A Stormtrooper who likes children and his buddy who is a Scout trooper find on Endor a pegasus filly almost eaten by Ewoks.
3 years after the first Death Star was destroyed, a Stormtrooper who is a family man finds a pegasus fillly in a trap made by Ewoks. Can he help her get home?
Forren Storm, operating number TK-1138, was on his post on the Moon Forest Endor. He was in his mid-twenties. He joined the Galactic Empire a few years before the battle of Yavin as a Stormtrooper. He was born and lived on Coruscant. Forren had a wife and a son. He was a Family man and loved them with all his heart. He was proud of his service. He also despised the political intrigue of the Empire to some point.
He tried to spare Civilians as good as he could. He was a Soldier not a murder. And he loved Children regardless of the Species. Forren hadn’t seen his family for a half year. But that was what was driving him. To survive and return home someday. “Hey 1138, how’s it going?” A Scout trooper asked him. THX-421, real name Tokrin Tardun, was Forren's best friend. They got to know each other on the Imperial academy.
“Good. I just cannot wait to see my Family again.”
“Understandable for a Family man. Wait, do you hear that?” There was a sound.
“Ewoks. I hate Ewoks.”
Forren shot at a Ewok with his E-11 blaster rifle. This caused the Ewok to run. “I- is there someone? Please help me,” a voice of a Child said. Both men were confused that they heard a child speaking in Basic but both decided to help without saying a word. The voice came from a tree.
“Up here." They saw a pony that was trapped in a catchall in the trees. It had an orange coat, and purple eyes with matching mane.
“How do we get her down from there?” Forren asked.
“I have an Idea.” Tokrin climbed the tree up and cut the net open. The Filly fell but was caught by Forren.
“Thank you. If you hadn’t come, I had ended up as food for those… things.”
“It’s my Job as a Soldier. How’s your name?”
“Scootaloo. My friends call me Scoots. How’s yours?” “Name’s Forren Storm. Operating number TK-1138. And this is my comrade and buddy THX-421, Tokrin Tardun.”
“Your armor looks cool. But where am I?”
“You are on the Moon Forest Endor. The Galactic Empire has a base here.”
“Galactic Empire? Never heard of it. Equestria is a peaceful world.” Scoots eyes began to water.
“Is something wrong?” Tokrin asked her worried.
Scootaloo fell on the ground and sobbed, “M-mama, P-papa…”
Forren took his helmet off. “Shh, it’s alright, I promise we will find a way to bring you home.” Tokrin also took his helmet off. Scootaloo looked up. Forren had brown hair and green eyes. Tokrin had blond hair and brown eyes.
“T-thank you.” “Anytime. Here, drink something.” Tokrin gave her some water and a ration cube. “It tastes awful!” “I know but it gives you strength.” “What now?” “I suggest we bring her to the base.” “But it is too dangerous Tokrin.” " But we have no other choice.” “Right. This is TK-1138. We found a… lost Child.” “A Child? Repeat that TK-1138.” “It’s, sounds silly, but it appears that the Child is not from here, but an unknown Planet.” “Bring her to the base. Base out.”
“You want to do WHAT?” Scootaloo asked scared. “Listen, these Ewoks that captured you could return any second and I don’t want that a Child like you gets hurt. At the Base, you are safe from these things. I’m a father myself, you know,” Forren explained. “Okay, you have a point. Lead the way.”
The Imperial base wasn’t very far. On the way to it, Tokrin noticed Scootaloo’s wings and Cutie Mark. “Are those wings?” “Yes, I am a Pegasus pony. They can fly and manipulate the weather in Equestria. I can’t still fly yet, but I use my wings to scoot with my scooter. My Daddy gave it to me.” She let out a tear. “Interesting. We have a similar vehicle the speeder bike. If you want, I could give you a Ride.” Tokrin smiled at her.
“I would like it to try. This is my Cutie Mark. It represents my special talent.” She pointed to her flank. It was a red, pink and purple shield with a wing with a lightning bolt inside it. “Also the magic of Equestria allows me to understand you and you me.”
“Fascinating.” Forren smiled under his helmet. For some reason, she reminded him of his son. At the base, the Endor-shield generator, Forren looked at Scootaloo. “Stay close and don’t worry, Commander Igar is a great commander.” Scootaloo was nervous but was curious when she saw the shield generator itself.
“TK-1138 and THX-421 reporting, Sir.” They saluted him. “At ease. Now, where is that child you reported?” Forren stepped aside to reveal Scootaloo. She was trembling in fear. “Guys, give her some space, you scaring her.” Tokrin said when the other Soldiers were staring at her confused but agreed. “There’s no need to be scared little one, you are not in trouble. How did you get here?”
Forren answered for her and told Igar how he and Tokrin found her. Igar was a caring commander. He respected his men and his men him. He believed every word and knelled down to her. “You poor little filly. I don’t want to make to sadder but do you want to tell us more about your family and friends?”
“I was born in a village called Ponyville. My father is a Royal Guard, the personal bodyguards of the ruler of Equestria. Equestria is a peaceful world. There were rarely wars. But then the changelings attacked us. They can disguise themselves as pony’s and feed from their love. My father fought in the war. I and my mother prayed every day that he would return alive. In the end, he did and I was overjoyed to see him again.
I have also two friends. Sweetie belle a unicorn and Apple bloom an earth pony. Together we are the Cutie Mark Crusaders who help other pony’s get their Cutie Mark.” She told everything with light sobs that showed how much she missed them already. Forren patted her back. “Shh, it’s alright, as I said before, we will find a way to get you home.” “R-really?” “Yes. I like to help children and you are no exception.”
“You told me that you are working for the Galactic Empire. What is that?” “It’s kind of a long story.” Forren took a deep breath and explained what the Empire and the Rebel Alliance was, how the Galactic Civil War began and what he and his comrades were. Scootaloo trembled even more, “That’s terrible. P-please don’t enslave me.” “Shh, calm down; we would never do something to a sweet child like you.” Forren patted her and looked at Igar.
“Wouldn’t dream of it. I won’t report her to Lord Vader. You have my word. Oh, by the way, the Stormy is on her way to pick you up and bring you home. She will be here in one hour.” “Thank you, Sir. I cannot wait to see my wife and son again.” “What about me?” Scootaloo was worried. “I take you with me. My wife and son would be happy to meet you.” “You’re sure, I won’t make you trouble?” “Not at all, kid.”
Scootaloo relaxed and looked at Igar. “Your officer uniform looks very good.” “Thank you. I must admit that the combination of green and grey looks very good.” “Forren, what is this?” she pointed at his rifle. “This is the E-11 Blaster rifle. Standard weapon for the Stormtroopers. Can be fired single or fully automatic. It can be set to stun. Getting hit from a stun shot is very painful but not fatal.” “Interesting.” “Enough talk, do you still want the ride?” “But of course!” Scootaloo was excited. “Then follow me.” Tokrin walked with her to the speeder bikes.
Scootaloo walked with Tokrin to his speeder bike. She saw his Blaster pistol. “Tokrin, what is this in your holster?” “This is the Q-2S5 MOA Blaster pistol also called Scout blaster. Since Blaster rifles are too bulky for our missions, we are using this blaster as sidearm. The Scout blaster is small and easy to handle. This makes them perfect for our missions. But we are also Snipers if the mission requires it. Like our name Scout trooper says, our mission is often to scout the enemy and then send the Stormtroopers out, since they are the infantry of the Imperial army, apart from the Army troops. There we are.”
Scootaloo was a little nervous as she saw that the speeder bike was floating. “You’re sure that nothing bad can happen?” “Don’t worry, careful is my middle name. Besides, in country you need to live a little. Hold on tight, kid.” He said when he started the speeder bike.
Scootaloo tightened her grip on Tokrin's torso as he started with low speed. “And how do you like it?” Tokrin turned around to see Scootaloo smile. “Just like riding my scooter!” she exclaimed happy. “Glad to hear it. I increase a little in speed.”
The Speeder bike went faster. Scootaloo laughed, “This is Awesome! It’s like a dream! If Rainbow Dash could see this!” The Speeder bike was faster than her scooter but still she had a lot of fun while Tokrin was riding his bike through the trees of Endor. At the base, Scootaloo was a little dizzy but was still smiling, “This was fun!” “Glad to hear it. It seems that our shuttle is here.” Tokrin pointed to a Sentinel-shuttle that was on the landing approach, “This is the Sentinel-class landing craft, also known as a Sentinel-class shuttle or Imperial landing craft. It is the primary landing craft of the Imperial forces.”
Forren came and knelled down to Scootaloo, “How was your trip?” “Awesome! But I feel dizzy, can you carry me?” “No problem.” Forren gently picked her up. “Commander Igar told already the captain of the Stormy of you. He’s eager to meet you. And he cares for his ship and Crew. He also makes sure that guests have a very comfortable stay on his Star Destroyer.”
Forren walked with Scootaloo and Tokrin in the Shuttle. It took off and flew to the hanger bay of the Stormy. Scootaloo’s eyes went wide when she looked out of the window and saw the Death Star. “Wow. It’s monstrous.” “Quite. This new Death Star will be the instrument that fires the final shot into the chest of the Rebel Alliance. This is the Stormy, an Imperial I-class Star Destroyer. They are the Backbone of the Imperial Navy.” Forren pointed at it. Scootaloo looked at it in awe.
Once the Shuttle was landed, Forren and Tokrin reported at the Captain. He had brown hair and blue eyes. “TK-1138 and THX-421 reporting Sir.” “At ease. And you must be our guest.” He looked at Scootaloo. “Commander Igar informed me already. Allow me to introduce myself: Captain Ian Takan. I hope that you will enjoy your stay on my ship.”
“Thank you Captain Takan. I’m Scootaloo.” She said in a polite and respectful tone. “Although I am the Commander of this ship, my guests don’t need to be that formal to me. Ian is just fine. Forren, Tokrin, would you be so nice and show her the ship? I’m busy at the moment.” " With pleasure, Sir,” Forren responded.
Forren and Tokrin got with Scootaloo in the Turbolift. “Can I ask who Rainbow Dash is? And how you exactly got here?” Tokrin asked with concern. “Rainbow Dash is a Pegasus pony like me. For me she is my big sister and my idol. Sweetie Belle is sick. I and Apple bloom visited her. Sweetie Belle had to sneeze. When that happened, a bust of magic came from her horn and hit me. Then I landed in this Forest,” Scootaloo explained her ears lowered.
Forren patted her mane. “Don’t worry. You can stay with me no matter how long it takes.” Scootaloo smiled again. The tour was interesting for her. It seems that the news about her were spread fast on the Stormy, as every crewmember greeted her and told his sympathy for her.
“Look out.” A Mouse droid scurried through her legs. “This was a MSE-6 mouse droid. They are used for Maintenance work, messaging or to guide people through the endless corridors of the Imperial capital ships.” Forren explained.
“Reminds me of a Toaster or of a box on wheels.”
“I know. We nicknamed them ‘toaster droids.’" Tokrin chuckled.
They leaded Scootaloo to one of the guest rooms after the tour was over. “You can stay here. The Stormy is my second home. And yours too until we arrive at Coruscant and find your home. So, welcome at your second home.” Forren showed her the guest room.
It had a bed, a holoprojector with a database and the Imperial Holonet. There was also a window that gained a good view. Forren and Tokrin taught her Aurebesh so she could read everything. She was also able to read High Galactic which was not surprising for the Imperials. “I hate it to say but we must leave you now. If you need something, just use the red button on the projector. Bye,” Forren and Tokrin said good bye.
Scootaloo used the time she had to read the database. She read all information she could find. How the Empire and the Rebel alliance were founded, what the clone wars were and what the Death Star was. She also read about the Imperial technology like the Imperial Star Destroyer, the TIE-fighter, the TIE-pilots, the Imperial academy, the AT-ST and AT-AT and so on. She found also out that the year was now 3 ABY because in the battle of Yavin, the Rebel Alliance managed to destroy the first Death Star. The battle of Hoth was a great defeat for the Rebels and a great victory for the Empire.
That's a lot of information. Coruscant is a planet that consists of only one giant city? I'm curious how Forrens Family will receive me. She thought and looked at out the window. The Stormy jumped into Hyperspace. Scootaloo couldn’t help but to find it beautiful. Then she went into bed. She let out a tear as she missed her friends and family.
Scootaloo had a dream. In her dream she found herself what looked like Ponyville. But it was like a Ghost town. “Hello? Anypony there?” She walked around to look for her friends.
“Scootaloo!” a voice called out. “Rainbow Dash! I missed you so much!”
She ran towards her idol. They hugged each other. “Your family was so worried about you.”
“Can I see them, Rainbow?” But of course kid, hop on.” Scootaloo climbed on her back. Rainbow Dash flew to the house of her parents.
Outside, her father waited for her. “Daddy! I missed you!” She hugged him. “Me too, Scootaloo.” The moment was interrupted by some kind of loud breathing sound.
They saw a man in black with a cap and a helmet, and a man in a black cloak.
Scootaloo went behind her Dad and Rainbow Dash. “Surrender and we will show mercy.” The man that made the breathing sound said to them. “You will never get my daughter!” her father dashed towards the man. “Lord Vader, destroy them.” “As you wish, Master.”
Vader stretched his arm out. Scootaloo father was stopped in midair and was floating and struggled to get free. Then Vader rammed a red blade in her father’s chest. After a few seconds, his body fell lifeless to the ground. “Daddy! NO!”
“Don’t worry Scoots, I protect you.” Rainbow Dash stood protectively in front her.
Vader raised his hand again. Rainbow Dash gasped for air and grabbed her throat. Then there was a cracking sound and Rainbow Dash fell also lifeless to the ground.
“Rainbow Dash!” Vader’s Master walked towards Scootaloo. She crawled backwards until she was trapped. She raised a hoof. “Have Mercy! Please! Please!” “There is no mercy. Now you will die.” Vader’s Master raised his hands. Lighting came out of it and electrocuted her.
At that moment, Scootaloo woke up from her dream with a loud gasp. She breathed heavily and cold sweat was on her forehead. The Door opened and Forren and Tokrin came in worried. They had their armor on but not their helmets.
“Scootaloo, we heard you yelling, is everything alright?”
“Just a bad dream, Forren.” Small tears formed in Scootaloo’s eyes. Forren wrapped her in a hug and slowly rocked her back and forth. “Shh, it was just a dream calm down. I can understand how much you miss them. I missed my Family too when I was on Duty,” Tokrin looked into her tear filled eyes, “Do you want to sleep with us tonight?”
Scootaloo nodded and cried herself to sleep. In the bed room of Forren and Tokrin, Forren gently took her into his bed. “I have a Son already, but she is like a daughter to me.” “I know. And I know that the entire crew of the Stormy will defend her if necessary. You can trust me. You can trust all of them.” Forren deployed a strong friend- and comradeship with Tokrin and the crew of the Stormy. She was the ship that he was stationed on first once he had passed the training on the academy.
Time went lost whatever he was on the Stormy. But they had reached Coruscant. The planet looked so beautiful. Scootaloo was still asleep. Tokrin had already left.
“Scootaloo, wake up, my dear,” He said in her ear. She yawned. “Good morning. What’s for breakfast?” “Well, let’s go to the canteen, shall we?” “Wow. Coruscant is… beautiful.” She looked out of the window.
“Yes it is Sweetheart. But when you see the city, you will be surprised how beautiful it will be.”
In the canteen, Tokrin had already ordered Breakfast for them. Scootaloo had some pancakes and a glass of juice. Tokrin and Forren had some bread. “Those pancakes tasted great.” “Glad to hear it. They are from the planet Corellia.” Forren smiled at her.
They got into a Sentinel-shuttle that brought them into the city. Scootaloo’s eyes went wide. “Wow. The city is really impressive. Canterlot is nothing compared to this.”
“Yes it is. The Imperial palace is the tallest building on the planet and in Imperial City. The Emperor lives here and Lord Vader.” Tokrin left the two. The Citizen of Coruscant were too busy to notice Scootaloo. She was impressed by the sights of Coruscant and the different species that lived here.
At his home, Forren opened the Door. His was greeted by his Son, “Daddy! I missed you!” he hugged him. “I missed you too.” “Mommy, Daddy is back!” “Welcome home, my husband.” She walked out of the kitchen. She had blond hair and green eyes.
“Hello again Miko. How long has it been? Half a year?” They kissed. Scootaloo smiled. It reminded her when her father and mother were reunited when the war was over.
“I have also a guest. Scootaloo, would you come in please?” She obeyed.
“Hello Mrs. Storm, I’m Scootaloo.” “Hello Scootaloo. You don’t have to be so formal, Miro is just fine. And this is my Son Ray.” He had black hair and green eyes.
“Where did you found her?” “It’s a long Story.” Forren told his wife how he found her.
She looked over to her with tears in her eyes. Scootaloo was playing with Ray and they both eat an Uj cake. “That poor filly. But I’m so proud of you.”
“Thank you, my dear wife. What happened while I was gone?” “Nothing much. I heard in the Holonet about the battle of Hoth. I don’t think that the war will ever reach Coruscant, but I’m glad when he is over.” “Me too. Any Idea, what we should do with her?” “Tomorrow is the day of the Empire. You could take her there.” “Good idea.” Time went fast. In the evening, Miro made Dinner.
Scootaloo enjoyed her meal. Spice Bread. “This is delicious! The cake tasted also very good and sweet. You’re a good cook Miro.”
She blushed. “Thanks for the compliment. Should I tell you how I met my husband?” “Yes please!” Miro saw sparkles in Scootaloo’s eyes. “I still remember as it was yesterday…”
Forren was a recruit on the Imperial academy in Curamelle the capital of Corulag. He was chatting with Tokrin when he heard a cry for help. “Let’s investigate that.” “Yes Forren, I’m right behind you.” They followed the noise, until they saw a young woman, who was molested by some men. “Please, I don’t have anything I could give you!” The tallest men slapped her. “Shut up! We want to see our money or you will deal with the consequences!” He was about to slap her again. “Freeze!” Forren pointed his rifle at him. He had set his rifle to stun. “Or what? Shoot? You Stormtroopers can’t hit anything.” “Oh yeah? Watch this!” Before the men could react, Forren hit them all. “TK-1138 reporting in, we have a situation.” “Copy that, a Squad has been dispatched to your location.” “Are you hurt?” Forren checked her. “No, I’m alright. Thank you for saving me mister…” “Storm. Forren Storm. I hate pirates and criminals. They’re scum like the Rebels.” “I’m Miro.” She lifted his helmet to kiss him. He and Miro blushed. She left after the Squad arrived to arrest the criminals. “Looks likes she got a crush on you Forren,” Tokrin commented.
“…After that we were dating and married after some time and got our boy.” “This was such a nice and awesome Story! Just one Question: Where can I sleep?”
“You can sleep in my bed,” Ray answered Scootaloo. “That’s nice from you but don’t you have a guest room or a sleeping bag? I don’t want to make you trouble,” Scootaloo felt embarrassed. “No way, my bed is big enough for us both.”
Scootaloo yawned, “Alright, fine.” Miro carried her to the bed. She was too tired to resist. Miro tucked her and Ray in.
Scootaloo had already drifted to sleep and hugged the plushie Stormtrooper in her sleep that Miro made for Ray after his father left for Duty.
Ray didn’t mind that Scootaloo used his plushie. It was understandable for him, since Scootaloo was separated from her parents. Miro smiled sad at her and whispered, “Sweet dreams, you two.” She walked to her bedroom. “She looks like an Angel when she is asleep.” “I know Miro. I just hope that we find a way to get her home. Her parents must be worried sick.” “Don’t worry, I’m sure you will.” She kissed him on the lips before they drifted off to sleep.
Scootaloo woke up in the morning. She yawned and stretched herself. Oh, I hope that Ray didn’t mind that I used his plushie, She thought after she noticed that Ray was already up and she was holding the plushie. She blushed in embarrassment.
“Good morning, Scootaloo. I made you Breakfast.” Ray walked in with a Breakfast Board. On it were some pancakes and a glass of juice. “That’s very nice from you Ray.” She ate her breakfast. “I don’t mind that you are using my plushie. Mommy made it after my Daddy left for Duty. Since you are in a familiar Situation as I was, you can keep it.”
“Ray, I can’t accept this.” “You know Scootaloo; you’re already like a sister for me. And I will do anything I can, to make your stay comfortable. My parents taught me always to be friendly towards guests. The Story of your father reminds me when my father left.”
He hugged her to cheer her up as she cried a little.
“Thanks, I needed that.” “No need to thanks, that’s what friends are for.” They walked into the living room. Forren and Miro waited already for them.
“Good morning, Scootaloo. Did you sleep well?” Forren smiled at her. “Yes I did.” “Glad to hear it. We thought that we should show you the city. And today is a special Day.” “What kind of special Day, Miro?” “The Day of the Empire. It celebrates the Day the Empire was founded. It begins in the evening.” “Sounds interesting. I’m in.” “Good then let’s go.” Forren gave her a piggy ride while Miro gave Ray a piggy ride.
They showed Scootaloo the Galactic Museum, the Galactic Opera House and any other sights Coruscant had to offer. The time went fast and it was evening.
At a Viewing platform Forren asked, “And, what do you think of Coruscant?” “It’s a nice place.” “Glad to hear it. And now, time for the grand finale.”
Music started to play. TIE-fighters were in parade formation. AT-ST’s and Imperial troop carriers passed by. The music came to a climax.
“Citizens of Coruscant. I’m Emperor Palpatine.” A voice could be heard through loudspeakers and a man be seen on a big screen. The crowd applauded.
“The Empire is on the verge of success. Soon, Peace and Order will be restored to throughout the galaxy. Even now, our capable forces, led by Darth Vader are striking back at the Rebel insurgents. Long live the Empire!”
Palpatine raised his arms and fireworks started. Scootaloo clapped her hoofs in applause. “Awesome! And impressive!” “Yes. The Empire never fails to impress.”
Scootaloo let out a yawn. Ray too. “Looks like someone is tired. Time to go home,” Miro smiled.
Back home, Scootaloo drank some hot chocolate with Ray. They were drawing together in Ray’s room. Miro looked after them with Forren. Their hearts melted. Both kids were asleep on the floor. Scootaloo had drawn something. It was a picture of her Family and Friends.
The first pony was a stallion with a white coat with red mane and tail. He had a yellow circle as Cutie Mark. The word “Daddy” was under him. Next to him was the word “mommy” with a mare who had an orange mane and tail and a torquiest coat but Scootaloo was fallen asleep before she could draw her mother further.
The next pony was a mare with blue coat, magenta eyes and a rainbow colored mane. She had the word “sister.” Next to her were two fillies. The first filly had a yellow coat, orange eyes, and a red mane with a purple bow. She had an Apple with a heart in it as Cutie Mark. The other filly had a white coat, green eyes and a pink and purple mane. Her Cutie Mark was a musical note in a star. Under them were the words “Cutie Mark Crusaders forever” while her father had the words “I miss you.”
“We must hang up this on the fridge.” Miro went into the kitchen with the picture while Forren tucked the kids into bed. “Sweet dreams, you two.”
He joined his wife in the bed. “It breaks my heart how much she miss her parents and friends.” “I know Forren. But now she needs us. And I have an Idea. But this has time until tomorrow.” They both drifted off to sleep.
In the morning, Forren woke up. Miro was already gone. Forren heard how she was working on something. He decided to look after the children. They were still asleep.
“Ray, Scootaloo, time to wake up.” Ray let out a yawn. “Good morning, Daddy!” “Morning, my Son.” Scootaloo also woke up. “Good morning, Forren. What’s for breakfast?” “Bread.”
After a good breakfast, Miro showed Scootaloo her work. “Scootaloo, I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes.” She obeyed.
“Open your eyes.” Scootaloo let out a tear of joy. It was a plushie of her father. “It’s so beautiful! Thank you!” She hugged Miro.
“Glad to hear that you’re like it. I had the Idea after I saw your picture.” “I just miss them so much.” Scootaloo’s eyes began to tear up again. “Don’t worry, we’re here for you.” Ray hugged her to cheer her up.
The Doorbell rang. It was Tokrin. “Sorry to interrupt. But Captain Ian wants to see you both. He has an Idea how we can find Scootaloo’s home.”
“Good. Sorry, my dear wife and Son, I thought we had more time.” “There’s no need to be sorry. Helping Scootaloo to get home is more important now. I have something for you.” Miro gave his husband a hologram of herself and Ray. “Thank you,” He kissed her before he and Scootaloo left. On the Stormy, Ian waited for them in the hanger bay. “Hello again.” He knelled down to Scootaloo. “That’s a nice plushie.” “Thanks. Forrens wife made it for me.”
“So what’s the plan?” Forren asked. “We can send out Probots that are searching her home. If you can give us information’s about your home.” “No problem.”
An officer interrupted them, “Sorry to bother you Sir, but Lord Vader wants to inspect the Stormy.” Scootaloo gulped, “Then the search will have to wait.”
Forren could only say one thing, “I have a bad feeling about this.”
“L-lord Vader is coming here?” “Scootaloo was scared. Forren picked her up to hug her. “Shh, don’t worry. Just stay in your room until he leaves.” “Good idea.” She calmed down.
Forren brought Scootaloo to her room. It didn’t take long, until he and Tokrin had to report at the hanger bay. They stood both at attention. An alarm could be heard.
Ian was nervous and so were Forren and Tokrin as the Shuttle of Lord Vader arrived.
“Lord Vader, it’s a pleasure and honor to see you on my ship.” “Spare me the pleasantries, Captain. I’m here to interrogate the prisoners myself.” “Yes, my lord. As you wish.” The prisoners were Rebel troopers that had received an important component of the Death Star. They were captured but the component was nowhere to be found.
“Alert! Breach on the detention level! Nearby Squads are ordered to stop the escaped prisoners!” An officer and an alert could be heard through a P.A. System.
“Captain, I want them alive.” “Yes, my lord. Lock all levels down, sweep the vessel and secure the hanger bay. Set for stun,” Ian ordered his first officer and a squad of Stormtroopers including Forren.
Forren had other plans however. He wanted to make sure that Scootaloo is safe. At the guest room he saw her scared. “Forren, I don’t want to die!” “Shh, just lock the door. I come back to you once the situation is under control.”
Just as the door was closed, the Rebels came around the corner. “Stormtroopers! Blast them!” A Rebel shouted.
Forren got to cover. A Stormtrooper was hit and let out a certain scream. Forren managed to hit a Rebel. Only three left. They were quickly stunned.
“TK-1138 reporting in, the Rebels have been stopped.” “Good work. Lord Vader will be arriving shortly.” Forren looked after Scootaloo. It broke his heart. She had buried herself into the blanket of the bed and cried her heart out. “Scoots?” he kneeled down to her.
“F-forren?” She looked up still crying. “Shh, it’s over, calm down.” He patted her. “I was… a-afraid that you would die,” She sobbed.
“No, Scootaloo, I’m still in one piece.” He wrapped his arms around her. “When I heard the screams and the shots… I was afraid that they would take me.”
Forren wiped a tear out of her eye. “Don’t worry, those Rebel troopers were no match for us. Besides, I will defend you with my life. I could never forgive myself if something happens to you.” He tried to comfort her.
“I understand that you leaved me here for my own protection. But you’re the only one that is there for me.” “If I should die or get injured, Tokrin would be here for you, as would Ian, my family and the rest of the crew. You always have someone for you.”
“But I want you to be there for me Forren.” He could tell that she had spent a lot of time with her father and that he reminded her of him. “How about some hot chocolate?” “I love hot chocolate!” Scootaloo exclaimed happy. “Do you want to walk or should I carry you?” “I want to walk.”
She looked with fear at the stunned Rebels. “Did you…” She asked with fear. “No, we’re only stunned them.” With that, she let out a sigh of relief.
“Who is that little girl?” Lord Vader asked. Scootaloo hide behind Forrens back.
“Oh, Lord Vader. Err… Its take your daughter to work day and I know… I’m sorry for bringing her; you know my wife says I never see her… I must admit she’s right. Do you have kids?” He sighed, “I probably get fired for this, but screw it.” Forren said the last words very quiet and took Scootaloo’s hoof. “I love my daughter!”
Lord Vader was standing still for a few seconds before he held his fist to his chest. “That really hits me where I live.” Then he choked a Rebel trooper that had recovered from the stun shot. “What have you done with that component? Forren here, never sees his daughter because of people like you.” Then there was the same cracking sound Scootaloo had heard in her dream.
“I’m so sorry you had to see that.” Vader let the now dead Rebel go. “Are you having fun being at work with your father?” Vader looked at Scootaloo who whimpered in fear.
Vader laughed, “I know I’m scary.” Then he leaved with the prisoners. “Can’t believe he bought that. But now time for chocolate.” Forren smiled at Scootaloo to cheer her up. She returned the smile.
In the canteen, the cook gave her the cup. “There you go little one, a cup of hot chocolate.” “Thanks mister. I hope I can pay you someday.” “You don’t have to. For guests it’s free, and since you are unofficially a member for the crew of this ship and since all have sympathy for your story, a meal or a drink is always free for you.” He gave her a thumb up.
She enjoyed it with great pleasure. Tokrin came in. “Sorry to bother you two, but we have order to assist the Imperial forces at Abridon.” Scootaloo knew what that meant. “Be careful, okay?” “I always be careful, my dear.” Forren looked at the hologram. “And I will survive for you, Miro and Ray.” He entered with Tokrin the Shuttle.
Just as the doors of the shuttle were about to shut, a Turbulence came. It was strong enough to cause Scootaloo to lose her balance and fell into the shuttle. Nobody noticed it as the Shuttle took off and flew towards the planet.
Scootaloo stood up. “Forren? Where are you?” She looked around. A door opened and a Stormtrooper banged his head on it. “Scootaloo? What are you doing here?” Forren was surprised. “Before the doors closed, there was a turbulence that caused me to fell into the shuttle.” “This is bad. The Shuttle will return once we are deployed on the surface of the planet.” Suddenly there was a bang and an alarm went off. “We’re hit! Brace for impact!” The pilot shouted.
Forren clenched Scootaloo protectively as the shuttle was going down. Then there was the impact. Both lost consciousness.
Forren slowly regained consciousness. The shuttle was on fire. Scootaloo was still unconscious but unharmed. Forren was buried under debris. The other Stormtroopers died in the crash. “Forren, are you alright?” Tokrin limped and coughed a bit. “I’m fine. Can you get the debris off me?” “Sure no problem.”
They leaved the wreck. “Why is Scootaloo here?” Tokrin asked with concern. “Turbulence caused her to fall into our shuttle before it took off.” “At least she not hurt.” “Oh... my head. What happened?” Scootaloo rubbed her head. “Our shuttle was shot down. But we survived. We should join the others.” Forren carried the filly in his arms.
A troop carrier stopped by. “Forren! Man, I’m glad to see you! Where are the others?” A Stormtrooper asked that stepped out of the carrier. “We lost them in the crash.” “We should get you back to the base. It will be a lot safer for your friend.” Scootaloo just nodded. They got into the carrier. At the base, Tokrin was treated in the infirmary.
“Ah that’s better. Now, we are under the command of General Brenn Tantor. His orders are to capture the command center of the Rebels. Since our shuttle crashed, we missed out most of the battle. This will be the final stand.”
“Good. Scootaloo, you stay here.” “Yes, Sir!” She said happy. "Is it true that you're not from here?" One of the troopers who guarded the base asked her.
"Well, yes." They had a happy conversation
The command center was heavily defended by Rebel troopers, tanks and anti-infantry and anti-vehicle turrets. Forren was fighting a Heavy Rebel trooper. He waited behind cover until the trooper stopped firing, then threw a grenade. The trooper stumbled from it. Forren used this to finish him off. AT-AT’s took care of the turrets.
“Storm the command center!” Brenn ordered via comlink.
“Yes, Sir!” Inside, the Stormtroopers had to fight Rebel troopers, Heavy troopers and civilians. With their heavy blasters, the Heavy troopers quickly wiped the Stormtroopers out. Only Forren and Tokrin were left.
“We’re taking heavy fire, Sir! Need backup!” “On its way, TK-1138.”
After a while, reinforcements arrived. With them, the Rebels were overrun. “TK-1138 reporting in, the rebel base is secured.” “Excellent. I will contact Grand general Brashin.”
After a heavy battle, Forren looked after Scootaloo. “Forren! You’re back!” She hugged him while he rubbed her head. “Yes I’m. The battle is over. Time to go back on the Stormy.” It pleased him to see that his buddies were nice to her.
On the way to the shuttle, they saw a fallen Rebel trooper, his back against a wall, a blaster pistol on the ground, next to his right hand. Scootaloo looked at him in disgust. Suddenly, he raised his blaster and shot Scootaloo in the chest. She fell to the ground with a cry of pain. “Blast him!” The Stormtroopers reacted instantly. He was screened with blaster shots as he fell over to the side, the blaster slipped out of his hand. “Rebel Scum!” Forren was in rage, firing a few more shots to make sure the rebel was dead this time.
“F-Forren…” Scootaloo’s weak voice brought him out of his rage.
Forren took his helmet off and knelled down to the wounded filly. She was still conscious. “Don’t worry, you going to be fine.”
“Forren… If I should not make it… tell my family and friends… I love them…” She lost consciousness.
“We must get her to the infirmary!” Forren gently picked her up. “Yes, Sir! Right away,” His comrades responded. “I’ve seen everything. A shuttle has been dispatched.” Brenn said to Forren via comlink.
“Thank you, Sir. Please Scootaloo, hold on. Don’t die.” Forren prayed that she would make it.
Back on the Stormy, Scootaloo was brought by Imperial medics to the infirmary.
A 2-1B Medi droid was treating her. “She’s need to stay in a bacta-tank for a while. But I’m to 99% sure that she will survive.” “How can you be so sure? That Rebel scum shot her in the heart!” “I understand your concern for her. But a bacta-tank can heal even such a life-threatening wound. A Bacta-cleaning would be too dangerous because of her young age. I'll keep you up to date about her condition. And I have treated patients with much worse wounds that survived in a bacta-tank.” “Thanks, doc.” “That’s my programming, Sir.”
Days passed, turned into weeks. Forren however, never left Scootaloo's side. Every one of the crew, including Miro and Ray, gave his condolences and wished her a quick recovery.
For Forren happened one of his worst thought. That his family got hurt or killed. Sure, his wife and Son were always worried about his safety when he was on duty, but Forren was a battle-tested Soldier and had survived many battles. For him, it was much worse, that his Family got killed or hurt when he was on Duty. Scootaloo was no exception. Since the day he found her, he saw her already as a member of his family.
Ian walked in. “Sir?” “At ease. I know how worried you are about her.” “Yes, Sir. It’s just… I will never forgive myself if she dies. She’s too young to die. I should have been shot.” Ian hugged him and patted his back. “Listen Soldier, it wasn’t your fault. Nobody could know that the Rebel was playing dead.”
“Thank you, Sir.” “Anytime. Besides, you should know that she conquered all hearts of the crew of the Stormy. If you wish to bring her home, so be it. I’m in. And the entire Stormy too.”
The droid interrupted them, “I have good news. She’s responding well to the medication. She’s out of danger.” “Thank goodness.” Forren was relieved. “I will inform the rest of the crew.” Ian was also relieved. He was a caring man. The safety of his ship, his crew and his guests on it were his top priority.
While the filly was in the tank, she had a dream.
She did some kind Rap battle with the man in the black cloak.
"Yo momma is so stupid that even Darth Plagueis can't help her!" The name just pooped in there. "Yo momma is so weak, that she has born a pegasus who can't fly!" "Yo momma is so fat that even the moon isn't big enough to banish her!" She countered with a grin. "Yo momma's faith is so... so... that... uhh..." He was lost for words. "Scoots wins!" Vader threw him over a edge where he exploded with a Sonic Rainbow, overpowering her senses.
A few Days later, Scootaloo regained consciousness. She was still in the infirmary but no longer in a bacta-tank. Instead, she was on a bed with a warm blanket covering her. “Oh, that hurt.” She was holding her chest. “Scootaloo, you’re awake.” “Forren? How long was I unconscious?” “A couple of weeks.” “A couple of weeks?! My parents must be worried sick!” She panicked.
“Shh, calm down. Since you’re finally awake, we can send out the probe droids if you can provide us with information’s.” Scootaloo grinned. “The capital of Equestria is Canterlot. It’s a glamorous and sophisticated city. Its looks like a castle carved into the side of the mountain. Cloudsdale is like its name says a city made out of Clouds.” “Sounds like the Cloud city on Bespin. Since I can find no information about Equestria in our database, it must be located somewhere in the Outer Rim or the Unknown Regions. But as you should know, our probe droids are programmed to extreme curiosity. With that the chances are low that they can miss anything on their investigation. I will also provide them with a hologram message for first contact with your people.” Ian left to prepare the Probots.
“Sir, a message for you,” An officer spoke to Forren. “Yes?” “It’s about your family. They…” “Come on, say it.” “They died in a terrible accident. There was a short circuit which set the house on fire. The fire department could only find the corpses.”
At this moment Forren collapsed to the ground crying uncontrollably. “Miro… Ray… No…NO!” “Forren…” Scootaloo tried to comfort him but he didn’t listen. With no other option available she shouted as loud as she could, “FORREN!” He stopped crying and looked at her.
“I’m sorry for your loss. But don’t forget: I’m here for you.” She hugged him tightly. “Yes you are. You’re the only part of my family that is left.” He calmed down and swore that he will do whatever it would take to bring her home. No matter the cost.
They looked out of the window. Hundreds of probe droids were sent out to the remotest parts of the galaxy with only one goal: Finding Scootaloo’s home.
A few Days passed. The cook made an Uj cake for Scootaloo. She enjoyed the cake. The entire crew was glad that she had survived. It was a traumatic experience for Scootaloo to be close to death, but the crew of the Stormy helped her as well as she could. Right now, Scootaloo was playing with Forren and Tokrin in one of the Recreational areas. Table tennis. One of Forren's favorite games to pass the time.
After a good game, Forren tickled Scootaloo. He and his wife did this often with Ray to have fun or to cheer him up after a bad day. It made him sad that he had lost his family and that memory filled him equal with happiness and sadness but he tried not to break down in front of Scootaloo.
Scootaloo tried to catch her breath, “This was fun! We should this again sometime.” “Sure thing, Scoots.” Forrens heart melted every time he saw Scootaloo happy. She didn’t mind it that he used her nickname. “Yes we will.”
“Attention. Rebel troops are attacking our base at Trasse. We have been dispatched to aid our forces. Prepare for ground assault,” An intercom announced.
“This time, I watch my step,” Scootaloo joked a bit. But this time it was different.
A Rebel transport had landed in the hanger bay. “Sir! Rebel troops have landed on our ship! We can’t launch our fighters!” A TIE-pilot said via comlink. “Calm down pilot. Get out there and destroy that transport. Any means necessary to clear the hanger,” An officer ordered.
TIE-pilots along with Marines and Stormtroopers were fighting in the hanger.
Scootaloo stayed in cover. All Imperials protected her with their lives. Forren was hit by a Rebel marine, but the armor protected him. The transport however, was deploying too many Rebel reinforcements.
As soon as Forren got up, he heard Scootaloo screaming. A Rebel trooper had grabbed her to bring her on the transport. “Stop them!” Forren screamed in anger while shooting at the Rebels and the transport, but careful not to hurt the filly.
The transport leaved with Scootaloo. “No! Captain, the Rebels have her!” “Don’t worry, Soldier. Ion Cannon, fire!”
Forren saw how the Rebel transport was disabled by the ion Cannon of the Stormy. “Sir! The Rebel transport! It’s crashing into the asteroid!” “Send down a rescue team immediately!”
Forren wasted no time to get into a shuttle along with a squad of medics. On the surface of the asteroid, Ian contacted Forren, “We located the crash site of the transport. Its west of your location. I ordered a troop carrier to you. The shuttle stays here for a quick evacuation. Good luck. Ian out.”
Just as the transmission ended, the carrier arrived. “Don’t take too long,” The pilot of the shuttle said to Forren. After a while of driving, they arrived at the crash site. “What a mess.” Forren saw the wreck. It was on fire and broken in half by the crash. There were corpses everywhere.
Someone coughed. “Hello?” Forren turned his flashlight on and pointed it at the smoke. Sure, with his helmet he could see in the smoke but the medics couldn’t since they had a uniform that was similar to the AT-ST-pilot.
“I surrender, don’t shoot,” A voice of a young man begged. “We won’t hurt you. Step into the light.” Forren could see a young Rebel trooper with Scootaloo in his arms. She was unharmed but unconscious. The trooper was no older than 18. He had black hair and blue eyes.
He limped. Forren gently took Scootaloo out of his arms, so that the medics could treat him. The Rebel trooper was scared. Forren could see it in his eyes. “Aren’t you a little too young to be a Rebel trooper?” “I joined the Alliance after the Empire killed my parents in the Massacre of Abridon.” “Sorry to hear that kid. I’m loyal to the Empire, but I do not like the brutality of it. I was trained to never engage the locals unless they provoke me first. I’m a Soldier not a murderer. After I found this filly, I swore to myself that I would bring her home and would protect her from any harm.” “Honestly, I do not know if it was a good Idea to join the Rebel alliance. When the filly was on board, she was scared to death. She feared and pleaded for her life.” He looked guilty at her. “You did the right thing. What’s your name?” “Kevin Ren.” “Forren Storm. We should return to the Stormy. And don’t worry; my Captain is a nice guy.”
“This is Shuttle *static* we’re under *static* by Rebel…” It ended abrupt with static.
“Looks like our only shuttle was destroyed. Maybe we should go the next Imperial base.” “Good idea.” “What was your mission?” “General Taskeen wanted that we bring her to him. He feared that she would have the same fate as my parents.”
“Ugh, not again.” Scootaloo woke up. She found herself in the troop carrier. “Don’t worry Scoots, you’re safe. This young Rebel trooper saved you.” “Kevin Ren, nice to meet you.” “Scootaloo.” “I just hope that Ian isn’t too worried. The shuttle was our only communication option with him.”
There was a sound of engines. “I know this sound. Y-wings! Get out, now!” Kevin shouted. He made it out in time with Scootaloo and Forren. The bombs killed the medics and destroyed the carrier.
Heavy troopers surrounded them, “Hands up, Imperial scum!” “Okay, just don’t shoot,” Forren surrendered. A Rebel trooper stunned him. “Good work, trooper. Now, let’s bring her to the evacuation point. After this, we retake Abridon.” Then there was the sound of a walker. “What the? Oh-oh. AT-STh! Run!”
The Rebels except for Kevin were too focused to save themselves. Kevin grabbed her and ran as fast as he could. Scootaloo screamed in fear as the AT-STh aimed his weapons at them. Then she felt great pain. She passed out from it.
“Captain, she’s regaining consciousness.” “Keep her restrained.” “Yes, Sir.”
Scootaloo awoke with a scream. She tried to move but to no avail. “Where am I?” She was scared. “Welcome on the Inquisitor. I am Owen Kenten, the Captain of this ship.” “Where’s Kevin?” “He was a traitor of the Empire. He was executed with the rest of the Rebels. And you shall meet the same fate.”
“Please don’t kill me,” Scootaloo pleaded. “Don’t waste my time, Rebel scum.” “Please I tell you everything I know.” Owen just looked cold-blooded at her. “I don’t negotiate with terrorists.” “The Rebels are planning to retake Abridon. I don’t know when but it is a very important goal for them.” “Grand general, did you hear that?” Owen asked via comlink.
“Indeed I did. I will send out spies to confirm the rumor. If the Story is true, we will provide Scootaloo, as the Rebel called her with a swift execution, instead of a long and painful death.” “But… but, I gave you good Information! Please don’t kill me!” Tears formed in her eyes. “Your Emperor thanks you for your cooperation. Send out the spies.”
The well-known breathing sound of Darth Vader filled the room. “Wait. I will deal with this one myself.” “Oh, Lord Vader. As you wish. She’s all yours.” Owen leaved respectful the room. Once he leaved the room, he felt short of breath, slightly tugging at his collar. Then he started choking. “You have failed me for the last time, Captain.” The breath and Voice of Lord Vader echoed in his head before he fell dead on the cold metal floor with a quiet crack sound.
“Please, Lord Vader, I beg you…” “Don’t worry, little one. I’m here to get you out of here.” He pushed a button. Scootaloo looked at it in fear. She relaxed as the button set her free.
Vader tried to forgot his past, but the filly reminded him when he was her age. “Thank you. Why are you helping me?” “You know, you’re reminding me when I was your age. I have lost many people that I loved. And you’re shall not meet the same fate I had.”
Her mane was messy and her coat was dirty, so he used the force to clean her. She was also breathing heavily. “Fate? Is this reason that you are wearing this armor?” “I had a terrible and painful accident in the past. I spare you with the details.” “O-Okay. I just hope that the probe droids are successful.” While they walked to the hanger bay, Vader sensed the fear in Scootaloo about seeing her family and friends never again.
Switching to old behavior, Vader just said, “I find your lack of faith disturbing. I will provide whatever you or the Stormy requires. And I won’t tell my master about this. You have my word.”
“Thank you, Lord Vader.” Vader also sensed that one probe droid was close to success. But he also felt a threat. He could not sense what kind of threat it was.
“Wait! What about Forren? I won’t go without him.” Scootaloo hoped that he was still alive. “He’s in a holding cell. Grand general Brashin wanted to interrogate him personally. But since you are a part of his family, I will get him out too. As long as my men are loyal and honest, I treat them well. And Forren is one of the most impressive and loyal Stormtroopers I have seen.”
Scootaloo feared the worst. “He’s a family man. His family is what is driving him. He has sworn to protect me with his life.”
Forren waited in his cell. He would be executed for working with a Rebel no doubt. But for some reason he could feel that Scootaloo was save. But he was ready to die. The door opened. “General?” “TK-1138, Forren Storm. I ask you: Why were you working with a Rebel? They’re traitors of the Empire. Where is your loyalty?”
Forren thought what he would say. He knew how cruel the Empire was towards non-humans and traitors. Images of torture flashed through his mind but he didn’t care anymore.
“I’m loyal to the Empire. My shuttle was shot down along with a Rebel transport. I and the Rebel trooper Kevin were the only survivors. Our only chance to survive was to work together.” “I believe you. Every word. But tell me, why are you so caring for that filly?” “I am a family man. When I found her, I promised her to help her to find her home. If I must die to protect her, so be it.” Since Brashins family was killed, he was a little impressed by Forrens actions.
“I make you an offer: I will ignore that you worked together with a Rebel. In return you will be now under my command and you will follow my orders.”
“And Scootaloo?” “Since you are wanted to do the right thing, I will abort her execution and will offer her and you not only immunity but also the rights as a citizen of the Empire. You can be proud of your service again. And she can be living as daughter of a proud Soldier of the Empire. Sounds this fair?”
Lord Vader walked in before Forren could give an answer. “Lord Vader, I was about to make him an offer.” “And that is?” “If he agrees to work for me, I give him and her immunity and she can live as a citizen of the Empire with all rights like a human.” “A good offer indeed. But I don’t think he can agree, since the Emperor wants to speak you on Coruscant because of your failure at Trasse.” “As the Emperor wish.” Brashin bowed respectfully and leaved for the bridge.
“Lord Vader, I accept the offer. As long as Scootaloo is safe, I will serve the Empire.” “Tell me, why were you lying to me?” “To protect her from any harm. She’s too young to die or end up as slave.” Forren expected that Vader would kill him personally. But he was just looking. “TK-1138, you’re one of the most loyal and most impressive Stormtroopers I have seen. And when I said that she hit me where I lived, I really meant it. You served the Emperor and the Empire well. And if your wish is to bring Scootaloo home, so be it. You have my full support.” “My lord?” Forren was surprised. “Yes?” “Thank you.” He bowed. “I hope Brashin holds his word.” “Don’t worry; I already took care of that.” “Forren!” Scootaloo ran in to hug him. “Scootaloo!” Forren cried tears of Joy.
“I sense the force is strong in you. You are force sensitive.” Lord Vader watched the happy moment.
“I am? Guess that was the reason why I felt that you are safe.” “Let’s go back to the Stormy. Ian and his crew must be worried sick about us.” Vader felt something he had not felt since… forever. Happiness. “And my lord?” Scootaloo bowed respectfully.
“Yes, young one?” “Thank you for saving and helping me.” Vader could feel that his heart was melting as she hugged his leg. For a short moment, all his hate was gone. “You’re welcome. And may the force be with you.” He rubbed her hair and leaved.
“Let’s go, shall we?” Scootaloo smiled at Forren, happy to see him again. “Yes, Scoots.”
A Shuttle brought them to the Stormy. Ian expected them already. “Hello again Scootaloo. Lord Vader has already informed me about his support. The Victory Star Destroyer Vampire is waiting for us at nav. Buoy B-0F9.” “What are we waiting for?” “Not so fast kid. The rendezvous point was the site of a recent Rebel attack. The Rebels don’t usually hit the same spot twice in a row, but we should prepare for everything.” “I understand.” Scootaloo knew how important her safety was for the Stormy.
She followed Ian to the bridge with Forren. The Stormy came out of Hyperspace. The Vampire could be seen in the distance, but was closing in alarming fast. “Vampire, this is the Stormy. Are you ready to join us?” “This is the Vampire. Our navigation system has a malfunction!” The captain of the Vampire responded. “They are on collision course! Brace for impact!” A crewmember shouted.
“Scootaloo, hold on tight.” Forren knew what Ian would do now.
“Take evasive action!” An alert started. Scootaloo lost her balance but Forren grabbed her with one hand while he held himself with the other. Ian looked out of the window with Scootaloo and Forren. The Vampire flew by and came to a stop. “Sorry about that. But the malfunction is corrected.” The Vampire reported.
“It’s alright,” Ian responded. “Sir! Our sensors detecting a Pirate fleet coming out of Hyperspace! I also detect a large ion cannon minefield!” “It’s a trap! Call for reinforcements immediately!” “The pirates are jamming our communication! We are on our own! But we still can contact the Vampire.”
“What have the pirates?” “A Lorinar Strike Cruiser and several R-41 Starchaser and troop transports." “Launch all TIEs! Do not allow the transports to board us!” “Yes Captain!” “Forren, Scootaloo, you two stay on the bridge since she is heavily guarded.” “Yes, Sir. Don’t worry Scootaloo, this Pirate scum won’t get you.” He patted her. “I hope you’re right.” She was a little scared.
All TIEs were launched. The R-41 Starchaser fighters were no problem for the TIE-fighters as the pirates were poorly trained and the fighters had a weak hull and shields. The TIE-bombers took care of the cruiser and the transports before they came too close to the Stormy or the Vampire. “Sir! More troop transports coming out of Hyperspace! They come from behind!”
This was bad. The TIEs were already busy with the pirates In front of the two Star Destroyers. Even if Ian would inform them, they could never reach the other transports in time.
“Hostile boarding parties on all decks!” A Stormtrooper reported.
“Seal off the bridge!” “Yes, Sir!”
Scootaloo trembled in fear while the Security personal prepared for a fight. Ian switched the controls to a backup-bridge. Forren told Scootaloo to hide as the lift was about to open. As soon as the lift opened, a smoke grenade was thrown by a pirate. Forren was the only Stormtrooper on the bridge. Before he could react, a pirate stunned him, but he was still conscious. Ian was a skilled fighter and so were the bridge personal and the Security personal. But the pirates overran them with stun shots. “Search the filly!” A pirate shouted. Scootaloo cowered in fear behind a console.
She screamed in fear as one of the pirates grabbed her. Forren tried to stand up but the pain kept him from doing it. He watched helplessly as Scootaloo was brought away.
The TIEs already noticed what was going on but it was too late. They managed to destroy the pirate forces, the minefield and the transports, but they couldn’t disable the transports that came from behind as the pirates used a Jammer to prevent them from finding out on which transport Scootaloo was.
Scootaloo was thrown into a dirty cell. She was scared and cried the entire time. She called out for her mother, her father even Rainbow Dash. A man walked in. “You must be Scootaloo. Allow me to introduce myself: Bando Cleeze leader of the Rneekii pirates.” “P-please, mister Bando don’t hurt me,” Scootaloo begged with sobs.
“Don’t worry, little one. I have plans for you. A little ransom should be enough. I’m sure the Empire will pay a lot of credits for you. Maybe even the Rebellion or Admiral Zaarin too.” He laughed evil as he left. Scootaloo cried herself to sleep.
A few Days passed. The Stormy and the Vampire recovered from the attack. Forren feared the worst. He couldn’t sense where Scootaloo was but could sense her fear.
“TK-1138, THX-421 and TK-115 report on the bridge,” Ian ordered via intercom.
TK-115 real name Varn Langley, one was of the best pilots on the Stormy. Like the rest of the crew, he had sympathy for the filly. He was rarely seen without helmet.
“TK-115, THX-421 and TK-1138 reporting.” “Listen carefully. The Rneekii pirates are ransoming Scootaloo to us at a rendezvous point near Kiilimaar. We have agreed to their conditions: an unarmed shuttle will exchange the ransom for the hostage.
We’re permitting one Starfighter escort and you have been selected. You will fly Assault Gunboat Mu 1.
The transfer has been worked out in detail. At the moment it is concluded we have a surprise planned.
The interdictor cruiser Red Claw will arrive precisely 90 seconds after mission start to trap the pirates.
Your primary task will be to disable their transport, than any fighters threating the shuttle.
Red Claw will be accompanied by a pair of ATRs. The cruiser will also launch its own fighters.
Your will be exposed and alone at first and it will be your responsibility to safeguard Shuttle Lambda 1.
You will receive the radio message ‘Full speed to Equestria!’ as your signal to begin the attack. Any Questions, pilot?”
“What is the objective of this mission?” “To recover the filly. As you know she was captured by the Rneekii pirates using an ion cannon minefield. They sought her to the highest bidder. Not surprisingly, the Empire was the highest bidder. What will be a surprise is our plan for the pirates once filly is secure aboard our shuttle! You play a crucial role in the coming mission. It will be your task to disable the pirates transport so the ransom may be recovered. Then you will escort the shuttle to safety aboard the interdictor cruiser Red Claw.”
“What craft I will be flying?”
“You will fly Assault Gunboat Mu 1. 90 seconds after you come out of hyperspace, the interdictor cruiser Red Claw will arrive to trap the pirates. Red Claw will have six TIE-bombers and six TIE-interceptors. A pair of Assault transports (Omega) will accompany the cruiser. For this mission your craft is armed with the standard load of 16 advanced concussion missiles. Also, you will have the new, improved tractor beam.”
“What opposition will there be?”
“Since we destroyed their fleet as they captured the filly, they have only one Lorinar class Strike Cruiser is left. It is capable of carrying one squadron of Starfighters. The Starfighters are R-41 Starchasers, similar in most respects to the Z-95 Headhunter. According to their ransoms demands, five R-41s will escort the transport carrying the filly.”
“That is enough for now, sir. And Forren?” “Yes?” “I promise I will bring her back to you. If the pirates harmed only one hair of her, they will feel the revenge of the Empire.”
With that Varn leaved for the hanger bay. The Assault Gunboat was a strong and beautiful ship to fly, but Varn preferred the normal TIE-fighter most of the time he was flying.
He leaved the hanger bay and jumped into Hyperspace.
Scootaloo was now the hostage of the pirates for a few Days. They gave her water and bread, but she was scared to death and was crying without end. Her eyes were already red from it. She just wanted that this nightmare came to an end.
“Stop crying, you little baby. You should be glad. The Empire is ready to pay for your freedom. Soon, you will be together with the Empire.” Bando turned to two of his men. “Get her into a transport.” “Yes, sir!” They grabbed her and dragged her to the hanger bay of the cruiser.
Varn maintained his position until the shuttle had docked with the transport.
Once it was complete the signal came. “Full speed to Equestria!”
He had the ion cannon charged and fired. Red Claw was in position. “Imperial scum! Your treachery will be your undoing!” A pirate shouted via comlink.
Varn had no problems to destroy the fighters just like last time at the trap. The other TIEs launched from the Red Claw.
“This is ATR Omega 1, we move in to capture.” “The only good pirate is a dead pirate, eh, Mu 1?” “Yes Mu 2 it is.”
He continued to destroy the R-41s. “Another hostile force has dropped out of hyperspace!” It consisted of 4 Y-wings, 4 T-wings and a Corellian Transport.
Varn destroyed the rest of the R-41s. Then he attacked the Y and T-wings. He was a member of the Secret order of the Emperor. He had order to disable the transport so it could be captured.
“Mu1, mission critical craft under attack.” The T-wings attacked the fighters while the Y-wings attacked the shuttle. “Mu 1, mission critical craft shields down. Mu 1, mission critical craft disabled.” “Shuttle Lambda 1 is disabled. Storm transporter Omega 2 will assist.
Seeing the battle and the ruse of the Imperials filled Scootaloo with hope. Her eyes, despite her fear, her eyes were wide, as she had never seen such a battle before. The shuttle rumbled and emergency lights went on as the power cut out. Only the red lights provided light. “They disabled us! Don’t worry Scootaloo, we protect you!” one of the shuttle pilots gave her an assuring smile. She returned it weak, yet looked scared out of the window as the Corelian transport came closer.
Varn destroyed the T and Y-wings until the Corelian transport docked with the shuttle.
The door was cut open and hostile pirates stormed the shuttle. They overran the crew. “Please don’t hurt me!” the filly begged, cowering. “Don’t worry, we have plans for you.” One of the hostiles smiled evil at her. “They disabled our transport!” one of the others reported. “If we can’t have her, then nobody should have her!” the pirate aimed his blaster at her. “No, please, don’t kill me!” Before they could harm her, a stun shot stunned him and Stormtroopers surrounded the other pirates. “Drop your weapons!” one imperial shouted and they obeyed. “End of the line for you. Calm down my dear, it’s over now. You’re safe.” The commander gave her his hand as they got into Omega 2.
Varn disabled it with the ion cannon. “Don’t destroy the Corelian Transport, Captain Ian wants prisoners!”
Now it was time to destroy the cruiser. The cruiser was already weakened by the bombers so it was no problem to destroy it. Shields are failing!” a crewmember reported. “Fire and take them with us!” Cleeze ordered, not accepting defeat. The cruiser rumbled from the hits. “Imperials, this isn’t over!” He shouted on his comlink. The Assault Gunboat aimed at the bridge. “I beg to differ.” Varn fired and the shields were down, the cruiser was heavily damaged. “Sir, the enemy ship is heavily damaged.” A Bridge crew member reported to the captain of the Red Claw. “Excellent. Fire on my command.” The Imperial gunners took aim. The captain stretched his arm out. “Fire.” The fire of the interdictor was too much for the Lorinar class Strike Cruiser. As the circuits overloaded, Cleeze let out a angry scream before the cruiser exploded, killing him. Scootaloo looked in awe and shock at the exploding pirate cruiser. An imperial petted her with a satisfied smile. “Remember this, Scootaloo. As Grand Admiral Thrawn would say: Thus is the fate of enemies of the Empire. And everyone who dares to harm you.” She just let out a breath of relief, glad it was over.
“This is Omega 2 commencing capture operation.” Omega 2 docked with the Corelian transport. “Capture operation complete.” Then Varn gave Omega 2 escort until he reached the Red Claw.
“Outstanding, Mu 1, quite a bonus for our little trap. Two for the price of one, eh?”
Varn returned to the Red Claw. On the bridge he asked the Captain, “What have I accomplished?”
“You have ensured the return to the Empire of an extremely important citizen. At the same time, you played a major role in subduing a renegade band of pirates. Congratulations, that’s what this job is all about! Of mixed blessing was the simultaneous trapping of a rival pirate gang led by the crime lord Tarrak. Her forces did some heavy damage to the Red Claw, taking out the cruiser’s hyperdrive. The interdictor is stranded here until a new hyperdrive can be delivered.”
Then Varn talked to a member of the secret order. “Your quick response to the arrival of the Nami raider group ensured the capture of a Corelian transport. Unfortunately, Tarrak was not on board. The good news is that several prisoners were taken and interrogation should reveal the location of their base.” Varn was happy. The mission was a success and Scootaloo was safe. For now.
Varn reported for his next mission. “The interdictor cruiser was badly damaged during our last battle with the pirates. M/CRV Chemeti will deliver replacement parts and pick up the filly and our pirate prisoners. You will fly a barrier patrol around the Red Claw and the corvettes while the docking operations are done. Then you must ensure that the filly is safety evacuated out of the area. You will be assisted by the remaining TIE-bombers and TIE-interceptors from INT Red Claw. The Stormy and the Vampire are en route to come to Red Claw’s aid. They will arrive in 30 minutes. Any Questions?”
What is the objective of this mission?”
“To protect the Red Claw while a pair of modified corvettes from Chemeti squadron picks up the filly and prisoners captured during your last mission. Critical replacements parts for the interdictor’s hyperdrive are being delivered by the corvettes as well. The filly’s safety is of paramount importance, though, and you are to ensure a safe transfer.”
“What craft will I be flying?”
“You will fly Assault Gunboat Nu 1. For this mission your craft is armed with the standard load of 16 advanced concussion missiles. Also, you will have the new, improved tractor beam. Red Claw’s last six TIEs will be on patrol and four more Gunboats from Tau Squadron are due to arrive soon.”
“What opposition will there be?”
“The Rneekii Pirates have all been captured or killed but Tarrak’s group may attempt to rescue. We’ve learned from our captives that the pirates had also negotiated with Zaarin for the filly’s ransom. This suggests that Zaarin may have information concerning the deal we made… maybe even its location! It is possible that the pirates may have been planning some sort of deception of their own involving Admiral Zaarin! We may have not much time before he sends an attack force to this location. As you well know, the greatest threat would be from any TIE-Defenders. In such a circumstance, do your best to protect the corvette that is picking up the filly and escort it to safety.”
“That is enough for now, sir.” Varn leaved again for the hanger bay. The TIE-Defender was one of the best Starfighters of the TIE-series and a serious opponent. Still Varn had destroyed many of Zaarins TIEs in combat.
In space, Varn was on patrol. Chemeti 1 leaved hyperspace. “Chemeti 1 here, Chemeti 2 has been delayed.” “Very well Chemeti 1, proceed to pick up,” The captain of the Red Claw said.
Suddenly 3 TIE-Defenders came out of Hyperspace. Varn went to intercept. He went behind them, activated the tractor beam and fired advanced proton torpedoes at them. All 3 were destroyed.
Then Varn intercepted the TIE-Defenders that were attacking the Red Claw. While this battle, Chemeti 1 had docked with Red Claw. After a short battle the docking operation was complete.
Varn had destroyed all TIE-Defenders with the rest of his comrades.
A Utility Tug reloaded Varns Gunboat. Chemeti 1 had entered Hyperspace.
Chemeti 2 came out of Hyperspace along with… Chemeti 1? Something was wrong. Varn knew that after he saw Chemeti 1 again.
“Chemeti here, what is your status Red Claw?” “Zaarin just hit us with a strike force of TIE-Defenders! And Chemeti 1 was just here! It had your exact IFF code!” “Chemeti to Red Claw, we have your Hyperdrive, but… …perhaps you should prepare to abandon ship?” “Enemy strike cruiser is preparing to launch Starfighters! No Sir, we’ll remain with our ship a while longer, thank you!” “Very well, let’s get your drive working then!”
The strike cruiser launched multiple TIE-Advanced. Varn destroyed a missile that was fired at him. Then he took out the TIE-Advanced with the tractor beam and torpedoes while requesting resupplying.
After he was resupplied, he attacked the cruiser along with the other Gunboats.
“We’ll try to get Red Claw’s hyperdrive working right away.” After this message Chemeti 2 entered hyperspace meaning that Varns primary mission objectives were completed.
Varn disabled the cruiser with the ion cannon then fired at the cruiser with his laser cannons and torpedoes until it was destroyed. Varn reported to Ian after the battle was over.
“What have I accomplished?”
“You succeeded in seeing the filly to safety. Unfortunately, it was on the wrong ship! We were the victims of a skillful deception that could only have been accomplished by Zaarin or his henchmen. The strike force you defeated must have been intended primary as a distraction. In the heat of the battle, it kept us from looking too closely at the ship that took the filly. Your role in saving the Red Claw from destruction will probably save you from the wrath of Lord Vader. The captain of the Red Claw will not be so lucky.”
“I knew it! After I saw the Chemeti 1 for the second time, I know that something was wrong!” Varn looked at Forren with a guilty expression. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t save her.”
“You did what you could. I just want to know if the captain of the Red Claw was careless or just stupid.”
Lord Vader entered the bridge. “My lord?” Ian bowed respectfully while Forren, Tokrin and Varn stood at attention.
“Rise captain. We maybe lost the filly but you’re still hit the traitor Zaarin hard. Those pirates can’t run forever. I feel soon, they will see the military power of the Empire. You will dispatch probe droids to any known location of pirate and Zaarins activity.” “Yes, my lord.”
“Varn, Admiral Thrawn has created a new Starfighter. The Missile Boat. You have the honor to fly it in future battles. With that, we will crush the Rebels and the pirates and make examples of them.”
"Thank you, my lord. I will report to the combat chamber.” He leaved respectfully.
“I will deal with the Captain of the Red Claw myself.” Vader also leaved. Ian, Forren and Tokrin knew that the Captain of the Red Claw wouldn’t survive this.
“Oh, before I forget, I have a surprise for you Forren.” Vader turned to him before finally leaving.
“Daddy!” Ray ran to him and hugged him tightly. “Ray? But I thought you died!” He cried tears of joy. “No, my dear, husband. We were arrested by Coruscant-guards and interrogated by the Imperial Security Bureau. They thought we were Rebels that lived undercover on Coruscant. It was just a misunderstanding. After I thought we would never get out of this alive, Lord Vader pardoned us as reward for your loyalty and service to him and the Empire.”
“Miro! They said you died when a short circuit set the house on fire.” “This was a lie. They arrested us because of Scootaloo. But Lord Vader said she needs us now more than ever. We were told that she was kidnapped by pirates.” Forren kissed his wife.
“I’m honored to have you as guests on my ship and hope that you will enjoy your stay on my ship.” Ian gave her a kiss on the hand. “Tokrin, would you so nice and bring them to their rooms?” “Yes, Sir. It is a pleasure for me. You old charmer.” He joked.
But the crew of the Stormy knew she had to be strong for Scootaloo. But all had the same thought: If the pirates, Zaarin or the Rebels would harm Scootaloo, then the Stormy would strike with everything she had, merciless.
Scootaloo was even more scared. At first, she thought she was safe, but when she noticed that it the transport was an imposter, she feared even more for her life. She was thrown into a cell. Zaarin walked in. “And you must be Scootaloo.” He was a human with blue eyes and brown hair, wearing the white uniform of an imperial Grand Admiral, looking at the scared child with a evil or more, ominous expression. “Please don’t kill me, I don’t want to die.” Zaarin just looked emotionless at her. “You’re no use to me dead. Still, we have a matter to discuss.” An interrogation droid was flying in. Scootaloo looked at it in fear and backed up against the wall. “Please, no, I don’t know anything,” She pleaded as she saw the giant needle on the droid. "We shall see." Zaarin replied cold and emotionless. The door closed and an officer went on his post as her screams could be heard.
Forren told his wife and son that he was force sensitive as he felt a Disturbance in the Force so he had to sit down. “Daddy, what’s wrong?” Ray asked worried.
“I felt a Disturbance in the Force. Something terrible has happened. It’s Scootaloo, she’s… being tortured! I can feel her pain and fear.” “Who would do something terrible like this to a child?” Miro was worried about her.
“I sense… Admiral Zaarin! This traitor! IF HE HARMS HER THAN I SWEAR TO THE EMPEROR…”
Ray hugged him to calm his father down. “Calm down Daddy, please. Anger is not good for you.” Forren calmed down. “Sorry my son, it’s just, I can’t forgive myself if she gets hurt.”
“I know how much you are caring for her. So I do. I wouldn’t even mind if she would call me her mother.” “She’s already like a sister for me, mom.” “And for me, it would be alright if she calls me Daddy.” Forren hugged his Son and wife.
The Missile Boat was successful in battle against Rebel and Pirate forces. Varn liked the Missile Boat. Although it had no ion cannon like the Assault Gunboat, it was still a serious enemy.
Zaarin was talking with one of his officers. “Report on the interrogation.” “Admiral Zaarin, it seems that the filly does not know about anything about the plans of the Empire to stop us.” “Is it possible, she does not know of the Empire operations against us?”
“Sir, it seems that she was only at the wrong place at the wrong time. Should we let her go then?” “No. Even if she is just an innocent civilian, we can’t let her go. With her, we have a hostage we can use against the Empire, in case it attacks us again. Handle her over to Tarrak. She will know what to do.” “Yes, Sir!”
Scootaloo was crying so much that she was coughing and urging by now. Her nose was bleeding and her rips were broken by the Interrogation, as not only the droid tortured her but also by some of Zaarin's men who beat and slapped her.
The door opened again. This time, a female Nami walked in. “Stop crying. Allow me to introduce myself: Ali Tarrak leader of the Nami. You’re coming with me.”
Scootaloo just cried more. “Pl-please let me go, I- I just want to go home.” She had to cough. “I’m afraid; I can’t do this, little one. I need you in case the Empire attacks me.” Tarrack gave emotionless two of her men a sign to bring her to the TIE-Defender Factory.
At the factory, she was thrown into a cell. The pain was so great that she couldn’t move. “You poor kid. You don’t deserve something like this.” She looked up. A Man in a Lab Coat tried to comfort her, “I’m the lead scientist of the TIE-Defender project.”
“Sco-Scootaloo.” She replied with a shaken voice that was in pain. “Shh, I am here for you.” He hugged her and patted her to comfort her. She cried herself to sleep. “Don’t worry, I protect you. The Empire will soon find this place. I can feel it,” The Scientist whispered in her ear. Some guards had a conversation.
“One of the Stormtroopers said to me it felt like the droid has been torturing that child for hours in the cell, she still repeated that she didn’t know anything” “I know. Never seen anything like that. Everyone crumbles to this droids.” “What if she actually doesn’t know anything?” “Well, then she should pray that Zaarin spares her. I know what this droid is capable of. I’ve seen it. He can drag out the pain forever without actually killing a victim. I feel sorry for her.” "Me too.”
Tarrack was talking with Zaarin. “Since you do not have any Factories for the TIE-Defender, I will produce them for you.” "Very good Tarrack. But I am still concerned about this new Imperial Starfighter Thrawn has made.” “Don’t worry; with the help of the Rebels, we will defeat the Emperor and Thrawn.”
“This was never a condition of our agreement.” “I am altering the deal. Pray I don't alter it any further. Besides, I still have something to do.” She leaved.
“Sir, should we stop her?” “No Commander. She’s a great leader and her forces are loyal and well trained. A fight against her would be our doom, as she has now TIE-Defenders in her arsenal. It is better to let her do her part. We have better things to do then fighting pirates. I hate the rebels as much as the Emperor but still this has maybe some advantage for us. Prepare my shuttle.” “Yes. Sir.”
The Scientist had sympathy with Scootaloo. He understands why he was kidnapped by Zaarins forces and brought to Tarrack, but he could not understand what was so important about her. Still, he comforted Scootaloo as well as he could. He wasn’t a doctor but was glad that Scootaloo injuries were nothing serious.
“Scientist! Time for work!” a guard shouted. The Scientist hated it to leave Scootaloo but he had to do it if he wanted to live. If he would refuse, Tarrack would probably hurt or kill Scootaloo. And that was one thing he had to avoid at all costs.
He shared his food with Scootaloo. “Here, for you. So you stay strong.” It was just water and bread but better than nothing. He was important for the Empire but for him, was nothing more important right now than keeping the filly alive.
He even tried to hum lullabies for her to calm her down and shared his bed with her. If it was necessary he slept on the floor, while she slept in the warm bed.
He lost time, so he didn’t know how long he was in captivity of Tarrack. Still, his faith that the Empire would find him and her was unbroken. It was what kept him alive.
But one Day, he was transferred to another cell. He prayed for her safety.
Scootaloo was alone again. The pain did not get better. Every breath hurt as the Scientist couldn’t help her, as he had no medical supplies and the Nami guarded them well.
Suddenly Tarrack walked in. Scootaloo crawled backwards against the wall as she saw a knife in Tarrack's hand. “P-please don’t hurt me. I-I don’t want to die,” She pleaded.
“Sorry Scootaloo, but I have to send a message to the Empire. I will make this as quick and painless as possible.” The door closed. Tarrack would give her an anesthetic or painkillers if she had one, but only Zaarin had this and he had leaved long ago. Painful screams could be hurt.
Forren played with his son as he felt a disturbance in the Force again. It was so great that he lost consciousness. “Daddy! Mommy, come quick!” Ray was worried about his father.
Miro ran in, Lord Vader and Tokrin by her side. ”Forren! We must get him to the infirmary!” Forren woke up in the infirmary.
“I feel like I was hit by a stunner.” “Daddy, you’re awake!” His Son embraced him in a hug.
“What happened, Forren?” “Miro, there was a great Disturbance in the Force.” “I felt it,” Vader added. “What did you feel daddy?” “I sensed… Scootaloo. She’s in pain. Great pain. Tarrack.” “I sense that Tarrack is hurting her. Wherever she goes, the pain of her prisoners follows. But since we’re close to finding her base, I will deal with her myself, once we have found it.” Even Vader liked her but refused it to admit it. His master was not allowed to know about it. But Miro, Forren and Ray hoped every day that Scootaloo was still alive.
Another Day passed. Forren was talking with Ian and Tokrin when he saw a box in the hands of an officer. “A package for you, Forren.” “I’m busy can you give it to my wife?” “Of course.” “Did you or your wife order something?” “No Tokrin.” “Perhaps a gift from an old friend?” “No Ian this can’t be either as all my friends I have, are on the Stormy.”
Suddenly, there was an ear shattering scream. It came out of Miros and Rays room. Along with some other Stormtroopers, Forren, Ian and Tokrin had their weapons drawn. Even Vader joined them.
Miro and Ray were in shock. Miro had embraced her son in a hug while he cried. “What’s wrong?” “Da-daddy…” Ray sobbed and pointed to the box.
In it was some orange feathers and a cut-off wing covered in blood. One Stormtrooper had to throw up while two other passed out from the horrible sight.
“Tarrack cut off her wing… SHE CUT OFF HER WING! TARRAK YOU CROSSED THE LINE! NOW IT’S PERSONALLY!” Forren screamed at the top of his lungs. Vader could sense the anger in Forren but also fear.
“Sir! We have found the factory,” An officer reported. “Oh my... I mean inform the crew. I will lead this attack personally.” “Yes, Sir.” Ian recovered from the shock. Vader used the Force to calm Forren down. Sure, Anger was a part of the dark side, but it hurt Vader to see it as it remembered him when Padme died and he was in anger.
“Th-thank you, my lord.” Forren was a little embarrassed. “Anger is a part of the dark side of the Force but too much anger can even destroy a Sith. The Emperor wishes to capture Tarrak alive. She’s going to offer the opportunity to serve the Emperor as we all do. Still, if she should refuse, I will make her pay for what she did to Scootaloo.”
“Yes, my lord.” Ian just wanted to make her pay but couldn’t refuse a direct order from Darth Vader or the Emperor himself. Ian instructed Varn of his next mission.
“This mission will demand advanced assault tactics using the dual warhead of the Missile Boat. The target is Tarrak’s TIE-Defender manufacturing facility, cargo containers and all craft in the area. The facility’s anti-warhead system is augmented with a large Type-C minefield. Tarrak’s forces are loyal, well trained, and now very well equipped with TIE-Defenders, T-wings and Y-wings. I will lead this attack personally with my ship, the Imperial Star Destroyer Stormy. TIE-interceptor groups Alpha and Gamma will engage the Starfighter defenses and protect Stormy. Missile Boat Mu 1 will eliminate the factory defenses to clear the way for TIE-Bomber Beta’s attack. For the greater glory of the Empire… DESTROY EVERYTHING!”
“What is the objective of this mission?” “To wipe out the deep space manufacturing facility that Tarrak has built for production of the TIE-Defender. The Empire cannot allow such a threat to exist, even in the Outer Rim Territories. You will play a critical role in penetrating the factory’s defenses to enable a rocket attack by TIE-Bombers.”
“What craft will I be flying?” “You will fly Missile Boat Mu 1 (MIS Mu 1) out of ISD Stormy. T/I Alpha and Gamma have already engaged the perimeter defense fighters. Once the T-wings have been eliminated, the interceptors will be in position to pounce on the flight of Y-wings that are preparing an attack on the Stormy. For this mission your craft is armed with a secondary load of 40 advanced Concussion missiles in addition to the standard missile load, a total of 80 missiles! Also, you will have the new improved tractor beam.”
What opposition will there be?”
“The deep space facility you are going to attack possesses defensive armament consisting of 12 twin turbo lasers and an advanced anti-warhead system. There are two arrays of Type C mines, one above and one below the factory. These are very nasty as they launch a missile of their own when destroyed. Every time you take one out, it will launch a missile at you! There are also a half dozen TIE-Defenders. Though currently inactive, they are prepped for combat and you can assume that they will enter the battle within moments. You’ll have to use your overdrive if you want to catch them unawares!”
“That is enough for now, sir.” Varn spoke with the member of the secret order before he got to the hanger bay.
“Tarrak has attracted the interest of Emperor Palpatine. He wishes to capture her alive. She’s going to offer the opportunity to serve the Emperor as we do. When the factory’s shields fail, she will attempt to escape. You will need to assist GUN Tau in stopping her craft. You don’t have an ion cannon, but you can reduce her ship’s shields, making it easier for GUN Tau to disable! And don’t worry about the filly. General Brashin could convince the Emperor to let her alive as she helped to capture rebels and pirates. He gives her the full citizenship and all the rights that come with it. Since her home world is probably in the Outer Rim, he is not interested in that. She shall see the Empire as a force for peace and order.”
Varn let out a sigh of relief and took off with his ship.
“Today we write a new legend for star fighter pilots.” “Engage the overdrive and accelerate past those T-wings!” “We will get you out of there Scootaloo, I promise you that,” Varn talked to himself as he engaged the overdrive.
“Try to take out the TIE-Defenders while they’re inactive.”
The TIE-interceptors had no problems to take out the T-wings. The explosions and the remains of the T-wings were pure Bliss for the imperial pilots. “Mu 1, don’t forget to take out the factory’s warhead launcher.”
After the T-wings were destroyed, the TIE-interceptors took out the Y-wings, while Varn took out the still inactive TIE-Defenders. It always filled the TIE-pilot with satisfaction, seeing an enemy TIE-Defender exploding.
Then he took out the mines. Even for him, it was difficult to avoid the missiles.
“Half of the mines are cleared. Keep going, Mu 1!” Varn destroyed every container he could find. Then he continued to clear the mines.
Then the TIE-bombers started their bombing run. They quickly took out the shields, the station was rumbling from it. A Corelian Transport fled from the factory. “Mu 1, stop Corelian Transport Dhoora from getting away!” Varn opened fire on the Transport. He fired until the shields of the transport were at 40%.
“Imperials, stay back or your precious filly and scientist will die!” The pilot of the Transport, Tarrack said on the comlink channel.
“Then you will die as well, Tarrak! Continue, Mu 1,” Ian ordered as he knew that Tarrack was lying, knowing that Scootaloo’s death would make everything worse for her. Varn fired until the shields were down. Then he leaved it to the Gunboats. A Utility Tug reloaded the Missile Boat. Suddenly, several X-wings and A-wings along with two Strike cruisers entered the area.
Varn engaged the X and A-wings. As in the battles before, they were no match for the Missile Boat, but still had to activate the tractor beam to hit the A-wings. As Varn had one A-wing in his sight, he said, “I have you now.” After a few hits, the rebel’s shield gave out and he died in the explosion of his fighter.
After all fighters were destroyed, the TIE-Bombers that had destroyed the factory attacked with Varn the two strike cruisers. “Out! Everyone evacuate!” The rebel crews tried to get to the escape pods in vail, as the wave of fire caught them. After they were destroyed, the Stormtrooper transport reported the capture of the Corelian Transport.
“Outstanding, Mu 1. The Emperor will be very pleased! Return to the Stormy,” Ian ordered, smiling at the destroyed rebel and pirate ships. “Another victory for the Empire. I just hope that Scootaloo is alright.” Varn thought as he returned to the Stormy.
Varn, along with Ian, Vader, Forren and his family waited in the hanger bay for the Stormtrooper transport. Medics were also standing by. Tarrak came with two Stormtroopers came out. “Ali Tarrak, the Emperor is looking forward to meet you. Throw her into a cell until my ship arrives.” “Yes, lord Vader.” Tarrack had her eyes downcast, showing no emotion, no fear, no regrets for hurting the child, nothing. But the dark lord could sense her fear, despite her best efforts not to show it.
Then the scientist came out. “Thank you for the rescue. I will begin to work as soon as possible.” “Is Scootaloo alright?” Ray asked worried. “She’s not looking good, kid.”
A Stormtrooper carried the crying filly in his arms. Her right wing was gone. “I managed to treat the wound hastily. Had to improvise.” The scientist looked at her with sympathy.
The Stormtrooper gave the filly to Miro. “Mo-mommy…” “Shh, it’s over, you’re safe now.” She rocks her gently. “Da-daddy…” “I’m here Scootaloo, we all are.” Forren comforted her. He and Vader could sense her injures.
“Mrs. Storm, can I hold her for a few minutes?” Miro knew she could trust Vader. As he was holding Scootaloo, he was using Force-healing to heal her injures. Force-healing was a very useful ability as the mind trick in many situations. As he healed her, he and the others could see Scootaloo’s life in a dream-like sequence. As Vader saw how skilled she was on the scooter, he was impressed. “Impressive, most impressive.” It reminded him when he was podracing. And for a filly of her age, it was very impressive how skilled she was on the scooter.
After she was healed, he gave her back to Miro. “It was… so h-h-horrible! Th-they to- tortured and be-beat me!” Scootaloo was traumatized. “Shh, calm down.” Miro rocks her again and hummed a lullaby. Scootaloo cried herself to sleep.
“I will bring her into bed.” Miro said quietly and leaved with Ray. “Poor kid. She doesn’t deserve this. I feel bad about her wing.” Forren felt guilty. “Don’t worry, Soldier. It is new for us, but I’m sure, we can replace her lost wing with a prosthesis. I will inform the Medi-droid.” Ian walked to the infirmary while Forren looked after Scootaloo.
Vader wanted to talk with Tarrak. Varn talked with the member of the secret order. “You enabled the capture of the Nami leader Tarrack. The Emperor will be very pleased. He is looking forward to meeting his new servant. The Emperor sends also his condolences and wishes Scootaloo a quick recovery. I know you want that Tarrak pays for what she did to Scootaloo but I’m assuring you, that Tarrak will suffer for that.”
Miro gently tucked Scootaloo in her bed. “Sweet dreams, little one.” Scootaloo hugged her plushie tightly. “Mommy, is she going to be alright?” “Yes sweetie, she will.” Forren looked worried at her. Miro and Rays room was just next to Scootaloo's room. Forren was allowed to sleep with them.
In the night, they awoke by a scream. Miro got up and ran to Scootaloo. She was crying and breathed heavily. “Scootaloo, did you have a nightmare?” “Y-yes mommy.” Miro and scooped the filly in her arms. “Shh, it was just a dream. You can sleep with us.”
Forren smiled sadly at Scootaloo. But she was asleep in Miro’s arms. “Goodnight, little sister.” Ray whispered in her ear.
At the morning, Forren stretched himself. Just like everybody else, he wore his armor while he was sleeping but without the helmet. It was just too uncomfortable for him to wear the helmet while sleeping. He had to smile. His wife was still asleep and so were Ray and Scootaloo. Scootaloo was hugged by Miro in her sleep. Scootaloo hugged her plushie in her sleep. Ray did the same.
Forren went to the canteen for Breakfast. “Good morning, Forren.” “Good morning, Ian.” “I have good news for you and Scootaloo. We managed to make a prosthesis as replacement for her wing. Also, we were able to produce synth flesh that is very similar to her fur. Still is it her choice if she wants it.” “Glad to hear it. I will ask her.”
Forren went back to her room. He heard her crying. She was in her own room, looking out of the window, then to the bandage where her wing had been. “Scootaloo, are you alright?” “I just miss my family. That’s all.” Forren sat down to her. “Listen, Scootaloo, I’m sorry for what happened to you. But we all are you for you.”
Scootaloo let out a sigh, “You know, I was bullied in school because I wasn’t able to fly. I can’t do it until today. Now, I will be never able to fly! But that’s exactly what every Pegasus pony should do! Now I’m handicapped forever! I can’t make my friends, my sister or my parents proud!” She broke down. Forren just hugged her.
“Shh, I can understand your fear. But don’t worry, we have already a solution.” Scootaloo sniffed, “Really, you have?” “Yes. Did you have read about prostheses?” “Yes I have.” Then she got it, “You mean you can replace my wing with a prosthesis? But that would look so awful and uncool.”
“It’s your choice, Scootaloo. But did you also read about synth flesh?” Scootaloo nodded. “Well, we managed to produce synth flesh that is very similar if not identical with your fur. Prosthesis has advantages over real limbs: They are far more resistant. Also they can be repaired and they can never get tired. But prosthesis is also much stronger than the limbs they replace.” “Ok, I do it. For my parents, my friends, for Rainbow Dash!” She sounded convinced but had also fear in her voice. “Well, let’s go, shall we?” Forren asked.
As they walked to the infirmary, they saw Miro and Ray. “Good morning Scootaloo, did you sleep well?” “Yes Mo- Miro. And I will replace my lost wing.”
“Sweetie, we don’t mind it that you call us Mommy and Daddy. You are already a part of our family.” Miro smiled at her. “That’s the spirit! I’m so happy for you little sister!” Ray exclaimed before realized his mistake. “I don’t mind it that you call me Sister Ray.”
At the infirmary, the Medi-droid waited for them. “So, I assume you've decided for the prosthesis?” “Yes doctor. Just one question: Will it hurt?” She lay down on the operating Table.
“Don’t worry; this will not hurt a bit.” The Medi-droid gave her an anesthetic. “You will only be unconscious for a few minutes.” Scootaloo drifted away. Before the Medi-droid took the bandage off, he turned to Forren, Ray and Miro. “You may want to turn away for this part.” They all looked away. After a few minutes, it was done.
Scootaloo woke up. “Is- is it over?” She asked still dazed from the anesthetic. “Yes my dear. Look.” Scootaloo looked at her new wing. It was in silver. “Only the synth flesh is left.” The Medi-droid putted the flesh on like a glove.
Then he poked her new wing a few times. To her surprise, he twitched as reaction.
“There you go, little one. If you want, you can try it out yourself.” She tried and the prosthetic wing did a little flap in response. “Wow. Amazing. Thanks doc.” “There’s no need to thanks. That’s my job. If you need medical attention, you know where I am,” The Medi-droid responded.
“Scootaloo, would you please come to deck 8? We have a surprise for you,” Ian said via intercom.
“I just hope my family and friends will understand.” “I’m sure they will.” Forren went with her and his family to deck 8. On deck 8 was a bar were also celebrations were held.
The room was dark. Suddenly the lights go on and several Stormtroopers, Scout troopers, officers etc. shouted, “Surprise!” Scootaloo cried tears of joy. It reminded her when she first meet Sweetie Belle and Apple bloom. “A celebration for me?”
“Yes. To cheer you up after… you know,” Ian said to her. Music started. Celebration was the song name. “I love this song. Come, dance with us Scootaloo!” Miro was happy. “But of course!” Scootaloo was even happier. “May I have this dance?” Ray asked politely. Scootaloo danced with him while Forren danced with his wife. “For Scootaloo!” Some Imperials said a toast on Scootaloo.
They all enjoyed the celebration. After the dance, Forren was drinking with Miro. “This is a beautiful celebration.” “Yes. my dear husband. Honey, look.” Their hearts melted.
Scootaloo was fallen asleep and slept peaceful despite the music. “Looks like somepony hit the hay early. I bring her to bed.”
Forren carried her to her room. Miro brought Ray to bed as he was fallen asleep too.
“They must be exhausted from the celebration. Still it was wonderful.” “Yes, Miro. You could see in Scootaloo’s eyes that she enjoyed the celebration.” “I love you." “I love you too.” They kissed and fell asleep.
However, Scootaloo had still nightmares. Either she dreamed that her family and friends would not accept that she was a cyborg now, or that she would die and never see them again. Miro, Ray and Forren comforted her every time. Forren woke up when he heard sobbing. Scootaloo looked out of the window. “Sorry if I woke you, Forren. I just want to see them again.” Forren patted her. “Soon, you will see them again, Scootaloo. Soon.”
One probe droid landed in its pod on an unknown planet. As soon as he got out, he started his scan.
Misty Breeze was worried sick about her daughter. It was a couple of weeks now since she was missing. Misty couldn’t sleep. Was Scootaloo safe? Misty didn’t know. She just prayed that Scootaloo was alright.
“Honey, are you alright?” Her Husband Blizzard Storm asked her.
Misty sighed, “I’m just worried about her safety that’s all.” “Honey,” Blizzard Storm hugged her, “Don’t worry, I’m sure where ever she is, that she is safe. We have to get faith in it. Just like when she and you were worried about me.”
There was a knock on the door. Misty answered it. Sweetie Belle was on the doorstep. “Hello Mrs. and Mr. Breeze.” “Hello Sweetie Belle.” “I-I want to apologize for what happened to Scootaloo.” She was close to tears. Misty gave her a hug. “Shh, stop blaming herself it was an accident. It wasn’t your fault.”
“Hey, what is that?” Blizzard pointed to the sky. “Looks like a Meteor. Oh-oh, I think is going to crash into Canterlot!” Sweetie Belle said. “I hope Canterlot is prepared.” “I think they know it already.” Blizzard said to his wife as the alarm of Canterlot sounded.
The probe droid landed in a forest. The droid got out of its pod. Canterlot, Cloudsdale and Ponyville could be seen in the distance. The droid took holograms of each city and sent them to the Stormy. Then he flew towards Ponyville.
Sweetie Belle, Blizzard and Misty feared for the worst but were relieved as they heard that the Meteor was landed into a forest. Suddenly, Princess Celestia arrived. “You’re Highness.” Blizzard, Misty and Sweetie Belle bowed. The citizen of Ponyville did the same.
“Rise, my little pony’s.”
“Princess Celestia! “ Princess Twilight Sparkle greeted her, “We feared the worst after we saw the Meteor headed for Canterlot!”
“Don’t worry the Meteor landed in a forest.
However my Guards found out that this wasn’t a Meteor but some kind of landing pod. Whatever was in is on the way to Ponyville.” In a blink of an eye all ponies except Twilight, Sweetie Belle, Misty and Blizzard hid in their houses.
“Do you have any Idea what it could be?” Twilight asked.
“Yes. Star Swirl the Bearded experimented to find other worlds than Equestria. He found out that Equestria was a planet in an unexplored part of the galaxy. This galaxy was in control of the ‘Galactic Republic’. Star Swirl wasn’t able to contact this republic.”
“This is interesting. But what does that have to do with this landing pod?” Twilight was curious.
“After he died, I kept an eye on the Republic. She was in many wars. The Republic was always victorious. But then, there was a war called the ‘clone wars’. The Republic also won this war. But after the war was over, the Republic was reorganized into the Galactic Empire. The Empire enslaved any Lifeform, which was not human. Still, I continued to watch the Empire. It used so called ‘Viper Probots’ to explore the galaxy.”
“You mean that this Empire has found us?” Sweetie Belle was frightened.
“I’m afraid so, as the pod belongs to such a droid.”
Blizzard pointed to something behind Princess Celestia “You’re… Highness?”
Before she could react, there was a hovering and beeping sound. Celestia turned around to see the probe droid. It beeped once more and looked with interest at Misty and Blizzard. “Why looks it at us?” Misty was confused.
“I can use a translation spell so we can understand the sounds of the probot.” “Very well Twilight, use it.”
Twilight nodded and used the spell. The probot came close to Misty. Her husband stood protective in front of her.
“Activating hologram message,” Came from the droid. The droid projected a hologram of a man in a uniform in the color combination of green and grey with matching hat. He had brown hair and blue eyes.
“Greetings. I am Ian Takan, Captain of the Imperial Star Destroyer Stormy. You receive this message, because this probe droid has identified you as parents of the Pegasus pony Scootaloo. By the time you get this message, we are already on the way to you.
Don’t worry about her; she is in the caring hands of me and my crew. In case the droid should have made a mistake, please inform the real parents of her. For this, the droid has been modified with a voice command. If you should miss any information, it will loop. If allowed, the probe droid will continue to explore the planet after being successfully delivering the message.” “Ending message.”
“Princess Celestia, I’m not sure if this message is just a trick to put us into a false hope.” Twilight was suspicious.
“I have studied the Empire. This kind of communication does not fit the Empire. And from the way the message was delivered, I’m sure that that Captain Ian was honest.” “I cannot wait to see my daughter again!” Misty was overjoyed.
“You’re Highness, if this is the case, what should we do with the droid?” Blizzard asked as the droid was now looking at the Princess.
“You have permission to explore the rest of Equestria. Just don’t hurt any citizens.” “Yes, you’re Highness,” The droid responded and continued to explore.
“I will inform the rest of my citizen, so they are not afraid of the probe droid.” “I can also cast a spell on the droid that shows us what he is exploring.” “Good Idea Twilight. Do it.”
A few more days passed. Scootaloo got used to her new wing. She even tried to fly with it. With success. She was so proud of it that she wished that her parents could see this. She had no longer nightmares.
She awoke in her bed. She let out a yawn. “Better I look after Forren.” She thought. Miro and Ray were also awake. “Good morning, mommy and Ray. Did you have seen Forren?”
“Good morning, Scootaloo. No, I haven’t seen him.” A mouse-droid was driving by. “Excuse me; can you lead us to Forren?” The droid responded to Miro with beeping that sounded like “Follow me.”
On the way to Forren, the mouse-droid beeped like it was singing. It leads them to the same room where the celebration was held. Music could be heard.
Young man. I'm your new NCO. I said, Young man. Let's get ready to go. It's conscription. But I'm sure you will find- Many ways to have a good time. It's great to be in the Empire today! It's great to be in the Empire today! We've got everything, that you need to enjoy! You can hang out with all the droids! It's great to be in the Empire today! It's great to be in the Empire today! You can get yourself clean. You can have a good meal. You can do whatever you feel!
They could see that Forren danced with two Scout troopers to a song with the name “Empire Today.”
After the song had ended, Scootaloo clapped her hoofs in applause. “Bravo! You are a great dancer!” “Thank you Scootaloo.”
“Scootaloo, please report on the bridge.” “I think they have found something. Let’s go.” Forren was full of faith.
On the bridge, Scootaloo asked Ian, “What is it, Ian?” “I think one of our probe droids has found something. Here, take a look at this.” He showed her on a screen several buildings. Also some ponies could be seen.
“That is Equestria. Cloudsdale and Canterlot are unique.” “The probe sent us this from a star system that is far in the Outer Rim.” Then Ian had an idea. He put his cap on Scootaloo.
“Coordinates are locked Captain. On your mark.”
Scootaloo stood on her hind legs with one arm behind her back. She stretched the other one out and said, “Engage.” Then the Stormy and the Vampire jumped into Hyperspace.
Scootaloo was very happy. Finally she could go home. After the Stormy and the Vampire arrived, she talked with Ian on the bridge. “I cannot wait so say them again!” She flapped her wings in excitement. “I know. Forren, would you please escort her to the hanger bay?”
“Yes, captain.”
“Captain! A Rebel fleet is coming out of hyperspace!” A crewmember shouted, “I count several X- and Y-wings, one MC80 Liberty type Star Cruiser, one CR90 corvette and one EF76 Nebulon-B frigate.” “Battle stations! Get Scootaloo to the hanger bay as soon as possible!” “Yes. sir!”
Twilight was impressed. Within one day, the probe droid had explored Canterlot, Appleloosa, Manhattan and even the Crystal Empire. The droid returned to her and Scootaloos parents. “Transmission from the Stormy. She has arrived.” “Glad to hear it.”
”Finally! I was so worried about my filly.” Misty was happy but the droid received a message. “Status report from the Stormy. She is under attack by a Rebel fleet.”
Then, the ponies were startled by an explosion. They looked up. They saw in the sky how Imperial forces were fighting against Rebel forces. But the Imperials appeared to be losing.
Ian tried to defend himself. His TIEs managed to destroy the corvette but were losing against the X-wings. “Sir!” Y-wings are heading our way!” The Y-wings fired torpedoes. “Shields are holding!”
Still, the torpedoes caused some damage to the Stormy. Scootaloo ran as fast as she could to the hanger bay as there was an explosion. Forren managed to grab and pulled her away before debris blocked the way. “Dammit! The way to the hanger bay is blocked! Now the only way to get out of here alive is the escape pod. Let’s move!”
“Forren, look!” The heavily damaged Vampire was crashing into the frigate. The shockwave was strong enough to shake the Stormy. Scootaloo and serval Stormtroopers lost their balance while some others were able to keep it.
Then there was another explosion. “Alert! Hull breach in Sector 7! Alert!” Scootaloo and Forren were sucked almost into the vacuum. “Initiating emergency magnetic shield on sectors 7 and 8.” Scootaloo and Forren were stopped by the shield.
Forren grabbed Scootaloo. “Come on, we’re almost there!” An Alarm sounded.
“Move! Move! Move! Get out! Get out! Get out!” Several crew members boarded the escape pods. Forren boarded one with Scootaloo. They saw how the Stormy was heavily damaged.
A Y-wing attacked the shield generators and destroyed them. The Stormy was shaken again. “Sir! We lost our bridge deflector shield!”
“Intensify the forward batteries. I don't want anything to get through and take evasive action!” Ian ordered.
An X-wing was struck by turbolaser fire and spun out of control. “Intensify forward firepower!”
“Too late!” an officer shouted as the X-wing headed right for the bridge. Ian dived with the officer to cover.
The ponies watched everything. “All escape pods have been launched,” The droid said. “I hope Scootaloo made it.” Misty feared for the worst as one escape pod landed near Ponyville. A woman with a boy stepped out. “Mommy, we made it!” “Yes we did. I hope Scootaloo made it too.” Rays knee was bleeding. Princess Celestia walked to them.
“Please don’t hurt us.” “I won’t hurt you. “I’m Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria. I give you shelter until this is over. Here, let me help you” She used her horn to heal Rays wound. “Thank you, your Highness.”
“Can you find out where the other escape pods have landed?” Twilight asked the probot. “Yes. Several escape pods have been seen in the desert near Appleloosa. I will check it out.” The droid flew away. The ponies could watch everything with a magic big screen that Twilight had casted with a spell.
The droid found one escape pod. Forren stepped out. He was dazed from the impact of the landing. “Not my best landing. Scootaloo, are you hurt?” “No I am alright.” She stepped also out.
Forren saw the probe droid. “Ah, your parents seem to found us.” “Good but they should hurry.” She pointed to something in the distance. Rebel Transports landed to unload Rebel troops. Forren saw that they were no regular troops. “Those guys are part of Kotas militia. I will protect you from the Rebels.” Forren said as the militia troops headed their way.
The first wave was militia Saboteurs. One of them shot the probe droid. Forren protected Scootaloo with his life. She went to cover behind some rocks. One Saboteur threw a grenade but Forren evaded it. Tokrin joined him. His escape pod was landed near Forrens. “Man, I’m glad to see you!” “Me too Forren.”
They managed to survive the first wave. The second wave was Elites. Forren went to cover with Tokrin. “We’re pinned! What now?” “Do you hear that sound?” Forren looked up to the sky. A TIE-fighter was going down. He crashed right into the Elites, killing every single one of them.
“He sacrificed his life for us.” Forren was distracted. “Forren, behind you!” Scootaloo shouted.
A dying militia-Saboteur tried to shoot Forren, but was killed by a shot that came out of the crashed TIE-Fighter. “It takes more than a crash to kill me.” An only slightly injured Varn came out of the wreck of the TIE-Fighter. “Varn! You’re alive!” “Yes, Forren. But this battle was far from over.”
Misty and her husband, along with Princess Celestia, her guards, Princess Twilight and even Rainbow Dash tried to reach the landing site of the escape pod as fast as possible. Misty and Blizzard knew that Rainbow Dash was like a sister for Scootaloo and they liked it.
They reached a hill where they had a perfect view. But what they saw was horrible. The landing site was now a battlefield between the survived Imperials and Rebel forces. Also, X-wings were fighting against TIE-Fighters. In the middle of the battlefield was the destroyed corvette, which was still burning, as it was crashed into the planet. Suddenly, a shadow covered the ground.
“General Kota! The Star Destroyer! It’s crashing into the planet!” A Rebel trooper shouted via comlink. The Stormy hit the ground behind the Imperials. The shockwave was so great that even from that distance where the ponies where, it throw them over. Also, a large cloud of dust blocked everyone’s view for a brief moment. The Shockwave could be felt miles away like in Ponyville.
The dusk cleared. The battle continued. Forren was fighting now militia Troops. “It’s too dangerous to fight with blasters! We can’t hurt the filly!” A trooper shouted.
Forren tried to evade the attacks and responded with a counterstrike of the butt of his rifle. It was not easy. Suddenly there was an explosion. 2 AT-ATs and 1 AT-ST had blasted their way out of the Stormy to aid the infantry.
The Rebels retreated. “Run Rebel scum!” A Stormtrooper shouted while shooting. But the moment was only short-lived, as the militia got reinforced by Heavy Troopers.
“We must hold the line! Focus the attack on the walker!” A Heavy Trooper fired his rocket launcher at the AT-ST. With an explosion, it fell burning to the ground.
As it wasn’t bad enough, Y-wings were closing in. They attacked the walkers. One was about to fall to the ground. It was near Scootaloo, so Forren grabbed her to bring her to safety.
The impact was staggering. Forren had tunnel vision, his ears were ringing. Also, he could hear a siren. After his vision cleared, he was shocked. The battle turned in favor of the Rebels. Scootaloo was crying and trembling as she could not bear the screams and the sounds of battle in general.
Gently dropping her, Forren prepared to fire at a militia Trooper that was too close for comfort. His rifle was overheated, so Forren switched to his sidearm, a Scout blaster.
With a shot to the head, the Trooper died. Forrens blaster was cooled. But then he, Tokrin and Varn were pushed. Varn and Tokrin passed out.
Forren saw a young man with brown hair and eyes. He had two red lightsabers. He was the one who force-pushed him. Behind him was an old man with grey hair and eyes. He had also scars in his face. Forren identified him as General Rahm Kota.
Wanting to protect Scootaloo, he aimed his blaster at him, but Kota cut his blaster in half before he could shoot. As Forren was now defenseless, Kota pointed his lightsaber at him.
Forren cowered in fear. “Surrender Imperial, and we may show you mercy.” The young man putted a hand on Kotas shoulder. “He’s beaten General. Let it go.”
“You’re right boy. This isn’t the way of a Jedi.” “General Kota, what are you doing?!” Another young man shouted. “What is the meaning of this, Trooper?” “Sir, this is the Stormtrooper who helped me on Trasse.” “Wait, Kevin?” Forren was confused. “Yes it’s me. The Rebels attacked the prisoner transport that was supposed to bring me to Kessel. Where’s Scootaloo?”
He looked around despite the battle around them. The other young man heard crying. He carefully followed it. At the origin, he pointed one of his sabers at it.
Scootaloo was crying and cowering. As she saw the red blade pointed at her, she crawled backwards. “P-please, m-mercy I don’t want to die!” She pleaded for her life.
The man reacted by lowering the saber, as it remembered him of a similar situation when he was a child.
Forren was about to comfort her, as a shot hit her right wing. While it wasn’t supposed to be painful, she let out a painful scream. Imperials and Rebels alike stopped the fight after she screamed. They saw her crying and holding her ‘wound.' The flesh was burned; a part of her prosthesis could be seen. Imperials and Rebels looked at their blasters, then themselves and finally their opposite. They all realized: This battle was for nothing. The only goal was to protect the filly. But it only resulted in hurting her. They dropped their weapons.
“Nopony hurts my sister and gets away with it!” Rainbow Dash tackled the young man to the ground. “What is going on here?” Celestia asked, flanked by her Royal Guards.
“My poor baby!” Misty wanted to be here for her daughter as her husband tackled Forren to the ground. “Stay away from my daughter!”
Forren managed to get him off without hurting him as he sensed a disturbance. The second AT-AT was destroyed and threatened to fall to the site where Scootaloo was. Forren grabbed her and dived into a trench with her to be safe from the impact. Unfortunately, he landed with his head hard on the ground. Before he passed out, he tightened his grip as a piece of debris fell on them, that even Scootaloo was knocked out.
“Did he just…?” Rainbow Dash couldn’t believe what she just saw. “Yes he did. Galen, help me to get the piece of debris of them. They both will need medical attention after this.” “Yes, General.”
“I will inform the hospital.” Twilight teleported away. “Please, Scootaloo hold on.” She and the parents of Scootaloo prayed for her life.
Forren regained consciousness. He was in a hospital bed, next to him was Scootaloo. “Daddy, you’re awake!” His son hugged him. “Mommy thought we would lose you!”
Princess Celestia, her sister Luna, Sweetie Belle, Twilight and Scootaloo’s parents walked in.
“Greetings Mr. Storm, I’m Princess Celestia and this is my sister Princess Luna. We wanted to give our thanks for saving one of our subjects.”
“Hello again, Princess Celestia!” Ray was happy to see her but tried to remain respectful. She giggled.
“You don’t need to be this formal to me, little one,” She stroked his hair. “Your father and mother raised you very well.”
“We also wanted to thank you for saving our daughter. I’m Misty and this is my husband Blizzard Storm.” Blizzard was a little embarrassed. “Sorry about that earlier.”
“None taken. You just did what any father would do. Where’s my wife?”
“…Yes I believe you that she is like a sister to you. For my son, she is also like a sister to him,” Miro chatted with Rainbow Dash as they walked in.
“Mommy, daddy is awake!” “Glad to hear it. Forren, may I introduce Rainbow Dash to you?” “Hello, Rainbow Dash.” "Please, Rainbow is just fine.”
“Hello, Rainbow!” Ray smiled at her. “Hey, kiddo. I should show you how awesome flying is. Everyone who is a friend of Scootaloo is a friend of mine.” She stroked his hair.
Misty walked to the bed of her daughter. “My sweet daughter, I was so worried about you.” She gave her a kiss on the forehead.
“M-mama?” She woke up by the voice of her mother. “Yes my dear child, it’s me.” “MAMA! I missed you so much!” Scootaloo hugged her mother and cried tears of joy.
“I missed you too.” “Hey what about me?” “PAPA!” Her father was overjoyed to see his daughter again. “Don’t forget your awesome sister, scoots.” “RAINBOW DASH!”
Even Rainbow Dash couldn’t hold back tears, as she hugged her sister and number 1 fan. Forren and his family smiled at her. But Misty spotted the exposed part of the prosthesis.
“Scootaloo, what happened to your wing?! What have you done with my daughter?!”
Misty looked at the prosthesis in shock. Scootaloo just trembled in fear as she had flashbacks from her encounter with Tarrak and Zaarin. “Scootaloo please, calm down, you’re not in trouble,” Her father said in a calming tone. “I-It’s j-just the St-story how I gained my new w-wing is so h-horrible that I can’t tell it.” Tears were rolling down her eyes.
“You don’t have to tell it. Let me try something.” Luna touched Scootaloo's forehead with her horn. Kota, Kevin, Varn, Galen, Apple Bloom and Ian joined them. He was now a cyborg as he had lost his left eye and arm. But it was covered with synth flesh.
They all saw Scootaloo's memories, from the day Forren found her, to her new wing. “My poor filly! But you’re safe now.” Misty hugged her daughter to comfort her.
“I’m so sorry! I didn’t want to bring you into this!” Sweetie Belle felt guilty. “Sweetie Belle, it wasn’t your fault. It was an accident,” Scootaloo said to calm her down.
Apple Bloom just looked at Scootaloo with excitement. “Can I see your new wing please?” Scootaloo was surprised but agreed and removed the flesh.
“Cool. It looks so amazing!” Apple Bloom commented. “Scoots, you always will be my sister no matter what. And I’m so proud of you.” “So we are,” Misty said to her. “You can fly now. And I must admit that silver looks very nice.” “Thanks Papa but can we put new flesh on it?” She looked to Ian. “But of course. The Stormy is not as badly damaged as we thought. Most of the equipment is still intact. And with the help of the Rebels, we should be able to get the Stormy running again.”
“If I can ask, why you have attacked us in the first place?” Forren looked at Kota for answers.
“We have a base in the North of Equestria. When we built it, our scanners showed no signs of lifeforms. Since it was very far in the outer rim like Hoth and Yavin 4, we thought it would be a good place to hide. Long range scanners located the two Star Destroyers, so we came to protect the base.”
“And what does that have to do with me?” Scootaloo was confused. “We thought that the Empire would hold you captive or as a slave. And the Rebellion always tries to free slaves and prisoners of the Empire.”
“Now what? Do we leave?” “To be honest Forren, I talked with all my men. They want to stay here. But it’s your choice. If you want to stay with her, we are all in.”
“As long as I’m together with my family, I do whatever it takes.” “Daddy, we would also like to stay here. We think it’s a better place than on Coruscant.”
“And we are very grateful that you took care of our daughter. We would like it if you would stay.” Misty smiled at Ray. “Then I stay.”
“And we will evacuate the base. The destruction of two Imperial ships will not go unanswered.”
“General! An Imperial fleet came out of hyperspace! Oh no, it’s the Death Squadron. General Kota we must evacuate now!”
“Understood, Commander.”
Everyone got out and saw the Executor. “Wow, that’s a large ship.”
“Yes, Scootaloo. That is the Executor the capital ship of Lord Vader and the Imperial Navy."
“Juno make the Rogue Shadow ready, we have to leave.” “Yes, General.” She replied via comlink. The Rebel cruiser was destroyed by the Executor.
Kota leaved with Galen. Kevin decided to stay with Scootaloo. Several Imperial transports of all kind, landed on Equestria to attack the Rebel Base. She was far away from the Crystal Empire. Just like the Echo Base, this base was heavily defended, but the Imperials broke through, like in the battle of Hoth. Via a spell of Twilight, Scootaloo and her friends could see the battle.
“Rebel Troops inbound!” “Destroy those Rebel Tanks!” A Field Commander commanded the Imperial Forces. “The Base shield generator is down! All Units- Attack the Rebel Base!”
The Rebel forces tried to defend themselves as good as they could, but it was a hopeless battle.
“Engaging Enemy! Send back up!”
“We’re got them on the Run!” an Imperial reported.
“They’re tearing us apart!” “Incoming!”
Lord Vader was leading the Attack. “The Rebels are retreating to their Base. Do not allow them to escape.” He and his loyal troops defeated the Rebels in a hard battle. After it was over, the Empire leaved the planet, not caring about the surviving Imperials.
“Oh my… The Empire is really a strong Enemy.” “Yes it is, Mrs. Breeze.” “I know it is a bad time, but what about a celebration since you’re back home Scootaloo?”
“Yes Sweetie Belle. And I know the right song for it.” She smiled at Forren, Miro and Ray. “May the Force be with you, Scootaloo and Forren. Always.” They heard Vader voice as echo. He knew about their decision and accepted it.
One year later
Forren lived with his family together with Scootaloo and her parents. With the help of the ponies, the Imperials repaired the Stormy. She stayed in the Space of Equestria to protect it from any Intruder.
Also, the ponies were fascinated by the Imperial technology. Ray became a member of the CMC. He was in school with Scootaloo. Rainbow Dash showed him Cloudsdale with Scootaloo and a little help of Twilight.
While Rainbow Dash saw herself as the most awesome flyer in Equestria, she had to admit that Varn in his TIE and Tokrin on his speeder bike were both very fast as her. She raced sometimes against them.
Forren was talking with Misty, Blizzard and Miro as Ray came home. “Mommy, Daddy, I’m home!” “Welcome home, sweetheart. How was school?” “Great, Mommy! I love you!” He gave his mother a hug. “We love you too.”
“Ray, are you coming? We still have something to do.” “Coming. sister!” Ray called out before he gave Misty and Blizzard a hug and left. They saw after the kids until they were out of sight, as Scootaloo pulled the wagon with her scooter. Her new wing was very useful. Not only that he was stronger, but also she felt no pain and was easy to repair.
Forren along with the rest of his comrades didn’t care how the war went. But if the war would ever reach Equestria again, they would defend it. But for now, it was the beginning of a new era. An era of order and peace.