhanced by a powerful, sweet, chocolate rich fudge. The fudge was empowered by natural properties within the chocolate which was its primary ingredient. Additional ingredients and methods of preparation enhanced those properties even further and enabled the Chedi to perform at super human levels both mentally and physically. The knights of the Empire, led by the Emperors most powerful and evil knight, Diet Vanilla, were strengthened by their own powerful but bitter variety of that fudge. For years the two sides had battled. The Empire was large and powerful. The Chedi had enjoyed many victories but the Empire, despite their losses, continued to grow. As they dropped toward the fortress each Chedi placed a piece of dark, powerful Chedi fudge into their mouths. Both sighed as the fudges strong, sweet flavor filled their mouths. Each tensed as its empowering chocolate entered their systems. Together, their eyes tightened with a rush of energy and clarity of thought. Smiling, Hagjo, the pilot, engaged the ships antigravity field. Bands along the ships lower hull flickered and then brightened into a dim shade of blue as he shut down the ships engines. Ignoring the fortresss landing pads, Hagjo slowed the ship and set her down gently on the dark tiled roof. He and, Duke, the second Chedi, swiftly exited the ship. The frigid wind whipped their clothing as the dynamic duo hurried across the angled surface. Avoiding the skylights, the pair moved with the assurance of participants on a well planned mission. Leaping from the roofs edge onto a large balcony, they approached a secured door. In seconds, the lock was disabled and theyd entered a brightly lit, overly warm atrium. Looking beyond the bordering foliage Hagjo and Duke saw that the room was peopled by a dozen females of as many different races. Among them was a characteristically tall and thin Licoricean. Her black, sinewy form was coiled into a tight mound on a large cushion. A Skittle lay listlessly on a short couch. Both her multi colored scales and her spirit had been dulled by her 5

captivity. On a wide overstuffed chair was a Chicklet. Her eyes were closed and her breath, which whistled as she exhaled, was slow and steady. The armored female had a bright blue shell which covered her chest and back. The shell caught the light and the Chedis eyes as they scanned the group. Beside the dozing Chicklet was a Hersheyan. Seeing this female, Duke gasped. Her creamy brown beauty was breathtaking and was unaffected by her somber expression. Despite any fear she may have felt, she held her head up and didnt avert her eyes as the Chedi stepped through the foliage. Her eyes widened when they found Dukes face. As he and Hagjo cleared the foliage and stepped fully into the room, the remaining females saw them as well. Immediately the females began screaming and running, running toward the duo. Duke, also a Hersheyan, let Hagjo calm the other women as he stepped toward the Hersheyan female who had stood but had not moved other than to keep her eyes on him. Drawing near he could see that she had already recognized him. The relief in her eyes was immense, however, for reasons Duke was unable to determine, she didnt speak. None of the females pleading with Hagjo spoke in the common Galactic language. Each seemed to be speaking in their home tongue. Hagjo, unfamiliar with any of their languages, was struggling to make himself understood, and was uncertain of exactly what was being said to him. It was clear however that all of the women were distressed. Please be quiet, he whispered as he held a finger across his lips. Gorde calup en lave, plead a muscular woman with orange skin and an elephant-like nose. She held Hagjo by his arm in a grip that was almost painful but there was nothing but fear in her eyes. The same expression was mirrored on the faces of the other women. The two Chedi glanced at one another. Duke grimaced and shrugged. Hagjo shrugged in return before looking back at the women. Nerdz, he mumbled looking into the mass of frightened expressions. ..... The word Nerdz was slang used by most races within the Wonka system and many beyond. Its use expressed exasperation toward a problem or event that had gone wrong. Often something that had foolishly gone wrong. The Nerdz were once an incredibly intelligent and sensitive race of beings. On their small world, at the far side of the Wonka system, they evolved quickly through their primitive beginnings into a race capable of great thought, beautiful art, brilliant science and deep emotion. The artifacts of 6

their race indicated that with their technology, single minded focus and even handed judgment, they could have peacefully and fairly mastered the universe. Their reign would have been free of strife and their guidance might have prevented the Empires rise to power. Unfortunately, as the Nerdz advanced technologically, they invented the computer and ran afoul of their single-mindedness. As their computer technology improved, the Nerdzs entire focus became centered on the machine. They improved it, expanded its uses, created data bases, e-mail, chat rooms, programs to allow the creation and viewing of movies, the playing of games and numerous other forms of digital entertainment. The computers improved to the detriment of all other aspects of the Nerds way of life and eventually, their own existence. In just a few years their civilization began to crumble as the Nerdz became more and more focused on their computer screens. Breast pockets suited with pocket protectors, were filled with computer compatible pencils, protractors and snacks of no nutritional value. The Nerdz only allowed themselves to be distracted from their small screens to create and assemble solar panels and wind generators which ensured power for their obsession. The Nerdz disregarded their children, their families, their jobs, homes, and cities, finally even themselves. Eventually there was no drinking water, no food. Once the slide truly began, it took a only a few more months for their entire civilization to expire. Decades later, Choctooine explorers came to the Nerdz world. Landing their scout ships, the Choctoonians found crumbling cities and the remains of the planets inhabitants. Propped before their burned out or powerless computers, Nerd after Nerd had let themselves wither and die rather than move away from their glowing screens. Finally, the entire Nerdz population became extinct. Much of their knowledge, art and digital games had survived on the millions of hard drives which were still intact. The possible saviors of all the species in the universe however had lost their focus on life and ceased to exist. ..... Nerdz! Hagjo said again as the women continued to panic. Im sorry, he tried to tell the women. We thought we would be able to communicate with someone in your group. The women paused trying to understand but in seconds were fighting panic again. Hagjo sighed deeply before holding up his hands and making another attempt to explain that he and Duke were going to help. With their eyes wide and their breaths rapid, the females formed a tight circle around him and frowned with fearful expressions of confusion. Duke, seeing Hagjos struggle turned back to the female Hersheyan whom he was certain he 7

could communicate with. You know who I am.? he stated anxiously. Immediately she nodded her head and took his hand. Smiling, Duke asked, Can you explain to them... he gestured with his head toward the anxious women, ...that we are here to rescue you? The Hersheyan gave Duke a quick hug but then drew back and shook her head no. Before Duke could ask why, she opened her mouth and made a light hissing noise as she mouthed speech. Duke frowned in recognition of her inability to speak. Growing angry he assumed that the Nutt was responsible. We will get you away from here, Duke assured her. The woman smiled and tightened her hold on his hand. Wheres Wardo? Duke asked. The woman turned and pointed toward one of several doors along the rooms interior wall. We must take care of him first... Duke explained. Immediately fear bloomed on the womans face and Duke again was angered at the certainty of her punishments under the Nutt. Before he could voice an accusation however he heard joyful moans and voices full of relief from behind him. Turning, he saw Hagjo smiling and receiving hugs. The large, orange woman actually lifted him into the air. As she set him down Hagjo quickly moved away and toward Duke. How did you manage that? Duke asked. Once they realized we were Chedi they understood we were here to help, I guess. Hagjo shrugged and reholstered the energy blade on his hip. Nodding, Duke turned and looked into the female Hersheyans eyes. When she smiled he squeezed her hand and said, Well be back! After another squeeze he released and said to Hagjo, This way. Together they hurried toward the door the female Hersheyan had indicated. Her eyes followed them as they left with an expression that displayed her full beauty. Reaching the door, the Chedi studied the automated control panel. Duke whispered, AStand on the other side. Hagjo nodded took his position, paused and listened. Duke signaled to Hagjo as he reached to activate the door. Both grabbed for their weapons as the door suddenly opened before Dukes hand reached the control. The Chedi first smelled then looked down and saw the Limburgen as the being stepped into the atrium. A collective and fearful moan came from the women as the brawny, one meter high, splotchy white, blue and green skinned guard entered carrying a large blazer. As Duke quickly closed the door, Hagjo stepped into the Limburgens path. In one motion he grabbed the Limburgens weapon and inserted the business end into its large, unpleasant mouth. Before he could deliver a warning however, the Limburgen tried to pull the weapon away and instead pulled the trigger. The discharge immediately sent the powerful, foul smelling creature to whatever dismal place Limburgens go after 8

eating blazer fire. With the weapon in the Limburgens mouth much of the noise from the blazer had been muffled but the Chedi realized that they still might have been heard. Lets move. Our element of surprise may be gone, Duke hissed as he reopened the door onto an empty hallway. Gesturing to the women to hide themselves, the Chedi turned and hurried from the room. Pleased to find the corridor free of additional guards, the Chedi rushed down what was a long, wide and immensely ornate hallway. As they rushed forward they couldnt help but notice the large, brightly colored murals covering the walls on both sides of the corridor. Separated by glass and gold columns were floor to ceiling murals of striking scenes. Each displayed a variety of beings in a variety of locations. Under red, yellow even harsh, white suns. They included terrains including, mountains, flat lands, swamps and deserts. Others included cross sections of buildings or subterranean caves. Still others had cross sections of ships on raging seas or space ships and stations floating before a void of distant stars. In each mural a fierce battle was being fought. Battles in which one side was clearly on the verge of defeat by an army wearing red and white stripped uniforms. Individual scenes of destruction and death merged to form each graphic mural. In most, the Chedi were able to locate, almost hidden within one of the small scenes, Wardo, either wielding some weapon and participating or merely watching. In all he was clearly enjoying himself. Hearing nothing but their own footsteps, the Chedi continued forward and down the empty hall without incident until they both stopped before a particularly disturbing mural. This one displayed a similar collection of individual scenes which created the whole of a battle occurring in open space. Cross sections of large and small fighters darted across the scene firing their weapons on cross sections of other ships which were clearly built for transportation not battle. Ships, with their hulls blown open, spewed their crews and passengers into airless, weightless space where many were fired upon again. Other crew members could be seen inside the ships as equipment exploded and crew were thrown around and blown apart. Both Chedi had immediately recognized the battle represented before them.

.....

A team of Choctooine scientists had traveled to and built labs on Pacific, a world on the far side of the Wonka sector. Their purpose had been to assist but also learn from the tiny race of natives 9

that lived there. Peaceful to the extreme, the Pacifists had happily welcomed the scientists to their dying world. Once theyd learned of the scientists reason for visiting, they were even more welcoming. The planet had passed through the tail of a comet which had journeyed through their solar system. The materials from the comets tail had severely damaged the planets ozone layer leaving holes which foiled the layers ability to protect the planet. The Pacifists would not survive without help. The Empire had learned of the teams visit but did not believe their mission. Convinced that the planet contained either something of value or a weapon which the Allies would use against them, Sakarin sent Wardo, in secret, with a powerful armada. Caught unprepared, the scientists and the natives of the planet were forced to attempt an evacuation as Wardos armada fired from space. It was immediately clear to Wardo that there was no great weapon. His sensors, in very short order, also established that there was nothing of great value either. Enraged by the waste of his time, Wardo continued his attack on the planet, destroying any chance of its recovering from the damage received from the tail of the comet. As the scientists and as many of the natives that could be fit on their transport ships lifted from the surface, Wardo ordered his ships to pursue. With nothing more than a few blazer banks to defend themselves, none of the Choctooine science vessels had a chance. All the ships were destroyed. A later mission to the planet rescued several thousand Pacifists. They were all that was left of the population. Wardo had reported to Sakarin that sensor readings located high energy sources emanating from the planets surface. He stated that hed believed they were generated by a weapon. The sensor readings hed shared in support of his report had been purposefully set to disallow the identification of the Choctooine science labs as the source of the artificially elevated energy readings. Wardo was rewarded for a job well done and most of the Pacifists were wiped out. ..... As the Chedi stood frowning, Hagjo heard Duke repeat his earlier question, Wheres Wardo, and realized that he too had been searching for their quarrys representation in the horrific scene before them. Simultaneously they found him in the upper left corner. On board a ship and behind a large view port Wardo stood wearing one of the red and white stripped uniforms used by his guards. With a digital recorder in his hand Wardo wore a broad smile on his face. Turning away the Chedi proceeded down the corridor with their eyes slit in disgust and anger. 10

Ignoring the remaining murals they were again moving quickly down the corridor when, ahead of them, a large set of double doors suddenly swung open. As the doors stopped quietly against the walls Wardo the Nutt moved through holding a large satchel. Immediately he saw the Chedi and stopped, his eyes bulging with surprise. The Nutt stood just less than two meters tall and was slightly over one meter wide at his middle. There was little distinction between his head and body, as he had no neck, and the whole formed a large tan oval. Two angry slitted eyes, a ragged gash of nose and a nasty gapping mouth stretched from end to end of his flat, ugly face. Protruding beneath the hem of his red and white striped robe were a thick tangle of living roots. The satchel he carried was clasped in hands at the end of his two, short, muscular arms which protruded from either side of his wide, flabby chest. The tangle of roots blurred as the Nutt quickly moved back inside the room hed just exited. As he moved the Nutt called out in a voice which most closely resembled that of a gelatin filled Buttoxan blow hole. Hagjos eyes narrowed as he considered that it was more than the Nutts voice that now resembled a Buttoxan. Wardos excesses had increased his girth incredibly. If not for the missing elephantine nose and the ball of roots he moved upon, he would look like a young Buttoxan. Fortunately his scent didnt compare. As the Nutt disappeared back through the doorway, the Chedi hurried forward pulling short, blunt ended devices from their belts. Holding the devices before them each Chedi depressed a button and energy beams of bright blue light extended from the devices far ends. The crackling shafts of energy stopped after reaching almost a meter in length. Energy blades were the preferred weapon of the Chedi and were used during battle for both defense and offense. Assisted by their fudge enhanced senses and training, the blades transformed the Chedi into formidable warriors. Blades glowing, the Chedi reached the doorway and looked into an enormous, almost empty ballroom. From the rooms ceiling hung a dozen massive and gaudy chandeliers. The far end of the room was filled with large crates in stacks measuring over four meters in height. The ceiling loomed another three meters above the top of the stacked crates. The near end of the room was empty except for the Nutt and eighteen armed guards wearing the red and white stripped uniforms displayed in the murals. Wardo made another series of inarticulate gags as the Chedi stepped in. Glad to see you too Wardo! Duke growled, anger still visible on his face. Im tellin you old buddy, you need to learn to push away from the table. Woo! Youre really puttin on the weight! Wardo responded with an angry bellow as Hagjo joined in, Yeah! Maybe we should start calling him Lardo! 11

This time the Nutts response was angrier still and his guards quickly reacted. Three positioned themselves before the Nutt as the others moved toward the Chedi. Hagjo and Duke swept their energy blades and leapt forward in unison. In a blur of motion they deflected bolts from the guards weapons and attacked. Seconds later six of the guards were disarmed and retreating. The remaining backed off joining their other members before the Nutt despite his renewed bellows. As the Chedi stepped toward the Nutt and his men, each Chedi stopped and came on guard as they sensed a new danger. Simultaneously they looked toward the ceiling as three new opponents leapt from a hanging balcony. The three, dressed in one piece uniforms of a charcoal grey, elastic fabric, landed between the Chedi and the Nutt. On their belt buckles was the symbol for Cert, the world which served as headquarters for the Empire. A large red C was centered on a stark white background. A golden strand, representing dental floss, wound around the letter. A form fitting mask completed the uniform. The mask covered the mens entire head except for a jagged slash which, originating at the chin, exposed their mouths and allowed a view of their perfectly white and straight teeth. Branching off, two narrower slashes extended upwards over their cheeks and ended as they widened around the eyes. Colored the same stark white as their buckle, the masks allowed for no identification of the faces beneath them. Each also wore a dark grey cloak. This uniform was known throughout the Empire as that of the Emperors knights. The knights were a specially trained fighting force which, with the enhancement of their bitter version of the Chedis fudge, enforced their Emperors every whim and desire. Despite his mask, both Chedi immediately recognized the largest of the knights as Bluto. Even more so than Diet Vanilla, the leader of the Emperors knights, Bluto was the most savage member of the Empire. His size, demeanor and ferocity made him famous and feared throughout the Empire and beyond. Both a marksman and swordsman hed butchered many of the Emperors opponents. One of Blutos latest victims was Colonel Popeyi, who had been Blutos most dedicated opponent. Popeyi was killed in an unexpected attack on an Ally encampment which was believed to have been kept secret from the Empire. Col. Popeyi, like the Nutt was a Herbiant, a plant lifeform. His remains were found sealed within a crate of small, airtight metal containers. His wide, flat, green, leafy limbs had been shredded. The single surviving Ally member on the base had identified Bluto by his size, his wide, perfect smile and the ferocity of his methods. It was believed that Wardo was also involved. Blutos presence there supported that suspicion. 12

As the Chedi held their position, the other two knights dropped their cloaks and advanced while igniting their own, blood red, energy blades. While still out of striking range they separated, each selecting their opponent. Hurrying forward the knights forced themselves between the Chedi and drove them apart, their blades spinning in lethal attacks. Bluto retained his cloak and held his position before the Nutt and his guards. The knight approaching Duke had ignited a two-ended energy blade. Spinning with swift, brutal attacks he drove Duke away from Hagjo. The advantage of the knights weapon would be far more difficult to handle without Dukes Chedi training and the enhancements of their sweet and powerful fudge. Hagjo, battled the third knights who used a single bladed weapon. Although he was unable to pierce the knights defenses, Hagjo quickly took the offensive and seemed to assume an immediate advantage. He advanced steadily as the knight back stepped defensively. One of the Nutts guards leveled his blazer at Hagjos back but his aim was deflected by Bluto who snarled, Put down your weapon, he knows what hes doing. Just enjoy the show. Displaying his famous smile, Bluto turned back and chuckled, giving the fight his full attention. *-* At their end of the ballroom, Duke had quickly identified the knights tactics and had adjusted his own accordingly. The smile, present on the knights face at the beginning of his attack, had faded as he struggled to regain control of their duel. After a rapid series of attacks and parries by each of them, Duke avoided the knights blade and surprised him with an upwards slash which barely missed. Retreating to a defensive posture, the knight began to panic feeling pain from the angry, red welt which was visible through the charred slash running up the front of his uniform. As Duke continued to press, the knight began a wild spinning series of attacks. Two of the slashes hit the floor sending sharp slivers of tile at Duke, tearing into his uniform and digging into his legs. Performing a final spin the knight held his blade and leapt straight up. Expecting an attack from above Duke raised his guard but instead was surprised to see the knight grab hold and brace himself within the enormous chandelier under which theyd been fighting. *-* Still unsuccessful in hitting his opponent, Hagjo began to suspect that he was being drawn to the far side of the large room for a purpose. Easing his attack he glanced suspiciously at his surroundings noting that theyd almost reached the stacked crates hed noticed upon entering the room. Seeing Hagjos distraction, the knight lunged into an attack which was easily parried. Withdrawing his blade 13

the knight lunged again performing a feinting thrust which worked perfectly as Hagjos blade swept aside seeking to defend against the false attack. The knight then directed the point of his blade at Hagjos abdomen but Hagjo had already recovered. Quickly stepping away Hagjo dodged the thrust. As the knight continued his lunge, Hagjo swept his blade parrying the knights attack before attempting his own counter attack. The knight leapt away barely avoiding injury. Rolling quickly to his feet, the knight came back on guard and resumed his full defensive posture. Cautious, Hagjo continued with his attack but kept alert as the knight returned to his defensive retreat toward the crates. Attempting a variety of offensive maneuvers which did nothing more than increase the speed of the knights retreat Hagjo ignored his growing frustration. Nothing hed attempted had brought him any closer to accomplishing a hit. Hagjo drew satisfaction from the fact that the knight was clearly struggling. His defenses were prime but that was true in large part due to a complete lack of offensive effort on his part. Aware of the knights tactic Hagjo increased his guard, in preparation of another surprise attack. They continued their advancement across the room until, within a few meters of the crates, Hagjo sensed a new danger. Unable to identify its source he dodged and felt something fly quickly, and very closely, past his head. Changing his direction, Hagjo charged directly at the knight, surprising his opponent and again, increasing his retreat. Hagjos survival had clearly been a surprise as indicated by the knights slow recovery. Before the knight could fully recover his composure, Hagjo swept his blade with a shallow parry and lifted its point binding the knights weapon with his own. As the knights eyes widened fearfully, Hagjo lunged. Unable to break the bind, the knight made a stumbling retreat, tripped and fell. Hagjo leapt over him and, landing with his back to a crate, looked up just in time to deflect a small torpedo with his energy blade. Hagjos eyes quickly backtracked along the torpedos path and located a wall mounted Nerf launcher. ..... Discovered on the planet Stark by the crew of an Empire conquest ship, the Nerf weapon system was immediately adopted into the Empires arsenal. The Nerf torpedoes, while extensive in their variety on Stark, were nothing more than toys for the children of the warrior races of Ironmen who were native to the planet. Toys used for practice in preparation for one day when the children would become warriors like their parents. A more potent version of the Nerf torpedoes had been used as nonlethal practice weapons by the Ironmens military. The Ironmens bodies, encased in a powerful exoskeleton which covered them from head to toe, were safely shielded from all but the most powerful attacks. Their Aarmor was so strong that the 14

beings were nearly invincible. The actual weapons their militaries used against one another were so powerful that they eventually destroyed the Ironman world and thereby their entire civilization. When Stark was discovered by an Empire ship, all of the native life was dead. Their weapons, launched and detonated in one last offensive by several of Starks warring governments, had destroyed every living being on their world. One of the few remains of Stark technology found by the conquest ships crew was a Nerf gun similar to the one now targeting Hagjo. While these torpedoes, absent any type of warhead, would have been like sponge rubber against the Ironmens armor, they were more than lethal against the far weaker skin of the Empires enemies. Like the Nerds, the Ironmen of Stark had left a legacy that the Chedi and all the people of Choctooine had strived to learn from. The wisdom of peace had been taught to all of their people and whenever possible, each of them did their best to achieve it. ..... Balancing on the balls of his feet, Hagjo glanced at the knight who, still lying on the floor, grinned evilly back at him. Hagjos eyes paused for only a moment before he looked back in search of a weakness with the launcher. After barely a glance his eyes flashed to the other side of the room in response to a loud crash. *-* Discharging one of his dual blades, the knight fighting Duke slashed through the chain attaching one of the multiple arms of the chandelier to its center support. Duke had to react quickly to avoid being crushed by the two meter wide section of metal and colored glass which came plummeting toward him. Diving again to avoid a second falling arm of the chandelier, Duke rolled to his feet and leapt. His blazer drawn, he landed beyond the section of floor underneath the remaining arms of the chandelier. Rolling to his feet, Duke spun and raised his blazer. The knight, braced on the main support chain of the chandelier saw the weapon leveled at him. His smile dissolved as he quickly raised his blade defensively. Duke smiled as he extended the blazer, its barrel directed at the knight. He fired twice. The first was easily deflected by the knight. The second bolts target was well above the knight. The bolt hit the thick chain which supported the entire chandelier. The knight leapt as he and the chandelier came plummeting to the floor. With metal and glass flying around him, the knight hit the floor and rolled clear of the downed chandelier. Getting his feet beneath him he ignited both ends of his blade and scowled at Duke as he charged. Quickly reholstering his blazer, Duke drew and reignited his blade as well. Immediately the knight resumed his attack but each attempt was parried. 15

*-* Hagjos attention refocused on his side of the room when he was forced to dodge another torpedo. His blade en guard, Hagjo rechecked the fallen knight who continued to smile from his position on the floor. Satisfied that the knight was no longer an immediate problem, Hagjo studied the automated launcher. The unit was built into a short wall standing amongst the crates and was clearly positioned to secure this side of the large room. Having no idea of the units range Hagjo redirected his blade and advanced on the knight. Sneering as he advanced, Hagjos eyes tightened as the knights smile faded and he quickly got back to his feet. Once back in range, Hagjo renewed his attack. Taking a position which put the knight between himself and the launcher Hagjo proceeded in the belief that the launcher would not fire on its own people. After several seconds however, his fudge enhanced senses alerted him differently. He gasped realizing that the Nerf units programming was unconcerned about any obstacle between itself and its perceived target. Hagjos eyes shifted to meet the knights whose expression displayed his knowledge that his back was open to a deadly attack which he couldnt turn and defend against. Leaping forward, Hagjo parried and bound the anxious knights blade again. While still in the air, he kicked the knight aside just as the launcher fired a double attack. The knight was saved from a direct hit by the first torpedo but as he fell his arm passed through the seconds path. Struck just beneath his right elbow the knight dropped his blade. Grabbing his arm he collapsed screaming in pain. The knights blade automatically discharged as it was dropped. The handle bounced once before skidding across the floor and disappearing behind a stack of crates. Wary of another attack, Hagjo landed awkwardly. Performing a forward roll he was back to his feet and dove again as the torpedo hed been expecting flew at and barely missed him. After missing him the torpedo tore through one of the crates freeing an avalanche of wrapped chocolates which flowed out the openings and rattled against the floor. Continuing to move, Hagjo leapt over the injured knight while drawing his blazer. Landing on his shoulder he rolled onto one knee and fired hitting the next torpedo. The bolt exploded on contact deflecting the torpedo which followed a new course for several meters before hitting and smashing through another of the crates casing. Broken pieces of chocolate cascaded from that opening as well as, Hagjo continued firing. After several bolts, Hagjo stopped disappointed as his attempts discharged harmlessly against the launchers protective energy shield. Back on his feet, Hagjo easily avoided the next torpedo as he leveled his blazer again. This time he fired several times targeting the wall just beyond the edge of the 16

launchers shield. He paused, while smoke cleared, hoping to see that he had punched through the wall and severed the launchers power supply. Instead he had to dodge again as another torpedo leapt from the smoke. Seconds later the smoke cleared and Hagjo saw that though the wall bordering the shield was charred, the armor beneath was strong and had held. Firing again, Hagjo hit the underside of the next torpedo. As it deflected toward the ceiling he retreated. Turning he glanced once more toward the injured knight who was still on the floor cradling his broken arm. Moving as quickly as he could, Hagjo rushed away from the edge of the crate filled area. After several meters he turned back and stood ready until he saw the launchers firing nozzle slide back into its chamber. Shifting his gaze toward the fallen knight Hagjo saw him lying in an almost fetal position. Pain mixed with fear in his expression as he lay still. With Hagjo out of range, the knight was intent on not drawing the attention of the launcher to himself. Assured that he was now beyond the launchers target area, Hagjo redirected his gaze. Looking past the injured knight he spotted one end of the knights dropped blade poking out from beneath a palate beneath a high stack of crates. Extending his arm, Hagjo pushed with his mind and sent the blade skidding fully beneath the palate and out of reach. As his arm dropped he gasped hearing the whine of an overloading energy blade. Spinning he looked back toward Duke at the other end of the large room. *-* Once back on the floor, the knight had advanced beyond the remains of the chandelier and resumed his attack. Duke was immediately parrying rapid fire attacks as the knight continued using both ends of his doubled blade. Weaving in and back, Duke deflected every attack as well as answering with his own until the knight lunged in and managed a near miss. Dukes retreat encouraged the knight who increased his attacks. Another series of rapid fire attacks and the knight caught Dukes blade in a bind. Attempting to sweep Dukes blade away the knight also swept the other end of his blade in a slashing attack. Recognizing the attempt Duke moved to counter it. Disengaging the knights blade Duke dodged the attack and followed with one of his own. There was a bright flash as Dukes blade hit near the knights grip at the base of one of the dual blades. Each combatant attempted to withdraw their weapon but found that the weapons energy fields had fused. Duke and the knights eyes met as the fused weapons begin to whine. Each tried again to free their blades knowing that the whine was a sign that the blades energy systems were overloading. Duke triggered the discharge button on the handle of his weapon and was shocked when the blade 17

didnt power down. His eyes showing pain, the knight tried to release his weapon but found that his hands, centimeters away from where the blades were in contact, were being held within his weapons energy field. As the whine from the coupled weapons increased in volume the knight panicked and Duke retreated. Performing a string of rapid back flips Duke avoided damage when the blades exploded but was still thrown to the floor. As he slid to a stop and the roar of the explosion faded, he heard the sound of his dropped blazer pistol skidding across the floor and away from him. Rising, Duke turned toward the Nutt, and his remaining guards. Standing in front was Bluto who glared angrily back at him. They both glanced at Dukes blazer lying on the floor between them but well out of Dukes reach. Chedi, Bluto greeted with his lips spread into an evil grin. Simultaneously, Bluto lifted a massive two chambered blazer from beneath his cloak. The blazer rifle was a heavy and awkward weapon. Only someone with Blutos size, strength and training could wield it successfully without assistance. Duke, defenseless, looked back into Blutos smiling face knowing that, despite the abilities hed gained through exposure to the Chedis fudge, he would not likely be able to dodge the wide blast the weapon would produce. Hagjo, still on the far end of the room, rushed toward them but, without a clear shot at Bluto, knew that he was too far away to save his friend. Anxiously he scanned the guards blocking his shot but held his fire. Preparing for a dodge he didnt believe would be successful, Duke stared back at Bluto, who snarled, Lets see if your Chedi training can save you from... Suddenly there was a flash beneath Blutos chin. His eyes crossed as his lips, pursed forming their last syllable and froze in place. Duke sighed lightly but didnt move as Bluto took an awkward half step forward. Many of the guards behind Bluto scattered as Bluto bent forward at the waist. Early in the movement, his head tipped forward as well and then separated from his neck. The Nutt belched another angry objection as Blutos head bounced across the floor. Duke darted forward and, leaping over Blutos head, kicked the knights tipping torso in the chest. More of Wardos guards scattered as the large body changed direction and collapsed toward them. The guard whod seen the Chedis ship from the turret became visible to Duke as Blutos falling body cleared his field of vision. Reigniting her energy blade she drove more guards into retreat with nothing but a few wild shots to defend herself against. 18

Pulling the breath shield from her face the guard angled her blade deflecting the only well aimed bolt. The absence of the mask revealed a beautiful smile which she directed at Duke, her fellow Chedi. As she turned back however her smile shifted into a sneer. Her eyes tightened angrily as they focused on the Nutt. Seeing her face, Wardo gasped and made another loud, ugly noise. Laughing, the Chedi flashed her blade. When Wardo retreated, Schan leapt forward and scowled, AI told you Id be here when you went down. Today is that day! With an angry smile she delivered a round house kick to the Nutts chest as she wrenched the satchel from his grasp. Lardo stumbled back as Schan retreated. Dodging an attempted grab by one of the returning guards, she slashed again and backing away from the group moved toward Duke. Duke stepped to her side as his dropped pistol flew across the deck and into his hand. Without looking at his rescuer, Duke took the satchel from her hand and said, Thank you Schan! With both hands free to wield her blade, Schan immediately deflected several bolts from the guards who had finally recovered and were following the Nutts orders to open fire. Hagjo arrived, also smiling, but sobered quickly. Nodding first to Schan and Duke, he turned to face the Nutt who was backing away as he stuffed his mouth full of the bitter and powerful fudge of the Empire. Several of the guards nervously repositioned themselves between the Nutt and his enemies. His face, stained with dark brown smudges, the Nutt took several deep breaths and began shuddering with irregular and increasingly violent spasms. The guards, noting his behavior stood nervously with their weapons ready. Their expressions clearly showed their desire that the Nutt order a full retreat. When Schan stepped forward brandishing her blade, several lost their nerve and ran without an order from their leader. The remaining few held their position as one of them fired on their retreating members. Putting his hand on Schans shoulder, Duke stopped her advance and directed her attention to the Nutts behavior. Pausing, the Chedis eyes met briefly and then moved to meet Hagjos. Duke nodded again and he and Schan stepped backwards in a slow retreat. Schans expression clearly displayed her displeasure in their giving way but Duke held her shoulder and kept moving. She snarled but didnt pull from his grasp. Hagjo looked back toward the seizuring Nutt and extended his blade toward the remaining guards. Despite their obvious desire to flee, they held their ground. Positioning his feet, Hagjo stood ready as the guards shuffled to get between him and their unsteady employer. Still behind Schan, 19

Duke extended his blazer and fired hitting one of the men in the center of his armored chest. As the guard fell back the others redirected their weapons and Hagjo made his move. Taking two quick steps forward Hagjo leapt into the air. Passing over their heads, he slashed with his blade and disarmed several of the uneasy sentries. Throwing their flaring weapons to the floor the men broke formation as Hagjo landed in front of the Nutt. Schan and Duke were moving in with her blade and his blazer but the last of the guards were already in full retreat. The Nutts bulging eyes looked directly at Hagjo as the Chedi landed before him. Wardos only reaction however was an increase in his twitching. His breath rushed up and down his throat as his body reacted to and directed the sudden abundance of energy being provided by the fudge hed consumed. Hagjo gestured with his blade, Listen Wardo, its over. No amount of Sakarins fudge is going to allow your escape this time. In response the Nutt staggered back with an especially violent tremor. Angrily he stared at Hagjo while tearing open the front of his robe. Flapping at the Nutts sides his torn robe exposed Wardos wide, tan chest and a colorful wrap which covered him from his lower chest to the writhing roots he used for locomotion. Also around his waist was a wide black belt. Two pouches hung from that belt and as Hagjo watched, the Nutt reached into one of them and pulled out another fist full of dark, evil Empire fudge. Hagjo had to stop himself from slashing the fudge from Wardos hand and seconds later he regretted having not done so. The Nutt shoved the fudge into his mouth and three growths suddenly sprouted from his chest. In seconds theyd grown to over a meter in length. The Nutt jumped forward and slashed at Hagjo with two of the limbs which had begun to sprout large, jagged thorns. The third limb began forming a large bud which grew larger still and began to bloom. Dodging one limb Hagjo parried the other with his blade, severing it at the point of contact. As he came back on guard, the bloom, now fully open and brilliant orange in color, fired a thick cloud of spores. Dropping and rolling, Hagjo avoided the poisonous attack. Regaining his footing he immediately had to dodge again as Lardo swung the remaining thorned limb at his head. Wardo, stop now! Hagjo shouted as the spent bloom withered and several new growths begin to form. Extending his blade Hagjo waited for a response. As two of the new growths began to form buds Hagjo shouted again. Last chance Wardo! Dont be a nut! Wardos only response was to shove more fudge into his mouth. As the new limbs continued to form and grow, the Nutt began thrashing about attempting to strike Hagjo with his remaining thorned limb. Stepping forward, Hagjo sliced through the limb with his blade and frowned as additional sprouts joined the others already forming. The new were growing at an even faster rate than 20

the first set. As the new buds prepared to open, Hagjo attacked in earnest. Slashing with his energy blade, he split the immature buds and severed the other forming limbs. As new sprouts began to form, Hagjo moved to Wardos torso. The Nutt continued budding and trying to attack but ignoring those efforts, Hagjo stepped in and sliced his blade through Wardo's torso several times. With the Nutt now divided into six large pieces, Hagjo stepped back and frowned. His blade still raised, Hagjo, breathed heavily as he looked down on the scattered sections. Wardos face was still and lifeless but every section of his divided body continued to flinch and squirm. Hagjos eyes widened in disgust as he saw several root like tendrils already growing from one Wardos larger pieces. Several seemed to reach for the bags of fudge. With a disgusted expression Hagjo leaned forward and pulled the slashed belt and its pouches free of Wardos severed parts. Noting that each pouch was still nearly half full, he threw them and their contents across the room. Regenerate from that you traitorous, chocolate hoarding, peanut! Hagjo growled, knowing that, that could be exactly what was going to happen. As Hagjo stepped back, Duke looked at the Nutts body and sighed. I was hoping he wouldnt make that necessary. His anger gone and his stomach uneasy, Hagjo holstered his blade and envisioned those fine roots thickening into hooked fingers which would continue sprouting from Wardos severed pieces. Grasping their counterparts, Wardos body would pull itself back together and then begin its regeneration in earnest. Looking away Hagjo responded. I just hope thats enough to hold him until the retrieval squad gets here. Hes eaten a lot of fudge! Suddenly the team tensed as their fudge enhanced abilities warned them of a new danger. Hearing an evil grunt behind him, Hagjo leapt backwards and up toward the ceiling. The sound of weapon fire ripped the air as Hagjo narrowly passed between several blazer bolts. Twisting while still in the air Hagjo slashed with his redrawn blade deflecting a final bolt before he landed. As he discharged his blade Hagjo chopped at the guards arm deflecting the pistols aim before stomping on the wide, flat foot of an oddly shaped alien. The Chakita most closely resembled a very large banana. The resemblance continued in that it was covered in a thick yellow skin with what appeared to be a furry brown stem sticking from the top of its head. Over two and a half meters in height, the Chakita was almost one hundred and fifty kilograms in girth. It bellowed loudly as its foot flattened beneath Hagjos. In pain and surprised by Hagjos maneuver, the Chakita was unable to defend itself as Hagjo grabbed its weapon. Pulling the pistol free Hagjo found himself looking directly into the Chakitas wide, ugly mouth. The beings 21

shout of pain was enhanced by disgustingly foul breath and many sharply jagged, pale green teeth. Grabbing Hagjo, the Chakita leaned forward and attempted a biting attack. Hagjo quickly turned the blazer and pressing its barrel against the beings chest shouted a warning. Rather than stop however the Chakita snapped again at Hagjos face. When the Chakitas next attempt scraped Hagjos cheek he fired once putting an end to the Chakitas attack. As the Chakita dropped to the floor, Hagjo continued firing upon seeing an angry bunch of additional Chakitas rushing into the room. Duke and Schan opened fire as well and wounded Chakitas dropped like over ripe fruit. As their partners fell around them, those still standing dropped their weapons and split. With the room quiet and no more of Wardos guards in sight, Hagjo turned back to his friends. Schan, using her energy blade, sliced through Wardos leather satchel. Duke then held it open exposing the variety of solid dark and milk chocolates which theyd come there to retrieve. Yep, thats them! Duke said with a big smile. Hagjo, also smiling, hugged Schan and shook Dukes free hand. The Emperor wont get his dirty tentacles on these beauties! Schan announced hugging him back. With a puzzled grin, Hagjo leaned back, looked into Schans eyes and asked, Tentacles? Hes ugly enough! she replied with a shrug. Laughing, the three positioned themselves in the corners of a triangle. Raising their clasped hands high they cheered together, Chocolate For All! Keeping their hands clasped they laughed again. With no further trouble from the Nutts guards, the Chedi rescued the injured knight from the danger zone of the Nerf cannon. After applying first aid they secured him and the wounded guards in several of the fortresss cells. Most of Wardos staff had escaped in skips and small pods but the larger ship and several of the fighters remained. The Chedi disabled them and left them on the pads for the retrieval team to confiscate. Intent on hindering a quick regeneration, Schan drug Wardos severed body parts several meters apart. She noted that the tiny tendrils had continued to form along the severed edges. Igniting her blade she slashed many of them off. Once finished she stood beside Wardos pieces, her eyes slit in anger and indecision. An hour later the trio had gathered the ladies from the atrium and onto their ship. Powering up her engines they lifted into the still dark sky and left the Nutts fortress. *-* En route to return their Mystic Chocolates to the people of the planet Mavrakos, Hagjo and 22

Schan sat together on their ships small main deck. The rescued women had been made as comfortable as possible within the limited accommodations on the lower deck. Duke entered, having checked again on the women, giving particular attention to the Hersheyan, Hagjo suspected as he suppressed a smile. Hagjo had contacted their Ally Commander, a Chedi, on Choctooine. After receiving a short report, which included a warning about the wall mounted security weapon, Commander Darpa ordered two squads to proceed immediately to the Nutts fortress. The first squad was a security team. Along with securing the facility, their assignment was to take the Nutt into custody. Hagjo was hesitantly confident that Wardo wouldnt have completed his regeneration and escaped before the teams got there. A recovery squad would be following the security team and collecting the crates from the large hall as well as the ships and any other stolen contraband they could find. Most and probably all of the crates were filled with stolen chocolate and other contraband. The Chedi had a long history with the Nutt. Since his betrayal, Wardos regenerative capabilities had surprised and fouled Ally plans of ending his association with the Empire many times. As Duke took a seat Hagjo filled him in. Dorpa has ordered both a security and a recovery squad. The security squad is already on their way. Hagjos brow furrowed as he continued, I just hope they get there before Wardo is able to complete his regeneration and escape, again! Duke smiled and responded, The way you diced him up, he should still be there. Shuddering Hagjo commented. Ug. I hated doing that, despite knowing that I wasnt killing him. His ability to regenerate is fascinating but its disgusting to see it happening. I was shocked that it began so quickly. Id barely withdrawn my blade! His smile faded as Duke responded, Yeah, the Emperors bitter fudge has definitely multiplied Wardos powers of regeneration. Dukes mouth formed a scowl; His teaming with Sakarin has helped the Empire take a huge bite out of the Milky Way. He managed a smile before adding, Having Wardo in custody is bound to slow that progress. Schan nodded without comment. She had yet to speak of her time undercover at Wardos fortress. Neither Hagjo nor Duke questioned her. They both knew the horrors Wardo was capable of. She would speak when she was ready. Hagjos last mission against Wardo had been on the planet Eastr. That small planet was peopled by a gentle race of bald, chocolate colored beings known as Bunnies. Wardo had maimed an entire tribe of the innocent creatures before being driven away. The memory of all those small beings, their long ears, very valuable on the black market, broken off and taken, still angered him. 23

Wardos greed had been costly to many, including the Chedi and their supporters. Hagjo knew too of Schans personal issues with the Nutt. Quietly Schan rose from her seat and walked toward the rear of the ship. Ill be back, she assured, squeezing Hagjos shoulder as she passed. Hagjo and Duke watched until she turned a corner and was lost to sight. She alright? Duke asked with a worried frown. Hagjo looked back from the now empty corridor and nodded as he answered. You know about her and Wardo. I think shes worried that hell escape again before the pickup squad gets there. Glancing back down the corridor he finished, Shell be fine once hes in custody. *-* After completing the turn, Schan increased her pace down the short hall. Reaching one of its few doorways, she stepped through and into the ships small science lab. After a moments hesitation she secured the door and stepped over to a dissection console. Withdrawing a small container from her pocket she held it before her eyes. Inside was a tan slug-like mass whose bulk barely fit in the transparent container. As she watched, she was able to detect regular although slight movement of the small tendrils growing from its surface. Lowering the container her eyes lost focus as she became lost in thought. They tightened as she relived fighting against the Empire at Wardos side... .....

A shorter, trimmer Wardo, Poppie, a Doughboy and Schan had fouled an Empire attempt to cripple and pirate a Choctooine transport ship. Hurrying through the damaged Empire ship they were nearing a repair pod which they intended to use to leave the ship and signal for pickup. Rounding a corner they came face to face with three of the Emperors knights and two security officers. All wore battle armor and had their weapons in hand. Schan drew and ignited her blade as the officers began firing. Deflected bolts missed Wardos team but hit an energy coupling. The explosion pushed Wardo into Schan and them both back the way theyd come. Schan found herself on the deck and unhurt as Wardos large form had shielded her from the blast. As she got back on her feet Wardo grimaced in pain but climbed from the floor as well. Ready for action Schan checked the hallway and saw that it was blocked by fire and smoke from the destroyed coupling. She quickly looked at Wardo. His charred shirt allowed a view of his back which was now a darker shade of tan. As she watched the darker shading was already beginning

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to fade. Seeing her puzzled expression Wardo explained, AIll be fine, and looked toward their blocked escape route. Accepting that Wardos injuries were minor, Schan looked for Poppie and cringed when instead she detected a familiar, sweet odor in the air. Feeling the fires heat, she looked toward the still burning coupling and saw Poppies swollen, now golden brown form lying just within the edge of the dark smoke. Hurrying toward Poppie, Schan stopped as the three knights suddenly emerged. They wasted no time igniting their energy blades and leaping into battle. While still in mid-leap, one of them received fire from Wardos blazer. Three direct hits to his chest sent him falling back into the thick smoke. The remaining knights landed in a barrage of attacks from Schan as she wielded her own ignited blade. Ever aggressive, she drove them both back toward the smoke. After a short exchange she dodged one knights blade and parrying the seconds lunged in. Moving quicker than either knight could react, she got within arms reach and grabbed the wrist of one of the knights weapon arm. Turning, she raised his arm and blade with her own into the second knights face. Avoiding the second knights parry with her own blade she caught his with the blade of the knight she was holding. Dodging an awkward punch from the held knight she brought the butt end of her energy blades handle hard up against his forehead, partially stunning him. She then slammed her shoulder into his chest as she slashed at the other knight. Delivering a glancing blow to the side of the knights helmet he went stumbling away. Turning back to the held knight Schan shut off her blade, holstered it and, with her shoulder, continued to push eventually slamming him into a wall. As they hit she heard Wardo firing on the other knight and the bolts being deflected by the knights blade. Pinning the stunned knight against the wall, she pulled his wrist and laid his own ignited blade against his armored chest. Seeing the blade flash against his armor the knight came out of his stupor and began to fight back. Despite the knights struggle, Schan held the blade in place for several more seconds. As she released him, the blade generated heat from his chest plate made the knight drop his weapon and hurry to remove the superheated armor. Schan kicked the knights deactivated blade away as the two Empire officers theyd seen earlier finally stumbled, gaging, out of the thick smoke. Schan shoved them both roughly back in before turning again to the last knight. She looked just in time to see him disarm Wardo by slicing through her companions forearm. Wardo screamed and collapsed as Schan ran and leapt toward the knight. Coming down on him feet first, she drove the knight into the deck, leaving him unconscious.

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As she approached Wardo, he grabbed his severed arm and pressed its raw end against his stump. Later, off the Empire ship and on the stolen repair pod, Schan prepared to apply a tight bandage to Wardos arm. Checking the wound she was surprised to see what appeared to be flesh stitching around the wound. She was also amazed to realize that Wardo could feel and even move some of his fingers. Speechless she stared in wonder. With a pained smile, Wardo explained. I could have regenerated the arm although the process would have been slow and unpleasant. Even a small piece of my body, lost, will cause a great deal of pain and an extended recuperation. Lifting his injured arm into his lap he continued without looking up. Even the worst injury is rarely life threatening. Youve seen it before with plants on Choctooine. We lose a part, we grow it back. One of the benefits of being a Herbiant. He paused with a small smile before continuing. AA plant, instead of an animal, he explained with a shrug and a grin. Looking up he finished, My people recover from most injuries without extended medical attention. ..... Still standing in the small science lab Schan refocused on the container. Her later discussions and assignments with Wardo had provided an even finer understanding of his unusual healing abilities. The lessons had continued when he joined the Empire and recovered from numerous injuries received in battles with the Ally forces or other Chedi. Looking past the container, and its living content, Schan scanned the dissection console. Reaching forward she pressed a button. A small cover retracted revealing a compartment in the consoles interior. Dropping the container and its content into the opening, she pressed a second button labeled Eject. The button turned red as the small cover repositioned, sealing the opening. A moment later the hissing sound of vacuum escaped from within the console. After several seconds the noise stopped and the eject button turned from red to green and then was dark again. As Schan stood quietly, her eyes tightened and a small smile formed on her lips. This time you dont get away, she whispered. Turning, she went back to join Duke, her friend and teammate, and Hagjo, the man she loved. *-* Now, within an hour of Mavrakos, Schan was resting in the ships sleeping cubicle. Duke was in the pilots seat and Hagjo was lost in thought at the navigation station. Schan had relaxed with them for a short time after returning. Laughing and sharing stories she almost seemed her old self. Several minutes ago shed gone below to first check again on the rescued females and then take a short nap before reaching Mavrakos. As she walked toward the back of the ship Hagjo could see, by the return

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of her familiar relaxed gait, that her stress level had dropped back to normal. With that realization, he also relaxed, as he was relieved and happy for her. Schans dislike of Wardo over his betrayal of the Ally effort was well known. While Hagjo had met Wardo, Schan had teamed with him on numerous assignments supporting Ally efforts. She had considered him a friend. Angry over his defection, shed never stopped being angry at herself for being so surprised by it. Every time he assisted the Empire, she took it personally and Wardo had given her many opportunities to do so. Wardo gained a great deal from the information and assistance he provided to the Empire. The Allies and the Chedi had paid dearly for his new fortune. Her anger toward him increased as his assistance allowed the Emperor to expand into additional systems, overpowering their local governments and further disrupting the chocolate supply lines. Hagjo had argued against her undercover assignment in Wardos fortress. Schan had insisted that she could handle the assignment and had, to Hagjos displeasure, convinced both Ms that she was right. Now that the assignment was finished, Hagjo was very happy and relieved at having been proven wrong. Squirming in search of a comfortable position in his seat Hagjo glanced toward Duke and then beyond at the starscape, visible through the front view port. His mind wandered to his home, Choctooine, and to Pie, his favorite of his home worlds three moons. It was the moon, Pie, that first turned his imagination away from his home world and toward space. Later, as a student, he was allowed to accompany a team of Choctooine military on an exercise in the Goo Goo Clusters. While there he experienced his first mental contact with M and M, his Chedi leaders. They appeared on his parents doorstep a week later. After graduation Hagjo left to train with them. His family felt honor and fear over his decision as they gave their consent. Hagjo however never questioned his choice and using his training and the enhanced abilities granted him through the Chedis sweet and powerful fudge, had proven himself many times. Pulling a small piece of the fudge from his waist pouch he stared for a moment at its dark beauty. Placing it reverently on his tongue he sighed. His eyes closed as he pressed the fudge against the roof of his mouth. The flavor erupted, spreading across his tongue and down his throat. His face flushed and his senses sharpened as he smiled and took a deep breath. Looking toward his lap, Hagjos eyes focused on the fudge piece symbol on his belt buckle. Placing his hand on the buckle, he sighed again, his smile widening. Hagjo and his fellow Chedi struggled constantly against the Empire, but were determined that

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the chocolate routes would stay open. Along with the Ally forces, they fought diligently to prevent the spread of the Empires territory. From the Godiva Nebula, across the Milky Way, to Mars and beyond, Ruth, the dwarf star, the Chedi fought for truth, justice and chocolate for all!

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